West Vic is home to an array of outdoor wonders like the Otways and the Grampians, dubbed the Garden of Victoria. In spring, when the rain clears, there’s plenty to do.
Did we miss one of the best spots? Yell out at [email protected]
Forest and Sensory Trail
Image: Parks Victoria
Australia’s first dementia-friendly Forest and Sensory Trail sits in Woowookarung National Park, featuring accessible pathways and a variety of plant-life. It was designed alongside local dementia advocate, Anne Tudor.
Where is it? Katy Ryans Road, Canadian
Portland Cable Trams
Image: Portland Cable Trams
Portland’s Cable Tram takes you on a seven kilometre journey along the foreshore, featuring restored saloon and grip cars. The trip comes with a guided tour of local history as well.
Where is it? 2A Bentinck Street, Portland
Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Image: Visit Victoria
This self-guided tour through the Otways is full of fern gardens and towering rainforest trees that have been standing for centuries. Start the journey about 15 minutes out of Apollo Bay.
Where is it? Great Ocean Road, Cape Otway
Surf Coast Walk
This track will take you through dense wildflower collections, coastal cliffs and many sandy beaches, beginning at Anglesea Visitor Information Centre and ending at Point Roadknight Beach.
Where is it? Beginning at Anglesea Visitor Centre
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Image: Tourism Midwest Victoria
One of the oldest gardens in Victoria, spring is the season to visit Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens, with the conservatory and numerous garden beds surrounding historic statues.
Where is it? 401-405 Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree
Lavandula Swiss Italian Lavender Farm
Image: Lavandula Swiss Italian Lavender Farm
Lavandula is a property containing its own wine bar, stone bar, olive grows and row after row of lavender. It’s a spot for a wander, a drink and to enjoy the spring sun.
Where is it? 350 Hepburn-Newstead, Shepherds Flat
The Grampians
image: Visit Southern Grampians
The Grampians is home to a third of Victoria's flora, with trails and lookouts showcasing the best of spring’s native wildflower bloom. It’s got the nickname “Garden of Victoria” - so it’s a good spot to hit up in spring.
Where is it? The best spots for wildflowers are Mount Zero, Wartook Valley, Heatherline Quarry and Roses Gap Road.
Header Image: Tourism Midwest Victoria