Time for a roadtrip.
With the weather slowly improving and restrictions easing, it’s the perfect time to get out and experience what Victoria has to offer, today we’re diving into some of the most ornate and wondrous parks across this great state.
With biking, beaching, birdwatching and BBQ’ing, you’re bound to find something up your alley. So pack a picnic, buzz a friend and make your way to one of these parks today!
Wilsons Promontory, Gippsland
Nestled in the heart of the Victorian Gippsland, Wilson’s Prom has become a hot spot for tourists and travellers across the globe. Traditionally named Yiruk Wamoon, it was first occupied by Indigenous Australians around 6,000 years prior to European settlement, it soon became a popular spot for animal spotting and picnicking.
A travel here will unearth kangaroos, wombats, and a plethora of uniquely Australian wildlife. It’s also a great spot for a selfie or two.
The Grampians
Now onto the opposite end of Victoria, is where you will find The Grampians National Park. Located between Horsham and Stawell, Gariwerd draws curious hikers from around the world, who will come across many native animals, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and unforgettable views of mountain ranges.
While you’re here, The Grampians is home to some of the country’s best rock climbing areas, which’ll make for one hell of a day.
Yarra Ranges, Reefton
Now let’s travel a bit further in-land to the Yarra Ranges National Park. The uber-popular section of Victoria’s Highlands is home to the Mountain Ash tree – a.k.a the world’s biggest tree – which is truly something that needs to be seen to be believed. In colder months, this spot is a snow filled frosty playground, which is a once in a lifetime experience.
Get to a high point lookout here and see stunning views of Mount Donna Buang, Port Phillip and Westernport Bay.
Great Otway, Great Ocean Road
Nuzzled away along the Great Ocean Road, go and experience the Otway Hinterlands. There’s some pretty stunning coastlines and selfie-inducing waterfalls, which will easily kill a few hours. You’ll also come across the interesting Otway Lightstation, which is a pretty cool learning experience, if you’re that way inclined.
Check out their camping rules and policies here, for an awesome night sleeping under the stars.
Kara Kara, Redbank
Located in the Wimmera / Goldfields area of our state, Kara Kara National park is a hidden gem. It’s lack of foot traffic compared to other parks means it’s a great spot to grab a picnic rug, close your eyes and relax. One of the last box-ironbark forests in the state, which basically means it can produce excess pollen and nectar – which is great for animals who need it.
Take your bike up here and relish in some of their picturesque trails.
Tarra – Bulga, Balook
Another popular Gippsland mainstay is the Tarra Bulga National Park. Travel here and you’ll find the final traces of the Eucalyptus trees that use to cover the entire area. With some of the world’s rarest birds calling Tarra Bulga home, it makes for a great day of birdwatching. Download this birdwatching app and see how many you can cross off.
If you don’t feel like going for a walk, head here for a nice picnic and enjoy the views.
Brisbane Ranges, Staughton Vale
No that’s not a typo – one of Victoria’s hottest parks shares a name with our neighbour’s neighbour to the north. Its extraordinary mountains have unearthed some incredible ecological discoveries that you won’t find anywhere else. The close to 20,000 acres of national park will make for a pretty awesome game for hide and seek.
From three day hikes to scenic drives, these ranges are perfect for all types of travellers.
Baw Baw
Bordering the popular Mount Baw Baw Alpine resort is the stunning Baw Baw National Park. This spot is great for rafting, canoeing and fishing – a bit of a change from the average national park. You’ll also spot the Leadbeater’s possum, a really endangered animal – you won’t be able to see it anywhere else.
Back in the late 1800’s, this park was a gold miners paradise – who knows what you could find after a travel here.
