Read below to find our top winter weekend destinations in Victoria and where to charge up your EV whilst you’re there.
The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is perhaps Australia’s best road trip. There’s no better way to traverse the most spectacular stretch of coastline than renting a zippy electric car. The Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay and goes east of Melbourne as far as Allansford. About 200km long, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway.
Along this scenic drive, make sure you stop at the Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles — impressive limestone stacks rising high above the sea. Moreover, towards the end of the Great Ocean Road, near Warrnambool, the seaside town of Port Fairy is well worth a visit. It’s a thriving town to kill an afternoon in with an excellent food and arts scene.
Other stops should include the London Arch, Great Otway National Park, and exploring the dramatic Shipwreck Coast. You won’t be able to find better road trips from Melbourne than taking a spin along the Great Ocean Road.
Charging
You can charge up along the Great Ocean Road at RACV Torquay Resort, Lorne Visitor Information Centre or at Best Western Apollo Bay Motel.
Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs
The Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs is the perfect place to head for a pampering day out. It’s just over an hour’s south of Melbourne in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. It’s the ideal destination for a relaxing day away with steamy mineral spring pools, massages, and delicious organic food.
However you choose to unwind, Peninsula Hot Springs has everything you want and more. Enjoy Turkish steam baths, reflexology walks, dips in a cave pool, or enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Port Phillip.
The water comes from underground pools and mineral springs, ensuring the baths are as relaxing and fresh as possible. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or want to bring the family along, the spa welcomes everyone.
If you fancy a spa day slightly further afield, Daylesford is a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. With its luscious Hepburn Springs and idyllic Lake House hotel, you could make this day trip a weekend getaway.
Charging
Charge up after a day of relaxation at Nepean Country Club & Day Spa, One Four Nelson or Moonah Links.
The Victorian Alps (Victorian Alpine Region)
The Victorian Alps is an iconic Australian location, with it frequently being cited in Australian myths, history and traditions. Take The Man From Snowy River as an example!
The region consists of a number of mountain ranges including Mount Beauty, Mount Buller and Mount Bogong and is the place to go for those skiing and snowboarding types in winter. With awe-inspiring peaks, there’s beauty all around – no matter which area or mountain you choose to adventure on.
For those wanting a more cultural experience there’s a historic precinct in Beechworth, where you can go on a guided Ned Kelly walking tour, go to the Beechworth Honey shop and taste over 40 of the delicious honey varieties they have on offer as well as explore many local breweries, distilleries and wineries.
You can also hike to the top of Victoria’s highest peaks, with an intricate network of tracks and trails available for all types of hikers whether you’re looking for a short walk, a challenging route or multiple day treks – either way, there is spectacular flora and fauna to be seen. Check out Visit Victoria to find the perfect hike for you.
Charging
Charge up at Gapsted Wines, Falls Creek Alpine Resort, Ovens Supercharger or Brown Brothers.
Yarra Valley/ Dandenong Ranges
The Dandenong Ranges and the Yarra Valley lay 40km east of Melbourne. If you’re looking for Melbourne day trips with something for everyone, the Dandenong Ranges offer nature, wildlife, quaint villages, excellent food, and historical fun.
Begin your day with an hours’ drive through the lush forests and volcanic hills into the Dandenong Ranges. From here, you can enjoy a hike through the rainforest, feed native birds, and enjoy a picnic at the Grants Picnic Ground.
Make sure to visit the William Ricketts Sanctuary and Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens. And don’t forget to hop on board the century-old Puffing Billy steam train in the eclectic town of Belgrave.
Famous for its Domaine Chandon, the Yarra Valley is ideal for wine lovers. Explore the local artisan shops and delightful cafes, where you can sample local produce. Or, if you love food, try stopping in at the Yarra Valley Dairy to sample handmade farmyard cheese.
Charging
Heading out to the Dandenong Ranges is made possible by charging stations such as Proserpina Bakehouse, Yarra Valley Nissan and Croydon Train station all right near the mountain range.
Happy exploring!
