The coast and countryside around <a href="https://theculturetrip.com/pacific/australia/melbourne/">Melbourne</a> is well worth a visit, but they aren’t always easy to access. A tour can often be the perfect alternative, particularly for those without cars. Add in experienced guides who will help you delve deeper into the history of the areas, and you have a foolproof (and ready-made) day trip planned. Whether you’re looking for rugged coastline or rolling hills covered in vineyards, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring scenery just outside Melbourne. Make the most of it on one of these tours or excursions.

Trade the bustling city for verdant topography and ocean views on this day trip from Melbourne. Departing from the city centre, you’ll be out in the fresh country air in no time. Your route starts with a hike through wild scenery along the cliffs at Cape Schanck (keep your eyes peeled for fur seals and dolphins), before biking up to Arthur’s Seat for views over the peninsula. Should all the physical activity work up a thirst, you can take a quick detour to a vineyard, before finishing off the day with an easy kayak or paddle board along the coast. The best bit? You’ll be back in the city by cocktail hour.

Mornington Peninsula Bike, Hike & Kayak Tour

Mornington Peninsula Bike, Hike and Kayak Tour

Immerse yourself in the coastal wilderness with this full-day guided tour from Melbourne. The area plays home to a number of native animals, so you can expect to find yourself well acquainted with furry friends including kangaroos and wallabies in no time. Your guide will keep you entertained on the drive down with notable facts and snippets of history about the area, and will keep you well informed with the various sights to be expected on the hikes, as you ascend mountains and explore the native bush.

‘The Prom’ as it is known to many people, is one of Victoria’s most loved and cherished natural attractions. Located at the southernmost region of mainland Australia, this wildlife haven will inspire and intrigue even the most discerning traveller, with its panoramic views, pristine white beaches, coastal forests, cool climate rainforests and well-preserved walking tracks. The prom is home to many marsupials, such as kangaroo’s and wombats, native birds and other native animals such as emus, which with a bit of luck you are able to see up-close. The best way to explore the Prom is on foot, so you will no doubt enjoy your stroll along some spectacular tracks and be entertained by the pure white quartz ‘singing sands’ of Squeaky Beach. An opportunity is available to enjoy either a rainforest walk at Lilly Pilly Rainforest or amazing panoramic views offered on the Verekers Outlook track, or Mount Bishop track (easy to medium graded walks).

Wilsons Prom Day Trip From Melbourne

Wilsons Prom Daytrip from Melbourne

Take in dizzying views from the mountaintops, and marvel at the power of Mother Nature from the foot of MacKenzie Falls. Make sure to pack your best walking shoes, as this tour will take you up mountains and hiking through canyons, with a pit stop to meet kangaroos at Halls Gap. Learn a bit of social history over tea with a visit to the gold rush town of Ballarat, where you’ll visit the Eureka Stockade Memorial, which remembers those who passed away during the pivotal Eureka Rebellion of 1854.

Departing Melbourne at around 8am, you'll pass through Western Plains of Victoria on the way to historic Ballarat. Ballarat boomed in the 1850’s with the widespread discovery of gold in the district. Learn a little about the history and enjoy morning tea at the site of the infamous Eureka Rebellion. Continue the drive through the picturesque western volcanic plains, passing through the town of Moyston, the birthplace of Australian Rules Football. Arrive at the foot of the Grampians Range known as Gariwerd in the local Jardwadjali language and immerse yourself in the Australian bush with a gentle stroll to Silverband Falls. Continue to the township of Halls Gap for lunch. Keep an eye open for the local kangaroos and the abundant birdlife that can be seen in the main street. After lunch, head to the Wonderland Turntable for a short hike to the Grand Canyon. Your last stop is MacKenzie Falls. No trip to the Grampians would be complete without a visit to these majestic falls.

Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour

Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

Visit four stunning wineries in the area – including the Australian outpost for world-renowned Moët & Chandon – with this vino-centric tour. Including a vineyard lunch, the day will be well spent sampling local wines and eating delectable food. Your knowledgeable guide will fill you in on the Valley’s history and the background of the vineyards you visit, providing some context and colour to each of the wines you taste. Learn the art of swirling, sniffing and slurping in order to truly access the full flavour profiles – you’ll be an expert on Aussie wine by the end of the day.

Yarra Valley Wine & Winery Tour From Melbourne

Yarra Valley Wine and Winery Tour From Melbourne

The Great Ocean Road is among the world’s most captivating drives, so don’t miss out due to the lack of a car. This minibus tour operates with a small group, allowing you a personal experience, as well as getting you off the beaten track to the spots that are inaccessible to larger buses. Traversing stunning coastline, you’ll stop at natural wonders such as the Twelve Apostles and visit a few of the towns dotted along the route – gaining an insight into the area’s history alongside incredible views.

Experience the spectacular Great Ocean Road on a full-day tour from Melbourne. Travel by comfortable minicoach on this majestic stretch of Victoria’s coastline, taking in Kennett River, Apollo Bay, Great Otway National Park, Port Campbell National Park, Gibson's Steps, the Twelve Apostles and more. Enjoy frequent stops for views of stunning white-sand beaches and towering cliffs, plus leisurely walks to see koalas and other native wildlife. Your guide will take you to beaches, rainforests and lookouts, displaying the amazing variety this region has to offer. Small-group tour ensures a personalised experience for each and every guest.

Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour

Great Ocean Road Small-Group Ecotour from Melbourne

Explore the rolling vineyards and rugged coastline of Victoria with one of these unique tours and excursions from Melbourne.

The 5 Best Tours and Excursions From Melbourne

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