Australia, like Canada, is a vast country. Based on its size, it would take years to see it all, and even then, you’d probably miss some. So, on this my second visit to Australia, I wanted to see more of Victoria and everything I could fit in that this beautiful state has to offer.
I found terrific eats, one stunning view after another, much-needed sunshine and endless adventure. I really enjoyed this latest visit to Victoria.
So, from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road, the 12 Apostles, and the most fantastic seafood anyone could ask for, we are going to highlight a few reasons why Victoria has everything you need for the perfect vacation or adventure.
Port Fairy
Port Fairy is a cute little coastal town in southwestern Victoria, Australia. It lies on the Princes Highway in the Shire of Moyne, 290 kilometres west of Melbourne.
It’s the perfect place to stop and have lunch, maybe even sit out and eat it by the water. This idyllic stretch of beach is a great place to, at the very least, get out and stretch your legs, breathe in some fresh air, and take in some tremendous watery views.
Port Campbell National Park
The Port Campbell National Park is a national park in the southwestern district of Victoria, Australia. The 1,750-hectare national park is approximately 190 kilometres south-west of Melbourne and about 10 kilometres east of Warrnambool.
I have to admit these stops along the south-central coastline of Australia are truly breathtaking. Each stop along the way seems more beautiful than the one before, and they are all different in their own ways. With its rugged landscape, rocky coastlines and stunning crisp blue waters, it was one of the most beautiful, untouched coastlines I’ve had the pleasure of wandering through. It is magnificent.
Great Ocean Road
For those like me who were unaware, The Great Ocean Road is an Australian National Heritage-listed 240-kilometre stretch of road along the southeastern coast of Australia, between the Victorian towns of Torquay and Allansford.
The highways wind along the coast down from the Bay of Islands, and it is truly a stunning drive with lookouts and majestic views along the way. You can stop and see as many different views of the coastline and out to the ocean as you like along the way, and honestly, each and everyone is well worthwhile.
So, if you want to see the Bay Of Martyrs, The Grotto, The Great Ocean Walk, and much more, plan a road trip down the Great Ocean Road.
The Twelve Apostles
One of the most popular spots we dropped in to see along the way was The Twelve Apostles. Once parked, you’re just steps from the dramatic sight of waves crashing against the famous sea stacks and sensational coastline views as far as the eye can see.
It may be very busy when you arrive, as it was when we went in the off-season, but since it’s free to wander around and take some shots of pretty epic views, it should be something you add to your list.
Melbourne
When we arrived in Melbourne, it would be for the final leg of our trip, and what a leg it was. After checking in to our hotel, we would freshen up and dive right in.
We would do lots of shopping and even more eating, and along the way, we enjoyed a wonderful stay in a world-class city. Melbourne is fun without being crazy; it’s got a ton of great restaurants without being overwhelming, and once again, it offers beautiful weather for our visit.
We had a wonderful stay at the Intercontinental Melbourne, where we also had a lovely afternoon tea, great breakfast and fantastic service as we enjoyed the comfort and space of a junior suite in a luxury hotel experience. I would highly recommend a stay at the Intercontinental; their staff, service and stunning beauty of the hotel made for a top-notch stay.
We saw some history, visited the library, walked down the Yarra River on a beautiful sunny day, and then returned to the grandeur and visual appeal of the Intercontinental. It was a wonderful visit.
If I had more time, or if I am back again soon, I would look forward to exploring more of what this incredible city offers.
Amazing Seafood
Throughout all of my visits to Australia, I have had exceptional food, and this portion was no different. I ate as much seafood as possible since we were so close to the ocean, and I wasn’t disappointed. I had some outstanding meals, from lobster dinners to crab ravioli and endless out-of-the-world fish and oysters.
We had out-of-this-world meals at Pt. Leo Estate, Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op, Jackalope Hotel, and all the fantastic seafood we could eat. All the food along the way was exceptional, including the red meat.
Victoria is a beautiful state. It’s full of sun, fun, fantastic adventure, views, food, and so much more to keep you happy, busy, and excited to see what’s around the next corner the entire time. So, if you’ve been thinking about travelling to Victoria, I can tell you one hundred percent you should do it.
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