Words by Bethany Long
Does the Olympic coverage of summer in Paris have you wanting to escape?
Craving that Euro summer but the dreaded cost of living won’t allow it? Or maybe you don’t have enough leave banked up but are in desperate need of a little weekend reset.
Whatever you need, a day trip can offer it – whether you need a change of scenery, a spa day, to explore somewhere new, or simply a day of indulging in great food and wine.
We’re super lucky that right on our doorstep we have a great range of day trips (or weekend getaways) to ensure we can relax, reset, and enjoy.
Here are some of the best spots for a local, but lavish day trip this winter in regional Victoria.
Keep up with the latest Victorian travel destinations, news and tips here.
Daylesford
Nestled in the Macedon Ranges, Daylesford is a go-to for girls’ trips and romantic getaways alike. And perfect for a little winter reset!
A day trip to Daylesford could lead you in many directions. You could be warming up with a massage and soaking in the famous hot springs at the Mineral Spa, followed by a massage.
Or spend your afternoon sifting through vintage finds at the Mill Markets and Curious Antiques.
Perhaps a few wine tastings at Wombat Forest Vineyard and Attwoods Wines are more your style (if you can rope in a designated driver).
Just make sure before leaving you swing past Winespeake Cellar + Deli, to pick up some local wine and cheese to save you from cooking dinner after the drive back home.
Olinda
Less than an hour from the Melbourne CBD, Olinda couldn’t feel further away. Located at the top of the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda is perfect for those who need a literal and figurative breath of fresh air.
If you’re wanting to move your body, the Olinda Falls Circuit has got you sorted with 4.4 km of beautiful bush track with a stunning waterfall.
Wanting something a little more indulgent? Head to Olinda Tea House one of their stunning high teas. You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous gardens and even more gorgeous alpacas onsite.
Before you leave, be sure to visit the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens or walk through the forested R.J. Hamer Arboretum to get inspiration for your own Spring garden.
The California Redwoods
While most people think of the Redwoods as a warmer weather activity (and I’m not here to argue) let me also propose it as a winter one.
A trip to the Redwoods in winter is the perfect escape from the real world. Soak up the history of the giant trees (planted in the 1930s!) with a walk, a little adventure, and maybe even a picnic. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, jump back in the car and head to Otway Estate for a beer (brewed onsite), a gin (distilled onsite), or a pizza (baked onsite).
Maldon
Delve into old-world charm in the historic town of Maldon. Just over an hour from Melbourne, this small town is a relic preserved from the Gold Rush days. For the history buffs, a walk through the town, a tour of the goldmine and perhaps a ride on the steam train is the perfect day trip. Carman’s Tunnel offers a unique (but not claustrophobic-friendly) experience beneath the surface.
But there are a lot more current things to do too – a deviation to The Mill in Castlemaine will appease your inner creative, or stay in town and venture into the Cascade Art Gallery.
Now, country town day trip lunches can go two ways – a pie from the local bakery (in Maldon that’d be Maldon Bakery) or a pub lunch (The Maldon Hotel).
Queenscliff
Wanting a little seaside winter getaway? Combining coastal charm with local history Queenscliff boasts beautiful architecture and a great arts scene.
Walking along the main street be sure to stop off at The Bookshop at Queenscliff and the Queenscliff Sweet Shop before strolling through Salt Contemporary Gallery and Seaview Gallery, to soak up some of the local art scene.
For lunch, you can’t go past a pie from Rolling Pin Bakery eaten on the green lawns of the Queenscliff Foreshore Park. Complete the day with a walk along the pier and (if you’re lucky enough) a ride on the Searoad Ferry.
Walhalla
Quite the hidden gem of Gippsland, Walhalla is another old gold mining town steeped in rich local history. Today Walhalla is an artefact from another, simpler time, perfect for turning your phone to Airplane Mode and just exploring. Traipse the Main Street and unearth cute craft stores, visit the local pub for lunch, and soak up the heritage.
Set in a valley, the bushy mountains add to the charm, but also provide the perfect landscape for bushwalking, fishing, and 4×4 for all the adventurers out there.
Your winter destinations await, perfect for a quick daytrip or getaway this weekend!
Find more travel destinations things to do in regional Victoria here.
Source: fortemag.com.au
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
