7 Best Things To Do In Victoria In 2021
The weather is warming, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and Victorians are blinking as we step outside and let our eyes adjust to bright sunlight for the first time in months.
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There’s an air of unshakeable optimism down here at the moment.
Melbourne has reopened just in time for summer, which means it’s time to get ready for some memorable months.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA
If you’re not sure where to get started, here are seven adventures we recommend you book ASAP.
1: GLIDE DOWN THE YARRA BY MOONLIGHT
Let’s start local. If it’s been a while since you prised yourself out of your well-worn trackies, the perfect way to ease back into adventuring is with a moonlight kayak tour on the Yarra. It’s a cruisy way to get some fresh air, try something new, and experience the city in an entirely new way as you watch the sun go down over the skyline. Backpacker Deals, powered by Travello, operates three-hour tours that include a local guide and a special dining experience. It’s beginner friendly and not too strenuous, which means it’s totally fine if it’s been a while between barre classes or pumping iron at the gym.
Find out why it has a five-star rating for just $89.
2: EXPLORE THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD AND THE GRAMPIANS
The toughest question when you’re planning a summer holiday is whether to make a beeline for the coast or escape up into the mountains. But why choose when you can do both? These two stunning attractions are easy to link, combining the best of western Victoria into a single road trip. The best way to enjoy them is on a 5-day tour through Trip-A-Deal, which includes all the good stuff: beaches, rainforests, koalas, extinct volcanoes, hiking, waterfalls, culture, and more. The ticket includes transport, hotels, and guides, meaning all you have to do is kick back and congratulate yourself on escaping your lounge room.
Book your ticket for just $799.
3: SAY HI TO THE WHALES AT WILSONS PROM
Nothing – and I mean nothing – beats seeing humpback and southern right whales frolicking in their natural habitat. If you’ve been planning a retreat to Wilsons Promontory, there’s no time to waste, because the southern migration takes place between September and November. Take the experience to the next level with a six-hour cruise starting and finishing at Port Welshpool, where you can see these mighty mammals as well as seals, dolphins, and seabirds. Morning tea and lunch are included and there’s a licensed bar which means you can enjoy a quiet bevvie in the sun on the way back to shore.
Snap up your seat for $185.
4: DRINK WHITE WINE IN THE SUN ON THE PENINSULA
If you really enjoy visiting wineries, Backpacker Deals is currently selling spots for a Mornington Peninsula winery tour with lunch, which includes stops at four delightful cellar doors. It runs from 8:30am until 5:30pm (obviously with a minimum age of 18), and means you can enjoy a sunny day trip without having to worry about driving. The region is known for its pinot gris and chardonnay (with lovely pinot noirs for the red-drinkers out there), with beautiful wineries set among rolling green hills with scenic views the whole way.
Spots are available for $139 each.
5: SHAKE OFF THE HEAT AT ICEBAR MELBOURNE
It’s gimmicky, yes, but we absolutely love IceBar Melbourne. Located in The Atrium at Federation Square, it’s the only bar of its kind in Australia and it’s a fun way to venture out and try something new. Best of all, you get a warm snow cape, globes, and Ugg boots on entry – making the transition out of lockdown utterly seamless. This experience includes games such as air hockey and connect four as well as your choice of cocktail and an ice shot. It’s -10 degrees Celsius inside, so it’s a perfect way to cool off.
Shout a friend for just $40.
6: TICK OFF AN ULTIMATE BUCKET LIST ITEM
A stay at Kryal Castle is one of Victoria’s ultimate tourist experiences. It’s a medieval-themed getaway that combines entertainment and accommodation with live shows. Stay in a king suite, decorated with handwoven French and Belgian tapestries, immerse yourself into a world of lords and ladies, and have a few belly laughs along the way. There are great deals currently available on Groupon, which includes a bottle of wine on arrival and a late check out. Don’t forget to check out Ballarat’s prized attractions, including Sovereign Hill and the new Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka while you’re here.
Check out the latest prices on Groupon.
7: GET A FRESH NEW PERSPECTIVE ON MELBOURNE
And finally, there’s no question the Eureka Skydeck has the best view of Melbourne. It’s so cool standing up there and looking for your house. You might spot the place you went to school or your office, because the expansive outlook extends all the way to the Dandenongs. If you’re feeling gutsy, you can step through the airlock onto The Terrace and experience the blast of wind in your hair 285m above sea level. The Edge is also a must-try. It’s a glass box that protrudes 3m from the building, letting you look straight down to the street, that will spike your adrenaline and definitely make you feel alive.
Buy it as a gift for $35 each.
For more travel recommendations, check out our guides to the Gold Coast, the Whitsundays and Byron Bay.
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