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Australia Campervan Holiday in Victoria

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Australia, Victoria is a veritable playground for campervan travellers. With everything from winding coastal road trip routes like the Great Ocean Road to the artsy alleys of Melbourne, where you can meander through art galleries and feast on great food and historic sites, it’s a state that packs a punch!

With a landscape as diverse as a well-stocked cheese board—from the cool, temperate regions of the south to the sun-kissed northwestern plains—a campervan gives you the freedom to roam and the comfort of taking your home with you. Ready to experience this diverse state for yourself? This blog is your roadmap to exploring all the eclectic charms of Victoria and making the most out of your campervan adventure with your family. But first...

 

Why explore VIC by campervan

Picture this: you’re waking up to a different view every morning—maybe today it’s the surf breaking on a pristine beach, and tomorrow it’s the rolling hills of a vineyard. That’s the beauty of exploring Victoria in a campervan. Think of a campervan trip through Victoria as the ultimate freedom ticket.

Want to linger a little longer by that stunning beach you just found or explore the vibrant city centre of Melbourne? No problem. Feel like waking up to the breathtaking views of the Grampians? Go for it. Campervans offer the flexibility to change your itinerary on the fly, discovering hidden gems along the way.

An Australia campervan holiday through Victoria is also incredibly cost-effective, saving you money on accommodation and dining since you can cook and sleep in your mobile home. Moreover, for families, the comfort and convenience of having all your essentials with you, where your vehicle doubles as your accommodation, is invaluable. This freedom to roam makes campervanning in Victoria an unbeatable way to explore everything from the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne's live music and art scene.

 

Things to do in Victoria

Ready for an action-packed itinerary full of food, events, music, history, sports events and more? Victoria has everything, from breathtaking natural landscapes to a bustling city and thriving food and festival scene. Whether you’re into hitting the surf, sampling gourmet delights, soaking up culture or simply cosying up in a cafe watching people walking by, you’re in for a treat.

You could start your day with a sunrise walk in Wilson’s Promontory, one of the southernmost points of the Australian mainland known for its stunning bushland and sea views, and end with a vibrant evening exploring Melbourne’s eclectic food markets.

Don’t miss the Queen Victoria Market, known for its high-quality fresh produce. You can also catch a performance at one of Melbourne’s renowned concert halls or simply enjoy a little live music at a local pub. The coastal lines are perfect for beach adventures, while the inner regions offer lush vineyards and breweries, particularly in areas like the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula.

The state is also rich in arts and culture, especially in Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital, where you can dive into the arts scene, visit art galleries, or catch a live show. What's more, this state is the home of the largest colonies of fairy penguins in the world! Phillip Island has become famous for its penguin parade tour, where you can see these little penguins return ashore at sunset. With a campervan, each of these experiences is just a drive away.

 

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Indigenous Experiences in Australia

Hit the road on an unforgettable campervan journey and explore one of the world’s oldest living cultures. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experiences in Australia provide deep, immersive insights, making them a perfect addition to any travel itinerary. Guided by Indigenous locals, you'll connect with the land and its people, creating memories that belong on every traveler’s bucket list.

Australia's rich Indigenous heritage spans every State and Territory, each offering its own unique cultural experiences. Warm and generous Indigenous guides welcome you to discover their stories and traditions, providing a deeper understanding of the country.

From ancient rock art and captivating cultural performances to authentic Indigenous cuisine, these experiences inspire visitors from around the globe. Visit our State and Territory pages to find the top Indigenous attractions and make them part of your next road trip adventure!

Victoria | Melbourne to Grampians National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Victoria | Melbourne to Grampians National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Explore the best of the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Park on this 5 day road trip itinerary.

 
 
 
 

Day 1: Melbourne Apollo Branch to Grampians National Park

Distance: 250km

Travel time: 3 hours

After a three-hour drive, campers will arrive in Halls Gap – the perfect base for exploring the Grampians. Here, will lie an information point, shops and importantly, a gas station.

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 2: Grampians National Park 

From Halls Gap, campers can easily take the fun and adventurous route to Mackenzie Falls – by campervan! Located just 15 km from Halls Gap, campers will first reach the Boroka Lookout, where they will be greeted with two viewing platforms and panoramic views over the east of the Grampians. From here, an easy 8 km walk with take travellers to the Reed Lookout, where they will once again witness magnificent views over Victoria Valley, Victoria Range, Serra Range, Lake Wartook and the Mt Difficult Range.

14 km drive from the Boroka Lookout lies one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria, the MacKenzie Falls – a must-visit when exploring the Grampians. For those looking for more hard adventure, nearby Mount Abrupt and Mount Surgeon offers a 7 km hike which takes approximately three hours.

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 3: Grampians National Park to Warrnambool

Distance: 130 km

Travel time: 2 hours

Enjoy the comfort of having the road to yourself between Grampians and Warrnambool. The drive consists of one long straight road, allowing you to turn on cruise control, turn up the beats and enjoy the rural experience.

Image: Lachlan Gardiner

 

Day 4: Warrnambool to Torquay (Great Ocean Road)

Distance: 159 km

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

See the towering 12 Apostles for yourself along the iconic Great Ocean Road. Also known as B100, the drive promises up close experiences with native wildlife, iconic surf breaks, pristine rainforests, misty waterfalls and more. Must-visits on Great Ocean Road include Apollo Bay; offering spectacular views of the water, Teddy’s Lookout in Lorne; with photo-perfect views and Rye River; where the rainforest meets the sea. Be sure to fill up when you can with Lorne, Anglesea, Apollo Bay and Torquay having refuel stations.

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Day 5:  Torquay to Melbourne

Distance: 100 km

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Once you have arrived in Torquay, it is time to cover the last 100 km back to Apollo's Melbourne branch, where you will be greeted by Apollo’s friendly team for a breezy drop off.

Image: Visit Victoria

 

Highlights

Grampians National Park

From world-famous hiking trails, majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflowers and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas, Grampians National Park is one of Mother Nature’s wonders. The Hike and Seek Grampians Day Tour is ideal for those wanting to discover the region, with highlights including two hikes, the breathtaking MacKenzie Falls and plentiful photo opportunities. During the tour, campers will also discover rich Aboriginal heritage, with the region having the largest number of ancient Aboriginal rock art paintings and shelters in southern Australia.

Great Ocean Road

Experience one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, winding alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean. Home to the must-see 12 Apostles, jaw-dropping cliffs, empty beaches and bountiful wildlife, the drive is one of Australia’s most iconic.

Active adventure

The itinerary is full of adventure, with the Grampians and Great Ocean Road drawing walkers from around the world. Campers can also relax and enjoy the Grampians with fishing, canoeing and kayaking experiences on offer at Lake Wartook, Lake Bellfield and Moora Moora Reservoir. For those looking for more active adventure, climb to the highest peak within the Grampians – Mount William, or explore the plethora of overnight hikes in the region. The Great Ocean Road offers epic surf, paddle boarding, canoeing and hiking experiences, as well as skydiving for the daredevils in the group.

Wildlife encounters

Native birdlife, kangaroos and emus can be seen in abundance around the Grampians National Park however, a popular location for a photo opportunity is the Halls Gap Recreation Reserve. It is also not unusual for travellers to encounter swamp wallabies, echidnas and the occasional shingleback lizard.

A must-experience for any animal lover is the whale migration along the Great Ocean Road in the cooler months, with Portland, Port Fairy and Warrnambool being likely places to see them. Koalas and kangaroos can also be seen all around the region, with guaranteed kangaroo sightings at Anglesea Golf Course. For a remarkable and exclusive experience, visit Lake Elizabeth and Mount Emu Creek in Skipton, where you may be lucky enough to spot the iconic Australian platypus. 

 

 

 

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Apollo VIC campervan branch

Start your Victoria adventure in the heart of its culture and culinary capital by renting a campervan from our Melbourne Apollo campervan hire branch. With an Apollo campervan, you’re set to explore Melbourne's charming laneways and bustling markets, as well as the State Library, hidden bars, chic galleries, and fashionable boutiques. And that's all before leaving the city!

Whether you are planning a local getaway, a statewide adventure, or looking for a central starting point for your Australia campervan holiday, our friendly staff at the Melbourne campervan hire branch are there to ensure a smooth start.

Helpful tips for visiting VIC

Planning a campervan holiday in Victoria? Here are some essential tips to help you make the most of your adventure. From understanding the unique climate and best travel times to packing effectively and choosing the best spots for day trips, we’ve got you covered. Read on for insightful details to ensure your trip is as comfortable and adventure-packed as possible.

Climate and seasons in Victoria

Victoria's climate is famously variable, which is why it's often said you can experience four seasons in one day. As you can imagine, the best time to visit largely depends on your interests: summer (December to February) is ideal for beachgoers, while winter (June to August) appeals to the snow bunnies of the family.

Alternatively, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer milder weather that is perfect for exploring the wineries and cosy coastal drives. Travelling in these off-season times can mean fewer crowds and lower costs, but just be sure to pack a few layers to cater to any impromptu weather changes.

What to pack

Packing for a Victorian adventure? Your checklist should include versatile outdoor gear for all weather conditions, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and any campervan add-ons that enhance comfort, such as outdoor chairs or extra blankets (which can be added to your Apollo campervan hire booking).

Don’t forget a good camera to capture the scenic views and a sturdy pair of hiking boots for exploring. For more ideas on what to bring along, check out our guide on campervan road trip essentials. Packing smart ensures you’re prepared for everything from a sunny day at St Kilda Beach to a chilly evening in the Grampians.

Nearby VIC tourist attractions and day trips in Victoria

Victoria is home to plenty of unique attractions that are perfect for day trips or longer stays. Here’s a closer look at some must-visit spots in Victoria year-round:

  • Great Ocean Road: The iconic 243-kilometre stretch of road known as the Great Ocean Road is world-renowned for its dramatic ocean views and lush rainforests. The drive offers numerous spots to stop, relax, and take in the panoramic coastal vistas.
  • Phillip Island: Ever wanted to see a horde of little Penguins coming to shore at dusk? Look no further than the penguin parade! Phillip Island offers visitors a chance to see little penguins (also known as fairy penguins) return ashore at sunset.
  • Twelve Apostles: Located along the Great Ocean Road, these massive limestone structures towering from the Southern Ocean are a breathtaking sight at sunrise or sunset.
  • Dandenong Ranges: Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, the Dandenongs are ideal for nature lovers. Explore the verdant landscapes through the Puffing Billy Railway or see the local fauna on the numerous walking trails.
  • Yarra Valley: Victoria’s premier wine region, just a short drive from Melbourne, offers not only wine tasting but also beautiful landscapes and access to some of the best artisan food producers in Australia.
  • Grampians National Park: Known for its sandstone mountains, wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, the Grampians are the perfect weekend getaway from Melbourne for hiking, climbing, and enjoying panoramic views from lookouts like the Balconies.
  • Wilsons Promontory National Park: The southernmost tip of the Australian mainland, “the Prom,” as it’s affectionately known, is famous for its stunning bushland, ocean views, and abundant wildlife.
  • Ballarat: Steeped in history, Ballarat is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and the open-air museum, Sovereign Hill, where visitors can experience the Gold Rush era with a fun twist!
  • St Kilda Beach: A short drive from the heart of Melbourne city, St Kilda is popular for its bustling beachfront, vibrant bar scene, and historic Luna Park. South Melbourne Market is a must-visit for its iconic dim sims and lively atmosphere.
  • National Gallery of Victoria: Love exploring local art galleries? Located in Melbourne, this art museum is open year-round and renowned for its extensive collection ranging from contemporary art to major international exhibitions. Fed Square also hosts a variety of free community events and exhibitions, so be sure to check the calendar when planning your Melbourne itinerary.
  • Explore Melbourne city after midnight: If you fancy exploring Victoria's city centre after dark, be sure to plan your visit for a weekend. Melbourne’s nightlife comes alive on a Saturday night, with activities ranging from bowling to bookshop events and venues featuring live music.

Where to stay in Victoria with a campervan

Exploring Victoria in a campervan offers a range of accommodation options, from free camping sites to fully-equipped holiday parks.

For those seeking a free stay under the stars, free camping in Victoria is a great resource that provides detailed listings of no-cost spots across the state. If you prefer more facilities, consider established holiday parks. Apollo Bay Holiday Park, located near the Great Ocean Road, offers amenities close to beachfront attractions. Inland, Ballarat Holiday Park caters to those interested in exploring the region's rich gold rush history.

Alternatively, coastal caravan parks like Ingenia Holidays Inverloch and Tasman Holiday Parks Geelong are perfect for beach lovers, while Anglesea Caravan Park appeals to surfing enthusiasts and beachgoers looking for a base to explore the local wildlife parks.

For family-oriented stays, be sure to check out our guide to the best family-friendly campsites in Melbourne, as well as the best family-friendly holiday parks in Victoria. These are a great place to start for anyone looking to combine kid-friendly activities with family-friendly accommodations and amenities on their campervan road trip around Victoria.

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