πŸ† My Top 5 Experiences Near Melbourne – Ranked!

πŸ† My Top 5 Experiences Near Melbourne – Ranked!

πŸ”₯ G’day! As someone who’s spent the last 5 years exploring every nook and cranny around Melbourne, I’m here to spill the beans on the absolute ripper experiences you gotta check out. These aren’t your tourist trap recommendations – this is the real deal, mate!

πŸ₯‡ Wilsons Promontory Overnight Hike

πŸ“ Wilsons Promontory National Park | ⏱️ 2 days

Absolute bloody legend of an experience! Did this last weekend and the views from Mount Oberon will blow your mind. The overnight hike to Sealers Cove is challenging but so worth it. You’ll see kangaroos on the beach at sunrise – no joke! Pack light, bring plenty of water, and camp under the stars. It’s pure magic and easily my number one pick.

πŸ₯ˆ Great Ocean Road Sunset Drive

πŸ“ Torquay to Allansford | ⏱️ Full day

Bloody classic for a reason! Start early morning from Melbourne, hit the road, and you’ll see the Twelve Apostles in their golden hour glory. Pro tip: skip the crowds and do it backwards – start at Port Campbell and work your way back. The koala spotting at Kennett River is heaps good, and the coastal views are just stunning. Pack some snacks and make a day of it, mate!

πŸ₯‰ Grampians Peak Challenge

πŸ“ Grampians National Park | ⏱️ 6-8 hours

Tried this last month and my legs were absolutely stuffed, but the 360-degree views from the Pinnacle are unreal! It’s a proper workout but you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. The Aboriginal rock art sites are fascinating too. Best part? It’s only 3 hours from Melbourne but feels like another planet. Bring your hiking boots and plenty of water!

4️⃣ Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs

πŸ“ Peninsula Hot Springs | ⏱️ 4-5 hours

Perfect recovery day after all those hikes! Soaked in these natural thermal pools last arvo and it was pure bliss. The hilltop pool has insane views, and the bathhouse is super relaxing. It’s a bit pricey but worth every cent for the experience. Book in advance though – it gets bloody busy on weekends!

5️⃣ Yarra Valley Wine & Wildlife

πŸ“ Healesville Sanctuary | ⏱️ Full day

Combine your love for wildlife with some top-notch wine! Started with breakfast at Healesville Sanctuary seeing wombats and platypus (they’re so weird but cool!), then hit up a few wineries in the arvo. Domaine Chandon and De Bortoli are my picks. It’s the perfect laid-back day out, and you’ll see some proper Aussie wildlife up close.

πŸ“‹ Practical Info

πŸ“ Various locations across Victoria
πŸš— All accessible within 1-3 hours from Melbourne CBD
πŸ’° Ranges from free to $100+ per person depending on activities
πŸ• Varies by location – most best experienced during daylight hours
⏱️ Half-day to multi-day experiences available

πŸ’‘ Tips & Warnings

βœ… Always check weather conditions before heading out, especially for coastal and mountain areas
❌ Don’t forget your insect repellent – Aussie mozzies are no joke in summer!
⚠️ Some locations require bookings well in advance – don’t rock up expecting to get in last minute
βœ… Download offline maps before you go – phone reception can be patchy in remote areas

πŸš€ Agree with my ranking? Let me know your top pick! πŸš€

#Melbourne #Victoria #WilsonsProm #GreatOceanRoad #Grampians #VisitAustralia #AustralianAdventure #DayTrip #OutdoorAustralia #TravelAustralia

Author: Ben Taylor
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking expert exploring Australia's waterways. From flatwater touring to downwind runs, covering the best paddling destinations. Level 2 SUP instructor and expedition paddler.