Melbourne & Surrounds
Culture, art and cosmopolitan flair all seamlessly blend together throughout Australia’s most trendy state, Victoria. Melbourne, voted one of the world’s most livable cities, pulses with energy and enthusiasm. The artistically graphited laneways set the scene for total cultural immersion.
Self-drive enthusiasts are welcomed from all over to cruise down the
Great Ocean Road and beyond. A scenic paradise, this drive travels by the iconic
Twelve Apostles along the coast and travelers can continue up into
the Grampians and through the Goldfields. Along the way, there are endless opportunities to spot wildlife like kangaroos and koalas in the You Yangs. There is also the option to continue to explore Victoria by drive or tour to visit
Phillip Island which is home to a colony of 32,000 little penguins, 4,000 of which you can watch parade ashore each evening.
If it’s wines you’re interested in, the
Yarra Valley and
Mornington Peninsula offer you a chance to visit Australia’s boutique vineyards in regions renowned for pinot noir, chardonnay and shiraz. While winery hopping, pair each tasting with locally sourced foods and meet with the winemakers. These regions combine the best of Australia with traditional Aussie charm, incredible scenery and unforgettable experiences, all within close proximity of
Melbourne.
To complement city, wildlife and wine,
Aboriginal culture is woven into experiences throughout Victoria from Melbourne to the Grampians. Aboriginal people have had an association with the Grampians, traditionally known as Gariwerd, for thousands of years. The region is at the center of creation stories for many of the Aboriginal communities in southwestern Victoria. Discoveries of Indigenous Australian artifacts in the region include ancient oven mounds, scatterings of stone left over from tool making and ancient rock art sites.
Diverse culture, vibrant cities, abundant wildlife and endless wine tastings, Victoria offers an Australian experience of its own kind. Embrace the different sides of your inner explorer and set off on a journey of discovery.
Vivacious, vibrant and eclectic, Melbourne is a city that offers one of the world's best cafe scenes, mixed with charming laneways and hidden gems throughout the city.
— Ian Swain, President & Owner