10 Top Mountain Getaways Near Melbourne for an Unforgettable Adventure

Wondering where to take your next holiday? Whether you’re looking for an extreme sports fix or just want to get away and relax in a beautiful environment, the mountains are calling! From ski fields to rainforests, rugged peaks and quaint villages, Victoria has an array of mountain ranges and National Parks to choose from.

Whether you’re looking to explore on a long weekend or want to make it your entire holiday, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

At a Glance

We’ve rounded up some of Victoria’s favourite National Parks and mountain ranges so you’re ready to make the most of your next getaway.

• For the best skiing and snowboarding experience: Mount Buller
• For breathtaking alpine views and advanced ski slopes: Mount Hotham
• For a picturesque alpine village and family-friendly skiing: Falls Creek
• For stunning natural beauty and diverse hiking trails: The Grampians
• For a mix of wineries, outdoor activities, and scenic mountain vistas: Yarra Valley

1. Mount Buller

Only a short three-hour drive from Melbourne, Mount Buller has heaps on offer besides the region’s 300+ hectares of skiable terrain.

From horse riding to snowshoeing, mountain biking to tobogganing, Mount Buller is a year-round favourite for locals and visitors alike. During ski season, Mount Buller comes alive with stunning scenery and a buzzin’ après scene including award-winning cafes, restaurants, bars, boutique shopping and more.

• Website: https://www.mtbuller.com.au/Winter/
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Mount Buller, Victoria 3723, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yuWXEYBULZaeCLJt8

2. Mount Hotham

Whether you want to take on the region’s challenging slopes or are after a more relaxed experience on gentler runs, Mount Hotham is the ultimate adrenaline-fuelled holiday.

There are plenty of other exciting and unforgettable experiences on offer too including snowshoeing and guided backcountry tours. With a range of accommodation on offer to suit your stay, Mount Hotham is the ultimate winter getaway.

• Website: https://www.mthotham.com.au/winter
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Mount Hotham, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Around 4¼–5½ hours from Melbourne, depending on route; allow extra time in winter.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/joWSb7J9uG8DcvrFA

3. Falls Creek

With more than 90 runs and 450 hectares of skiable terrain, Falls Creek has plenty to explore.

With a distinctly alpine village feel, Falls Creek has heaps to do besides skiing and snowboarding, including guided snowmobile tours when conditions allow. It’s the ultimate snowy getaway.

• Website: https://www.fallscreek.com.au/
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Falls Creek, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 4.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oAueP25PVfm6RAFz6

4. The Grampians

From the region’s rugged and challenging peaks for climbers and adventurers, to beautiful meadows bursting with colour and abundant with native wildlife, there’s plenty to see and do in the Gramps.

Explore the region’s rich culture through Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years or unwind with a stroll through the picturesque and serene bushland. There’s accommodation for everyone with options ranging from glamping to luxe lodges and traditional camping.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: The Grampians, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q2sYZc8zebZZ8QGEA

5. Yarra Valley

Only an hour’s drive from the CBD, the Yarra Valley is the ultimate day-trip destination. From world-class wineries to local produce, incredible views and hot air ballooning experiences, the Yarra Valley is the ultimate getaway that’s closer than you think.

With so much to explore, it’s the ideal option for a day-trip or a relaxing long weekend away.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 1 hour drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3QyD55Lqu1jXRDy29

6. The Dandenongs

With a range of cafes, craft shops, rainforest walks and accommodation options including luxe getaways and cosy B&Bs, the Dandenong Ranges are a favourite for Melburnians looking to make a weekend of it all.

For a unique experience you’ll never forget, jump on Puffing Billy for a nostalgic and exciting trip on a working steam train.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: The Dandenongs, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 1 hour drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LfTiKcMUiupjEwsA7

7. Alpine National Park

Victoria’s biggest National Park has everything you could wish for, towering mountain ranges, bushland bursting with colourful wildflowers, babbling rivers and abundant native wildlife.

Explore on skis in the colder months and hike through untouched wilderness during the warmer months.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Alpine National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 4 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MbqGRkfS3s4UrLdeA

8. High Country

Take to the slopes in winter and explore its array of quaint and charming gold-rush towns in warmer weather.

With an array of experiences on offer including award-winning wineries, some of Australia’s best MTB trails and popular ski fields, the High Country has heaps to keep you busy.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: High Country, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 3 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9NMw4C8QdZP6wihg8

9. Great Otway National Park

Only a short 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road region is jam-packed with incredible experiences and natural beauty. Journey through temperate rainforests and explore the region’s rugged coastline.

Look out for local wildlife including koalas and platypuses, take a night glow worm tour or go zip-lining in the wider Otways region, you’ll never run out of things to do. With so many waterfalls to explore, the region has plenty of options for a visit to a lookout too.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Great Otway National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ui9ro2P8HjTRcAqy7

10. Mount Buffalo National Park

Just a short 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne, Mount Buffalo National Park is the ultimate all-seasons’ getaway. Explore towering granite tors and sheer cliffs or wander through picturesque bushland bursting with snow gums.

Cool off at Ladies Bath Falls in the warmer months, taking care on slippery rocks and following local signs, or bundle up and enjoy a day playing in the snow when conditions allow. From waterfalls and alpine meadows to cosy campsites when open and accommodation in nearby towns, Mount Buffalo National Park is an unforgettable destination for the whole family.

• Website: N/A
• Price starting from: Rates vary by property, dates and availability; check current prices.
• Address: Mount Buffalo National Park, Victoria, Australia.
• Distance and travel time from CBD: Approximately 3.5 hours drive from Melbourne CBD.
• Google Map Link:

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best time to visit the Victorian High Country for skiing?

Head up to the High Country between July and August for peak ski season, though snow conditions vary and powder days aren’t guaranteed.

Can I visit the Great Otway National Park and see waterfalls in a single day?

Yes, with so many waterfalls to explore, the Otways has plenty of options for a day out. Choose a few stops along your route and check current access before setting off; the waterfalls are spread across the region.

How far is the Yarra Valley from Melbourne, and is it suitable for a day trip?

Only an hour’s drive from the CBD, the Yarra Valley is the ultimate day-trip destination. From world-class wineries to local produce, incredible views and hot air ballooning experiences, there’s plenty to explore.

Is there public holiday availability for visiting these mountain getaways?

Plan your long weekends around Victoria’s public holidays for ultimate escapes to the Yarra Valley, Great Ocean Road and the Dandenong Ranges.

Are there any unique activities in the Alpine National Park?

From exploring on skis in the colder months to hiking through wilderness during the warmer months, Alpine National Park has heaps of adventures and experiences on offer.