There were three areas I was most excited to discover in Victoria: Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road, and the Grampians. 

Visiting Victoria in their winter season, whilst very chilly, meant that we were able to visit sites such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard unhindered by crowds of tourists. It was too cold to enjoy an ocean swim, but the magnificently moody coastlines were just as beautiful and awe-inspiring in the winter as I imagine they would be in warmer weather. 

Up in the Grampians, the cooler weather lent itself to some great hikes followed by an evening enjoying a soak in the outdoor bath at DULC cabins - there’s nothing quite like having an inquisitive wallaby or two hop by to investigate whilst you’re stargazing from the tub!

Melbourne is a vibrant city - from the colourful bathing boxes on Brighton Beach and the street-art adorning Hosier Lane, to the heady heights of the Skydeck from where the city’s skyline can be best appreciated, there is always something else to discover. 

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and coastlines stretching out as far as the eye can see, the Great Ocean Road is surely one of the best road-trips you can embark on. Enjoy pitstops at Bell’s Beach (famous among surfers), Airey’s Inlet to check out the lighthouse, and the small but picturesque town of Lorne. Spend a surprisingly spirited weekend in Apollo Bay, where the locals gather to enjoy live music at the Apollo Bay Hotel. Then head to Port Campbell to take in the infamous Twelve Apostles. 

Finally, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in some true beauty, head up into the Grampians to spot emus, wallabies and koalas in their natural habitats. Take a hike to one of the many lookout points or hang out in Halls Gap and marvel at the mobs of kangaroos grazing on the soccer field.

Victoria is a multi-faceted destination which really does has something for everyone. 

A helicopter flight over the Twelve Apostles is a truly spectacular experience and showcases unrivalled views of the rock formations below. 

For families and animal-enthusiasts, a visit to Ballarat Wildlife Park offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s indigenous animals.

Wherever possible, don’t rush a Great Ocean Road itinerary. There is so much to see and explore along this stunning stretch of coastline that to try and squeeze it all into a couple of days would mean missing so much of what this route has to offer!