Treat yourself to a scenic getaway by exploring one of the many pretty towns around Victoria. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, seaside stays or beautiful forests, there’s so many incredible places that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Take it easy and enjoy the view, or dive headfirst into some picturesque adventures in the great outdoors. Some of these places are great for day trips, while others are best done as a nice weekend escape. Here are some of our favourite pretty towns around Victoria.
Pretty towns to visit in Victoria
Olinda and Sassafras
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour
There’s a few charming villages in the Dandenong Ranges, and we just couldn’t pick between Olinda and Sassafras. Located less than a five minute drive away from each other, these pretty spots are surrounded by gorgeous gardens and boutique shops. Relax with high tea at the serene Olinda Tea House, or enjoy a nostalgic English experience at Miss Marple’s Tea Room. Then, stroll about the villages from darling knick-knacks and gift ideas. After that, go a little further and walk among beautiful gardens, such as the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden and Cloudehill Garden and Nursery.
Mount Macedon
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour
The Macedon Ranges are filled with plenty of beautiful villages, and Mount Macedon is no exception. Drive up the forested slopes to this dreamy town, and take in the view from spots like Camels Hump or the Memorial Cross. Drive down Honour Avenue for a stunning array of vibrant autumn trees. Around town, you’ll also find plenty of dreamy private gardens, including Forest Glade and Duneira Estate. Explore Macedon Regional Park and look out for native wildlife. Spot a vast range of mushrooms during the cooler months, and blooming flowers in spring.
Daylesford
Distance from Melbourne: 90 minutes
We love retreating to Daylesford for its soothing mineral waters and tranquil spas. This haven has plenty of pretty spots for you to enjoy too. Amble around Lake Daylesford, enjoy the greenery at the top of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and get your dose of art at the historic Convent Gallery. Feel like you’ve whisked yourself away to Europe by wandering through the lavender fields at the iconic Sault restaurant, and find plenty of charm at Lavandula Farm.
Warburton
Distance from Melbourne: 90 minutes
Warburton is surrounded by towering mountain ash trees, so if it’s a forest escape you’re after, this is a great place to go. Take a lazy stroll through town, pop into one of the shops, then grab a bite at one of the cafes. The town is situated right next to the Yarra River, so you can enjoy your coffee and watch the water flow by. After that, explore the surrounding areas with a hike or a bike ride. Visit notable sites like La La Falls, the Redwood Forest, the Rainforest Gallery and Mount Donna Buang, and make your way along the O’Shannassy Aqueduct Trail.
Castlemaine
Distance from Melbourne: 90 minutes
Wander along streetscapes of Castlemaine and discover plenty of historic charm. You’ll find heritage buildings dotted along the wide streets, as well as picturesque landscapes in the Botanical Gardens. Swing by The Mill, an 1870s woollen mill filled with fresh produce, a coffee house, an ice cream store, a tap room, a bakery, vintage stalls and more. Browse through the shops in town and discover plenty of vintage treasures. If you can’t get enough, visit the nearby town of Maldon for even more heritage streetscapes.
Marysville
Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 40 minutes
The scenic Black Spur Drive on the way to Narbethong is a great taste of all the natural beauty you can find in Marysville. Nestled at the foot of Lake Mountain, this idyllic country town has a lot to offer. Check out a cool sculpture garden, hang out in the gallery and browse through the shops, then head further out to explore places like Steavenson Falls and the Cathedral Ranges State Park. In autumn, don’t miss the lovely Gould Memorial Drive, which is lined with golden poplar trees.
Clunes
Distance from Melbourne: 90 minutes to two hours
Every year, Clunes hosts the bustling Clunes Booktown Festival, but this lovely town is a stunning sight to see at any time. Feel transported back to the gold rush as you wander the picturesque streets and gaze at carefully preserved architecture. Duck into one of the quaint shops and bookstores, and see if you can recognise any spots that were used in films like Mad Max.
Lorne
Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours
The Great Ocean Road is packed with beautiful coastal towns, and with its winding hills and gorgeous beach, Lorne feels pretty special. Feel like you’re on holiday and laze about by the beach, then stroll down the main road and explore the buzzing shops and cafes. Take in the view from Teddy’s Lookout, then head inland in search of nearby waterfalls, such as Erskine Falls.
Walhalla
Distance from Melbourne: 2.5 hours
Feel like you’ve gone back in time as you walk through the nostalgic streets of Walhalla. Nestled in a valley, at the base of the Victorian Alps, this historic village was once a bustling mining town. Find plenty of heritage buildings, admire the bright trees in autumn, and feel enchanted by old timey activities, such as guided tour into the gold mine, or a ride on a heritage train. Climb up the hill on the Walhalla Tramline Walk, and take in picturesque views of the town and valley below.
Beechworth
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours
Beechworth is blessed with both natural beauty and heritage architecture. Escape to this pretty town in the High Country and find over 30 carefully preserved buildings that are listed on the National Trust. Learn about their connection to the gold rush and Ned Kelly, then check out the boutique shops and find something nice to take home. Find something delicious to eat or drink in the thriving foodie scene, then head out into the great outdoors for a lovely walk or bike ride. In autumn, the area is filled with vibrant colours.
Echuca
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours
On the banks of the Murray River, you’ll find the timeless town of Echuca. Feel whisked away to the days of old and hop aboard one of the charming paddle steamers. After spending time on the river, dive into a bit of history at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre. Find something lovely at a boutique shop and relax with a lovely meal by the river. Then, duck across the border into New South Wales to explore the twin town, Moama.
Halls Gap
Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours
Venture into the heart of the Grampians, and spend some time in Halls Gap. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this small town is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure. Start your day right by sipping on a cup of coffee, and gazing at kangaroos, wallabies and native birds. For even more animals, head to the Halls Gap Zoo. Otherwise, get out and about on one of the hiking trails, and look out for breathtaking natural spots like MacKenzie Falls, the Pinnacle and the Grand Canyon. Drive out to one of the nearby lakes for some fun on the water, and treat yourself to a bit of vino on a guided wine tour.
Bright
Distance from Melbourne: 3.5 hours
It’s all in the name. Bright is a dreamy town in the High Country that’s surrounded by deciduous trees, stunning valleys and towering mountains. In autumn, this place is particularly beautiful, as the trees are set ablaze with their vivid leaves. To really soak it in, visit during the Bright Autumn Festival. But, no matter what time of year you go, you’ll have a marvellous time. Take a stroll by the Ovens River, take in the view by riding on a rail trail and take in the view from a scenic lookout nearby. Relax with fresh produce and tasty drops from one of the farm gates, breweries and cellar doors in the area. If you’re visiting in winter, use Bright as your base while you visit the snow-capped mountains nearby.
Port Fairy
Distance from Melbourne: 3.5 hours
The charming town of Port Fairy offers plenty of quaint history, with over 50 buildings classified by the National Trust. Amble along one of the walking trails and admire 19th century village streetscapes. When you’re not learning about the local maritime history, admire the boats on the waterfront, pop into one of the local galleries, explore Griffith’s Island and check out Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.