Mother nature rules in Gippsland. Stretching east of Melbourne all the way to the border of New South Wales, this wild corner of Victoria has soaring coastal cliffs and windswept beaches, pristine rainforests and rolling snowfields, and no less than nine national parks. Outdoor adventures are easy to find in Gippsland, whether swimming and surfing along the coast or exploring miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails. You’ll never be far from a bush campground or holiday park, while cosy cabins and glampsites are ideal for winter campers hitting the ski slopes or setting sail on a whale-watching cruise.
Journey from mountains to coast all in one day in East Gippsland, where highlights include Croajingolong National Park, The Lakes National Park, and Snowy River National Park. Further west, there are endless options for boating, kayaking, fishing, and camping around the Gippsland Lakes—you can even sleep in a glamping dome on Raymond Island.
The immaculate golden shores of Ninety Mile Beach extend along the coast of Central Gippsland, dotted with lively seaside towns, glittering lakes, and beachside camping and glamping options. Inland, lose yourself in the rainforest trails of Tarra Bulga National Park or go high-country hiking and rafting at Alpine National Park.
Just an hour from Melbourne, the alpine meadows and patchwork farmlands of West Gippsland are peppered with laid-back country villages and tranquil camping spots. Make your base in Warragul, Drouin, or Garfield, from where it’s easy to explore the Bunyip and Moondarra state parks. In winter, the family-friendly ski slopes of Mt Baw Baw or Mt Gwinear are popular getaways for urban skiers.
The wild and windswept coastline of Wilsons Promontory National Park is the southernmost point of mainland Australia, and it’s a paradise for intrepid hikers and campers. Further west, Inverloch is the gateway to the beaches and dunes of Anderson Inlet and the dramatic sea cliffs of Cape Paterson. Wildlife is the star of the show over on Phillip’s Island, whether admiring the fur seals at Seal Rocks or watching the famous sunset Penguin Parade.