Top 5 places to visit in South Gippsland
It makes sense that I write a blog about the towns in my local area. South Gippsland has been my home all my life and there are some beautiful places to visit. From stunning beaches to forests and mountain ranges, South Gippsland has a lot to offer travellers. Whether it be a day trip or a week long road trip, this area is just waiting to be discovered.
Wilson’s Promontory
Wilson’s Prom, as the locals call it, is a national park situated 240kms from Melbourne. The park is the southern most point on the Australian mainland and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and many unique rock formations. Wilson’s Prom is a favorite spot for hikers with many tracks for day hikes or longer overnight hikes. Tidal River is the only township in the national park and has limited supplies. It is the base for accommodation, camping, hiking and other recreation activities.
Inverloch
Inverloch is a small beach community located 145 kms from Melbourne. The water, whilst being a little cold, is a beautiful blue color. The inlet provides safe and calm water for families while further west the surf beaches provide good waves for the surf enthusiasts. As you head around the coast there are many rock pools for snorkeling and for the kids to explore. The small town has all the essentials, with a supermarket, chemist and a number of eateries and specialty shops. The coast line in this area is worth spending some time exploring.
Phillip Island
Phillip Island is a favorite holiday spot for locals and those from the city. The beaches are beautiful and safe and the island itself has many attractions that will entertain all travellers. Transport to and from the Island is via a single lane bridge which is often congested so patience is needed when driving. There are many events and festivals held during the year that are worth looking out for. The Nature Park puts on a performance every night where the penguins come up the beach to their burrows to feed their young. The penguin parade gets very busy to be sure to book ahead.
Korumburra
Korumburra is in the heart of South Gippsland and offers travellers some surprises. Located 120kms from Melbourne it is worth stopping in the see what the town has to offer. The local brewery, Burra Brewing Co, has an easy relaxed feel and is ideal for an afternoon of pizza and beer. There are a number of specialty shops in the street that are worth wandering through including hand made soaps, vintage clothing and eateries. Coal Creek Historical park is a free attraction that can fill in an afternoon. The historic township has many surprises and gives a great insight into life during the mining era of Korumburra.
Loch Village
Loch Village is a small farming town 100 kms from Melbourne. This community has turned the town into a beautiful destination for travellers. The town used to be on the highway but after it was bypassed it had to reinvent itself to attract people the the area. There are now a number of quality eateries, antique shops, specialty shops and a distillery. The Loch Brewery & Distillery has a range of beers, gins, rare vodka and single malt whiskys. Loch Village also has park areas that makes stopping with kids well worth it. The Great Southern Bike Trail will soon open the stretch that runs from Leongatha to Nyora passing through Loch and Korumburra. If you are a cycling enthusiast then it is worth keeping an eye out for this part of the track opening. It will be worth the ride.
Which towns have you visited in South Gippsland. Do you have a favourite?
