Nature and culture are the state's two major draws

From snowfields in the northeast to goldfields in the northwest and an awe-inspiring coastline in the south, Victoria is a state packed with inspiring tourism options.

Natural wonders such as the Twelve Apostles vie for tourists’ attention with wildlife wonders such as Phillip Island’s colony of Little Penguins. Swim with dolphins in Port Phillip Bay year-round or whale watch in Warrnambool from June to October.

Head to Gippsland, the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians for hiking and picturesque drive holidays, or visit historic villages such as Walhalla, Castlemaine and Daylesford for that quaint old-world vibe. Don’t be surprised to find fine dining in country towns – in Daylesford, head to the Lake House; or try former Royal Mail chef Dan Hunter’s new digs at Brae restaurant in Birregurra.

Victoria has 22 distinct wine regions with over 850 wineries and 650 cellar doors. Within easy reach of the Melbourne CBD, you’ll find the vineyards of the Yarra Valley, Macedon Ranges and Mornington Peninsula.