Gippsland mega-guide: 64 great things to see, eat, do and stay in eastern Victoria
From mouthwatering food to spectacular scenery and thrilling adventures, Gippsland has something for everyone. Here’s our mega-guide to the state’s east.
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Whether it’s time for sand between the toes or zipping through the snow, fine dining or a craft ale and cheese board, historical towns or hiking through national parks, Gippsland has it all.
Here’s our list of 64 great things to see, eat, do and stay in the exciting region.
Get more Gippsland travel inspo and ideas in the Destination Gippsland magazine, available with your Sunday Herald Sun on March 28.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN GIPPSLAND
1. WALHALLA
In autumn, Walhalla’s deciduous trees exchange their greenery for the vibrant hues of autumn. Enjoy the spectacular valley views at dawn and dusk, resplendent in russet and red, ochre and gold. Picnic in the park, relax in front of an open fire, or tackle the Poverty Point Bridge
Experience the Walhalla Goldfields Railway for a touch of local history.
2. RAYMOND ISLAND
Just a free two-minute ferry ride from Paynesville, you’ll find Raymond Island, which is famous for its many koalas and echidnas.
3. WATCH FOR WHALES
In winter, drive, ride or walk the spectacular Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail to see humpback whales, southern rights and orcas make their annual trip from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Australia to give birth and raise their calves. Join a cruise for a chance to see these majestic mammals up close.
4. GREAT ALPINE DRIVE
Pack a picnic, or pick up local produce along the way, and take the scenic route from Metung to Wangaratta. Departing from the beautiful Gippsland Lakes, the Great Alpine Drive winds through diverse landscapes — from coastal waterways climb through lush valleys to mountain tops amid rolling vineyards — taking time to take in the views.
5. FIND A QUIET BEACH
It’s hard to go past a leisurely stroll along Waratah Bay’s golden stretch of sand, or secluded Sealers Cove, on the eastern side of the Prom, while Mallacoota’s Secret Beach is just that. The tranquil hideaway is only accessible by foot.
6. FEAST ON SEAFOOD
The Mallacoota Wild Harvest Seafood Festival makes a triumphant return in September 18-20.
There will be an opportunity to taste and buy the freshest produce at an open-air market celebrating the secrets of the sea from abalone to sea urchins, crayfish to banded morwong.
Book a spot on an oyster and champagne cruise, learn a sea shanty, watch a cooking demonstration by chef Alejandro Saravia, let the kids take part in a fishing clinic and don’t forget your Esky.
7. BIRD WATCH
Birdwatchers flock to the fishing village of Mallacoota to spot bar-tailed godwits and eastern yellow robins, which are among the more than 200 bird species living in this part of the state.
8. GO FISH
One of the best spots to cast a line, the lure of bream, flathead, estuary perch, whiting and mulloway draws fishermen to beautiful Mallacoota Inlet. The Snowy River meets the Tasman Sea at the hamlet of Marlo, where the sheltered estuaries make it one of Australia’s best places for bream and perch fishing.
Novice or expert, there’s no better place to cast your line than Port Albert. Port Albert Fishin’ Charters skipper and local Brian Spiteri will take you to all the best spots for reeling in king fish, whiting and snapper.
9. WALK
Stretch your legs on the Snowy River Estuary Walk, which can be joined from carparks along Marlo-Cape Conran Rd. Walk the 5km or so into Marlo, via Mots Beach, and enjoy views of the Tasman on one side and the estuary on the other.
10. STOCK UP ON SWEET STUFF
Pick up bee-produced goodies at Sweet Little Honey Shop in Marlo.
11. LEARN INDIGENOUS HISTORY
Cape Conran is one of 11 significant Indigenous sites on the Bataluk Cultural Trail.
The Salmon Rock viewing platform is built over an Aboriginal shell midden used by the Gunaikurnai people.
12. EXPLORE SKULL ROCK
Located in Bass Strait, Skull Rock has been partially hollowed out by waves creating a cave that is 130m wide and 60m tall. The Rock is so big it could engulf the Sydney Opera House, says Rob Pennicott, who runs ecowilderness cruises of Wilsons Prom in his bright yellow amphibious boats.
13. VISIT ‘THE PROM’
Book your campsite at Wilsons Promontory National Park, where you will be surrounded by nature and close to the water. Take the scenic drive from Yanakie to the Tidal River campsite and hike the many walking tracks.
14. EXPLORE DESERTS
Discover the ethereal beauty of the Big Drift, an everchanging landscape of sand dunes at The Prom.
15. ENJOY NATURE
Ninety Mile Beach is the unbroken stretch of sand flanked by dunes and the crashing surf of Bass Strait, which reaches from McLoughlins Beach to Lakes Entrance. Fish, camp and enjoy ocean swims or take the wildlife trail between historic towns to spot kangaroos, emus and echidnas.
16. HELICOPTER RIDE
Take a scenic chopper flight around Lakes Entrance and enjoy the remarkable view.
17. EXPLORE ROCK POOLS
Mystery awaits along Bunurong Coast, the 17km of coastline between Cape Paterson and Inverloch. Rugged cliffs plunge into the sea, rock pools teem with life and dramatic rock formations, including Eagles Nest, rise out of the water at Bunurong Marine Park and Coastal Reserve.
18. HIT THE SLOPES
When snow blankets the lower reaches of the Great Dividing Range, Baw Baw Village becomes the hub of the ski resort.
The sheltered slopes of Mt Baw Baw makes this family friendly alpine resort a great place to learn to ski or snowboard.
The 35ha of snow terrain includes groomed runs and snow play, toboggan and magic carpet areas. The drive to Melbourne’s closest ski resort takes less than three hours.
19. GO CAVING
The Buchan Caves Reserve has some of the finest examples of limestone caves in the country.
Learn the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite by joining a tour of Royal Cave or Fairy Cave.
20. EXPERIENCE A RAINFOREST
Towering eucalypts and lush ferns line the one-hour return walk to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls in dense temperate rainforest. Camp overnight for the chance to see mountain brushtail and ringtail possums, sugar gliders and bats.
21. GO BOATING
Gippsland Lakes is the largest inland water system in the southern hemisphere, and this network of lakes, marshes and lagoons is a haven for fishing, boating and birding.
Secluded beaches and pristine waterways make Mallacoota one of Victoria’s great escapes. Popular for its boating and fishing, whales, dolphins and seals can be spotted off the unspoilt coastline.
Or drive to Point Hicks Marine National Park to see the diversity of sea life and two shipwrecks.
22. BE AWESTRUCK BY ANCIENT TREES
Noojee is best known for its trestle bridge and the Ada tree, a giant mountain ash said to be the oldest and largest in Victoria.
23. CULTURE VULTURE
The Town & Country Gallery in Yarragon displays works by local artists and artisans, and is the perfect place to find a collectable or gift.
Meeniyan has a reputation for attracting eclectic and varied local and international music acts. Creativity is also on show at the Meeniyan Art Gallery.
Fish Creek’s arts and crafts outlets include the Alison Lester Gallery, with artwork and books by the artist and popular children’s author.
24. WALK AMONG TREE FERNS
Meander around Tarra Bulga National Park and tackle the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk to the Cyathea Falls, exert yourself on the Grand Strzelecki Walking Track that connects Morwell and Tarra Bulga national parks, or take the easier 1.2km Fern Gully Nature Walk to Corrigan Suspension Bridge for an impressive aerial view of nature.
Giant mountain ash and tree ferns make this one of only four temperate rainforest areas in the state. See birds including currawongs and yellow-tailed black cockatoos by day.
The forest comes to life in the evening as possums, owls and bats come out to feed.
25. GET MINDFUL AT NINETY MILE BEACH
Sprawling from the shallow inlets near Port Albert to the open waterways of Lakes Entrance, you are bound to find your private paradise somewhere along this pristine golden beach. Popular with surfers, Woodside Beach is a relaxed getaway close to the start of Ninety Mile Beach. Beautiful and serene, it’s a good place to stop and collect your thoughts.
26. RIDE (OR WALK) A TRAIL
Cycle the 23km Bass Coast Rail Trail in Kilcunda or wander along the George Bass Coastal Walk.
27. SURF
Inverloch is perfect for surfers, families and fishing enthusiasts. Cape Paterson Bay Beach is ideal for those with children. Or catch some waves at the nearby surf beach.
28. RIDE A CAMEL
Go camel-riding along the beach at Lakes Entrance.
29. VISIT A GIPPSLAND FESTIVAL
Tinamba Food & Wine Festival, April 11, Tinamba, Central Gippsland
Live music, food and wine bring a party atmosphere to the dairy farming town’s main street. Sample and buy from wineries including Blue Gables and Mt Moornapa Wines, while the Tinamba Hotel and Tangled in Food are among the many eateries serving delicious food. And when the band strikes up, it’s time to kick up your heels.
Loch Food & Wine Festival, June 14, Loch, South Gippsland
About 100km south-east of Melbourne, the small but vibrant Loch Village offers respite from the hustle and bustle of city living. The region’s finest produce is showcased during the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. Enjoy the tastes of South Gippsland and make time to uncover a treasure or two at the gift, antique and speciality stores.
Feast on East, June 13, Metung, East Gippsland
Celebrate the best food, wine and beer the region has to offer while overlooking picturesque Bancroft Bay from the Metung Village Green. Sample and stock up on local wines and enjoy delectable all-day treats on offer from the likes of Bancroft Bites and Culinaire.
East Gippsland Winter Festival, June 19-July 11, East Gippsland
Celebrate the region’s art, beer, natural attractions and warm hospitality with this new festival, which will be held across East Gippsland. Towns and villages will be transformed with lighting displays, art installations, performances and pop-up events. The program of events also includes festival feasts, nature-based activities, cultural tours and workshops, so start planning your epic winter road trip now.
WHERE TO EAT IN GIPPSLAND
30. LUCY’S, MALLACOOTA
Delicious homemade rice noodles and dumplings served at this Mallacoota institution keep everyone coming back for more.
31. ORIGAMI COFFEE, MALLACOOTA
Start your day at this gem of a coffee shop in the heart of Mallacoota. Take a seat in the garden and learn how to fold origami cranes.
32. TAQUERIA COSTA SALVAJE, MALLACOOTA
Mexican flavours and Mallacoota’s wilderness coast go hand in hand. The menu includes carnitas, tamales and Tin Dog barbacoa.
33. THE METUNG HOTEL
Grab a bite to eat on the boardwalk, right on the water. Don’t miss the pelican feeding every day.
34. HOGGET KITCHEN, WARRAGUL
Feast at the hatted Hogget Kitchen in Warragul, where chef Trevor Perkins forages items from the Wild Dog Winery garden.
35. CANNIBAL CREEK VINEYARD, TYNONG
Sip wine fire-side at this cosy Tynong vineyard.
36. NEILSONS KITCHEN, TRARALGON
One of the stars of the Traralgon culinary scene for more than 15 years, Neilsons has been relaunched. Fresh Gippsland produce is the hero whether you call in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
37. WILDFISH, PORT ALBERT
For exceptional waterfront dining check out this venue for local seafood and an impressive selection of Gippsland beer and wine.
38. TOMS CAP VINEYARD RETREAT, WILLING SOUTH
Check out the Willung South cellar door, linger in one of the restaurants and book a stay in a luxe cottage.
39. THE VINES ON AVON RESTAURANT, MAFFRA
Enjoy breakfast and lunch on the lawn at the Avon Ridge Vineyard, where local produce, wine and cider are on the menu.
40. NARKOOJEE, GLENGARRY NORTH
With award-winning wines, an impressive menu and views of the Strzelecki Ranges — there’s a lot to like here.
41. BLUE GABLES VINEYARD, MAFFRA WEST UPPER
Unwind, relax and taste the award-winning vintages at the Maffra West Upper cellar door, which also serves an extensive range of wood-fired pizzas.
42. UDDER & HOE, KILCUNDA
Stock up at here and then eat at the Kilcunda General Store, which shares the same address, or the Killy Pub.
43. LOCH VILLAGE FOODSTORE, LOCH
Divulge in a decadent afternoon tea, try the scones.
44. THE BOROUGH DEPT. STORE, KORUMBURRA
The surrounding hills of Korumburra produce a huge range of fresh foods, which are showcased in a beautiful 1930s-era department store. The cake shop serves exquisite sweet treats and shares the space with a cafe and pantry.
45. THE GROVE GIPPSLAND, KROWERA
Part olive grove, part trufferie, restaurant and function space, now there’s glamping as well. Set atop the hills of the Bass Hinterland with sweeping views of the region, The Grove also offers nature walks of the 24ha property.
46. DIRTY THREE WINES, INVERLOCH
Famous for its pinot noir, the “dirty” in the name represents the soil in three different vineyards. Sample the pinot with local cheese and charcuterie, along with local beers, gin and coffee.
47. LOCH BREWERY AND DISTILLERY, LOCH
This striking cellar door inhabits Loch’s historic bank building, where an impressive array of whisky, gin and beer is produced. Start off with a tasting paddle, then settle in for a couple of pints or gin cocktails.
48. MEENIYAN PANTRY & CELLAR, MEENIYAN
Open for takeaway meals and beverages, the pantry shelves are bursting with housemade marinades, pickled vegetables and locally made spreads. Wines from near and far, and beers from small-scale breweries take pride of place in the cellar.
49. AWESOME FISH & CHIPS, LAKES ENTRANCE
Fresh local fish and thick chips that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. And they’re wrapped in paper, just like they should be.
50. SARDINE EATERY + BAR, PAYNESVILLE
This special place celebrates seafood and local Gippsland produce and is headed by former Vue de Monde head chef Mark Briggs. Not for young children.
51. HOGGET KITCHEN, WARRAGUL
This recently hatted Warragul restaurant and cafe is great, with chef Trevor Perkins who has grown up in Gippsland and sources food directly from the farmers.
52. ALPINE TROUT FARM, PIEDMONT
For a unique dining experience, catch your own trout and then grill it at the farm. They also sell excellent smoked trout.
STAY
53. ROSS FARM, MEENIYAN
Disused farm buildings have been transformed into contemporary accommodation incorporating the old and the new. Whether you choose to stay in the Cabin, Barn or Dairy, you can expect all the comforts of a luxury stay in a rustic setting.
54. THE RIDGE HOUSE, YARRAGON SOUTH
Rest and relax in front of the fire at this beautifully renovated and styled country home. Hike private walking tracks and explore Yarragon Village, which is a 10-minute drive from the secluded getaway.
55. DOWN TO EARTH FARM RETREAT, SARSFIELD
Nestled into the landscape with rooftop native gardens, this unique hideaway has 360-degree views from the Gippsland Lakes to the Great Dividing Range. Relax in environmentally friendly surrounds only 10 minutes’ drive from Bairnsdale.
56. CALLIGNEE II, CALLIGNEE
Featured on Grand Designs Australia, this award-winning luxury retreat operates completely off the grid on sustainable living principles. Relax by the 19m lap pool or explore the surrounding 2ha of native bushland.
57. THE INVERLOCH GLAMPING CO, INVERLOCH
Plan a weekend escape or extended break in a boutique beach cabin or luxury 5m bell tent in an idyllic setting overlooking the ocean. Cook and unwind in the purpose-built camp kitchen. Food hampers can also be organised in advance.
58. THE MARLO OCEAN VIEWS
Caravan and camping park has the added attraction of the Beachside Takeaway & Kiosk, which serves fish and chips overlooking the spot where the Snowy River opens into the sea.
59. MARLO HOTEL
In the heart of town, the hotel offers pub meals, rooms with a sea view and a deck from which to watch spectacular sunsets.
60. MALLACOOTA FORESHORE HOLIDAY PARK
Great for families, this is now fully open and accepting bookings; it also has jetties and mooring points for visitors’ boats.
61. KARBEETHONG LODGE
The boutique guesthouse, with Mallacoota Lake on its doorstep, is ideal for anyone seeking rest and relaxation.
62. VIVERE RETREAT, NEERIM SOUTH
Neerim South is a gateway to the snowfields of Mt Baw Baw, but the bushwalking trails are open all year. Stock up on local cheeses and gourmet produce before taking a break at the luxurious Vivere Retreat. Set on 7ha, it has spectacular views of the Baw Baw Ranges.
63. VUE AT JINDIVICK
Watch the sun rise from the comfort of Vue as fog slowly lifts to reveal the surrounding bushland below. This eco-B&B is set on 14.5ha and has views of Mt Baw Baw. Well situated to take in West Gippsland’s wineries and gourmet stops, you can even try your hand at a beekeeping course.
64. TALLAWARRA HOMESTEAD, TONIMBUK
With its period fittings, high ceilings, open fireplace and hardwood timber floors extending to a sweeping veranda, Tallawarra is a fine example of an Australian colonial homestead. Located in the rolling hills of Tonimbuk, this slice of five-star hospitality is only an hour’s drive from Melbourne.
Get more Gippsland travel inspo and ideas in Destination Gippsland magazine, available with your Sunday Herald Sun on March 28.
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