Check out these day trips, just 3 hours away from the city. Contrast the city vibe and head into the country.
Melbourne is bustling with amazing things to do, all the time. Some people even call it a ’24 hour city’. There are plenty of amazing cafes to sip coffee in, markets to browse around, and restaurants to eat in!
But if the city gets too much and you’re after a slice of nature or a small town vibe, then head out of the city and break away from the city hustle and bustle.
Grampians
Head out to the Grampians for a fun adventure in the mountains! With numerous hikes, waterfalls, and trails, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in the Grampians.
Stop off in Halls Gap, the gateway town to these cinematic mountains. Halls Gap has everything you need in terms of places to eat, drink, and sleep – and there’s great access to the Grampians.
With a whole range of hikes ranging from long, Lord of the Rings style treks, to a short stroll to admire the Baroka Lookout, you’ll be able to choose your difficulty/length of adventure.
The Grampians are only 3 hours away from Melbourne, meaning you can go up to the mountains for the ultimate hiking weekend. Get your hiking boots on and wander around the fantastic trails around the Grampians.
Mansfield
Near Lake Mountain, Mansfield is a hub of natural beauty. Mansfield is nestled in the Great Dividing Range at the bottom, and it’s well-loved by the locals for its peaceful vibe and surrounding scenery. There are several regal buildings with historic architecture, which are significant to the town’s mining history.
Mount Buller
Go over to Mount Buller from Melbourne for a fun weekend in the snow! Mount Buller offers some great snow adventures, whether you’re putting your skis on, or not. So put your skis on for the weekend or attaching yourself to a snowboard! Get up to Mount Buller to whizz around the slopes.
Echuca Moama
Although it’s technically New South Wales, this river-border town sits across two states. Moama is your ultimate countryside getaway if you’re looking to head out to the Murray River. It’s even warm here in the winter! Head here for picturesque views of a cute riverside town with vibrant countryside pubs and pretty river views.
The Murray River offers a slice of the slower pace of life. Experience this charming country town for a bit of quiet outside of the bustling city of Melbourne. You can easily catch the train from Melbourne to Echuca, which takes only around 3 hours.
Wilsons Promontory National Park
Head down to Wilsons Promontory for some of the best hikes in all of Victoria! Wilsons Promontory feels largely untouched, and some hikes are particularly rural and ‘bushy’. So if it’s a remote hike with gorgeous views you’re after, then head to Wilsons Prom!
Lake Eildon
Head over to this gorgeous lake for a slice of the serene, away from the city. If you’re into outdoor adventure, then Lake Eildon is your adventure ground. From cycling trails, to hikes, to watersports on the lake, this gorgeous slice of natural beauty offers some beautiful vistas of the enormous sprawling lake, just 3 and a half hours away from Melbourne.
If you’re staying at Lake Eildon, head over to the town of Bonnie Doon. It’s the gateway to the Lake, and your nearby hub if you need to stock up on supplies for your outdoor adventure!