Tours And Attractions In Victoria Province, Australia
As Australia’s most populous province, Victoria offers a plethora of tours and attractions that are certain to give a very special touch to your travel experience. After all, let us not forget this is the pinnacle of Australia’s world-renowned tourism industry, and as expected, it doesn’t disappoint.
Though most people will think of Melbourne as the main destination within the region, Victoria has a wealth of spectacular places to visit along its famous great Ocean Road, a beautiful coastal stretch that travels for 243 kilometres between the cities of Torquay and Allansford. We will try to share some of the best examples in this article so do read on if you are looking for a travel insight into this wonderful city in Aussie land!
Visit a National Park
About 36 per cent of Victoria is covered by forest land, so it doesn’t come as a surprise then that it possesses some stunning National Parks at the disposition of curious travellers. For example, Melva Gully State Park is one of the parks you should certainly visit.
Located in the Otway Ranges near Apollo Bay and known as the jewel of the region, this protected rainforest offers a unique insight into the diversity of life that thrives in this area. A survivor of many bush fires, the Melva Gully is beloved by locals and visitors alike, it offers some of the best picnic locations in the whole state and has the Madsens Track Nature Walk, a very popular attraction for many trek addicts and nature enthusiasts. Lodging is in some ways limited but a quick search online will suggest many charming little guesthouses that visitors can stay at.
If the beautiful Melba Gully proves to be too small for your taste, don’t forget it is but a small park in the Great Otway National Park which has an abundance of waterfalls and trekking paths travelling through more diverse ecosystems including sandy beaches, rouged coastlines, roc platforms and tranquil lakes. One of the unexpected inhabitants of this park is the glow worm which is clearly seen in the night along the walking trails. Camping is prohibited although picnics are allowed. Picnic tables along with gas barbecues and toilets are available.
The 12 Apostles
Though not technically a national park, this natural rock formation has gained a lot of popularity with local and international visitors alike. What set these limestone formations apart is the proximity to one another; visitor will be able to appreciate the gigantic structures in all their might for a perfect photo opportunity.
Although 12 in name, only 8 remain after one of the stacks fell due to erosion in 2012. Many visitors now come to the site in hope of seeing one of these giants collapse under the pressure of time and the harsh seas. These rock formations still stand as one of the province’s main landmarks and do deserve to be seen, even if only on the passing! Though visited by many, its beauty has not dwindled nor its peaceful environment disturbed. There is a myriad of trails and routes that tourists use during their walks around the 12 Apostles.
Don’t Forget Victoria is Wine Country
That’s right! Victoria enjoys one of the most prolific wine producing areas in the world, and though these ones are not located along the great ocean road, they are certainly worth your time visiting! The Morrington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Bellarine peninsula and the Macedón ranges, all offer their slight character and flavours; visitors are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to wine tours in Victoria.
Make use of this great wine map which covers all the main destinations within Australia; keep in mind each area will produce different types of wines as well as possessing different ‘wine cultures’ which makes your trip all the more interesting!
One could describe to you the main wine tours the state offers, but given it is a multibillion-dollar industry (don’t forget Victoria is the largest producer within a country that produces a lot of wine) they do have amazing resources. You are advised to check the official resource page which offers all the answers you might be looking for. Today, there are well over 600 wineries in Victoria which makes it one of the largest wine producers in the country. You should also note that Viticulture here has been in existence from the 19th century.
Some Great Free Attractions in Victoria
Well as we all know, Australia can get slightly heavy on your wallet, but worry not! Here are some awesome free attractions that are bound to remind you how the best things in life (sometimes) do not come with a price tag.
Visit the Botanical Gardens
Containing more than 12,000 plant species, these gardens offer an amazing insight into the diversity of flora found in Australia, compromising both local and foreign species, these gardens are the perfect free attraction for a lazy day.
Wonder at the natural beauty while you stride through beautifully designed paths in this landscaping work of art. There are a number of exhibition gardens along with sculptures that display and bring beauty to the landscape and plants.
Go to the Queen Victoria Market
Located in Melbourne, this is the oldest market in the country. For 2 centuries, it has provided the perfect place for generations of Australians to socialize and trade, still to this day is one of the most colourful and lively places you can ever hope to visit while in Australia.
Do not miss the opportunity to appreciate how the locals go on their normal everyday life, this setting also offers the perfect place for photographers looking for a charming and unique sight of the Australian way of life.
If these weren’t enough, don’t forget we have created another list with the best free attractions in Australia for those looking for a great experience at an even greater price. Look out for the market week which features a whole week of fun. A variety of activities are scheduled with the main highlights such as disco yoga, culinary demonstrations from the fruits and vegetable vendors, cookery that focuses on healthy eating and living through a food tour, and lots of giveaways!