8 Most Charming Small Towns in Victoria
Victoria, a scenic state in southeastern Australia, is an abode of natural charm, earning it the nickname “The Garden State.” Tourists flock to the state for its outdoor sights, such as the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Park. With lush forests, sandy beaches, and stunning wildlife, one can relish in Australia’s outdoors.
The best way to take in these spots is through Victoria’s amazing small towns. Filled with culture, food, and activities without the hustle and bustle of urban cities, they are perfect destinations. Moreover, each town has something unique to share, so visitors will never get bored.
Inverloch
Inverloch is a popular seaside town famed for its coastal allure. Resting along the calm waters of Anderson Inlet, it offers a serene way to experience the ocean. Watersports Enthusiasts adore this environment, spending their time swimming, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and fishing along the coast. For people not into getting wet, Inverloch is just as exciting, with plenty of interesting geographical formations. For example, The Caves and Eagles Nest are two of the town’s most famous spots. The Caves is a rocky beach famed as the Dinosaur Dreaming dig site where over 15,000 fossils have been found. Tourists can tour the area and try their hand at digging for bones, teeth, and fossils from over 100 million years ago. Meanwhile, Eagles Nest is a magnificent rock formation jutting out of the water where people can capture iconic photos.
After spending the day with Mother Nature, the town of 6,500 offers towny respite to weary travelers. Head into the tapestry of streets lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Whether you want to try some authentic sushi at Tomo or enjoy a beer at Inlet Hotel, there is something for everyone in Inverloch. Moreover, the streets are always full of happy tourists and good vibes for a unique charm rarely found elsewhere.
Halls Gap
After Inverloch, continue the outdoor vibe with a trip to Halls Gap. This scenic town on Grampians Road lies next to the famous Grampians National Park, a 1,670 sq. km. (645 sq. mi.) haven of Australia’s wilderness. Famed for its natural beauty, the park is home to mountain ranges, numerous waterfalls, and verdant greenery. Take in the sights with various pursuits such as hiking, biking, and bushwalking along dozens of lovely trails. For example, beginners love The Pinnacle, a 2.1 km. (1.3 mi.) trail that rewards completion with panoramic views of the scenery. If you are lucky, you might spot some of the locals such as red fox, fallow deer, and smokey mice which often come up to trails. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies can opt for more energetic options such as gliding and rock climbing for an experience of a lifetime.
While there is no end to the stunning formations riddled throughout Grampians National Park, Halls Gap has more to offer. Halls Gap Zoo is one such place that boasts over 150 native and exotic animal species. From playing with kangaroos to watching crocodiles, kids are sure to have a blast here. Outside of the zoo, the town exudes a homely vibe and it seems like all the 500 residents are close friends. As you meet the amicable locals, one thing is sure to come up, the local Food and Wine Festival. Held in May every year since 1992, it is a wellspring of enjoyment, with over 100 producers, live music, and entertainment. From tasting delicious red wine to dancing the night away, Halls Gap is a charming destination in Victoria.
Walhalla
This idyllic town showcases a new side of Victoria’s charm. Instead of beaches and parks, Walhalla is steeped in history, attracting visitors with tales of a bygone era. Once a gold mining hub, the town was home to the famed Long Tunnel Extended Mine (LTEM). As of today, various sites like the LTEM, Walhalla Goldfields Railway, Walhalla Cemetery and showcase a glimpse of the past. While the LTEM has stopped operations, it now offers immersive mine tours. Taking people through the 1800s tunnels, it is a great way to learn about the tedious business and mining conditions. Similarly, the Walhalla Goldfields Railway is a historic railway line that was used to carry goods to and from town. Now, it has transformed into a tourist train that showcases tranquility and beauty across Victoria's countryside. Speaking of the countryside, if you want to get a closer look at the views, check out the Walhalla Tramline Walkway. Spanning 7 km (4.3 mi.) through forests, rivers, and cliffs, it is a fan-favorite for nature enthusiasts.
Daylesford
Daylesford’s charm lies in its quaint gardens and mineral springs, creating a rural environment away from urban crowds. Similar to Walhalla, this town came up as a mining community in the 1800s. However, as gold mining declined, Daylesford’s mineral springs took the limelight, making it a tourist spa town. Home to 80% of Australia’s mineral water springs, it is the perfect place to unwind. Many bathhouses allow visitors to relax, especially the Hepburn Bathhouse & with its highly-rated services. Outside the spa, Lake Daylesford and the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens are full of recreational activities. Whether it is hiking under the canopy of tall trees or swimming in the lake, there are ample ways to have fun in Daylesford.
Back in town, the 2,800-strong community is revered for its strong sense of culture. Palpable through the array of galleries, festivals, and museums, each alley is a new way to indulge in creativity. Stony Creek Gallery and Bokeh are two of the most popular galleries. They showcase an array of local paintings, sculptures, and artworks. If you are here during a festival, few places can match the vibe of Daylesford. From the ChillOut Festival on Victorian Labour Day to the largest LGBTQ festival in regional Australia, the town transforms into a massive party. After spending the day out and about in this Victoria town, stop by Passing Clouds Winery for some wine and conversations to end your trip right.
Lakes Entrance
As the name suggests, Lakes Entrance is a wellspring of two things; glistening lakes and water-based activities. This seaside resort rests along the southern coast of Victoria boasting warm weather year-round. Tourists can take advantage of the soothing climate with a trip to Gippsland Lakes, a beautiful system of coastal waterways. Centered within sandy beaches, marshes, and lagoons, it seems straight out of a fantasy novel. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are among the many ways to enjoy oneself in this abode. Keep an eye on the water to spot the local population of Burrunan dolphins as they speed by boats. If these lakes are not enough to quench your thirst for water, Lakes Entrance Beach is the place to be. Join the array of families on this clean beach as they watch the barrage of waves crashing in from the Southern Ocean.
On the other side of the coast, Lakes Entrance is an entrance to various national parks, such as Colquhoun Regional Park and Lakes National Park. Colquhoun Regional Park is a fan favorite, boasting 9,000 acres of untouched wilderness to explore. Hiking is among the top activities, and there are many trails with varying levels of difficulty. Beginners can walk around the Log Crossing Picnic Area while professionals challenge themselves with the picturesque Discovery Trail Walk’s 15 km. (9.3 mi.) route. No matter which path one is on, friendly wildlife and fresh air are sure to make it a wonderful experience.
Healesville
Healesville is another lovely Victoria town, where flourishing landscapes replace the coast. This quaint town sits east of Melbourne, where the urban streets blend into rural walkways and nature trails. Upon arrival, the 7,500 residents greet tourists with a smile. There are plenty of places to strike up a conversation, especially on the Maroondah Highway. Lined with eateries such as Monroe’s Burgers & Beers and Chachi Yarra Valley, the street exudes delicious aromas. Adults looking for a drink can head out to Four Pillars Distillery instead, which features a bubbly environment and an assortment of tasty spirits.
As you meander through the streets, beautiful natural areas lie hidden between the towny attractions. The Healesville Sanctuary, for example, provides a glimpse into Victoria’s vast ecosystem. Home to over 140 animals including Lace monitors, Tasmanian Devils, and Apostlebirds, it transports one to a world of wildlife. The sanctuary also offers guided tours and bird shows which kids love to watch. With more areas like the Maroondah Reservoir Park, Healesville is a lovely town to sit back and relax.
Lorne
Lorne combines the charms of a seaside town with the energy of a surfing hub. Located on the Great Ocean Road, Lorne benefits from long and wide beaches along Louttit Bay. Surfers from all over the world flock to Lorne Beach to test their skills with stunning waves crashing along the sand. If you’re not surfing, set up a towel on the white sand for some sunbathing as you watch tourists brave the waters. For a more open view of the action, one can hike up to Teddy’s Lookout. This is an excellent cliff point to gain panoramic views of the entire town. Inland from the coast, several waterfalls are within hiking distance, including Erskine Falls, Sheoak Falls, and Henderson Falls. These waterfalls offer a mystical sight that is sure to take your breath away.
After touring the alluring falls and taking in the fresh air all around, head into the paved streets of Lorne, which have a charm of their own. Flush with tourists during summer, there is an air of energy that makes everything enjoyable. As you roam around, treat yourself to one of the amazing food options served in vibrant outlets. From juicy burgers at Pit Stop Lorne to Butter Chicken at Raas Leela, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Dunkeld
Laid-back and beautiful are two perfect words to describe this lovely town in Victoria. Dunkeld sits just south of Grampians National Park, making it the perfect base for adventurers. Most people head straight to the 1,670 sq. km. (645 sq. mi.) Grampians National Park for its striking sandstone peaks and verdant forests. Hand in hand with the park, Dunkeld has nature areas of its own, such as the Dunkeld Arboretum. This sanctuary of flora and fauna is a labyrinth of fresh-scented trails that can ease the mind of worried travelers. Pack a picnic and the whole family can have a fun meal with the company of friendly ducks and swans. Back in town, the heart of Dunkeld is Parker Street, where all kinds of establishments flourish. From the Dunkeld War Memorial to Izzy’s Cafe, people can eat, explore, drink, and have a blast in town.
Sitting pretty along the Southern Ocean with its array of landscapes, Victoria is as charming as it gets. As you roam these towns, each of them showcases a new side of the state, from crashing waves to thick forests. To this end, there is something for everyone, no matter what their interests. For example, history enthusiasts adore the mining story of Walhalla, while surfers can’t get enough of Lorne. Put it all together and these towns tick all the right boxes for an amazing vacation in Australia.
