16 Places In Victoria That Are Perfect For A Cute Girls Weekend Away

Don't waste another weekend by staying in the city.

1. Mansfield

Instagram: @thatblondeinboots_

Situated at the foothills of the Victorian Alps, Mansfield is often just a stopover for people heading on ski trips — but it's definitely worth staying for a night or two! Soak up the stunning scenery, visit local wineries and breweries, stock up on local produce, go horseback trail riding or go bushwalking on one of the tracks surrounding the town. 

Best for: Embracing country living.

2. Bright

Instagram: @prathamesh.nirmale

If you're planning a getaway to Bright, there's only one thing you'll need — a massive appetite. The town, on the way to Alpine National Park, boasts a first-rate foodie scene. Think cute boutique wineries with incredible lunch menus, cozy village cafes with homemade treats and endless restaurants showcasing the native ingredients. Try cycling the Murray to Mountains rail trail, stopping off at cafes and wineries along the way. It's especially beautiful in autumn!

Best for: Foodies.

3. Wilson's Promontory

Instagram: @jaysmi___

This national park at the southernmost tip of mainland Australia is nothing short of heaven on Earth. The beaches are pristine and empty, the water-filled with migrating whales and bottlenose dolphins and the rocky outcrops inhabited by fur seal colonies. Undertake an epic three-day trek or spend a few hours summiting Mount Oberon for incredible views of the region.

Best for: Getting off the grid.

4. Rutherglen

Instagram: @therutherglenconvent

This region is home to over 20 wineries and is the perfect destination for a loose weekend of wine drinking...ahem...tasting. It's even home to the Big Wine Bottle, which is way more exciting than a Big Banana. The bars and restaurants in town rival the best establishments in Melbourne, so you're absolutely set for a good meal. Complete the experience by glamping right on the vineyard at Grapevine Glamping.

Best for: Wine lovers. 

5. Cathedral Ranges State Park

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If you're a big fan of hiking, then this is the destination for you. There are some easier trails, but the best ones will have you scaling rocky peaks and being rewarded with sweeping views of the dramatic landscape.  A serious hiking trip in the Cathedral Ranges is not for the faint-hearted, but it's definitely a bucket list destination.

Best for: Avid hikers. 

6. Dandenong Ranges

Instagram: @joeydeboer._

Only an hour from Melb, this region is one for the adventurers. Explore cute and quirky mountainside villages, hike through the forest, plunge into icy pools and marvel at massive waterfalls, then picnic at stunning viewpoints. There are a handful of towns you can stay in, with accommodation ranging from budget to luxe. Or bring a campervan and really get in touch with nature!

Best for: Adventuring. 

7. Warburton

Instagram: @alanalangan

This country town surrounded by forest changes with the seasons — even more so than the rest of Victoria! During summer, the grass is green, the Yarra runs clear and it's the perfect place for lazy picnics by the water or even tubing. Autumn brings the harvest of local produce, making it a haven for foodies. Winter is snowy and magical, while spring is the best season for walking and hiking through the forest.

Best for: An easy weekend that doesn't need much planning. 

8. Sorrento

Instagram: @pocket.peninsula

There are many reasons to visit Mornington Peninsula, but if you're after a chic weekend away you can't go past Sorrento. Take a stroll down Millionaire's Walk and ogle at the mansions overlooking the bay, then head to The Conti to pretend you're living the luxe life. A landmark pub that's been reimagined into a ritzy hotel complex with a spa, bars, and restaurants — it's the place to see and be seen. 

Best for: Bougie vibes.

9. Daylesford

Instagram: @fluffyvla

Daylesford is the best place to go if you want to indulge and pamper yourself. Sure, it's not going to be a cheap weekend away...but oh boy, is it worth it. The region's natural mineral springs are what inspired the town to wholly dedicate itself to being a wellness destination. Visit a spa, get a massage, then eat at some of Victoria's best restaurants.

Best for: An indulgent spa weekend.

10. Port Fairy

Instagram: @jojoandpete_traveladventures

Recommending a trip to the Great Ocean Road isn't inventive by any stretch of the imagination. But if you want to head that way, Port Fairy is definitely the prettiest town you could visit. An arty coastal town, it's chock-a-block with boutiques, galleries, cute cafes and sunny beer gardens. 

Best for: A cute coastal town. 

11. Ballarat

Instagram: @livsgracee

Victorian residents have certainly been to Ballarat at least once, probably as a kid and possibly in an educational context. BUT! There's a lot more than just history lessons here, we promise. Wander down the main street to check out shops and cafes, take a drive up Mount Buninyong for amazing views (and snow in winter!), take a picnic to Lake Wendouree and enjoy a delicious pub meal for dinner. 

Best for: Taking a trip with international visitors.

12. Portarlington

Instagram: @kiraleejzn

This historic coastal town is often passed over in favour of more exotic destinations, but we're all about it. Situated across from Melb on the shore of Port Phillip Bay, it's easier to reach via ferry than it is to drive. Stay in town, which is home to a convenient strip of cafes, bakeries, takeaway joints and, of course, an old-school lolly shop. Park up on the beach with fish 'n' chips for lunch, then spend the arvo at the Grand Hotel for drinks with a view. 

Best for: People who can't drive. 

13. Mallacoota

Instagram: @beyondthefire.tv

This could be the best beach town in all of Australia, but you didn't hear it from us. A small settlement surrounded by national parkland, the beaches are protected and swimmable, the cafes serve great food and coffee and there are kilometres of coastal walks to discover. Skip the Airbnb and stay at a waterfront campsite, or splash out on a cabin in the campground.

Best for: Slowing down and being a beach bum.

14. Geelong

Instagram: @thewoods_oceangrove

Geelong has come a long way in the last decade or so. Warehouse-turned-cafes and bars line the streets and the waterfront is stunning on a sunny day. Our best tip is to head out to Common Ground Project — a cafe slash farm slash social enterprise — with a menu made up of goodies grown on-site. 

Best for: If you want to get out of Melbourne, but still feel like you're in Melbourne.

15. Phillip Island

Instagram: @leeivanthegreat

Phillip Island is the perfect compromise between nature and civilisation, and there is A LOT to do here — it's not just lounging on the beach and eating ice cream. Though that's still a totally valid way to spend a weekend! Head out to The Nobbies for amazing views on the coastal cliff walk, enjoy go-karting on the Moto GP circuit, have lunch at Cowes main beach, take a boat out to visit seal colonies, watch penguins come to land every night and watch the surfers at Smiths Beach and Cape Woolami.

Best for: People who kind of like nature, but get bored easily.

16. And finally, Lakes Entrance

Instagram: @adventuring_around_oz_

Lakes Entrance has always been the place to go and camp up for a week with kids during school holidays,  but that doesn't mean adults won't love it too! Especially if you love Doing Stuff™ on vacation. Think stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, fishing, boating and dolphin spotting. There's even a nearby winery if that's more your speed. Oh, and the sunsets here are absolutely gorgeous.

Best for: People with kids...or who are kids at heart.