Interesting Victoria facts
Hugging the tip of Australia's east coast, Victoria is Australia's second-smallest state, covering 227,600 square kilometres – roughly the size of the British Isles.
Victoria's capital, Melbourne, sits on the banks of the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. It has a lively passion for eating and drinking, and supports a flourishing arts scene.
Victoria hosts some of Australia's most prestigious events throughout the year, including the the Australian Open Tennis in January and the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix in March,
Victoria's grand nineteenth-century architecture and elegant gardens were built following the discovery of gold and are a reminder of the region's 'Gold Rush' past.
It may be small but Victoria packs in a host of “must see” sights and cosmopolitan Melbourne is a rival to Sydney for shopping and city living. The state is blessed with an endless variety of scenery and landscapes from the iconic Great Ocean Road, where every bend throws up a different aspect, to the famed Yarra Valley wine region; the wildlife of Phillip Island to the tranquillity of the Gippsland lakes and the spectacular scenery of the Mornington Peninsula.
Where to go in Victoria
Melbourne & surrounds
Bursting with history and culture, Melbourne was once Australia’s capital and still lays claim to be its cultural capital and most liveable city. With a 175 year history it’s a cultural melting pot, sophisticated, elegant and cosmopolitan; a centre of arts, culture, fashion and sport. Close by you'll find Phillip Island, home to little penguins and great beaches.
Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges
Take an early morning hot air balloon flight, meet local food and wine producers and encounter a platypus at Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley. Wander walking trails, meander quaint villages and discover the many delights of the Dandenong Ranges among its beautiful winding roads, abundance of artist studios and pretty gardens.
Mornington Peninsula
There's nothing better than breathing in fresh sea air: the Mornington Peninsula is the place to do it. Try local cuisine, soak up the relaxed lifestyle of area and explore the galleries, spas and cafes of breezy seaside villages. After a long day on the beach, cool off with a glass of wine at a boutique winery set over rolling vineyards.
Great Ocean Road
As you make your way down the Great Ocean Road, see the famous 12 Apostles, native wildlife, and crashing waves. Not only that, but you'll see pristine rainforest and misty waterfalls along the way too. For the adventurous, there's bushwalking, surfing and mountain biking; or take the cultural route through galleries, museums and heritage attractions.
