VICTORIA
~ Trendsetting Melbourne ~ Australia ’ s best road trip ~ Pristine national parks ~ ~ Fabulous culinary scene ~ Adorable fairy penguins ~ Remote beaches ~
Hailed as the world ’ s most liveable city , Melbourne is Australia ’ s cultural , shopping , foodie and sporting capital . This bustling metropolis also flaunts trendy bars and clubs , cutting-edge restaurants , creative laneways , eclectic shops and hip neighbourhoods .
A trip along the spectacular 170 mile-long Great Ocean Road is a must with a new treat seemingly around every bend , be it sensational beaches or breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and limestone karsts . Recommended stopping points along the way include Torquay , famous as Australia ’ s surfing hotspot ; Anglesea , with its family-friendly beaches and resident kangaroos on the fairways of Anglesea Golf Club ; fashionable Lorne ; picturesque Apollo Bay and Cape Otway National Park which has rainforests , waterfalls and abundant wildlife .
After travelling all this way , it would be rude not to sample some of the local food and wine , so set your SatNav for the Yarra Valley , a region renowned for its cellar doors and delicious produce . Healesville is another fabulous foodie hub , plus you can visit Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary to get up close and personal with over 200 species of native animals and birds .
Breathe in the fresh sea air , sample innovative cuisine and soak up the alfresco lifestyle on the Mornington Peninsula , where undulating vineyards , seaside villages , galleries , spas and tempting beaches await you .
Get out and about in the Dandenong Ranges for relaxing walks through towering forests or , enjoy their beauty from aboard the historic Puffing Billy steam train . Alternatively , discover the striking landscapes of Grampians National Park by scaling the great sandstone mountains or heading out on walking tracks that lead to waterfalls , wildlife and awe-inspiring lookouts .
For a glimpse of times past , take a journey on an old-fashioned paddle steamer and cruise down the Murray River ; soak up the atmosphere of historic Port Fairy , an old fishing port whose wide streets are lined with charming19th century cottages ; or pan for gold in Sovereign Hill , a recreated 1850s gold mining town .
Phillip Island is another highlight of Victoria , particularly where wildlife is concerned . It ’ s here at sunset that you can watch hundreds of fairy penguins waddle up the beach to their sand dune homes ; peek at the colony of fur seals at Seal Rocks ; and spy koalas dozing in the treetops at the Koala Conservation Centre .
80 AUSTRALIA visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900