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If you have you seen the landmarks in Australia, you’d know there are quite a few of them are here in Victoria
Victoria is a treasure trove of natural wonders, a canvas painted with breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring terrain.
From the rugged coastline to the towering mountain ranges, the state’s natural landmarks offer a glimpse into the magnificence of nature itself.
So, let’s embark on a journey to discover some of Victoria’s most iconic natural wonders that enchant visitors with their beauty and charm.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most famous natural landmarks in Victoria:
1. Great Ocean Road
A scenic coastal drive that spans along the southwestern coast of Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Marvel at the stunning views of the Southern Ocean, drive through quaint coastal towns, hike in lush forests, visit historic landmarks and view the iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Twelve Apostles, a striking collection of towering limestone pillars protruding from the ocean, and the Loch Ard Gorge, where you can follow the trail to the beach and gaze up at the towering cliffs.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to stop by Lorne for some of the best seafood and surfing Australia has to offer. Also, try visiting in the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) when the crowds are fewer and prices are lower.
2. Twelve Apostles
A collection of limestone stacks along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Enjoy stunning views of the stacks from various lookout points along the Great Ocean Road. Take a helicopter tour for a different perspective. There are also hiking trails and beaches nearby.
Don’t miss: Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit as the rocks take on a beautiful golden glow. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit early in the morning to beat the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water if planning to hike. Also, be aware of changing weather conditions, as the area can be prone to strong winds and rain.
3. Grampians National Park
Grampians National Park is a sprawling park covering 168,000 hectares of rugged mountains, waterfalls, and dense forests in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Hiking – Grampians boasts of an excellent network of hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints such as The Pinnacle, Mackenzie Falls, and Mount William.
Don’t miss: Sunrise or Sunset at Boroka Lookout will leave you awe-struck with stunning views of the park.
Insider travel tips: Pack insect repellent, as the park is home to several mosquitos and other insects.
4. Phillip Island
Phillip Island is a popular vacation spot located in Victoria, Australia. It is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreational activities.
What to see or do: Watch the famous Penguin Parade at sunset, where hundreds of Little Penguins emerge from the sea and waddle up the beach to their burrows.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the nightly penguin parade, which is a highlight of any visit to Phillip Island. Also, be sure to try some of the local seafood, which is fresh and delicious.
Insider travel tips: Plan to arrive early if you want a good spot to watch the Penguin Parade.
5. Mornington Peninsula
A beautiful coastal region located in the southeast of Melbourne, Victoria.
What to see or do: Visit the stunning beaches, such as Sorrento Beach and Portsea Back Beach.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the iconic bathing boxes of the Mornington Peninsula, located along the coastline. They make for great photo opportunities!
Insider travel tips: Try to visit during the weekdays as the beaches and hot springs area can get crowded on weekends.
6. Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is a region in Victoria, Australia, known for its stunning vistas, picturesque vineyards, and excellent wine production.
What to see or do: Visit some of the top wineries and cellar doors, such as Domaine Chandon, De Bortoli Wines, and Yering Station.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to discover some of the smaller, boutique wineries and hidden gems in the region.
Insider travel tips: The Yarra Valley can get very crowded on weekends and during peak holiday periods, so try to plan your visit outside of these times.
7. Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges is a mountain range and scenic area located in Victoria, Australia, known for its lush forest and picturesque villages.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train through the mountains, one of the most iconic experiences in the area.
Don’t miss: The William Ricketts Sanctuary, a unique outdoor art gallery showcasing Aboriginal culture and spirituality.
Insider travel tips: The area can get busy on weekends and public holidays, so try to visit during the week if possible.
8. The Gippsland Lakes
The Gippsland Lakes is a vast network of lakes, lagoons, and marshes covering an area of over 600 square kilometers in Eastern Victoria, Australia. The lakes are interconnected and offer a variety of water-based activities.
What to see or do: Explore the Gippsland Lakes by boat, kayak, or canoe. Go fishing and catch bream, flathead, and tailor. Take a dip in the clear waters of Lake Victoria or Ninety Mile Beach. Visit nearby towns like Lakes Entrance and Paynesville, which offer shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy scenic walks in the nearby national parks.
Don’t miss: Watch the sunrise or sunset over the lakes, it’s a truly mesmerizing sight. Visit the Entrance, a narrow waterway connecting the lakes to the ocean. Take a ferry ride to Raymond Island, where you can spot wild koalas in their natural habitat.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the off-peak season (March to May and September to November) to avoid crowds and get good deals on accommodation. Go on a guided tour to learn about the local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for birdlife such as pelicans, swans, and ibises. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes.
9. Lake Tyrrell
Lake Tyrrell is a large salt lake located in the north-west region of Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: The lake offers stunning scenic views especially during sunset and sunrise. Visitors can take long walks on the white encrusted salt plains or join a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the lake to the local Indigenous communities.
Don’t miss: The reflections of the stars and moon on the lake’s mirror-like surface at night time is a must-see experience.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the dry summer months for the best experiences.
10. Hanging Rock
A unique rock formation located in central Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Take a hike to the top of the rock to experience panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Attend a concert or cultural event at the Hanging Rock Reserve. Visit the nearby Macedon Regional Park to explore more hiking trails and natural beauty.
Don’t miss: The annual Hanging Rock Races, which draw thousands of visitors to the area. The mysterious disappearance of a group of schoolgirls at the rock, which inspired the novel and subsequent movie “Picnic at Hanging Rock.”
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the hike to the top can be challenging, especially on hot days. Plan to visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the peace and quiet of the natural surroundings. Check the event schedule ahead of time to see if any interesting concerts or festivals are happening during your visit.
11. Macedon Ranges
A region in Victoria, Australia known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and rich history.
What to see or do: Visit Hanging Rock, a unique geological formation with stunning views and cultural significance
Don’t miss: The annual Macedon Ranges Art Trail
Insider travel tips: Visit in autumn for stunning displays of colorful foliage
12. Mount Buller
A popular ski resort located in the Victorian Alps.
What to see or do: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or tobogganing on its well-groomed slopes. During summer, you can go hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Take part in the numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the snow-sculpting championships and the Peak Music Festival.
Don’t miss: The Mount Buller Alpine Village, which offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops. The summertime Mt. Buller Sculpture Walk, featuring works by local and international artists. The Kooroora Tennis Club, an alpine court with stunning views.
Insider travel tips: Avoid weekends and holidays as the slopes can get crowded, and the accommodation rates can be higher. The free shuttle bus service is the best way to get around the village. For a unique perspective, take a helicopter ride over the snow-capped mountains.
13. Mount Hotham
Mount Hotham is a ski resort village in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or tobogganing. Take in the stunning views from the top of the mountain. During the summer months, hike or bike the trails and explore the Alpine National Park.
Don’t miss: The sunset over the Victorian Alps is not to be missed. Take a scenic helicopter tour for a unique view of the area.
Insider travel tips: Plan ahead and book accommodations early, as Hotham is a popular destination during the winter months. Check the weather forecast and road conditions before you go, as the mountain road is winding and steep. Also, be sure to bring plenty of warm clothing and gear, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
14. The Murray River
The Murray River is Australia’s longest river, spanning across three states- Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.
What to see or do: Cruise the Murray River, go fishing, go camping, go water skiing or kayaking, visit wineries or take a scenic drive along the Murray.
Don’t miss: The Echuca Paddlesteamers, the historic Port of Echuca, the Barmah National Park, the nearby town of Swan Hill with its historic Pioneer Settlement and the Murray-Sunset National Park.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, rent a houseboat and travel along the Murray River at your own pace. If you’re interested in wine, visit the Rutherglen wine region, a short distance from the Murray River. Be sure to also visit the local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and regional specialties.
15. Loch Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge is a stunning natural formation along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Marvel at the towering limestone cliffs that surround the gorge and the crystal clear blue water below. Take a walk down the stairs to the beach and explore the many sea caves, arches and stacks that have formed over thousands of years.
Don’t miss: The history of the site is also fascinating, with the gorge named after the ship, Loch Ard, which wrecked nearby in 1878. Visit the nearby memorial, cemetery and lookout to learn more about this tragic event that saw only two of the 54 passengers survive.
Insider travel tips: Visit during low tide to see more of the caves and rock formations
16. The Otway Ranges
The Otway Ranges is a mountainous region located in Victoria, Australia, spanning over 1,000 square kilometers. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, rugged coastlines, and towering forests.
What to see or do: Explore Great Otway National Park, which covers a significant portion of this region, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the glow worms at Melba Gully, an enchanting and rare natural phenomenon that can only be seen at night.
Insider travel tips: Bring warm clothing, even in the summer, as the Otway Ranges can get chilly, especially at night.
17. Buchan Caves
Buchan Caves is a group of limestone caves located in the East Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Explore the stunning formations and underground rivers in the limestone caves, take guided tours to learn about the history and geology of the area, go on bushwalks in the surrounding area, and have a picnic in the beautiful Buchan Reserve.
Don’t miss: The Royal Cave and Fairy Cave tours, which showcase the best of the cave formations, and the underground river boat tour, where you can see the caves from a unique perspective.
Insider travel tips: Book your cave tours in advance, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a jacket as the caves can be cool. The area can get busy during peak season, so plan accordingly.
18. The High Country
A region located in the northeastern part of Victoria, Australia, known for its stunning mountain scenery, picturesque towns, and outdoor recreational activities.
What to see or do: Explore the Alpine National Park, go skiing or snowboarding at Mt. Hotham or Falls Creek ski resorts, take a scenic drive on the Great Alpine Road, visit historic gold rush towns like Beechworth or Bright, go wine tasting in the King Valley, and try some local cuisine like the famous Milawa cheese.
Don’t miss: The stunning views at Mount Buffalo National Park, the charming town of Mansfield, the Ned Kelly Trail where you can learn about Australia’s most famous outlaw, and the High Country Brewery Trail where you can taste some of the region’s best craft beers.
Insider travel tips: Visit in autumn for the stunning foliage colors or in summer for the best weather and outdoor activities. Make sure to bring warm clothes even in summer as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains. Try camping or glamping for a unique experience, and be sure to sample some local wine and cheese while you’re here.
19. The Alpine National Park
The Alpine National Park is the largest national park in Victoria, spanning more than 646,000 hectares of rugged alpine landscape, high plains, and stunning valleys.
What to see or do: There’s no shortage of things to do in the Alpine National Park. You can hike the iconic Australian Alps Walking Track, which takes you on a 650-kilometer journey through some of the most stunning scenery in the country. You can also take a scenic drive along the Great Alpine Road, which winds through the heart of the park, stopping to explore quaint high-country towns along the way. The park is also home to some incredible wildlife, including the elusive and endangered mountain pygmy possum, which can sometimes be spotted in the winter months.
Don’t miss: Make sure you don’t miss a visit to Mount Feathertop, one of the most picturesque peaks in the park, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Another must-visit attraction is the stunning waterfalls at MacKenzie Falls, which plunge over 30 meters into a deep gorge below.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning to hike the Australian Alps Walking Track, make sure you’re well-prepared, with appropriate gear and plenty of water and food supplies.
20. Cape Woolamai
Cape Woolamai is a headland and beach on the southern tip of Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: Hike to the top of Cape Woolamai for stunning views of the coastline
Don’t miss: The Pinnacles, a series of multicoloured rock formations on the beach
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike up to the top of Cape Woolamai
21. Bells Beach
Bells Beach is a famous surfing beach located about 100km southwest of Melbourne, Victoria.
What to see or do: Surfing is the main attraction at Bells Beach, with the world-famous Rip Curl Pro surfing competition held here every Easter. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the picturesque coastline.
Don’t miss: Taking a walk along the Great Ocean Road to see the stunning scenery and waves crashing against the cliffs.
Insider travel tips: The best time for surfing at Bells Beach is usually from March to October.
22. Port Campbell National Park
Port Campbell National Park is a protected coastal park that stretches over 1,750 hectares along the southwest coast of Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: View the iconic limestone stack formations such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
Don’t miss: The Twelve Apostles at sunset or sunrise, when the golden light makes them even more magical.
Insider travel tips: The park can get crowded during peak season, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
23. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a nature reserve located in Victoria, Australia, known for its volcanic crater and diverse wildlife.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the crater to appreciate the scenic views and observe the unique geology of the region.
Don’t miss: Join a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna and the Aboriginal significance of the reserve.
Insider travel tips: Tower Hill is a popular spot, so arrive early to avoid crowds.
24. The You Yangs
A mountain range located near the city of Geelong in Victoria, Australia.
What to see or do: The You Yangs offer a range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and even horse riding. The mountain range also boasts stunning rock formations, scenic views, and abundant wildlife.
Don’t miss: The Big Rock, a 200-tonne granite boulder that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Another must-see is the Flinders Peak lookout, which offers stunning views of the city of Melbourne in the distance.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the You Yangs can get extremely hot. Additionally, keep an eye out for local wildlife including kangaroos and wallabies. Finally, if you’re interested in rock climbing, be sure to check out the East End Precinct, which features some of the best climbs in the area.
25. Lake Eildon
Lake Eildon is located in the state of Victoria, Australia. It is the state’s second-largest lake and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
What to see or do: Enjoy water sports such as boating, fishing, and water skiing on the lake.
Don’t miss: Fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, redfin, and Murray cod.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the warmer months (November to April) for the best water sports weather.
26. The Lerderderg State Park
Lerderderg State Park is a wilderness area located in Victoria, Australia, covering an area of 14,250 hectares.
What to see or do: The park offers stunning views of the landscape that formed over millions of years. You can go for a bushwalk, ride a mountain bike or explore the mountains by horseback. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from short walks to more strenuous hikes. If you’re an experienced hiker, don’t miss the chance to climb the mountaintops and take in the panoramic views of the park.
Don’t miss: The Lerderderg River is a highlight of the park, with its cascading falls and deep gorges. There’s a range of picnic spots, swimming holes, and fishing spots that offer a chance to rest and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings. Also, make sure to visit the mysterious ruins of the O’Briens Crossing around the river.
Insider travel tips: Wear sturdy footwear and carry plenty of water as some of the trails can be rough and dry.
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