Australia's Great Outdoors: Best Of Victoria's Natural Wonders

Victoria, whose capital city is Melbourne, stretches along the eastern coast of Australia and is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including numerous national parks that showcase features like creeks, rainforests, and cliffs. Also, while its diverse natural wonders and iconic wildlife enhance the country's stunning beauty, the carefree Australian lifestyle is exemplified beach culture, with activities such as surfing and sunbathing.National ParksGrampians National ParkSituated in the idyllic western Victoria countryside, the Grampians offer many opportunities for thrill-seekers and a refuge for connoisseurs of food and wine, all while sharing a captivating Aboriginal history. It features a breathtaking mountainous terrain intermingled with charming towns, including Dunkeld, Stawell, Halls Gap, Wartook Valley, and Beaufort. Head out on walking tracks that lead to powerful waterfalls, wildlife, dazzling wildflower displays and awe-inspiring lookouts.Entry fee: FreeTimings: Open all dayGreat Otway National ParkThe Great Otway National Park extends from Torquay along the renowned Great Ocean Road through the Otways hinterland, offering a range of experiences. Explore the rugged coastline, witness stunning waterfalls amidst towering mountain forests, take on the iconic Great Ocean Walk, discover the fascinating history of the Otway Lightstation, or surf some of Australia's most spectacular breakers. Indulge in the natural beauty of the Great Otway National Park and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Horseback riding and mountain biking are allowed with a permit, and many picnic spots and camping opportunities are available in the park.Entry fee: AUD 27 (INR 1510.61) for adults and AUD 8 (INR 447.59) for children* Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM*subject to changeWilsons Promontory National ParkWilsons Promontory National Park, Australia's southernmost point on the mainland, is where you can explore the remote coastal bushland trails and pristine beaches. Camp comfortably at the Tidal River or hike to a more secluded campsite, and expect to spot wombats, kangaroos, and emus. Norman Beach is just a few minutes walk from Tidal River Campground and offers an excellent swimming experience.Entry fee: FreeTimings: Opening hours varyBeaches90 Mile Beach As one of the world's longest unbroken shorelines, 90 Mile Beach attracts visitors for day-tripping, hiking, kayaking, surfing and fishing. While the water might be too chilly for a dip between April and November, 90 Mile Beach offers an excellent opportunity for a picturesque coastal stroll. While walking, look for dolphins and southern right whales.Pro tip: Swim only between the flagged areas patrolled by lifeguards.Eastern BeachEastern Beach in Geelong has been a popular destination for beachgoers for over a century, featuring sea baths constructed in the 1930s. Although not the sandiest beach, nor one with turquoise-coloured waters, its stunning backdrop and proximity to Geelong make it an excellent location for a beachside barbecue. You can enjoy activities such as diving off the tower, snorkelling to spot stingrays, and swimming to the floating islands to soak up the sun. Amenities such as barbecue facilities, dedicated beach volleyball nets, and the southern hemisphere's biggest Ferris wheel, the Giant Sky Wheel, are also available.Thirteenth BeachThirteenth Beach is located on Victoria Australia's picturesque Bellarine Peninsula. This classic Victorian surf beach is named after the nearby thirteenth hole of the Barwon Heads Golf Course. Here, you can expect stunning sunsets that melt over the horizon and the rolling dunes. For those interested in surfing, surf classes are available to brush up on your skills. As the day ends and the sun turns the sky purple-orange, you can enjoy a delicious seafood dinner in Barwon Heads or Ocean Grove.Natural Wonders12 ApostlesDon't miss the chance to capture a selfie at the 12 Apostles viewing platform during sunset or descend the Gibson Steps to witness the towering limestone stacks with waves lapping at your toes from the beach.Tower HillDiscover koalas, emus, kangaroos, echidnas, and waterbirds, freely roaming around the extinct volcano at Tower Hill. You can also explore the walking trails or take a guided tour to learn about the local Aboriginal history and cultural heritage.Great Ocean WalkTake on one of Australia's most spectacular walks, the Great Ocean Walk, spanning 104 kilometres along the Southern Ocean coastline. This walk offers breathtaking views of clifftops, beaches, forests, and dunes.Getting ThereSeveral airlines offer direct or connecting flights to Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport (also known as Melbourne Airport). Look for flights departing from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore to Melbourne. These flights can vary in duration, typically taking around 12 to 15 hours, depending on the airline and route.If there are no direct flights available, you might have connecting flights with layovers in other cities, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai or Doha before reaching Melbourne.