GIPPSLAND
If you are an outdoor enthusiast then the Gippsland region is for you. Explore the renowned Wilsons Promontory and Croajingalong nationals parks and discover coastal and alpine terrain.
From surfing, swimming and rafting to bushwalking, camping and horse riding you'll find a diverse range of activities and attractions in Victoria's east.
And when you've had your fill of swimming and hiking, buy fresh seafood at a local jetty, pick your own berries, sample local cheese and wines and taste your way through Gippsland Gourmet Country.
How to get there
By car:
From Melbourne travel south-east along the Monash Freeway and then take the M1 (Princes Freeway) through many of central Gippsland’s cities and townships, including Warragul, Traralgon and Sale and on to Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Orbost and Cann River. Turn-offs for Mt Baw Baw and the alpine area are near Drouin, Warragul and Moe. Alternatively, take the South Gippsland Highway which runs closer to the coast through Korumburra, Leongatha and Foster before joining the Princes Highway at Sale.
Public transport:
There are daily V/Line train services from Melbourne as far as Bairnsdale, with connecting buses to Lakes Entrance. Check out www.viclink.com.au for details.
On a tour:
Tour companies such as Oz Experience offer Melbourne to Sydney hop-on hop-off services that will take you via Wilsons Promontory and Buchan. Your hostel will have all the information you need.
Where to stay
You'll find hostels throughout Gippsland in towns including Maffra, Foster, Mallacoota and Lakes Entrance. Camp out in designated camping areas in national parks including Wilsons Prom and Croajingalong. There's also a range of caravan parks, hotels, B&Bs and cabins throughout the region.
Tours and touring routes:
The Great Alpine Road
Drive one of Australia's great touring routes. This handy itinerary describes the 308-kilometre route, which extends from the north-east of Victoria to the heart of Gippsland. Sample local food and wine and take in mountain vistas along the way.
Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive
The best way to take in the beauty of the coastline between Melbourne and Sydney is to drive. See national parks, wildlife, surf beaches and pristine lakes, and enjoy fine food and wine along the way.
