Australia Tourist AttractionsMelbourne Day Trips
There are loads of day trips which may be taken from Melbourne. Many companies offer tours to various tourist destinations. Below are a few worthwhile day trips to take while staying in Melbourne.
Phillip Island
Phillip Island is located 2 hours south of Melbourne and is famous for its penguin parade. Every night at sunset, hundreds of tiny penguins waddle up the beach to their nests. It is a spectacle not to be missed. Check out www.penguins.org.au for more information. Walk along the Nobbies boardwalk to view the penguins in their nests and the seals on the rocks. The Phillip Island Circuit hosts a number of racing events including the Yamaha Superbike World Championship held each year in March. There are also numerous beaches on Phillip Island for the avid surfers, and walking and hiking trails along the cliffs and through the fields. Stroll through the town of Cowes and visit the cafes and shops or sit on the beach and watch the tide come in. For more information on activities and accommodation on Phillip Island visit www.visitphillipisland.com . An excellent tour company which offers tours to the area is Autopia Tours .
The Dandenongs
The Dandenong Ranges are located in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Comprised of natural bushlands and forest, the parks are an excellent place to head for picnics and long walks in nature and are a favourite getaway for urban Melbourians. A popular activity in the Dandenongs is the Puffing Billy Railway, a century old steam train which travels through the ranges. For information on times and fares go to www.puffingbilly.com.au .
Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s greatest wine producing regions and is only a short drive from Melbourne near the Dandenong Ranges. For information on winery tours go to www.visityarravalley.com.au . There is also a wonderful wildlife park in the Yarra Valley, the Healesville Sanctuary, where visitors can see koalas, kangaroos and many other Australian animals.
Mornington Peninsula
Get away from the bustle of Melbourne and travel south along the coast to the Mornington Peninsula. Stop at picturesque seaside villages, wineries and olive groves. Swim with dolphins, play a round of golf, hike through the national parks or stroll through the farmers markets. For more information on the Mornington Peninsula visit www.visitmorningtonpeninsula.org .