9 great places to get outdoors in Victoria this autumn
You might not be able to go to big events for a while, but there are still plenty of ways to get out of the house. And these places should be on your radar if you are looking for an outdoor adventure.
Lifestyle
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From the coast to the mountains, seasonal changes cast Victoria’s landscape in a new light.
And autumn is the perfect time to get out and about before winter’s chill arrives.
Here are some of the state’s most spectacular places to explore while it’s not too hot, and not too cold.
WILSONS PROMONTORY
Explore Wilsons Promontory National Park on amphibious boat tours conducted by award-winning Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.
The custom-built boats launch from Norman Beach, Tidal River, and explore the Glennie islands group, Anderson Islets and Anser Island.
See South Point (the southern-most tip of mainland Australia) and cruise the waters of Bass Strait and Victoria’s first marine national park.
Marvel at the prehistoric boulders of Mt Oberon and be mesmerised by the granite monolith that is Skull Rock.
DANDENONG RANGES
Less than 45km from Melbourne’s CBD, storybook towns lead you through the Dandenong Ranges.
Wind your way through leafy streets during the autumn festivals, followed by the aroma of chestnuts roasting at roadside stalls.
Pause a while at the beautiful Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden (formerly the National Rhododendron Gardens) for spectacular displays and views, or head into the forest on the Puffing Billy steam train to take in autumn sights in a luxury dining carriage.
BRIGHT
The pretty High Country township of Bright, about 320km from Melbourne, is renowned for its autumn colours thanks to large deciduous trees, including oaks, elms, poplars and Japanese maples.
Take a bike ride or wander through shades of crimson and bright yellow, before stopping for a delicious repast at one of the restaurants on the Ovens River waterfront.
STANLEY
Go nuts in Stanley, a village outside the historic gold rush town of Beechworth in northeast Victoria.
Almost 300km from Melbourne, it is renowned for its autumn harvest of walnuts, hazelnuts and chestnuts.
Pick up a bag or two from farm gates as you meander along leafy country lanes to the apple orchards. Stop for lunch at the historic Stanley Pub, which stocks craft beers and wines as well as “classics for old-school drinkers”.
DAYLESFORD
Walk the scenic “Peace Mile” track around Lake Daylesford and take in maples and weeping willows resplendent in reds and golds during autumn.
Or visit Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, established in 1863 by renowned garden designers, before attempting the 77 stairs to the top of the Memorial Tower for views across the town in its prettiest season.
Located in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, the township is about 120km from Melbourne.
WALHALLA
Step back in time to experience autumn in what was once a rich gold-mining town teeming with prospectors.
Now only 20 permanent residents remain, but you can browse the main street filled with heritage buildings, pan for gold or take a ride on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway through this pretty mountainside township, which is about 180km from Melbourne.
Follow road signs for beautiful natural bush and mountain views. It’s the perfect spot for a family holiday, romantic getaway or relaxing weekend break.
YARRA VALLEY
Travel through majestic Black Spur Drive, cutting through the lush rainforest of the Yarra Ranges to the mountainside village of leafy Marysville, which is about 95km from Melbourne.
Stock up on treats from the Marysville Country Bakery in the main street then take the Tree Fern Gully Trail from the heart of town to picnic at the base of Steavenson Falls, one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls.
Don’t forget to visit a winery or two on your travels.
MOUNT MACEDON
Don’t forget to take your camera or sketchpad when visiting Mt Macedon in autumn.
The area is surrounded by gardens filled with maples, liquid ambers and silver birches, and the 154 pin oaks that form Honour Avenue are a sight to behold.
Pack a picnic then spend the day relaxing at Forest Glade Gardens, a historic private garden taking inspiration from English, Italian and woodland traditions.
Or take in the autumn hues at the Gardens of Tieve Tara with its water features and rolling lawns. Both gardens are about 65km from Melbourne.
FRENCH ISLAND
In the waters of Western Port Bay, less than 70km southeast of Melbourne, discover the untamed wilderness that is French Island by taking the Western Port ferry from Stony Point (take a Frankston Line train, then change to the Stony Point Line at Frankston Station).
Or hop on board a Naturaliste Tours Wine, Vines and Vistas tour, which will zip you across to the island on a fast catamaran, to experience the pristine surrounds through the eyes of a local — you will hear intriguing stories, see interesting sights and taste delicious food and wine. naturalistetours.com.au
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