Need some travel inspo? The Victoria Tourism Industry Council has recently revealed the winners for this year’s TAC Top Tourism Town Awards. These awards celebrate the best towns for visitors around the state, with seventeen finalists vying for the top spot. Ballarat took out the highest spot for the 2023 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town, with Sorrento winning for small towns, and Aireys Inlet for tiny towns.
Victoria’s TAC Top Tourism Town Award
Ballarat took home the gold for this years Top Tourism Town, with a population of over 5,000. This iconic destination, just 90 minutes away from Melbourne, was praised for its art, architecture, heritage and restaurants. In this category, Bendigo came in second place, and Frankston won the bronze award.
Meanwhile, Sorrento won the gold award for Top Small Tourism Town, which looks at places with a population between 1,500 and 5,000. This seaside getaway on the Mornington Peninsula was recognised for its beachy traits, as well as its cafes, restaurants, luxurious accommodation and stylish stores. Heathcote took home the silver award in this category, with Woodend coming in bronze.
Finally, for Top Tiny Tourism Town, or places with a population under 1,500, it was the charming Aireys Inlet that won the gold. This hamlet on the Great Ocean Road and near the lush Otways is a great spot for outdoor adventures and artisan food experiences. Red Hill South came in second place, and Jamieson came in third.
Ballarat, Sorrento and Aireys Inlet will now go on to compete for Australia’s Top Tourism Town in their respective categories. The winner will be announced in Canberra on September 14.
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