Australia's ‘heart of culture’, Melbourne, is the capital of Victoria and lies on the banks of the Yarra River. Famous for its gorgeous gardens, exciting culinary scene, and wealth of arts and culture attractions, the city is alluring to travellers with a variety of interests. Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens offer a spectacular display of indigenous plants and flowers, an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, and live concerts; the impressive Melbourne Star provides a 30-minute, 120-meter-high experience over the city; and the uber-modern Federation Square includes the magnificent NVG International Gallery, housing ancient works as well as contemporary masterpieces. Other highlights include the abundance of Queen Victoria Market, the hidden lanes and alleyways around Bourke, Collins, and Flinders streets for food and nightlife, and the mighty Melbourne Cricket Ground, arguably one of the best in the world.
Yarra Valley’s mix of fine food, excellent wines, and pristine nature, is intoxicating. Located an easy day trip from Melbourne, the region is considered one of Australia’s premium wine-producing areas, and arguably its top-rated visitor activity is taking a tasting tour of its historical estates. Go hot air ballooning over the valley’s lush plains, visit the Healesville Sanctuary to experience some local wildlife in a natural setting, and If you’re up for it, a walk up the 1000 steps to the Kokoda Memorial for an interesting historical experience and lovely forest scenery. Less than an hour’s drive from Yarra Valley are the Dandenongs - a range of low mountains where hiking trails lead through misty forests and fairytale fern glades.
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.
Once known as the ‘City of Churches’, today Adelaide is better recognised for its sophistication, charm and cosmopolitan feel. South Australia’s capital is a hub of festivals and art galleries; it enjoys a vibrant nightlife and live-music scene; plus there is plenty of shopping, including gorgeous opals, to be done; and gastronomic delights to be enjoyed. Pop into the Art Gallery of South Australia to view indigenous art, or the South Australian Museum devoted to natural history; take an amble in the Adelaide Botanic Garden; or if you’re up for a hike, find out about the trails on the Mount Lofty Ranges.
Kangaroo Island (“Ki” to the locals) is Australia’s third largest island and a well-known haven for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a retreat. The island lies around 112 km southwest of Adelaide and is almost two thirds protected by reserves and national parks. There are also many cafés and restaurants that serve fresh local fare. The island’s main focus is on eco-tourism and you’ll find flawless beaches along the coastline such as Vivonne Bay, which was crowned Australia’s best beach in 2003. Island Beach is another remote oasis, where kangaroos, seals, dolphins and various birds are found in abundance, while the west coast of Flinders Chase National Park is home to the iconic granite boulders known as Remarkable Rocks.
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