Gippsland

Occupying Victoria's eastern corner, Gippsland covers a vast and diverse landscape that includes unspoilt beaches, enormous lakes and immense mountain ranges. Wilsons Promontory, just three hours from Melbourne, is renowned for its stunning bush and coastal scenery and acclaimed walking trails. Central Gippsland is gourmet country, dotted with wineries, cheesemakers, farmers' markets, and fruit and berry farms. Historic gold towns and maritime villages such as Walhalla and Port Albert offer fascinating glimpses into Gippsland's past, while the Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort is the closest downhill ski area to Melbourne. The Gippsland Lakes are fed by the waters of five major rivers and fringed by the pristine Ninety Mile Beach. The Lakes provide ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating and sailing. Dine al fresco at a lakeside restaurant or pub, have a family picnic by a river, or take a stroll through the waterfront villages of Paynesville, Metung or Lakes Entrance. Venture into Victoria's far east to Croajingolong National Park, a World Biosphere Reserve. With more than 100 kilometres of immaculate coastline and hinterland, it is a great place to go bushwalking, surfing or spotting various species of bird and plant life. Mallacoota is a perfect base for exploring the park and also offers excellent fishing and boating.