10 incredible experiences in Gippsland

Home to pristine beaches, lush rainforest, soothing hot springs, epic mountains and immense inland lakes, Gippsland is as diverse as it is vast. The possibilities for adventure and exploration are seemingly endless in this expansive region of southeast Victoria, whether out on the water or up high in the alps. To help you plan the ultimate Gippsland getaway, we’ve rounded up the best experiences across the region.

From delightful destination dining to action-packed outdoor adventures, here are 10 unmissable Gippsland experiences.

1. Explore The Prom

No visit to Gippsland would be complete without experiencing the sheer beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park. Sitting at the southernmost point of the Australian mainland, this sprawling 50,000-hectare reserve is Victoria’s largest coastal wilderness area. Here, rocky outcrops tumble down to pure white sand beaches and brilliant red boulders contrast with sparkling turquoise waters.

With a dizzying array of things to see and do, you can easily spend a few days exploring The Prom. Camp under the stars, hike epic coastal tracks, encounter native wildlife, swim at stunning beaches, visit Indigenous landmarks or head out on a cruise to see the remarkable Skull Rock.

2. Soak in soothing hot springs

If you’re after a mind-numbingly relaxing Gippsland getaway, basking in geothermal bliss at the incredible Metung Hot Springs is a must-do experience. This award-winning spa destination is set across 25 acres in the Gippsland Lakes region, with luxe on-site accommodation and serene lake views to boot. Soak in geothermal bathing barrels and hot pools, unwind in architectural saunas or book into the day spa for an indulgent massage treatment.

3. Wander through ancient caves

Head to Buchan Caves Reserve in East Gippsland to explore Victoria’s largest cave system, home to a plethora of striking limestone formations. The best way to experience this natural spectacle is on a guided tour of the 400-million-year-old labyrinthine cave network. Go underground and marvel in awe at epic stalactite and stalagmite forms, vast caverns, rim pools and ancient flowing streams.

With plenty more to do above ground, extend your time at this peaceful reserve and camp beneath the stars or book a stay at the historic Caves House. Explore the charming town of Buchan and stretch your legs on one of many scenic walks in the area.

4. Discover unspoiled beaches

Another East Gippsland gem is the immaculate Ninety Mile Beach, a 90-mile-long stretch of glorious golden sand that separates the Gippsland Lakes from Bass Strait. This vast length of untouched beaches stretches from the shallow inlets near Port Albert to the wide-open waterways of Lakes Entrance. 

Ninety Mile Beach is the perfect place to laze in the sun, cast a line, cool off with a swim or stroll in the sand. If you’re lucky, you might even spot whales and dolphins playing in the pristine waters.

5. Feast at hatted restaurants

With its rich fertile soils and high rainfall, it comes as no surprise that Gippsland is a region renowned for its fine produce. From fresh seafood and delicious dairy to organic produce and free-range meats, local chefs are truly spoilt when designing paddock-to-plate menus bursting with exceptional ingredients.

Reserve your table at hatted eateries like SARDINE in Paynesville and Hogget Kitchen near Warragul to indulge in a memorable destination dining experience.

6. Visit Tarra Bulga National Park

For a soul-stirring experience that will make you feel at one with nature, spend a day exploring the lush surroundings of Tarra Bulga National Park. This serene pocket of South Gippsland is one of the last remaining cool temperate rainforests in the state, home to unique wildlife, cascading waterfalls and an epic suspension bridge that takes you through the rainforest canopy. 

Pack a picnic and head out on one of the many walking trails within the national park, ranging from the leisurely Fern Gully Nature Walk to the more strenuous Grand Strzelecki Track hike. Breathe in the fresh rainforest air as you wander among giant ferns, towering mountain ash trees and ancient myrtle beech.

7. Follow the Bataluk Cultural Trail

Connect with Country and immerse yourself in 30,000 years of Indigenous Gunaikurnai history and culture along the Bataluk Cultural Trail. Weave through sites of Aboriginal significance and hear dreamtime stories as you learn about the traditional lifestyles of the first inhabitants of the Gippsland region.

Plan a multi-day hike of the full trail or choose a section near where you’re staying, with landmarks in Buchan, Metung, Bairnsdale, Cape Conran, Stratford and more.

8. Soar over Gippsland on a helicopter flight

Tick off a major bucket list experience and take to the skies on a helicopter flight to see East Gippsland’s spectacular landscapes from above.

The legends over at Lakes Entrance Helicopters run a whole bunch of scenic flights, ranging from a quick 12-minute jaunt to an epic 45-minute heli ride over the vast Gippsland Lakes region. Get your camera ready to snap away as you soar over stunning spots like Ninety Mile Beach, Ocean Grange and Raymond Island.

9. Alpine adventures at Baw Baw

Keen for a snowy escape not too far from Melbourne? Well then, you’re in luck. Gippsland is home to Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort – Melbourne's closest downhill ski resort, ideally situated just two and a half hours from the city centre. Head to Baw Baw for endless winter fun, with alpine activities like downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tobogganing and snow shoeing.

In the warmer months, Baw Baw’s incredible landscapes are blanketed in lush shades of green and blossoming native wildflowers. As the snow clears and the mountain transforms, soak up sun-drenched scenery along brilliant biking and hiking trails.

10. Captain your own boat

The Gippsland Lakes are a true boater’s paradise, boasting calm waters and a plethora of sheltered moorings. Hire a boat from Seas the Day or charter one of Riviera Nautic’s beautiful yachts to explore this vast inland lake system, with options to suit both experienced and novice sailors.

While you’re out on the lakes, keep an eye out for unique bird and marine life, with Burrunan dolphins, seals and pelicans calling these tranquil waters home.