Guide to Gippsland
Brimming with incredible nature and culinary experiences, Gippsland guarantees the perfect indulgent escape.
Stretching 542km (337mi) from Melbourne to the New South Wales border, Gippsland is a natural playground with surprising pockets of gourmet food and wine. If you’re seeking unforgettable wilderness adventures and wildlife encounters, Wilson’s Promontory and Tarra Bulga National Parks deliver in spades. Cruise along the glistening blue waterways of Gippsland Lakes, bike ride through quaint towns and marvel at landscapes spanning country to coast.
Top things to do in Gippsland
Ease into a thermal spring
Unwind beneath the trees at Metung Hot Springs. Indulge in luxe spa treatments and hop between baths filled with enriching geothermal waters on the banks of the Gippsland Lakes.
Take a hike
Connect with nature on one of Tarra-Bulga National Park’s walking trails. Take in the sights and sounds of this remarkable rainforest as you walk through lush fern gullies and above the forest canopy upon crossing Corrigan’s Suspension Bridge.
Cruise through ‘The Prom’
Explore the unique seascape of Wilsons Promontory on an eco-cruise adventure. Encounter an abundance of marine life, granite boulders and unspoiled white sand beaches as you traverse the rugged coastline aboard an amphibious boat.
Taste craft ales and artisanal spirits
Within the pretty heritage town of Loch, you’ll find a brewery and distillery producing traditional ales, single malt whisky, gin and fine spirits. Meet the makers and embark on a personalised tasting experience with plenty of charm.
Explore ancient limestone caves
Step inside a magical subterranean world of sparkling limestone formations and calcite-rimmed pools that have been millions of years in the making. The ancient Buchan Caves are a natural wonder that must be seen to be believed.
Let your tastebuds lead the way
Indulge your senses on a culinary journey. From artisanal breads, farm-fresh cheese, and vibrant produce, to innovative gastro-pubs and boutique breweries, you’ll be spoilt for choice with a smorgasbord of local delicacies and delicious flavours.
Spot whales and marine life
Time your visit to coincide with migrating whales (May to November). Gippsland’s coastline provides plenty of prime vantage points for spotting these majestic creatures as they frolic and breach from the water, so have your camera ready.
Bike ride through historic towns
Immerse yourself in the local history and charm of Gippsland’s heritage towns. The region's rail trails make it easy and enjoyable to explore these historic gems, taking in wineries, markets, friendly locals and stunning views along the way.
Meet the Raymond Island koalas
For some of the best koala-spotting in the country, head to Raymond Island and take a stroll among the gumtrees on the island’s famous Koala Trail. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, echidnas and plenty of native birds along the way too.
Sip your way around the wine region
With more than 50 wineries dotted around the region, Gippsland offers unique wine experiences from coast to shore. Soak up everything this cool-climate region has to offer and taste the beauty of the landscape in every drop.
Drive the Great Alpine Road
Wind through mountain ranges and verdant valleys, past rolling farmland and vineyards, and along the waterways of Gippsland’s coast when you hit the road on one of Victoria’s most scenic drives.
Experience the lakes and waterways
Hop aboard a historic vessel and explore Australia’s largest network of inland waterways. Soak up the views and spot all manner of marine life as you sail through inlets and estuaries, past islands and townships.
Celebrate the seafood
Seafood lovers can’t miss the Wild Harvest Seafood Festival. Celebrate the fresh local seafood of the East Gippsland region, and get into the festival spirit with markets, entertainment and plenty of opportunities to sample the fruits of the sea.