23 Unusual Day Trips from Melbourne: You’d Never Guess the Last One

Think you know Victoria? Think again. From an eerie ghost town to a hidden stupa, we’ve uncovered 23 mind-blowing spots and unusual day trip ideas from Melbourne that will change the way you see this state.

Looking to plan something that’s not just your usual day trip from Melbourne? or simply Intrigued? Keep scrolling to uncover Victoria’s best-kept secrets!

Walhalla

Nicknamed as one of Victoria’s most haunted towns, Walhalla is a historic ghost town that feels like stepping back into the gold rush era. Wander the preserved streets and dive into spooky tales on the Walhalla Ghost Tour, where you’ll hear eerie stories and explore the town after dark.

Don’t miss the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine tour for a fascinating glimpse into the town’s mining past. Knowledgeable guides bring history to life with engaging stories and a look at original mining equipment. It’s an adventure that combines history with a bit of thrill.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 185 km / 2.5 hours drive
• Details: Explore the ghost town and take a mine tour. Perfect for history buffs and thrill-seekers.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pABs574zxsA22rMK7

Mt Cannibal

Looking for an adventure that’s both a workout and a visual treat? Look no further than Mount Cannibal in Garfield North. Don’t let the name scare you; there’s no need to pack any sacrificial offerings.

This 2.5-kilometre circuit is a moderate hike that rewards you with jaw-dropping views and a solid excuse to skip leg day. The trail’s steep ascents and descents might have you questioning your life choices, but the panoramic views from the summit will make you forget all about your burning calves.

At the base, you’ll find picnic tables, BBQs, and a playground, making it perfect for a family day out. Just remember, dogs and camping are a no-go, so leave Fido and your tent at home. Whether you’re there for the sunrise, the sunset, or just a cheeky midday hike, Mount Cannibal promises a nature-filled escape just an hour from Melbourne. Don’t forget your camera – and maybe a pair of sensible shoes this time.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 70 km / 1 hour drive.
• Best Time to Visit: All year round, with sunrise and sunset being particularly beautiful.
• Facilities: Public toilets, picnic tables, BBQs, playground.
• Google Map Link: Mount Cannibal Flora & Fauna Reserve

Hanging Rock, Macedon Ranges

Hanging Rock, made famous by the film “Picnic at Hanging Rock,” is a mysterious and intriguing geological formation within the Macedon Ranges. It’s ideal for a day of hiking, picnicking, and soaking up the eerie atmosphere. The panoramic views of the Macedon Ranges are simply breathtaking.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 70 km (1 hour drive)
• Details: Geological formation, hiking trails, picnic spots
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uCrLtmXBpfL5BrJw6

Alpine Trout Farm

If you’re looking for a scenic drive and to try something different, the Alpine Trout Farm in Warburton is your go-to destination. Picture yourself casting a line in lush, scenic surroundings—whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newbie, these well-stocked ponds promise plenty of fishing excitement. Kids will thrill at the chance to reel in their own trout, making it a top-tier family adventure that’s both fun and educational.

But the experience doesn’t stop at fishing. You can have your catch cooked on-site for a meal that’s as fresh as it gets or take it home for a future feast. The picnic areas are ideal for kicking back and soaking in the tranquil scenery with friends or family. Trust me, the blend of outdoor fun and laid-back vibes at Alpine Trout Farm makes for an epic day out that’s absolutely worth the trip.

• Distance from Melbourne: About 75 kilometers east of Melbourne’s CBD, making it roughly a 1.5-hour drive.
• Details: Try your hand at catching trout in the well-stocked ponds. It’s a great activity for kids and adults, providing a fun and interactive experience.
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6uKbxdoUM9XpgDkT7

Heathcote

Heathcote is a hidden gem known for its stunning landscapes and top-tier wine. Make sure to visit the Pink Cliffs, where unique rock formations glow a surreal pink at sunset—ideal for a picturesque hike and some incredible Instagram shots.

After soaking in the natural beauty, head to one of Heathcote’s many vineyards for a wine tasting. The region is famous for its Shiraz, and the local wineries offer some of the best in Victoria. The combination of beautiful scenery and delicious wines makes Heathcote a top choice for a relaxing yet enriching day trip.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 110 km / 1.5 hours drive
• Details: Visit the Pink Cliffs and enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards. Ideal for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.
• Google Map Link (Pink Cliffs): https://maps.app.goo.gl/bv7JFnxs3jMPbGj2A

Byaduk Caves

Not far from Hamilton, Victoria, the Byaduk Caves are a volcanic wonder formed by the fiery activity of Mt. Napier. This hidden gem calls for a unique adventure as you descend into the dark, circular dome of “Harman’s One,” where the cold, moist air and eerie silence add to the thrill. These caves are part of a series of four large and distinct lava tubes, with Harman’s One being the most accessible for those without climbing gear.

Feel the temperature drop as you venture 20 metres below the surface into a chamber that’s 18 metres wide and 10 metres tall. The path down is steep and slippery, covered in large rocks, but the sight of stalagmites, stalactites, and bent-wing bats makes it all worthwhile. Outside, lush ferns and mosses enhance the natural beauty of this underground marvel.

After exploring the caves, take a walk along the short track that links all four cave structures, offering stunning views from above. This adventure is perfect for those who love caving, photography, and geological wonders.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 300 km / 3.5 hours drive
• Details: Explore the lava tubes, enjoy the unique cave formations, and experience the thrill of descending into Harman’s One.
• Ideal for: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts
• Google Map Link: Byaduk Caves

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Experience an African safari without leaving Victoria at the Werribee Open Range Zoo. Get up close with zebras, giraffes, and rhinos in a safari-like environment. The zoo offers guided tours and interactive experiences, making it a fantastic day out for animal lovers.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 35 km (30 minutes drive)
• Details: African safari experience, guided tours, interactive experiences
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DF25BZHkEJPeDiAj7

Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm

Transport yourself to the Mediterranean at Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm. Wander through lavender fields and olive groves, and enjoy the rustic charm of historic stone buildings. This picturesque farm also features a café where you can taste local delicacies.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 120 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Lavender fields, olive groves, historic buildings, café
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/R7GBU5RRqqVb1FVW8

The Big Drift, Wilsons Promontory

Feel like you’re stepping into another world with The Big Drift’s vast inland sand dunes at Wilsons Promontory. This unique landscape offers stunning views and a surreal experience, perfect for a day of exploration and photography. Make sure to pack water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes for the adventure.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 200 km (2.5 hours drive)
• Details: Inland sand dunes, hiking, photography
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZduNCrqShjtvqWi66

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Travel back to the gold rush era at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat. This living museum recreates the excitement of the 1850s with historic buildings, gold panning, and costumed actors. It’s an immersive and educational experience perfect for all ages.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 115 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Living museum, gold panning, historic buildings, costumed actors
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5Mi5ojFWxUN3jPoE6

Organ Pipes National Park

Discover the unusual rock formations at Organ Pipes National Park, resembling giant organ pipes. This scenic park offers walking trails and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a relaxing and visually striking day trip.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 25 km (30 minutes drive)
• Details: Rock formations, walking trails, picnic areas
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MPmwDdqZV841hu3b6

Enchanted Adventure Garden, Arthurs Seat

Delight in a world of mazes, treetop walks, and tube slides at the Enchanted Adventure Garden. Set in lush gardens, this whimsical park is perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike, offering a day full of fun and adventure.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 75 km (1 hour drive)
• Details: Mazes, treetop walks, tube slides, lush gardens
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tAyeeyveZDfjHwMq6

The Redwood Forest, East Warburton

Explore the mystical Redwood Forest in East Warburton, home to towering Californian redwoods planted in the 1930s. The serene and majestic forest is perfect for nature walks and peaceful picnics, offering a tranquil escape from the city.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 75 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Redwood forest, nature walks, picnics
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sokEnwxfY4cKKY5C8

Brim Silo Art, Brim

Witness the impressive silo art at Brim, featuring large-scale murals that celebrate rural life. Part of the Silo Art Trail, these murals are a testament to the creativity and spirit of regional Victoria and make for a unique and memorable day trip.

Being roughly 4 hours away from Melbourne, you definitely want to start your day early for this trip.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 360 km (4 hours drive)
• Details: Silo art, large-scale murals, rural life celebration
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/urUHACeVSk6PCJdm8

Lake Tyrrell

Visit Victoria’s largest pink salt lake, Lake Tyrrell, known for its stunning reflections and star-gazing opportunities. The lake’s unique landscape is particularly magical at sunrise and sunset, offering a serene and otherworldly experience.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 400 km (4.5 hours drive)
• Details: Salt lake, reflections, star-gazing, sunrise/sunset views
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ceiLLHT9GwzY4zAd7

Mount Oberon Summit Walk

Hike to the summit of Mount Oberon in Wilsons Promontory National Park for breathtaking panoramic views. This moderate hike is a rewarding experience, offering stunning vistas of the park’s diverse landscapes and coastline.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 220 km (3 hours drive)
• Details: Summit hike, panoramic views, Wilsons Promontory
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NerkMQrGCDNCFoce6

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Walk among the treetops at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, featuring an elevated walkway through the Otways rainforest. For the more adventurous, there’s also a thrilling zip-lining experience, making it an exciting day out in nature.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 200 km (2.5 hours drive)
• Details: Treetop walkway, zip-lining, rainforest
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hk9sSWksqqN9y9v77

Cape Schanck Lighthouse

Visit the historic Cape Schanck Lighthouse on the Mornington Peninsula, offering rugged coastal scenery and fascinating history. Guided tours provide insights into the lighthouse’s past, and walking trails offer spectacular views of the coastline.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 100 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Historic lighthouse, coastal scenery, guided tours, walking trails
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JjwV2HZWYvDbsxgX6

Speke Shipwreck, Phillip Island

Explore the hauntingly beautiful remains of the Speke shipwreck at Kitty Miller Bay on Phillip Island. The shipwreck is accessible at low tide, providing a unique glimpse into maritime history and a striking photo opportunity.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 140 km (2 hours drive)
• Details: Shipwreck, maritime history, photo opportunity
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dmPwdb64fTpxHvs5A

Peninsula Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at Peninsula Hot Springs, a natural hot springs and spa resort offering thermal pools, private baths, and wellness treatments. Set amidst beautiful surroundings, it’s a perfect getaway for relaxation and pampering.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 90 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Hot springs, thermal pools, spa resort, wellness treatments
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kN81JtVSixZugcrD6

Montsalvat

Discover Australia’s oldest artists’ colony, Montsalvat, featuring charming medieval-style buildings, lush gardens, and art galleries. The site hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and events, making it a cultural haven for art enthusiasts.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 25 km (30 minutes drive)
• Details: Artists’ colony, medieval-style buildings, art galleries, exhibitions
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/grU57nW9DYuQaHjSA

State Coal Mine, Wonthaggi

Step back in time and explore the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi. Descend into the historic coal mine and get a glimpse of Victoria’s industrial past. The underground tours and interactive displays make it an educational and fascinating day trip.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 130 km (1.5 hours drive)
• Details: Historic coal mine, underground tours, interactive displays
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/waTarVDcFeDJiHYq6

The Great Stupa, Bendigo

Marvel at the magnificent Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo. This Buddhist temple and peace park feature stunning architecture and serene gardens. It’s a peaceful retreat offering meditation sessions and certainly makes for an interesting day trip from Melbourne.

• Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 150 km (2 hours drive)
• Details: Buddhist temple, peace park, meditation sessions, cultural exhibits
• Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d8c1tZbgpA9SYV9o7