Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.
Australia’s second largest state, Victoria is also one of the country’s most diverse regions, with its attractions ranging from spectacular beaches and quaint seaside towns, to the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne – the state capital, and Australia’s unofficial cultural capital. Voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, Melbourne is also a fantastic place to visit, offering a cornucopia of galleries, live music venues, markets and fine dining establishments to keep visitors entertained. Beyond the city limits, highlights of the state include the Great Ocean Road, which stretches for nearly 250km along the coast, taking in incredible scenery along the way; the winelands of Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula; the pristine Wilderness Coast of Gippsland; and the misty mountain peaks and countless Aboriginal rock art sites of the Grampians National Park.
The Mornington Peninsula is a stretch of farmland and natural bush south-east of Melbourne that separates Western Port from Port Phillip Bay. The area is known as "the food bowl of Victoria" and is a destination renowned among foodies the world over. Here you will find five-hatted restaurants within a short drive of local markets, olive groves, berry orchards and vineyards. Sorrento, in the east of the peninsula, is one of Australia’s most fashionable towns and also the site of the first European settlement in Victoria. Visitors flock to the many swimming beaches along the peninsula to enjoy perfect summer breaks, while the Dandenong Ranges National Park is a favourite hiking area, famous for its fantastic walking trails.
As previously described
