posted on June 5, 2024
With beautiful beaches, stunning countryside, lush rainforests, and national parks located just a short drive from the city centre, you’re guaranteed to find a scenic drive in Melbourne that suits your travel needs and preferences.
From undulating coastal routes like the Great Ocean Road trip to hidden gems in picturesque towns and Victoria’s high country, the best scenic drives in Melbourne deliver panoramic views and unforgettable memories.
An overview of the best scenic drives from Melbourne
- The best short scenic drives from Melbourne (1 to 3 hours total of driving)
- The best long scenic drives from Melbourne (more than 3 hours total of driving)
- Melbourne road trip guide
- Frequently asked questions about scenic drives from Melbourne
- Final tips for the scenic drive of a lifetime
The best short scenic drives from Melbourne (less than three hours total of driving)
Only got a few hours to spare? These short Melbourne scenic drives promise to deliver beautiful views, must-see attractions, and incredible scenery, all in under three hours of total driving time.
Healesville Sanctuary Drive (Yarra Valley)
- Route: Take the Eastern Freeway from Melbourne before exiting onto Ringwood Bypass. Following signage to Victoria Road and Maroondah Highway, before you later turn onto Airlie Road and continue to Badger Creek Road and Glen Eadie Avenue.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 1 hour 35 minutes to Healesville Sanctuary
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 65.7 km
- Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts and young families travelling with kids
Located in the heart of the Yarra Valley, the Healesville Sanctuary Drive is a scenic route that leads to the renowned wildlife conservation park. For families travelling with young kids, it’s a must-see attraction and specialises in native Australian animals.
At the sanctuary, you can get up close and personal with kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and platypus and learn more about their conservation efforts. As well as talks from the keepers, you can also enjoy feeding times and learn more about the rich Indigenous heritage of the Yarra Valley.
The Dandenong Ranges
- Route: Follow the Eastern Freeway before taking High Street Road towards Ferntree Gully. Then, venture onto Burwood Highway before making the turn at Belview Terrace.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 50 km
- Best for: Hikers, road trip enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city
Just outside of Melbourne, the incredible Dandenong Ranges National Park boasts rainforests, mountain ash trees, and several walking trails with panoramic views. The drive itself is stunning, leading into the tranquil beauty of the forest.
From there, consider visiting Mount Dandenong Observatory, SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, or Grant’s Picnic Ground for unbeatable views. The Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden is a must-visit for its Rhododendron Garden, while the William Ricketts Sanctuary features intricately carved sculptures.
Red Hill
- Route: Follow the Citylink as you join the M1 towards S.E. Suburbs and Dandenong. From there, take the Eastlink towards Frankston before merging onto M3. You’ll then take exit 28 and follow signage towards Red Hill and Flinders.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 1 hour 22 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 87 km
- Best for: Foodies and those seeking culinary delights
Located on the Mornington Peninsula, Red Hill is a scenic drive rich with opportunities to stop and enjoy a wine tour and tasting at the renowned wineries dotted along the countryside. With its rolling hills, this drive offers breathtaking views of the Mornington Peninsula and Port Phillip Bay, while you can also explore scenic coastal paths nearby.
Ultimately, this is a scenic drive that food lovers will enjoy most. Enjoy a cellar door experience and guided tour of sprawling vineyards, or experience the gourmet food scene that the area is known for.
Tip from the author: The Red Hill Community Market is held on the first Saturday of every month. There, you’ll be able to sample delicious food, enjoy live music, and purchase artisanal products.
Black Spur Drive
- Route: From Melbourne, take the Eastern Freeway before exiting on Ringwood Bypass towards Ringwood. Then, take the Maroondah Highway before arriving at the beginning of Black Spur Drive.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 1 hour 42 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 79 km
- Best for: Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts
This picturesque drive takes you through lush rainforests that boast an abundance of native wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and bird species. There are plenty of viewing points located along Black Spur Drive, so you can soak up the scenery.
For nature lovers, consider hiking the Marysville-Woods Point Rail Trail or Cumberland Walk, while others can enjoy delicious food at the local cafes in quaint villages like Healesville or Marysville.
Lake Mountain Drive (Yarra Valley)
- Route: Take the Eastern Freeway before exiting onto Ringwood Bypass, then bear left on the Maroondah Highway. Follow the signage at Marysville-Woods Point Road before turning onto Lake Mountain Road.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 2 hours 11 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 113 km
- Best for: Those looking to explore Victoria’s alpine region in winter
Located in the Yarra Ranges, this stunning drive offers sweeping views of the Yarra Valley and Lake Mountain, complete with rolling hills and picturesque countryside. At Lake Mountain, you’ll find plenty of walking trails to explore or make a detour to Yarra Ranges National Park. If you’re visiting in winter, enjoy snow sports and activities like tobogganing, or head to scenic lookouts on the mountain that capture the beauty of the alpine region.
The best long scenic drives from Melbourne (more than 3 hours total of driving)
If you have a little more time on your hands, consider these longer scenic drives from Melbourne.
Great Alpine Road
- Route: From Melbourne, follow signs to Tullamarine Freeway towards Seymour before merging onto M80 and, later, the Hume Freeway. You’ll take the exit onto C522 before taking the turn onto Great Alpine Road. Be sure to pass through Mount Buffalo Road for stunning views before turning back onto Great Alpine Road and continuing your journey.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 293 km
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, skiers and fans of winter sports.
Boasting some of Australia’s best mountain scenery, the Great Alpine Road road trip offers incredible views of the region’s diverse landscapes. You’ll drive over undulating hills and stunning vineyards, including the Milawa wine district, Mt Buffalo, and historic towns, including Beechworth and Yackandandah. Then, it’s all about the stunning backdrop of mountains as you begin the climb.
While the ascent from Harrietville to Mt Hotham isn’t particularly steep, this is a road trip best suited for experienced drivers as you’ll need to pay careful attention to oncoming traffic thanks to the narrow road. Thankfully, though, you’ll be rewarded with unbeatable views over the Alpine National Park, and if travelling during the snow season, you can even ski at Mt Hotham.
Great Ocean Road
- Route: Take the West Gate Freeway from Melbourne before turning onto the Princes Highway. From there, you’ll take the Great Ocean Road and pass through many quaint seaside towns where you can choose to stop and see attractions as you wish.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 1 hour from Melbourne to the start of the Great Ocean Road, and about 4 hours to drive the full length of the Great Ocean Road
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 343 km from Melbourne to the end of the Great Ocean Road
- Best for: Beach-goers, nature lovers, and hiking enthusiasts
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is a must-do for anyone passing through Melbourne. With iconic landmarks, including the Twelve Apostles’ unique limestone rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge and the Great Otway National Park with its rainforest, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained on this breathtaking road trip. Visit the Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet for panoramic views of the coastline, or stroll along the beach and try delicious seafood and local wines from beachfront restaurants and cafes.
Port Phillip Bay Loop
- Route: Follow signage to St Kilda Road from Melbourne before taking Lower Dandenong Road. You’ll then take the Mornington Peninsula Freeway before turning onto Browns Road and following directions to Port Phillip Bay.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 4 hours
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 227 km
- Best for: Those looking to explore the unique history of the towns, as well as nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and foodies
There’s plenty to explore on the scenic Port Phillip Bay loop, which allows you to better understand the historic towns surrounding the area, including Williamstown, Portsea, and Portarlington, where you can visit local museums and see the unique architecture.
You’ll find several top wineries in the area, including Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove and Red Hill Brewery. Enjoy delicious local food at the nearby restaurants or enjoy a wine tasting before exploring the Mornington Peninsula with its stunning beaches. Point Nepean National Park offers beautiful hiking trails and views over Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait, but you can also enjoy dolphin-watching from Queenscliff or hike to the summit of Arthur’s Seat.
Silo Art Trail
- Route: After following directions to Calder Freeway towards Bendigo and Avalon, you’ll continue along towards Marong and Mildura. Then, take the exit onto Calder Alternative Highway before following directions to Wimmera Highway and North Western Road.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 316 km
- Best for: Art enthusiasts
This scenic route allows you to soak up the rich culture of Melbourne by following the Silo Art Trail, where talented artists have created towering silo artworks. Featuring stunning murals that tell stories about the region’s history and culture, you can gain an insight into the artist process, explore the small towns and communities along the route, and take part in community events and festivals held in towns along the art trail.
Gippsland Coast Scenic Drive
- Route: After following signage to Princes Highway, you’ll later turn right onto South Gippsland Highway before following directions to Longford-Loch Sport Road.
- Driving time: 880 km
- Driving time: 11 hours 30 minutes
- Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, and wellness enthusiasts
This beautiful drive passes through coastal towns and villages along the Gippsland Coast that demand viewing. From the historic Port Albert to Lakes Entrance which boasts top restaurants and cafes serving up delicious seafood and local produce, there’s plenty to enjoy on this route. Nature lovers can soak up the outdoors with hikes in Wilsons Promontory National Park to the Mount Oberon Summit or take a dip at pristine beaches, including Squeaky Beach and Ninety Mile Beach.
The Port Albert Maritime Museum is worth a visit for those looking to learn more about the area, while wellness enthusiasts can treat themselves to various treatments, yoga classes, and resorts dotted along the coast. We recommend Metung Hot Springs for its incredible clifftop views over the Gippsland Lakes.
The Grampians National Park Drive
- Route: Take the M1 towards Geelong before exiting towards Hamilton. You’ll travel along the Hamilton Highway before later taking Rokewood-Skipton Road and Montgomery Street. Follow the directions towards Templeton Street and Victoria Valley Road.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 270 km
- Best for: Wildlife spotters, hikers, and avid campers
Known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance to Indigenous Australians of the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali tribe, the Grampians National Park drive boasts extraordinary scenery. You’ll be treated to views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes, while detours can be made to Reed Lookout, MacKenzie Falls, and Halls Gap. You’ll find plenty of walking and hiking trails, including Grampians Peaks Trail, and there are countless waterfalls and rock formations to look out for.
The Grand Ridge Road
- Route: Take the Citylink as you merge onto M1 towards S.E. Suburbs and Dandenong before exiting onto C425 towards Korumburra. Then follow the directions to Korrumburra-Warragul Road before turning onto Grand Ridge Road.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 2 hours 17 minutes (4+ hours return)
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 143 km
- Best for: Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
This picturesque drive takes you through the rural landscapes of the beautiful Strzelecki Ranges. With their lush forests, rolling hills, and farmland, it’s a route that showcases the diversity of landscapes Victoria is known for. There are several walking trails along Grand Ridge Road where you can hike to panoramic views of the surrounding region, or enjoy a picnic and soak up the tranquility.
Falls Creek
- Route: Take the Eastern Freeway before taking the exit onto Thompson Road and Bulleen Road. You’ll follow signage to C522 towards Milawa before turning onto the Great Alpine Road and later, Falls Creek Road.
- Driving time from Melbourne: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Driving distance from Melbourne: 386 km
- Best for: Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts
Passing through Kinglake National Park and the stunning Alps of Victoria, Falls Creek presents a scenic drive with plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. Best visited during the winter months of June to September, enjoy snowboarding along black diamond trails, cross-country skiing, and live entertainment. In the warmer months, make the most of hiking trails through the alpine meadows and woodland, or some mountain biking. There’s plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area serving up delicious meals, too.
Melbourne road trip guide: keep the drive going
Don’t want to hand back the keys to your hire car just yet? Keep the drive going with one of these epic road trip itineraries from Melbourne.
- The best road trips from Melbourne
- The best day trips from Melbourne
- 12 of the best road trips in Victoria
- Melbourne to Canberra drive
- Melbourne to Sydney road trip
- Melbourne to Adelaide road trip
- Melbourne to Brisbane road trip
Frequently asked questions about Melbourne’s scenic drives
When is the best time to enjoy a scenic drive in Melbourne?
The summer months in Melbourne typically bring the most tourists which can equate to more traffic on the roads. For this reason, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) are generally considered to be the best time to enjoy a scenic drive in Melbourne, as the temperatures are mild, there are fewer crowds, and you can enjoy the autumn foliage and colourful blooms in outdoor settings.
Can I complete these scenic drives using public transport?
Melbourne is known for its consistent and reliable public transport system, with trains, buses, ferries, and trams running regularly throughout the day to various destinations throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Some scenic drives like that of the Dandenong Ranges can be accessed using public transport, however most would require a range of options to be completed. For this reason, a hire car is the most convenient option for those looking to make these scenic drives, and it also allows you to make detours along the way and explore at your own pace.
What are the road conditions like in Melbourne?
The road conditions in Melbourne are sealed, smooth, and well-maintained, making for a comfortable driving experience no matter which route you choose to take.
Which vehicle is best for undertaking a scenic drive in Melbourne?
Ultimately, the best vehicle for any scenic drive is the one you feel most comfortable driving. With sealed, well-maintained roads to be expected throughout Melbourne, you can rest assured that a small, compact vehicle will easily get you anywhere you need to go. However, if you want the comfort of a larger SUV or want to trial a sleek EV, on Turo you can find the perfect ride to tackle any scenic drive in Melbourne.
Final tips for the scenic drive of a lifetime
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive among Melbourne’s picturesque landscapes or you want to visit local attractions like the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail and the iconic Great Ocean Road, Melbourne offers a range of scenic drives that are sure to suit your travel needs and preferences.
Thanks to Turo, the hardest part is simply choosing which stunning drive to take. With a range of unique cars available to suit every budget and travel requirement, you can secure the perfect ride for your trip. You can even arrange convenient delivery from your local Turo host. So, what are you waiting for? Find your drive on Turo in Melbourne.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
