Wilsons Promontory is the most unique national park in Victoria with rugged bushland, white sand beaches and epic waves. It’s also a mecca for indigenous wildlife and you’re almost guaranteed to see wombats, kangaroos and wallabies, either along the side of the road or along walking tracks if you’re lucky. The well-trodden tracks are famous for a reason, so be sure to climb Mount Oberon for sunset and walk across Squeaky Beach where the sand literally squeaks beneath your feet.

The Grampians is a monumental nature reserve of towering peaks and forested bushland. As you ascend many of the hiking tracks, you’re greeted with a sea of green, interrupted only by deep lakes and epic rock formations. Make sure you wake up early for a magical sunrise at Boroka lookout where the pink-hued mist rises from the trees and climb to the top of Mount William, the highest peak in the national park.

There’s no Australian road trip more famous than the epic Great Ocean Road, so unsurprisingly it’s the first thing on people’s agenda when they arrive to Melbourne. Such a mighty reputation, brings with it a lot of tourists, so be prepared for crowds. The winding road hugs the coastline for an epic 244 kilometres and offers beautiful seascapes at every turn. Favourite stops along the way include Apollo Bay, Gibson Steps and the Twelve Apostles.

One of Australia’s most famous wine regions is located a short hour’s drive out of Melbourne and makes for a wonderful day trip for wine lovers. Spend the day hopping from one cellar door to the next and enjoying the beautiful landscape of blanketed vines. My personal favourites are Tarrawarra Estate for its modern art gallery, Dominique Portet for its French charm and Meletos for its rustic food.

With charming wineries and beautiful coastline, the Mornington Peninsula offers the best of both worlds. There is so much to see in this area, that you really need a whole weekend to do it justice. Start the morning with some exercise and fresh sea air in Sorrento and walk along the coastal track to London Bridge lookout. Later in the afternoon, head to the hinterland for a glass of wine and sweeping views at one of the many vineyards. Favourites include Panton vineyard for its family charm, Montalto for extra virgin olive oil and Paringa for fine dining.

Mount Dandenong makes for a beautiful day trip out of the city. It’s an oasis for nature lovers with plenty of national parks, waterfalls and arboretums. Start with breakfast at the Sky High Observatory which offers panoramic views over the Dandenong ranges and Melbourne in the distance. Pay a visit to the William Rickets garden, a green oasis dotted with aboriginal sculptures and the National Rhododendron Gardens, a beautiful landscaped garden. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the R.J Hamer arboretum which has a grassy expanse and views over the forested landscape.