Melbourne to Healesville
Plan a road trip across country Victoria
Whether you're looking to treat your inner foodie in Wangaratta or hop between vineyards in the Yarra Valley, our Melbourne to Healesville road trip guide is full of relaxing things to do in rural Victoria. To kick-start your adventure, pick up a cheap car hire from Europcar and hit the road with us today.
Melbourne
From art galleries to laneway cafés, there's plenty of places to check out in Melbourne before your road trip across Victoria. Grab a coffee from Lux Foundry and browse boutique studios peppered throughout Brunswick, then settle in for a bite to eat from one of the funky restaurants in Essendon, which have all the hipster charm of the CBD without the crowds.
Ballarat 116 km
After the scenic drive from Melbourne, stretch your legs at the Ballarat Wildlife Park and say hello to the resident koalas before enjoying a picnic with the free roaming kangaroos. After dark, catch a show at Her Majesty's Theatre or, if nothing catches your eye, enjoy dinner by the lake at the Ballarat Yacht Club.
Daylesford 46 km
Known for its natural mineral springs, Daylesford is a popular pit stop for travellers looking to relax and rejuvenate in country Victoria. For the ultimate experience, book an all-day package at the Daylesford Day Spa or, if you'd prefer a quick massage, drop by the Queensberry Studio before stocking up on some fresh mineral water from the Springs Reserve in Hepburn.
Bendigo 75 km
Once you've recharged in Daylesford, head north to the charming country town of Bendigo. Stroll through local art and craft stores and vintage boutiques before enjoying a glass or two of Shiraz at the cellar doors scattered throughout the Heathcote wine region.
Shepparton 123 km
The cultural hub of the Goulburn Valley, Shepparton is where art aficionados can go to explore some of Victoria's most popular rural galleries. After you've checked out the latest exhibitions, wander over to the Botanic Gardens and enjoy a scenic walk along the Broken River.
Wangaratta 98 km
A sophisticated blend of café culture and country charm makes Wangaratta a must-visit destination for travelling foodies. For a hearty lunch, head to the Gamze Smokehouse and get stuck in to one of their mouth-watering burgers. Or, if you arrive later in the day, enjoy the sunset from the riverside dining room at Rinaldo's Casa Cucina.
Bright 81 km
Bright may be a popular skiing destination, but there's still a bunch of things to see and do away from the slopes. Discover the fascinating history of the Australian gold rush at the Bright Museum before taking the scenic drive to the small village of Porepunkah for a glass of vino at the Feathertop Winery.
Omeo 108 km
Located on the edge of The Snowies, Omeo is a quirky mountain town that's chock-full of character. Once you've snapped a photo at the Kosciusko Lookout, take the short drive into town for some tucker at Twinkles of Omeo. Before taking off, be sure to stop off at the German Cuckoo Clock Shop on Day Avenue and pick up a handmade souvenir to remember your visit.
Metung 120 km
For a change of scenery, follow the Great Alpine Road down to the coastline and relax by the water at Metung. Pick up a rod and try your luck at one of the local fishing spots or, if you're up for an adventure, join the experts for a day at sea on a fishing trip.
Healesville 302 km
To top off your road trip across Victoria, sign up for a wine tour in the Yarra Valley and sample some of the local sommeliers’ top selections. As the sun goes down, pop over to the Healesville Hotel for a bite to eat in the beer garden.
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