Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventures

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Discover The Best Outdoor Things to Do in Melbourne

Magnificence of Twelve Apostles, Australia. Aerial view at dusk.

Melbourne is a vibrant city on Australia's southeastern coast. It offers an array of outdoor adventures that cater to every taste and preference. Melbourne has something for everyone seeking great outdoor adventures near Yarra Valley.

You can see the stately Twelve Apostles rising out of the Southern Ocean along the Great Ocean Road. Explore more top attractions such as Flinders Street Station and the State Library Victoria in a full-day tour.

Tour Highlights

  • Great Ocean Road Minibus Tour in Reverse: See the stunning beauty of the Twelve Apostles and other famous sites along the Great Ocean Road. Places for the best outdoor activities in Melbourne are Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps, and Port Campbell National Park's seaside views.

  • Melbourne 4-Course Cruise with Drinks: A 4-course tour with drinks lets you enjoy a fancy meal with beautiful views of Melbourne's rivers. Gourmet food made by top chefs and high-end drinks are some of the best things about it. You can also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

  • 12 Apostles Wildlife Tour: Get to know the natural sights along the Great Ocean Road, like the mighty Twelve Apostles. See native Australian animals like kangaroos, koalas, and many kinds of birds.

  • Bottomless Brunch Cruise: Take an easy-peasy brunch on a stylish cruise ship. You can enjoy delicious food and unlimited drinks while taking in the beautiful views of Melbourne's waterfront.

  • Puffing Billy and Penguin Parade Combo Tour: Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. Afterward, meet the cute penguins at Phillip Island's Penguin Parade on your day trip.

  • Penguin Parade and Koalas Tour: See the magical show of little penguins waddling ashore on Phillip Island at sunset. The tour includes a stop at the Koala Conservation Centre to see them in their native environment. 

  • Hiking Tour in Melbourne: Explore You Yangs Regional Park & Dandenong Ranges Hiking Adventure for hiking. Discover lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints in the Dandenong Ranges. Trek through rugged landscapes, spotting kangaroos and wallabies amidst granite peaks and grasslands.

  • Hot Air Balloon Tour: Sunrise Spectacle & Yarra Valley Wine Country are the places for a hot air balloon ride in Melbourne. Watch Melbourne's skyline and Yarra River awash in sunrise hues during a magical hot air balloon flight. Soar over the Yarra Valley's vineyards for stunning views, followed by a gourmet breakfast and wine tasting.

Visitor Highlights

  • Scenic Beauty: Relish the stunning natural landscapes, from coastal vistas to lush greenery in parks and gardens.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Experience the joy of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and rock climbing at various locations.

  • Wildlife Encounters: Encounter native Australian wildlife in their natural habitats, from kangaroos and koalas to colourful bird species.

  • Relaxation and Recreation: Enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, or simply basking in the sunshine amidst serene outdoor settings.

  • Cultural Exploration: Discover indigenous heritage sites, outdoor art installations, and historical landmarks scattered throughout Melbourne's outdoor spaces.

  • Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy family-friendly outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling trails, and nature walks for all ages.

  • Food and Dining: Get the perfect places for joyful outdoor dining experiences. Enjoy the delicious local cuisine at Melbourne hotels with pools, food markets, and picnic spots.

  • Events and Festivals: Attend outdoor events, concerts, and festivals held in parks and public spaces. showcasing Melbourne's vibrant cultural scene.

Travel Tips

  • Check the weather and dress accordingly.
  • Stay hydrated by carrying water with you.
  • Plan your activities and know the rules.
  • Respect nature and wildlife and leave no trace.
  • Stay informed about potential risks and follow local advice.
  • Pack essentials like snacks, a map, and a flashlight.
  • Respect local communities and indigenous lands.
  • Prioritize safety by wearing suitable gear and informing someone of your plans.

Know Before You Go

What to Bring

  • Bring a water bottle & stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
  • Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun.
  • Bring lightweight snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit to keep your energy up.
  • Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes for walking or hiking.
  • Carry a map, compass, or GPS device to help you navigate trails or unfamiliar areas.
  • Pack basic first-aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
  • Bring a whistle, flashlight, and waterproof matches or a lighter for emergencies.
  • Carry a fully charged phone for communication and emergency calls.

What not to Bring

  • Avoid single-use plastics like water bottles and bags to minimize waste.
  • Pack only what you need to keep your backpack light and manageable.
  • Respect the tranquillity of outdoor spaces by avoiding loud music or noise.
  • Minimize disposable items like paper plates or plastic utensils to reduce waste.
  • Leave expensive items like jewellery or electronics at home to reduce the risk of loss.

Getting There

  • Public Transport: Melbourne has an extensive public transportation network, including trains, trams, and buses. You can use Public Transport Victoria's website or mobile app to plan your journey and find the best route.
  • Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach many outdoor adventure spots around Melbourne by car. Most parks, trails, and natural attractions have parking facilities or nearby street parking. Just be sure to check for any parking fees or permit requirements before you go.
  • Bicycle: Melbourne has bike-friendly infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes and trails. You can cycle to many outdoor adventure destinations, especially parks and trails closer to the city centre.
  • Organized Tours: You may opt for organized tours for more remote or specialized outdoor adventures. Many tour companies offer transportation as part of their package, picking you up from designated meeting points.
  • Walking: Walking can be a convenient and eco-friendly option for outdoor adventure destinations. Melbourne's compact layout makes it easy to explore many attractions on foot.