Melbourne is often overshadowed by its flashier rival, Sydney, as a favored destination for visitors from overseas or other Australian states, but it beats Sydney hands down when it comes to the variety of day trips which can be made using the city as a base. Try some of these one-day excursions and return to the comfort of your Melbourne city accommodation at night.
The Dandenongs
Although there are no longer any indigenous Australians leading a traditional lifestyle in the Dandenong Ranges, the very name conjures up an image of the artwork, dance and music of the earliest inhabitants of this land. You will find aboriginal Australians represented in the sculptures at the William Ricketts Gallery on the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road. Then drive to Emerald and take a ride on the restored steam train Puffing Billy as it winds its leisurely way through scenery which seems to belong to a bygone era. View the city of Melbourne from the summit of Mount Dandenong and take in a meal at the SkyHigh Bistro, around 30 miles (50 km) from the CBD.
Kinglake
A similar distance from the city, but traveling north rather than east, are the Kinglake Ranges. Visit the Kinglake National Park for walking tracks where you will discover local flora and fauna, and once again catch tantalizing views of the city and Port Phillip Bay. Drop in at a couple of the many nursery gardens and berry farms on your return journey.
Mornington Peninsula
Take a drive down the Mornington Peninsula, on the eastern shore of Port Phillip Bay. You may be tempted to stop off at one of the many inviting-looking beaches you pass along your way. Enjoy a horse ride along the sands, visit a winery or relax and admire the scenery during a ferry ride on the bay.
Phillip Island
If you can ignore all the temptations along the way, drive straight from Melbourne to Westernport Bay (less than two hours) to visit world-renowned Phillip Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. (Alternatively, take a ferry from Stony Point or an organized coach tour from the Melbourne CBD.) Why is it world-renowned? It’s home to the world’s smallest species of penguin, the Little Penguin, and also boasts the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, site of the MotoGP, World Superbike Championship and V8 Supercar Series.
Queenscliff
On the western side of Port Phillip bay, around 65 miles (100 km) from the city, lies the beautiful and historic coastal township of Queenscliff. There are charming old buildings and piers to explore, art galleries and craft shops, great places to eat, and a music festival held every November. You can also take a slightly shorter drive to Sorrento on the eastern side of the Mornington Peninsula and hop on a ferry to Queenscliff.
Healesville
The main attraction at Healesville, 40 miles (65 km) north-east of Melbourne, is undoubtedly the Healesville Sanctuary, a haven for Australian wildlife. Spare some time, though, for visiting a winery or two, or one of the many local fruit and berry farms. Instead of eating at a restaurant, take a picnic or enjoy a barbecue at the scenic Maroondah Reservoir. This whole area suffered from catastrophic bush fires in 2009, and your visit will contribute to the recovery of tourism for the local economy.
There’s such a variety of activity to be experienced in the Melbourne CBD that you may find it difficult to fit in any excursions which take you away for the whole day. However, if you choose to visit the Dandenongs, Kinglake, the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island, Queenscliff or Healesville, or all six of these interesting destinations, you’ll be glad you did.
Source: http://www.helium.com/items/2396747-melbourne-often-overshadowed-flashier
