This mix of coastal beauty, alpine adventure, cultural immersion, and scenic drives offers a fantastic experience for families and small groups looking to explore the diversity of Australia’s landscapes starting from Gippsland, Victoria:
Itinerary 1: Coastal Adventure
Day 1-2: Gippsland to Wilsons Promontory
- Highlights: Pristine beaches, hiking trails, wildlife spotting.
- Must-Do: Squeaky Beach, Mount Oberon, Summit Walk, Tidal River.
Day 3-4: Wilsons Promontory to Philip Island
- Highlights: Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Nobbies Centre.
- Must-Do: Evening penguin parade, Seal Rocks, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.
Day 5-6: Philip Island to Mornington Peninsula
- Highlights: Wineries, hot springs, coastal walks.
- Must-Do: Peninsula Hot Springs, Cape Schanck Lighthouse, wine tasting at Red Hill.
Day 7-8: Mornington Peninsula to Great Ocean Road
- Highlights: Scenic coastal drive, Twelve Apostles, Otway National Park.
- Must-Do: Surfing at Bells Beach, exploring the Twelve Apostles, walking in the Otway Treetop Walk.
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Itinerary 2: The Alpine and Wine Regions
Day 1-2: Gippsland to Mount Hotham
- Highlights: Stunning mountain views, skiing (in winter), hiking trails.
- Must-Do: Great Alpine Road drive, hiking the Razorback Trail, enjoying the views from Mount Hotham.
Day 3-4: Mount Hotham to Bright
- Highlights: Quaint town, autumn foliage, food and wine.
- Must-Do: Wandiligong Nut Festival (if in season), cycling along the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, visiting local breweries.
Day 5-6: Bright to Beechworth
- Highlights: Historic gold rush town, local produce, wine region.
- Must-Do: Beechworth Historic Park, tasting Beechworth Honey, exploring the local wineries.
Day 7-8: Beechworth to Rutherglen
- Highlights: Famous wine region, gourmet food, beautiful vineyards.
- Must-Do: Wine tasting at Rutherglen Estates, exploring the Murray River, visiting local gourmet food producers.
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Itinerary 3: Cultural and Nature Exploration
Day 1-2: Gippsland to Melbourne
- Highlights: Vibrant city life, cultural attractions, shopping.
- Must-Do: Federation Square, Royal Botanic Gardens, exploring the laneways and street art, Hot air balloon ride.
Day 3-4: Melbourne to Ballarat
- Highlights: Historic sites, art galleries, gardens.
- Must-Do: Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Art Gallery of Ballarat.
Day 5-6: Ballarat to Grampians National Park
- Highlights: Rugged mountain ranges, Aboriginal rock art, wildlife.
- Must-Do: Pinnacle Lookout, MacKenzie Falls and Halls Gap Zoo.
Day 6-7: Ballarat to Grampians National Park
- Highlights: Rugged mountain ranges, Aboriginal rock art, wildlife.
- Must-Do: Pinnacle Lookout, MacKenzie Falls and Halls Gap Zoo.
Day 7-8: Grampians National Park to Great Ocean Road
- Highlights: Spectacular coastal scenery, historic towns, wildlife.
- Must-Do: London Arch, Loch Ard Gorge, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures.
Tips for your Road Trip:
- Book accommodation in advance, especially in popular areas or during peak travel seasons.
- Be prepared for varied weather conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped for long drives. Pack essentials, include a first aid kit, plenty of water, snacks, and a good music playlist.
- Stay connected, inform your family or friends of your itinerary and check in with them regularly.
- Explore locally, take time to interact with locals and experience regional cuisine and culture.
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