Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the best scenic drives in and around Melbourne. From the iconic Great Ocean Road to the lush forests of the Dandenong Ranges, these drives offer a diverse range of landscapes and experiences that will leave you in awe. Venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems like the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail, or immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside of the Yarra Valley and Healesville Sanctuary. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these scenic drives are sure to inspire a sense of wonder and excitement. So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road on these incredible journeys through Victoria’s breathtaking scenery.
1. Great Alpine Road
The Great Alpine Road is a 339-kilometre adventure that takes you through Victoria’s diverse landscapes, from the beaches of Gippsland to the breathtaking alpine areas of the High Country. Highlights along the way include the charming town of Bright, the snow gum forests of Mt Hotham, and the historic Gippsland town of Omeo.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria/Josie Withers
Source: Visit Victoria/Josie Withers
This scenic drive offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Victoria’s alpine region, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque towns, hiking through lush forests, or simply taking in the awe-inspiring scenery, the Great Alpine Road is a must-visit destination.
- Address: Bairnsdale to Wangaratta, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/9xe2cyBkHDEBYgVQ6
2. Black Spur Drive
Black Spur Drive is a breathtaking 27km stretch of road between Healesville and Narbethong, offering incredible views and record-breaking eucalyptus trees. The misty, mysterious atmosphere and towering trees evoke images of the Redwood Forests of North America. This scenic drive is perfect for road trip enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you navigate the winding road, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and awe-inspiring landscapes.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
The drive is part of the Maroondah Highway, which stretches 65km to Melbourne in the west and all the way out to Mansfield 142km away in the Alpine National Park. Starting from the charming town of Healesville, simply follow the main highway to embark on your Black Spur Drive adventure.
- Address: Maroondah Highway, Healesville to Narbethong, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/znCAN8LTqSSr5v1A8
3. Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is an iconic coastal route that starts at Torquay and ends at Allansford, Victoria. This stunning drive features must-see attractions such as the Twelve Apostles, Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Arch. The road also passes through picturesque waterfalls like Hopetoun Falls and offers diverse terrain and coastal views.
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
The entire region, from Torquay right through to Nelson and inland to towns like Colac, is a mecca of natural attractions. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline, marveling at the towering rock formations, or discovering hidden waterfalls, the Great Ocean Road is an unforgettable adventure.
- Address: Starts at Torquay and ends at Allansford, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/HKyHtG6ZQTMoT8yj9
4. North East Victoria Silo Art Trail
The North East Victoria Silo Art Trail is a smaller silo art trail that can be easily covered in a day, featuring large-scale artwork on silos in the towns of Goorambat, Devenish, Tungamah, and St James. The trail starts in Benalla, which is home to the Wall to Wall Street Art Festival.
As you journey along the trail, you’ll discover stunning murals painted by local and international artists on grain silos throughout the region. This unique art trail offers a chance to experience art on a grand scale while exploring the picturesque countryside of Victoria’s High Country.
- Address: Starts in Benalla and passes through Goorambat, Devenish, Tungamah, and St James, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/d2Bo9xYyXfQRfjYR9
5. Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive
The Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive starts at Metung and passes through various locations in Gippsland, Victoria. This picturesque drive showcases the region’s stunning coastline, lush forests, and charming towns. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful beaches, scenic lookouts, and unique attractions.
The drive offers a chance to explore the diverse landscapes of Gippsland, from the tranquil waters of the Gippsland Lakes to the rugged beauty of the Bass Coast. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a scenic escape, the Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive is an unforgettable experience.
- Address: Starts at Metung and passes through various locations in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/CC2cjUgkKARu7K5s5
6. The Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges National Park is a rainforest getaway on Melbourne’s doorstep, offering steep volcanic hills covered in stands of the world’s tallest flowering tree, the Mountain Ash. The park is home to tranquil forest walks, quaint hilltop towns, and charismatic animals such as lyrebirds and wallabies.
Some popular attractions within the park include the famous 1000 Steps, Olinda Falls, and the SkyHigh Mount Dandenong lookout. The Dandenong Ranges is easily accessible by car or train, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
- Address: Dandenong Ranges National Park, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/vcaR83oAEqFpVjtP8
7. The Grampians National Park Drive
The Grampians National Park Drive is a scenic journey through the stunning landscapes of the Grampians National Park, offering breathtaking views and diverse terrain. This drive takes you through the eastern edge of the park, passing through the towns of Ararat, Moyston, Pomonal, Halls Gap, Stawell, and Great Western.
The Grampians National Park Drive is an ideal choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing an opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and attractions.
- Address: Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/ku9RNrFjuD3wgWHW6
8. The Grand Ridge Road
The Grand Ridge Road is a 132-kilometre scenic drive that takes you along the ridge of the Strzelecki Ranges in Victoria. This winding drive offers stunning views of rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque countryside, making it one of the best scenic drives in the state.
The Grand Ridge Road is perfect for a leisurely road trip, providing ample opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery, explore charming towns, and discover the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
- Address: Grand Ridge Road, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/U5UXR7yzEtu9dcgN8
9. Red Hill
Red Hill is a scenic drive that takes you through the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, orchards, and coastline. The drive passes through charming towns like Flinders and Merricks, where you can stop to explore local attractions, enjoy delicious food and wine, and discover the region’s rich history.
Source: Victorian Wine Industry Association
Source: Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The Red Hill drive is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape into nature and an opportunity to explore the unique attractions of the Mornington Peninsula.
- Address: Red Hill, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/H2BjiW1xtZAQHd4R8
10. Turton’s Track
Turton’s Track is a winding drive that takes you through the lush rainforests of the Otway Ranges, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a variety of walking trails. The drive starts at Beech Forest and ends at Ferguson, passing through dense forests, fern gullies, and picturesque waterfalls.
The Turton’s Track drive is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing a chance to explore the beauty and solitude of the Otway Ranges.
- Address: Starts at Beech Forest and ends at Ferguson, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/eNsCzQJr5kKsZsU57
11. Silo Art Trail, The Mallee
The Silo Art Trail in The Mallee region is a popular art trail that features large-scale murals painted on grain silos throughout the region, showcasing the work of local and international artists. The trail starts at Patchewollock and ends at Rupanyup, passing through various towns and offering a unique opportunity to experience art on a grand scale.
The Silo Art Trail is perfect for art enthusiasts and road trip lovers, providing a chance to explore the picturesque countryside of The Mallee region while discovering stunning works of art.
- Address: Starts at Patchewollock and ends at Rupanyup, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/LUX6Wm6Hj7zZdCMt5
12. Yarra Valley and Healesville Sanctuary
The Yarra Valley and Healesville Sanctuary drive takes you through the picturesque Yarra Valley, offering stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and the opportunity to visit the popular Healesville Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of native Australian wildlife. The drive passes through charming towns like Yarra Glen and Healesville, where you can stop to explore local attractions, enjoy delicious food and wine, and discover the region’s rich history.
The Yarra Valley and Healesville Sanctuary drive is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape into nature and an opportunity to explore the unique attractions of the Yarra Valley.
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Zoos Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Zoos Victoria
Source: Zoos Victoria
Source: Visit Victoria
- Address: Healesville Sanctuary, Badger Creek Road, Healesville, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/eNPUcjGLv4T6R5y26
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/szu231UyZuXY4cB56
13. Mornington Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula drive offers stunning views of the coastline, vineyards, and rolling hills of the Mornington Peninsula. Popular attractions along the route include the Peninsula Hot Springs, Arthurs Seat Eagle, and the historic Point Nepean National Park. The drive passes through charming towns like Sorrento and Portsea, where you can stop to explore local attractions, enjoy delicious food and wine, and discover the region’s rich history.
Source: Peninsula Hot Springs
Source: Peninsula Hot Springs
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
Source: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria
The Mornington Peninsula drive is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape into nature and an opportunity to explore the unique attractions of the Mornington Peninsula.
- Address: Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/op1p28pHgKuCdbNh8
14. Grampians National Park
The Grampians National Park drive takes you through the rugged landscapes of the Grampians National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. The drive passes through various towns and attractions within the park, providing ample opportunities to stop and explore the region’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and attractions.
The Grampians National Park drive is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing a chance to experience the beauty and solitude of the Grampians National Park.
- Address: Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/qPeuP5KeEzwHJm1e8
15. Beach Road Melbourne
Beach Road Melbourne is a coastal suburban road that runs along the northeastern shore of Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay, starting at Brighton and ending at Mordialloc. This 27km drive offers stunning views of the bay and passes through charming beachside suburbs, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely drive or a cycling adventure.
The road is lined with beautiful parks, cafes, and beaches, providing plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or a more active adventure, Beach Road Melbourne has something for everyone.
- Address: Starts at Brighton and ends at Mordialloc, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/NYMWezFaivFqqUzu7
16. The Barry Way
The Barry Way is a scenic drive that takes you through the remote wilderness of the Snowy River National Park in Victoria. This drive offers stunning views of the Snowy River, rugged gorges, and lush forests, providing a unique opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
The Barry Way is an ideal choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering a chance to experience the beauty and solitude of the Snowy River National Park.
- Address: The Barry Way, Snowy River National Park, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/w8Zu2s8X9DAuPMZw7
17. Mount Macedon
Mount Macedon is a scenic drive that takes you through the beautiful Macedon Ranges, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the iconic Hanging Rock. The drive passes through charming towns like Woodend and Macedon, where you can stop to explore local attractions, enjoy delicious food and wine, and discover the region’s rich history.
The Mount Macedon drive is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, providing a refreshing escape into nature and an opportunity to explore the unique attractions of the Macedon Ranges.
- Address: Mount Macedon Road, Mount Macedon, Victoria, Australia.
- Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/AXyrNWW96rP3R5gq6
Best Scenic Drives Melbourne Highlights
Here are a few highlights from our list of Best Scenic Drives Melbourne:
- The most iconic coastal drive: Great Ocean Road
- The tallest flowering trees: Black Spur Drive
- The highest year-round accessible sealed road: Great Alpine Road
- A unique art experience: North East Victoria Silo Art Trail
- Stunning bay views: Beach Road Melbourne
- A diverse coastal journey: Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive
- Lush forests and quaint villages: The Dandenong Ranges
- A picturesque countryside adventure: Wangaratta to Metung Drive
These scenic drives offer a variety of landscapes and experiences, from coastal routes to mountain roads and picturesque countryside. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these drives are sure to inspire a sense of wonder and excitement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous scenic drive near Melbourne?
The Great Ocean Road is the most famous scenic drive near Melbourne, known for its stunning coastal views and iconic attractions like the Twelve Apostles.
How far are these scenic drives from Melbourne?
The distances of these scenic drives from Melbourne vary. Some, like Beach Road Melbourne, are within the city, while others, like the Great Ocean Road, are a few hours away.
Can I access these scenic drives using public transport?
Some of the scenic drives, like the Dandenong Ranges, can be accessed using public transport. However, for most of these drives, it is more convenient to rent a car or join a guided tour.
Are there any scenic drives suitable for cycling?
Yes, some of the scenic drives, like Beach Road Melbourne, are popular among cyclists and offer dedicated cycling lanes or paths.
How long does it take to complete these scenic drives?
The time it takes to complete these scenic drives varies depending on the route and the number of stops you make along the way. Some drives can be completed in a day, while others may require a weekend or longer to fully explore.
