The state of Victoria in Australia is blessed with a wide array of stunning landscapes, especially around Melbourne. These natural attractions offer the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, inviting travelers to breathe in fresh air and immerse themselves in untamed beauty. Join Earth Travel Unlimited as we uncover 14 unmissable natural wonders near Melbourne!
1. Lake Tyrrell
Located in northwestern Victoria, about a 4-hour drive from Melbourne, Lake Tyrrell is the state’s largest inland salt lake, spanning over 208 square kilometers. Its salt concentration varies with the weather—shallow in the cooler, wetter months and almost dry in summer due to evaporation.
The best time to visit is on clear winter nights when the shallow waters reflect the vast sky, creating a mirror-like effect. In warmer months, the lake sometimes turns pink due to pigment-producing algae—offering an otherworldly photo opportunity.
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2. The Pinnacle Lookout
Grampians National Park is a magnet for outdoor lovers and backpackers, thanks to its rugged beauty and hidden gems like waterfalls and natural rock formations. Among its many treasures, the Pinnacle Lookout offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views of Fyans Valley.
You can take the trail from Sundial Car Park or challenge yourself further by starting from Wonderland Car Park for a steeper ascent. Either way, the views are unforgettable.
3. Turpins Falls
Just a 15-minute drive from the town of Kyneton in northwest Victoria lies Turpins Falls—a spectacular plunge pool surrounded by 20-meter-high cliffs. Formed by a diverted river, the pool is larger than an Olympic swimming pool.
Swimming is allowed, but jumping from the cliffs is strongly discouraged due to the unpredictable depth. The safest way to enjoy the cool waters is to ease in from the rocky shoreline.
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4. Budj Bim
Named “Big Head” in the Gunditjmara Aboriginal language, Budj Bim lies in southwest Victoria, about an hour inland from Port Fairy. This site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019 for its cultural significance—marking the first Australian entry based solely on Aboriginal heritage.
Thousands of years ago, the Gunditjmara people engineered a sophisticated aquaculture system here, including basalt stone houses and elaborate water channels used to trap eels year-round.
5. Organ Pipes National Park
Just 20km north of Melbourne along the Calder Freeway, this 121-hectare park is named after its most iconic feature—towering, pipe-like basalt columns formed over 2.5 million years ago.
These vertical formations are known as “organ pipes” due to their resemblance to the musical instrument. Visitors also get the chance to explore the cultural traditions of the Wurundjeri people, who are the original custodians of this land.
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6. Mount Feathertop
As Victoria’s second-highest peak, Mount Feathertop is arguably the most breathtaking. The best way to experience it is by hiking the Razorback Trail—a 22km ridge route starting from Diamantina Hut near Hotham Village.
This trail offers constant panoramic views, as much of the hike is above the tree line. For safety, plan your trip during warmer months.
7. Great Otway National Park
This lush, temperate rainforest is a waterfall lover’s dream. Stretching from Torquay to Princetown and up to Colac, Great Otway is a haven for cool air, scenic coastlines, dense ferns, and sleepy koalas tucked among eucalyptus trees.
Choose from many coastal and forest trails to soak in this rejuvenating natural wonder.
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8. The Big Drift
Just over two hours south of Melbourne, hidden dunes known as “The Big Drift” await in Wilsons Promontory National Park. These expansive sand hills are off the main tourist trail, so reaching them requires some effort.
Though steep and sandy, the trek rewards you with sweeping views of undisturbed dunes, scattered greenery, and the distant sea.
9. The Dandenong Ranges
Less than an hour’s drive east of Melbourne lies the lush Dandenong Ranges—home to charming villages, diverse flora and fauna, and culinary delights.
Top spots include the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, and Sherbrooke Forest, where you can stroll among towering tree ferns.
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10. The Twelve Apostles
Situated near the end of the Great Ocean Road, this iconic attraction features towering limestone stacks rising from the sea. Although only seven pillars remain today, the scenery is still awe-inspiring.
For the best views, head to Loch Ard Gorge or the endpoint of the Great Ocean Walk for a quieter yet equally scenic experience.
11. Hanging Rock
This volcanic formation near Woodend in central Victoria is steeped in Aboriginal history and became famous through the novel and film Picnic at Hanging Rock.
Wander through the eerie rock formations and native vegetation to learn more about the region’s cultural and geological significance.
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12. Beauchamp Falls
Tucked deep in the forest, the 20-meter Beauchamp Falls is one of Victoria’s best-hidden gems. The trek involves descending steep, slippery steps and navigating large rocks—but the reward is a majestic waterfall in a peaceful, secluded setting.
Be sure to wear sturdy footwear and allow time for the climb back up!
13. Warburton’s California Redwoods
Though not native to Australia, the 1,400 towering California Redwoods in Warburton are mesmerizing. Planted decades ago, these trees have grown up to 55 meters tall, creating a magical atmosphere.
The grove is just a few kilometers from Warburton, along Cement Creek Road.
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14. Buchan Caves
Formed 300–400 million years ago, these limestone caves were carved by underground rivers and are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and calcite-rich pools.
Today, visitors can explore Royal Cave and Fairy Cave on guided tours, complete with walkways and lighting for an easy and immersive experience.
From pink salt lakes to soaring mountain peaks and secret waterfalls hidden deep in ancient forests, Melbourne’s surrounding landscapes are a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you’re chasing epic hikes, tranquil moments by the sea, or surreal photo spots that seem straight out of a dream—there’s something here for every nature lover.
So if your journey brings you to Melbourne, don’t just stay in the city. Let the open road guide you beyond the skyline, where Australia’s raw beauty unfolds in its purest form. Pack your camera, your curiosity, and a sense of adventure—you’re about to discover a side of Victoria that few ever forget.
