Australia’s second smallest state has a charming, cultured capital and a well-developed dining scene; yet Victoria still retains plenty of wild landscapes teeming with native wildlife.
From vibrant Melbourne, this self-drive itinerary takes you north-west to beautiful Daylesford and the acclaimed Lake House – home to an award-winning restaurant. Known for its natural mineral springs, Daylesford is regarded as one of Victoria’s best destinations for some “R&R” and has a number of superb day spas.
Travel through gold rush country to the Grampians, staying at the beautiful, family-run Meringa Springs. Explore the region’s soaring sandstone escarpments, fascinating Aboriginal rock art sites and pretty heritage towns. Kangaroos and other iconic Australian wildlife are regularly sighted in the Grampians, particularly around the popular town of Halls Gap.
Inclusions
- 7-nights accommodation at a selection of superb properties
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- One 4-course à la carte dinner at the Two Chef Hatted Lake House Restaurant
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Highlights
- Excellent shopping and dining opportunities
- Melbourne, renowned as one of the world’s most liveable cities
- Excellent shopping and dining opportunities
- Sporting and cultural events throughout the year
- Historic Daylesford and the Lake House Restaurant
- The Grampians, an unspoilt wilderness
- Native wildlife including kangaroo, wombat and emu
- Brilliant bush walking trails through heath and forest
Getting there
This sample itinerary begins in Melbourne. Melbourne International Airport (Tullamarine) is serviced by flights from all major cities in Australia as well as global capitals such as Los Angeles, Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong. The city is about 23 kilometres south-east of the airport, connected by freeway. Taxi’s and the SkyBus are available from all terminals.
Combine with
Melbourne enjoys easy access to some of the country’s premier wine-producing regions, from the Yarra Valley to Mornington Peninsula. Two hours south of the Grampians is the beautiful town of Port Fairy on the state’s south-west coast. Melbourne is also gateway to Tasmania, home to thought-provoking MONA and historic Port Arthur.
Sample Itinerary
Highlights of Victoria
8 days/7 nights
Days 1-2
Melbourne
A popular destination for tourists and locals alike Melbourne’s CBD is a buzz of activity every day of the week. Discover countless world class museums and galleries, bars and restaurants. If visiting on the weekend an AFL match is always a highlight. B (Day 2 only)
Days 3-4
Daylesford
From Melbourne, head north-west to the acclaimed Lake House in historic Daylesford, home to an indulgent day spa and highly regarded restaurant – awarded Two Chef Hats by the Good Food Guide. Perfect for rest and relaxation, explore some of the region’s top restaurants, Convent Gallery, Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens or neighbouring Hepburn Springs. Enjoy a mouth-watering four-course a la carte dinner at the restaurant on one of your nights and an intimate, three-course in-room feast on the other . B D
Days 5-7
Grampians
Transfer north-west to Victoria’s Grampians National Park. Over the next few days cycle or hike the through the beautiful national park, discover the township of Halls Gap or a local winery and witness kangaroos and other iconic Australian wildlife occupying nearby grasslands. B
Day 8
Tour Ends
Check out from your accommodation and drive back to Melbourne. Tour ends. B
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Itineraries
Highlights of Victoria
Grampians - Melbourne - Port FairyA charming, cultured capital and a well-developed dining scene. Victoria still retains plenty of wild landscapes teeming with native wildlife.
Featured
Accommodation
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
A Melbourne icon, the gracious Grand Hyatt Melbourne is as distinctive in form as it is in service, style and hospitality at the prestigious top end of Collins Street.
Park Hyatt Melbourne
One of Melbourne’s top end hotels, the Park Hyatt Melbourne sits in an enviable location overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Fitzroy Gardens.
Drift House
Located in the heart of picturesque Port Fairy on Victoria’s beautiful south-west coast is Drift House, a thoughtfully-designed boutique hotel.
Lake House
Situated on the pretty shores of Lake Daylesford, the Lake House is a winning combination of country charm and comfortable accommodation.
Meringa Springs
A small family-run lodge overlooking the remote Wartook Valley, Meringa Springs is Grampians accommodation at its finest.
DULC Cabins
DULC’s cabins take eco-luxury to a whole new level, located in Victoria’s stunning Grampians National Park.
Chateau Yering Hotel
An elegant, historic homestead reborn as sumptuous five-star boutique accommodation, Chateau Yering Hotel is a unique and charming place to commence your Yarra Valley explorations.
