Epic drives from Melbourne
What comes to mind when you think of a dream road trip? Maybe you think of beaches, scenic drives, mountain ranges, winding your way through rainforests or wide open fields. What if we told you that you could have all of this and more when road tripping from Melbourne? Victoria is a state of changing landscapes and dramatic scenery. We’ll show you some of the most epic road trips you can start right here in Melbourne.
Black Spur
Lush ferns, towering ash trees and mountain mist will greet you at Balck Spur Drive, famous for its hairpin turns that really get your heart racing. This beautiful drive will take you through a light -dappled dense forest as you wind your way through the Yarra Ranges. Only an hour and a half from Melbourne, you’ll be in a completely unique landscape. Let the famous fresh earthy air of the ranges fill your lungs as you head to one of many destinations along this stunning road. Go hunting for Victoria's highest waterfall in Marysville, head over to the Cathedral Ranges for a hike or simply enjoy the view from this stunning drive.
Things to see and do: Head to Marysville and go waterfall hunting, hike the Cathedral Ranges or grab a glass of red from one of the many great wineries in the Yarra Valley.
Distance from Melbourne: 1hr 30mins
The Grampians National Park
Not only a favourite for Victorians, The Grampians is world renowned for its stunning sandstone cliffs, dense bushland, sweeping valleys, lakes and waterfalls. It is also home to historically and socially significant Indigenous rock art. Following the Grampians road from Halls Gap to Dunkeld will take you past the scenic beauty of one of Victoria's most loved national parks.
Things to see and do: Follow the Indigenous rock art trail, rock climbing (where permitted), animal watching, picnics. There is also a brand spanking new multi day hike called the Grampians Peaks Trail completed in Spring 2021.
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours
Great Ocean Road
A classic Victorian drive isn’t complete without a trip along the Great Ocean Road. Even if you have undertaken this drive before, there is always something new to discover: a new town or natural wonder to take in, a hike along the coast, or a dramatic lookout to uncover. This is truly one of the treasures of living in Victoria. This 243km stretch of road will take you through the natural beauty of the Victorian coastline and its hidden seaside towns. The great part about this drive is it can be done as smaller day trips or as one epic road trip, the choice is yours!
Things to see and do: Twelve apostles, Port Fairy, The Grotto or walk through the famous Redwoods. There is also a Great Ocean Road marathon for those who love to run with a view!
Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours 49 minutes
Great Alpine Road
The Great Alpine Road offers breathtaking views across Victoria's high country that change with each season. Come for the changing autumn leaves and the snow capped mountains in winter. If the stunning views don’t entice you, the Great Alpine Road is a fun and adventurous drive, full of twists and turns (a far cry from Melbourne's famous straight roads!). Those brave enough may want to drive up with their road bikes and take a turn cycling part of the famous road.
Things to see and do: Mount Hotham, Razorback Trail, explore the towns near the gippsland lakes
Distance from Melbourne: 4 hours
Mount Macedon
Close to Melbourne, but a world away, you’ll find the Macedon Ranges. Although not unknown to Melbournians who have long been coming to this area for its beauty and tranquillity, these ranges also have a mysterious quality and have been the backdrop for many famous stories, including Joan Lindsay's classic Australian novel Picnic at Hanging Rock. The misty mountain weather and the thick bushland have long held the imagination of both visitors and locals. Whether you believe there is mystery to be found here, or just beautiful scenery, the drive and the experience of the area is well worth the trip.
What to see and do: Camels Hump Lookout, Hanging Rock, Climb Mt Macedon and see the Mt Macedon memorial cross.
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour
Header image: Black Spur - via Visit Victoria
