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Long weekend road trips from Melbourne

Traveloka Team

5 min read

Whether you’re driving down the Great Ocean Road, chasing breathtaking waterfalls, or soaking away all your worries at a natural mineral spring in Daylesford, Melbourne is the perfect launchpad for long weekend adventures. With an array of landscapes and experiences all within a few hours’ drive away, from cool-climate wineries to the iconic Twelve Apostles, there’s a long weekend roadie to suit every type of traveller. Below, we’ve curated a list of the best long weekend road trips from Melbourne to have on your radar — just pack your road trip essentials, gather the crew, and curate the perfect Spotify playlist for the perfect change of pace.

The Great Ocean Road

Hugging the edge of the Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is iconic for a reason. Considered one of the best coastal drives in the world, you’ll be met with lush rainforests, dense fern gullies, and charming seaside towns around every corner.

Distance from Melbourne: 105km to Torquay (the start of the route).

What to see:

The Twelve Apostles: Arguably one of the most recognisable sites on the Great Ocean Road. Discover 12 towering limestone stacks that rise majestically from the ocean.

Loch Ard Gorge: Just a few minutes fromthe Twelve Apostles is a sandy beach surrounded by dramatic yellow limestone cliffs.

Kennett River: Where the forest meets the sea, Kennett River’s pristine coastline is the perfect stop for nature enthusiasts. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot wild koalas nestled in the gum trees.

Where to stay:

Southern Ocean Motor Inn (Port Campbell): Perfect for families, this motel boasts some of the best views in town — directly overlooking Port Campbell Bay.

Seafarers Getaway: Ideal for couples and nature lovers looking for a romantic getaway. With self-contained units set on 20 acres of rolling green hills and access to a private beach, winding down here after a day on the road is unbeatable.

Southern Ocean Villas: If you’re travelling with a group, these villas offer the ultimate “home away from home” experience. Expect spacious rooms, inviting outdoor decks, and easy access to beaches and the town centre.

The Grampians

Step into a world of jagged sandstone peaks and unobstructed mountain views as you arrive at The Grampians. Famous for its stunning hiking trails, majestic waterfalls, and deep connection to Aboriginal culture. Traditionally known as Gariwerd, this region is home to numerous significant Aboriginal rock art paintings and rock shelters. Whether you’re here to embark on a multi-day hike or you’re stopping by local farm gates to pick up fresh produce for a picnic, there’s plenty to do and see at The Grampians.

Distance from Melbourne: 250kms, about a 3-hour drive to Halls Gap.

What to see:

The Pinnacle Lookout: One of the most famous hikes in Victoria, offering breathtaking views over the Fyans Valley and the surrounding peaks from a jagged rock platform.

MacKenzie Falls: A powerful, year-round waterfall where you can take a steep walk down to the base to feel the mist or enjoy the view from the easy-access lookout.

Ballarat & Sovereign Hill: Stop at this historic gold-mining city to stretch your legs around Lake Wendouree or step back into the 1850s at the open-air museum.

Brambuk National Park & Cultural Centre: Located in Halls Gap, this is the best place to learn about the Gariwerd landscape and the culture of the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples.

Where to stay:

NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park: A top choice for families, this holiday park offers spacious three-bedroom villas as well as simple cabins.

Kookaburra Motor Lodge: Centrally located in the heart of Halls Gap, Kookaburra Motor Lodge provides a comfy yet basic stay. Plus, you’re within walking distance of local cafes and bakeries for a quick pick-me-up whenever you need.

The Grampians Motel & The Views Restaurant: Located right at the foot of the mountains, wake up to kangaroos grazing on its lawn and enjoy the onsite restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows to soak in the jaw-dropping views.

Victoria’s High Country

Escape into the Victorian Alps with mist-covered peaks, cool mountain air, and picture-esque landscapes that change dramatically with the seasons. From 4WD adventures and next-level hiking trails in the autumn to skiing amongst the mountains in winter, Victoria’s High Country is filled with nature escapes that you simply cannot find anywhere else. Immerse yourself in nature’s best and wind down with a cool-climate prosecco to end the day.

Distance from Melbourne: 320kms, about a 3.5-hour drive to Bright.

What to see:

Mount Buffalo National Park: Take a detour up the mountain to see "The Horn" for panoramic 360-degree views, or picnic among the massive granite boulders at Lake Catani.

Beechworth Historic Precinct: Wander through one of Australia’s best-preserved gold towns, famous for its honey, the legendary Beechworth Bakery, and the hauntingly beautiful Old Gaol.

King Valley’s Prosecco Road: Think one is for the wine-lovers. Explore vineyards perched on slopes that rise above the King River.

Where to stay:

Hara House: A sleek, boutique hotel with a retro-modern vibe, offering a beautiful outdoor pool and an onsite bar/restaurant — perfect for a stylish mountain retreat.

Lancemore Milawa: A sanctuary in the heart of the food and wine region of Victoria’s High Country. Enjoy floor-to-ceiling vineyard views and world-class wineries just a short stroll away.

Armour Motor Inn: A humble yet cosy spot to unwind after a day of exploring and driving, this motel is located just a stone's throw from Beechworth's historic main street and its iconic honey shops and breweries.

Wilsons Promontory

The ultimate nature lover’s retreat, Wilsons Promontory (also known as “The Prom”) offers pristine white sand beaches and abundance of native wildlife against gigantic granite mountains. Whether you’re conquering the summit of Mount Oberon at sunset, taking a cruise into the iconic Skull Rock, or getting up close and personal with friendly fur seals on Kanowna Island — a long weekend trip to the southernmost tip of mainland Australia is like a breath of fresh air.

Distance from Melbourne: 220kms, around a 3-hour drive to Tidal River.

What to see:

Mount Oberon Summit: A steady 6.8km return walk that rewards you with the most iconic 360-degree view of the park's offshore islands and turquoise bays.

Squeaky Beach: One of Victoria’s most famous beaches, known for its bright white sand that makes a distinct squeaking sound as you walk on it.

Skull Rock: Accessible only by boat, Skull Rock (formally known as Cleft Island) is famous for its eerie skull-like appearance that remains one of the most mysterious natural features in Australia.

Where to stay:

Prom Country Lodge: A comfortable stay that makes for the perfect base for exploring the Gippsland region and Wilsons Promontory. Ideal for families who want to be close to the national park, while still being near town facilities in Foster.

Wilsons Promontory Motel: Clean, classic, country-style rooms in a convenient and central location. With supermarkets and cafes nearby, it’s a hassle-free choice of families or solo travellers alike.

Toora Lodge Motel: For a quiet, down-to-earth stay, Toora Lodge is a great choice. Offering a small-town vibe in the heart of South Gippsland, expect awe-inspiring views and spacious rooms.

Mornington Peninsula

The perfect blend of European-style coastal charm and hinterland luxury — the Mornington Peninsula is dotted with world-class wineries, award-winning restaurants and stunning ocean beaches. Not only is it a food-lover’s haven, the Mornington Peninsula offers fun for every type of traveller — from vibrant markets to relaxing geothermal hot springs — a rejuvenating escape awaits.

Distance from Melbourne: 75kms, about an hour’s drive.

What to see:

Peninsula Hot Springs: An award-winning geothermal wellness destination featuring natural thermal mineral pools and a hilltop pool with sweeping 360-degree views.

Point Nepean National Park: A historic site at the tip of the peninsula where you can explore military forts and tunnels, or hire a bike to reach the rugged coastline of Bass Strait.

Arthurs Seat Eagle: The highest point on the Mornington Peninsula, hope onto a state-of-the-art gondola ride that soars over the state park, offering bird's-eye views of Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline.

Where to stay:

RACV Cape Schanck Resort: An architectural landmark situated next to rugged cliffs and a historic lighthouse, offering magnificent ocean views and a championship golf course.

Peppers Moonah Links Resort Mornington Peninsula: This upscale resort is another premier destination for golf enthusiasts as well as those seeking a serene hinterland escape.

Boathouse Resort Studios & Suites: Looking for a more intimate stay? The Boathouse Resort is perfect for couples looking for peace and quiet with a hint of romance.