Sustainable holidays

Gippsland's lush and varied natural environment of national parks, scenic coastlines, mountains and lakes makes it a popular drawcard for visitors to Victoria. Why not lessen your impact by making your holiday a sustainable one. We've got plenty of ideas to help you both connect with and conserve the region's stunning and pristine landscape.

Take a hike

Step your way to carbon reduction on one of Gippsland's iconic walks. Gippsland's many hiking trails lead through diverse landscapes, and range from leisurely afternoon wanders to overnight hiking adventures. Stroll through ancient rainforest in Tarra Bulga National Park, explore the white sandy beaches of Cape Conran, hike your way along the Wilderness Coast Walk, or take your pick from the many trails of Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Go camping

Get back to basics on a camping holiday in the region's stunning wilderness. Pitch a tent near friendly coastal towns, stay in a forest park, choose a holiday site with full facilities or take the strain off at a glampsite or wilderness retreat. Let nature be your entertainment, with plentiful walking tracks, rail trails and beaches on your doorstep.

Catch public transport

Many of Gippsland's holiday hot spots are accessible by V/Line regional public transport. Trains run several times daily from Melbourne to Bairnsdale via Traralgon, with coaches (buses) connecting to the stunning lakeside and coastal villages of Lakes Entrance and Paynesville. Take a bus from Melbourne to experience the dramatic Bunurong Coastal Drive and explore the idyllic seaside towns of Kilcunda, Cape Paterson and Inverloch. Buses depart Melbourne up to eight times daily.

Itinerary 1

Drive to Wilsons Promontory and then enjoy a car-free few days. Pitch a tent or park your motorhome at Tidal River Campground, and spend a few days exploring the 30-odd self-guided walks or lazing about on Squeaky Beach. Jump aboard the world's first amphibious boat with Wilsons Promontory Cruises for an eco-friendly cruise out to dramatic monolith Skull Rock. Landlubbers can tackle the Great Prom Walk, a challenging three- to four-day return coastal hike to the Wilsons Promontory Lightstation.

Itinerary 2

Ditch the car and jump on the ferry from Paynesville out to Raymond Island across the Gippsland Lakes. The island is a conservation sanctuary for koalas, which were translocated here in the 1950s. The sleepy mammals can be found across the island, dozing in the branches of tall-reaching trees. Take a stroll along the Koala Trail before settling down for a scenic picnic lunch. Be sure to take your rubbish with you once you're done.

Itinerary 3

Take your bike with you on the train to Bairnsdale and spend a few days cycling the 100-kilometre East Gippsland Rail Trail to Orbost in the heart of Snowy River country. Tours can provide return shuttle bus and luggage transfer services. Extend your journey by exploring the town's surrounding national parks, forests and beaches. Fuel up at local bakeries and cafes.