When visiting Melbourne, with so much going on it can be tempting not to leave the CBD. With our car hire available in the CBD or at the airport, you have no excuse not to get out on the highway and explore these easy to reach hiking spots.
Whether you like a coastal walk or a forest adventure, there’s something for you near Melbourne. Pack your lunch, grab a bottle of water and get outdoors.
1. Werribee Gorge
Only an hour’s drive from the CBD, this walk boasts green forest views and the possibility of cooling off in a swimming hole awaits. Cross the Werribee River in the magnificent 300 metre-deep gorge or climb up high to find lookout points surrounded by rocky outcrops. There are two car parks from which to start your walk and a number of routes to take depending on your fitness level. Some of the trails are not for the inexperienced hiker, so make sure to choose the right option for you. Good shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are recommended whichever route you pick.
Jul 23, 2018 at 2:51am PDT
Head just 90 kilometres south out of Melbourne and you’ll find this awesome coastal park. As well as hiking, you can swim and surf at some of the beaches. Popular routes include the Point Nepean Walk where you’ll be looking at the Bass Straight on one side and Port Philip Bay on the other. On your way round you’ll not only be greeted by attractive scenery but the remnants of Fort Nepean and supporting gun turrets. Another option is the Bush Rangers Bay Walking Trail where you’ll head through varying landscapes. There’s plenty to explore on the beach and if you’re lucky you’ll find wildlife throughout the trail.
Mar 13, 2018 at 1:56am PDT
3. Wilsons Promontory
Green expanses, the vast open ocean and a mountain climb are all part of the deal at Wilsons Promontory. The national park offers a huge variety of walks ranging from a couple of hours to overnight trips. Mount Oberon’s summit walk offers a 360 degree view of the national park and rewards early risers with a great sunrise view, weather permitting.
If you’re not so keen on a mountain hike or are still full of energy after the summit, try Tongue Point Walk. The coastal walk, as the name suggests, winds its way along the very edge of the park with the ocean almost within touching distance. The park is around a three hour drive from the CBD and you can expect a return trip to the mountain summit to take about two hours. There are a variety of car parks available so double check which one works best for your route before heading out.
Jul 9, 2018 at 12:54am PDT
4. The Grampians
The Grampians mountain range offers amazing views, pretty waterfalls as well as local flora and forna. Around a three hour drive from our car hire in Melbourne airport, the Grampians National Park offers something for every member of the family with a choice of hiking tracks which vary in difficulty. Many visitors head for The Pinnacle, the rocky outcrop which features in numerous Instagram posts, for the lookout views.
A good starting point, especially for those with children or who want an easier route, is the Sundial car park. From here you can reach The Pinnacle and get back to your car within a couple of hours. For those with plenty of stamina, other options include a 5 hour hike from Hells Gap or a harder climb from Wonderland car park.
Jul 23, 2018 at 5:22am PDT
Book your Melbourne car hire today to get your trip started.