There are not many places in the world that cater to every traveller. Especially, one that offers a wide variety of travel experiences in a single state. Sounds almost unbelievable? Well, believe it because Victoria, Australia is that very destination! This Australian state must be added to your bucket list as it encompasses the bustling culture milieu of Melbourne to the untouched bushlands of Regional Victoria. Let us give you 5 reasons why Melbourne and Regional Victoria— must be on your bucket list.
1. It Has a Buzzing Food & Wine Scene
Victoria, the second smallest state in the heartland of Australia boasts a sensational food and wine scene. Vibrant dining, cool-climate wines with vineyard tours, neighbourhood cafes to scintillating rooftop bars, Victoria has them all.
- Melbourne is known for brewing the best coffee in the world. So, a visit to St. Ali’s, Seven Seeds, Dukes at Ross House, Mansfield Coffee Merchant and Roasting Warehouse cafes is a must in the city for the finest brews and brunches
- Gin joints, speakeasy bars and rooftop bars will set the tone for a happening evening in Melbourne
- For the finest wines in Victoria, Yarra Valley, a stone’s throw away from Melbourne houses 70 wineries in the beautiful countryside
- Brae which is a contemporary restaurant located near Great Ocean Road has appeared twice on the ‘World’s Best Restaurants List’, a country cottage-setting serving the most creative food that celebrates the fresh produce of the region
- Rustic diners, sublime food, and seasonal menus paired with local wines are food experiences to look forward to in Regional Victoria
2. It Boasts of Unique Experiences Catering To Every Traveller’s Needs
Every traveller craves unique experiences that sets their holiday apart from the rest. And that’s exactly what Victoria in Australia has in store for adventurous travellers seeking thrill and learning.
- Great Ocean Road: A three-day road trip, peppered with rugged natural beauty and dramatic views awaits you here
- Phillip Island: Home to the world’s largest little penguin colony, the Penguin Parade is unmissable. It would be a treat to your eyes to watch the seabirds waddle back from the waters to their burrows in large numbers
- Grampians National Park: Dreamy sandstone mountains, wildflowers and fauna like wallabies are sure to lure you
- Geelong: Known for the Baywalk Bollards, this is a collection of 104 unique sculptures that represent a fun chronicle of the city’s past. So, walk along the Bollard Trail and have a gala time
- Ballarat: History buffs can soak in the Victorian architectural heritage here. Especially Sovereign Hill, a living museum representing Ballarat, as the booming gold rush township
3. It has diverse natural landscape and iconic wildlife
For nature lovers, Victoria is a gem of a destination. The state is blessed with wildlife, lush green forests, beautiful oceans, snowy slopes and rugged landscapes.
- Victoria has 45 National Parks that boast rich flora and fauna. Alpine National Park, Great Otway National Park and Mount Buffalo National Park are some of them
- Thalassophiles can soak in the sun, sand and sea at Melbourne’s popular beaches —St Kilda Beach, Elwood and Brighton
- Victoria is home to a plethora of natural wonders like Skull Rock, Twelve Apostles and Hanging Rock
- Melbourne Zoo is home to over 300 species of animals, and visitors can see koalas, feed kangaroos, and watch native birds’ soar
4. It Is an Art Lover’s Paradise
Melbourne, Victoria is also known for its thriving art and culture scene. It’s an art lover’s paradise, celebrating local and international artists in equal capacity. Art lovers can explore emerging art hubs, take street art tours and architecture tours as well. When in Melbourne, don’t forget to explore:
- National Gallery of Victoria: The oldest and most popular art gallery in Australia that exhibits 70,000 pieces of artwork
- Melbourne Museum: This 23-year-old museum lets you explore Australia’s history and local heritage
- The Lume: It is the world’s largest digital gallery celebrating the nation’s emerging digital artists
- Street Art: Melbourne is known as one of the world’s street art capitals. So, join a street art tour and discover hidden trails of artistic prowess
5. It Is Absolutely Perfect For Fun Family Vacations
A family that travels together stays together! And Victoria is just the place to plan your next family vacation. There are koalas and kangaroo safaris to enthrall your children, underwater diving for water sports enthusiasts, a family ski trip to Mount Buller, street art tours for art lovers, and a plethora of museums for history buffs. There’s something for every member of the family here. And it would be a shame to miss out on a wholesome and all-encompassing family trip to Victoria.
Folks, these are 5 compelling reasons why you MUST plan a trip to Melbourne in Australia right away. You can never fall short of reasons! So, go ahead and visit this beautiful state in the largest country in Oceania.
All images are credited to Visit Victoria