The Country Drive

Traralgon to Sale

96.2km, about 1 hour, 25 minutes

Set out from Traralgon for a memorable off-the-beaten-track drive through lush Victorian scenery. Your first stop north of Traralgon is Glengarry, known for Narkoojee Winery, preserved historic buildings and its butter factory.

With a tantalising bakery and outstanding regional wines, Glengarry is a top place to stop along the route as you make your way towards Maffra, a charming town steeped in nineteenth century history.

Just north of Traralgon is Glengarry. Its main street is lined with telltale signs of days gone by, like the railway station, Mechanics Institute Hall, and the butter factory. Savour the award-winning wines at Narkoojee Winery and devour something home-baked and delicious at the town's famous bakery.

Drive on to the township of Toongabbie, which also boasts some striking heritage buildings. Signs dotted throughout town provide an insight into how things used to be. Toongabbie is a popular spot to rest weary legs on the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail – an easy, postcard-perfect cycle track from Traralgon to Stratford.

Next stop is Cowwar, a town filled with character and creativity. Look out for quirky cow sculptures around town. Pop into Cowwar Art Space in the rustic butter factory for the latest exhibitions or performances. Further along is Heyfield on the Thomson River. The gateway to the High Country features vast expanses of natural bush and national parks, plus Lake Glenmaggie and Heyfield Wetlands.

Approaching Maffra you'll come to Tinamba, a small town established when McEvoys Track from Seaton opened as a major access track to the goldfields. The popular Tinamba Hotel is the perfect stop for a spot of lunch.

Driving into Maffra you'll admire the tree-lined nineteenth century Main Street. Many of the original shop verandas remain, as well as historic buildings like the Duart Homestead and the converted court house that is now home to the Visitor Information Centre.

After exploring Maffra it's time for the short drive to Stratford to allow you plenty of time to explore the quaint town on the banks of the River Avon. Known as one of the gateways to the Gippsland Lakes, Stratford is a great base for further exploration, fishing trips or a walk on McMillian's Track.

Allow plenty of time to explore some of the diverse stores in Stratford's High Street, like the local baker and butcher (bacon and smallgoods a specialty) and the various antique and gift shops like the exotic Turkish Magic and Mumma Goose.

From Stratford, head on to the town of Sale.