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Everything you need to know about Gippsland
Whether you're keen on rugged outdoor adventures or serene retreats, Gippsland is an enchanting locale that's definitely worth a visit on your next Australia road trip travel itinerary. Here are some of the top things to know before your upcoming visit to the Gippsland region.
Where is Gippsland
Gippsland, located in Victoria, is one of Australia's most beautiful, expansive, and diverse regions. Spanning from Melbourne's eastern outskirts all the way to the state border of New South Wales.
What is Gippsland Known For?
Gippsland is steeped in rich history and boasts a picturesque mosaic of mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and coastal areas. Renowned for its breathtaking vistas like Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland Lakes, and mystical Buchan Caves, Gippsland is a paradise for nature lovers. Add to that the thriving wildlife, exciting fishing opportunities, and world-class dining, and you have a perfect setting for a memorable and romantic getaway.
What’s the Best Way to Explore Gippsland?
To get the most out of your Gippsland experience, there’s nothing quite like the freedom and flexibility of a campervan hire. With the ability to set your travel itinerary, stop at your leisure, and enjoy the comfort of your home on wheels, a road trip in a motorhome is the quintessential way to visit Gippsland’s best attractions and experiences. With the ease of picking up your motorhome from the maui Melbourne branch and Gippsland's magic unfolding at your own pace, your romantic journey is bound to be an unforgettable one.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Gippsland?
Gippsland can be visited at any time of the year. However, the region shines in its full glory during the warmer months, between December and February. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and things to do in Gippsland, such as hiking, picnicking, and beach outings. For those who prefer a cooler climate, however, the winter months (June - August) in Gippsland deliver a perfectly tranquil wintery experience with snow-covered landscapes in high-altitude areas.
10 Must-do Romantic Experiences in Gippsland
From immersing yourself in natural beauty and indulging in gourmet delights to cherishing tranquil moments, Gippsland offers plenty of choices when it comes to romantic activities and things to do in Gippsland. Here's an expanded guide to help you uncover Gippsland's romantic side.
Image: Visit Victoria
Explore Wilsons Promontory
As Australia’s southernmost mainland national park, Wilsons Promontory offers a serene sanctuary for nature lovers. Head out on a romantic, remote hike along the well-trodden trails, each unveiling views of secluded beaches, expansive coastal landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The walk to the summit of Mt. Oberon is particularly popular and rewards hikers with a breathtaking panoramic view of the park. And as the day turns into dusk, you can retreat to one of the park's lookout points, cook up a campervan meal, and witness the mesmerising hues of the sunset – a perfect close to your day of adventure.
Have a Picnic at Gippsland Lakes
Gippsland Lakes are Australia’s largest and most beautiful inland water system and the perfect backdrop for a romantic picnic. Pack a basket full of your favourite local delicacies and a bottle of wine, and head to this serene lakeside spot. Here, you can enjoy a meal against the backdrop of glistening waters, watch pelicans glide across the sky, or even spot a dolphin if you're lucky. For an extra dose of romance, take a sunset cruise on the Gippsland Lakes, and bask in the golden glow as the day ends.
Sample the Local Wine
Gippsland is home to several renowned wineries – the perfect excuse for a romantic getaway to sample the region's fine wines. At the Gippsland Wine Company, you can enjoy a cellar-door experience with their tasting flights or simply enjoy a glass (or two) of their house wines. Best of all, they also have the option to pair your wine with a cheese basket locally sourced from Prom Country Cheese, all while surrounded by scenic vineyard landscapes. Sipping on wine amidst the picturesque vineyard landscapes of Gippsland is a wonderful way to indulge in Gippsland’s wine culture with your favourite person.
Image: Visit Victoria
Embark on a Sunrise Hike
For the early risers, a romantic sunrise hike to witness the enchanting beauty of Gippsland at dawn is a must-do in Gippsland. As you navigate through the misty trails and listen to the morning birdsong, you can witness Gippsland waking up in all its glory. It's a fantastic way to start your day and a memorable experience to share as a couple. Some of the best hikes in Gippsland include:
Nyerimilang Heritage Park Clif top and Homestead circuit, Lakes National Park
Situated at the edge of the Gippsland Lakes, Nyerimilang Heritage Park is one of the best places to visit in Gippsland to witness the sunrise. The 5km track takes you through diverse vegetation with glimpses of the Reeve’s Channel and Bass Strait. The sun rising above these tranquil waters is the perfect romantic morning outing.
The Moonlight Circuit, Gippsland's Mount Worth State Park
Surround yourself in a forest of towering mountain ash and blackwood trees at Gippsland's Mount Worth State Park. The Moonlight Circuit is an 8km moderately challenging hike, offering an enchanting view of the sunrise as it breaks over the tree-lined horizon. Here you can also venture along the Giants Circuit to see the impressive 300-year-old mountain ash spanning 14 metres wide. This is the perfect challenge for adventurous couples looking for things to do in Gippsland.
Corrigan Suspension Bridge, Tarra-Bulga National Park
Experience the magic of the rainforest at dawn with a hike in the Tarra-Bulga National Park. What could be more romantic than the early morning light filtering through the Beech forest canopy, the symphony of bird calls, and the serenity of the park as you set off on a morning stroll? Top it off with a bird's eye view of the fern gully spanning below from the Corrigan Suspension Bridge walk, and you have yourself an idyllic Gippsland hiking experience.
Mount Oberon Summit Walk, Wilsons Promontory National Park
Located within Wilsons Promontory National Park, the Mount Oberon Summit Walk is arguably one of the best places to visit in Gippsland to watch the sunrise. The 6.8km return trek might test your fitness a bit, but the panoramic 360º views and the sun emerging above the vast ocean from the summit are worth the effort. Remember to bring your headlamps or torches, as you'll be starting in the dark!
Watch the Sunset
Not a morning person? No problem. The coastal areas of Gippsland, such as Ninety Mile Beach, Lakes Entrance, and Sandy Point, offer some of the best sunset views in the region. For a quintessential romantic experience, head to the coastal areas of Gippsland. Here, as the day fades away, you can stroll hand-in-hand along the shoreline, feel the cool breeze in your hair, and watch as the sky transitions from a fiery orange to a soft pink. There's nothing more romantic than a beach sunset to end your day.
Image: Visit Victoria
A Fine Dining Experience
Gippsland's culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, making it a great place for food lovers. Sardine Dining, for instance, is a cosy and intimate fine dining restaurant that offers dishes prepared from the freshest local produce, with the changing menu reflecting the region's seasonal bounty. Whether it's fresh seafood, locally sourced meat, or vibrant vegetables, each bite you take here is a celebration of Gippsland’s gastronomical richness. A fantastic spot to share a meal with your loved one and a must-do on your next visit to Gippsland.
Meet the Local Birdlife
The Bald Hills Wetland Walk, located just outside the town of Foster, offers a peaceful walking trail that meanders through open woodlands and shallow wetlands. This stroll is a birdwatcher's dream, with plenty of chances to spot a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for the vibrant rosellas, the noisy cockatoos, and the elusive kingfishers that call this area home.
Experience Horseback Riding with Watson’s Mountain Country Trail Rides
Experience the beauty of Gippsland from a different perspective with a romantic horseback ride guided by the experienced team at Watson’s Mountain Country Trail Rides. If you've been dreaming of a quintessentially Australian bush experience or an outlandish ride along the beach, this could be the perfect adventure for you and your partner. Watson's Mountain Country Trail Rides offer a range of trail rides suitable for all experience levels. So whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a complete beginner, you'll find a trail that suits you. Their patient and gentle horses, coupled with experienced guides, ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders. Whether you choose an hour adventure or a 7-day pilgrimage, this is the perfect remote experience to get you and your partner out into the heart of the bushland. Best of all, you'll have the opportunity to spend some time with the horses - perfect for animal-loving couples! Located approximately three hours east of Melbourne, Watson's Mountain Country Trail Rides is easily accessible for a day trip on your Gippsland travel itinerary.
Roam Around the Quaint Coastal Towns
Gippsland is dotted with charming coastal towns such as Yarram, Moe, Morwell and Mirboo North. These towns, each with their own unique character, charm, and things to do, are the perfect stop on a romantic getaway travel itinerary. Here's a breakdown of some of the best things to do in Gippsland and its coastal towns.
Yarram
Yarram is a delightfully quaint town that is known for its vibrant street art scene and green spaces. Spend a day walking around the town, hand-in-hand with your partner, admiring the variety of murals that add a contemporary edge to the town's historic appeal. Besides the street art, Yarram also houses the historic Courthouse Gallery, which showcases a range of local art and crafts and is the gateway to the Tarra Bulga National Park. This is a perfect stop on your way to visit this lush rainforest park with its towering mountain-ash trees, ancient myrtle beeches, and beautiful fern gullies
Moe
Moe, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Narracan Creek, is a great place to explore local history. Begin your journey at Old Gippstown, an open-air museum comprising over 40 relocated historic buildings, horse-drawn vehicles, vintage cars and fire trucks, to explore the way of life of early Gippsland pioneers. Next, the Edward Hunter Heritage Bush Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Gippsland for nature lovers. This 60-hectare bush reserve, swarming with native flora and fauna, offers several walking trails. Finish the day with a bite to eat and drink at Penny Lane Wine Bar, and you have the perfect rural (and romantic) Victoria day out.
Morwell
While there is plenty to see and do in this hinterland town, there is no better place to stop to smell the roses than in Morwell at the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden. This beautifully manicured garden showcases over 4000 rose bushes and is an absolute treat for flower enthusiasts.
Mirboo North
Mirboo North, located amidst the rolling hills of the Strzelecki Ranges, offers a blend of natural beauty and culinary delights. The town is well-known for its Grand Ridge Brewery, which holds the title of Australia's highest brewery. Spend the day soaking up a little slice of mountain life as you sample a variety of handcrafted ales and enjoy a hearty meal at the brewery. Another highlight of Mirboo North is the Lyrebird Forest Walk, a serene 3 km trail that leads through a native forest by a meandering Morwell River. The highlight of this track is, of course, the chance to spot the elusive lyrebird: an iconic Australian bird known for its remarkable ability to mimic sounds. So keep your ears on alert as you listen out for nature’s copycat.
Whether you choose to visit just one town or embark on a road trip to explore several, the coastal towns of Gippsland are sure to add a unique touch to your romantic journey.
Soak up the Vibrant Arts Scene
For art and culture enthusiasts, visiting art galleries and museums or attending live performances is a wonderful way to spend an evening together and appreciate the creativity of the Gippsland region. Some of the must-do cultural attractions in Gippsland include:
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The Gippsland Art Gallery, located in Sale, hosts an impressive collection of artworks that showcase the region's cultural heritage. Here, you can appreciate art ranging from contemporary exhibitions to traditional aboriginal pieces.
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The Gippsland Vehicle Collection in Maffra is another cultural gem, showcasing a fantastic collection of classic and vintage vehicles. This unique museum is sure to fascinate automobile enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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The Latrobe Regional Gallery, located in Morwell, is one of the largest public galleries in eastern Victoria. The gallery offers a diverse array of exhibitions, showcasing both contemporary and historical works from local, national, and international artists.
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The West Gippsland Arts Centre in Warragul is perfect for live performance lovers and offers a varied program of theatre, music, dance, and comedy throughout the year. Check their schedule to see if there's a performance that piques your interest during your visit to Gippsland.
Image: Visit Victoria
Ready for your next romantic getaway?
Gippsland, with its verdant landscapes, abundant outdoor activities, and rich cultural experiences, is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Whether it's a weekend escape or an extended road trip vacation, this region promises unforgettable experiences for every romantic at heart. So why wait? Pack your bags, hire a motorhome with maui, and get ready to set off on a romantic journey through the breathtaking expanses of Gippsland.