Escaping the city is a perfect way to reset and recharge - and it’s an even better idea over a long weekend. Luckily, we have one coming up soon and if you live in Melbourne you don’t need to travel far to get a taste of something spectacular. We’ve rounded up the best day trips from Melbourne that are only a short drive away but feel like other worlds. They’re perfect for taking a break and getting some fresh air. All you need is a spare day (or two!) and a taste for adventure!  

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Mornington Peninsula

If you haven’t yet visited the Mornington Peninsula then you’re missing out. It’s only a 90 minute drive from Melbourne so it’s perfect for a day trip (or an overnight stay) and you’ll be surprised that the hustle and bustle of the city is so close. This picturesque peninsula is nestled between the ocean on one side and Port Phillip Bay on the other with the beautifully swanky town of Sorrento the main feature. You can take a scenic stroll along the many seaside boardwalks or take on a more serious hike. Bushrangers Bay Walking Trail is a must! A few Mornington Peninsula walks have made our shortlist of Victoria’s best walks and hikes. Keep an eye out for the pods of dolphins that frequent the area, and whales during the winter months. If you’re feeling less energetic, why not visit one of the area’s fabulous wineries. Famous for Pinot Noirs, Montalto, Hurley Vineyard and Ten Minutes by Tractor are three of our Mornington Peninsula favourites!

Great Ocean Road

You really can’t beat the spectacular drive down the Great Ocean Road. Just 200km from Melbourne, the scenic drive stretches across the Southern coastline of Australia offering amazing views and plenty of must-see stops along the way. The full drive one way is approximately four hours but you’ll want to leave extra time for sightseeing. Be sure to leave time to walk along the gorgeous beaches and don’t miss the famous Twelve Apostles or London Arch rock formations. Why not make a weekend of it and check out the sunrise over the Twelve Apostles? It’s well worth the early wake-up we promise! And if you’re planning on staying in nearby Torquay, we got you covered with our guide to a weekend in Torquay.

Yarra Valley 

Whether it’s wildlife you’re in search of, fantastic food, historic villages, an adventurous hike or a cycle along an old rail trail, the Yarra Valley makes for an exciting day trip. It’s located around 40km east of Melbourne and the drive there through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges is just as stunning as the destination itself. There are plenty of hiking options, local cafes and restaurants serving locally grown fresh produce and some of the most scenic picnic grounds you’ve ever seen to enjoy. The area is also home to some of the best cool-climate wines in Australia. Giant Steps and Yering Station are just two of many fantastic options.  

Daylesford

If you’re looking for a more upmarket way to spend your day off, Daylesford is home to many incredible day spas, wellness centres and soothing hot springs that are prime for total relaxation. It’s about 115km from Melbourne and the food alone makes it worth the drive with more than a few award-winning restaurants located in the beautiful town. The Farmers Arms Hotel and Sault are two of our faves. When you’re full of great food, you can walk around the beautiful Lake Daylesford and enjoy your weekend of unwinding.

Hanging Rock Reserve

Located an hour Northwest of Melbourne in the Macedon Ranges, Hanging Rock Reserve presents a truly unique wilderness experience. The now dormant volcano was made famous by the iconic film, Picnic at Hanging Rock, and whether you’re a fan of the film or not, you’ll definitely appreciate the mystic beauty of the area. You can hike to the peak of the reserve in about 25 minutes where you’ll find fantastic views of the Victorian countryside.

Phillip Island

Linked to the mainland by bridge at San Remo, Phillip Island is around 90 minutes drive from Melbourne. A rugged and beautiful island, you’ll feel a million miles away from the bustling city. Make sure not to miss the famous Penguin Parade. The world’s largest colony of Little Penguins calls Phillip Island home and any night of the year, from viewing platforms and boardwalks, you can witness the magic of these incredible seabirds waddling home from the ocean to their burrows. The island is also home to plenty of delcious food and drink options; we recommend grabbing a toastie from The Store in Ventnor, or fish and chips from Saltwater on the Newhaven Jetty if you’re feeling peckish.

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