7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Melbourne

Melbourne, is a vibrant city known for its culture, coffee, and art. However, even the most dedicated digital nomad needs a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Fortunately, Melbourne is perfectly positioned for a variety of weekend getaways, ranging from the popular to the hidden gems. Whether you're looking for a beach retreat, a mountain escape, or a unique adventure off the beaten track, there's something for every type of traveler within a few hours' drive or train ride from the city.

Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is an iconic Australian destination and a must-visit for anyone living in Melbourne. This scenic drive offers breathtaking coastal views, charming surf towns, and the famous Twelve Apostles limestone stacks. Along the way, you can stop at beaches for a surf session, take a walk in the rainforest, or simply enjoy the stunning vistas. The road also offers opportunities for whale watching during migration seasons.

How to Get There: The Great Ocean Road is best experienced by car. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne to the start of the road in Torquay. Renting a car for the weekend allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Cape Otway Lightstation for a panoramic view of the Southern Ocean and the chance to spot koalas in the wild.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Cumberland Lorne Resort for its ocean views and proximity to local attractions, or the Apollo Bay Eco YHA for a more budget-friendly and eco-conscious option.

Where to Eat: Swing by the Wye River General Store for their famous scallop pies and a relaxed atmosphere with ocean views.

Yarra Valley

For wine enthusiasts and foodies, the Yarra Valley is a paradise just an hour's drive from Melbourne. This region is renowned for its world-class wineries, artisanal food producers, and stunning landscapes. Wine tasting tours are a popular activity, but you can also enjoy hot air balloon rides at dawn, visit the Healesville Sanctuary to see native wildlife, or explore the many walking trails.

How to Get There: The Yarra Valley is approximately an hour's drive from Melbourne via the Eastern Freeway and Maroondah Highway.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie for a sweet treat and the chance to watch chocolatiers at work.

Where to Stay: The Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodation with vineyard views, while the Yarra Valley Lodge provides a more secluded retreat.

Where to Eat: The Healesville Hotel is a gastropub with a seasonal menu that highlights local produce, and it's perfect for a cozy dinner.

Daylesford

Daylesford is a spa town located in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, known for its mineral springs and wellness retreats. It's the perfect place to unwind with a massage or a soak in a mineral bath. The town also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and studios to explore, as well as beautiful gardens and lakes.

How to Get There: Daylesford is about a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne, or you can take a V/Line train to Ballarat and then a connecting bus to Daylesford.

Travel Tip: Visit the Convent Gallery for a mix of art, history, and stunning gardens, all housed in a 19th-century mansion.

Where to Stay: The Lake House offers luxury lakeside accommodation with an award-winning restaurant on-site, while the Daylesford Royal Hotel provides a more historic setting.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, try the Farmers Arms, which is the oldest pub in Daylesford and serves up hearty, locally-sourced meals.

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Wilsons Promontory National Park, affectionately known as "The Prom," is a nature lover's dream with its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and scenic hiking trails. It's the southernmost point of mainland Australia and offers some of the best outdoor activities, including snorkeling, bushwalking, and bird watching. The park's remote location and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a digital detox.

How to Get There: Wilsons Promontory is about a 3-hour drive from Melbourne. There is no direct public transport, so driving is the best option.

Travel Tip: Make sure to hike up to Mount Oberon Summit for a spectacular view of the coastline and offshore islands.

Where to Stay: Tidal River Campground provides a range of accommodation options from campsites to cabins, all within the national park.

Where to Eat: There are limited dining options within the park, so it's best to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Mornington Peninsula

The Mornington Peninsula is a favorite for Melburnians looking for a beach escape. With its picturesque bays, upscale wineries, and historic villages, the peninsula offers a diverse range of activities. You can relax on the beach, visit a hot springs spa, or explore the local art galleries. The region is also known for its farm-to-table cuisine and excellent seafood.

How to Get There: The Mornington Peninsula is about a 1-hour drive from Melbourne, or you can take a train to Frankston and then a connecting bus to various towns on the peninsula.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to swim with dolphins and seals on a guided tour from Sorrento.

Where to Stay: The Jackalope Hotel offers a unique luxury experience with vineyard views and an avant-garde design, while the Flinders Hotel provides a more traditional coastal stay.

Where to Eat: The Epicurean Red Hill is a must-visit for its exceptional local produce and wine, housed in a converted shed with a rustic-chic vibe.

Macedon Ranges

For a less-traveled destination, the Macedon Ranges offer a peaceful retreat with cool-climate wineries, historic estates, and the mysterious Hanging Rock. The area is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors. The small towns in the region, such as Woodend and Kyneton, have a charming country feel with boutique shops and cozy cafes.

How to Get There: The Macedon Ranges are about an hour's drive from Melbourne, or you can take a V/Line train to Woodend or Kyneton.

Travel Tip: Visit the top of Mount Macedon for panoramic views and to see the Memorial Cross, a significant local landmark.

Where to Stay: The Lancefield Guesthouse offers a quaint and comfortable stay in a historic building, while the Black Forest Motel provides modern amenities in a natural setting.

Where to Eat: The Source Dining in Kyneton is a standout for its innovative menu that showcases the best of regional produce.

Walhalla

Walhalla is a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Gippsland. This historic gold-mining town seems frozen in time, with its original buildings and a population of fewer than 20 residents. Visitors can explore the old mines, take a ride on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest. It's an unusual and offbeat destination that offers a glimpse into Australia's gold rush era.

How to Get There: Walhalla is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Melbourne. There is no direct public transport, so driving is the best way to reach this secluded spot.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour of the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine to learn about the town's rich mining history and see the underground workings.

Where to Stay: The Walhalla's Star Hotel is a boutique hotel that maintains the town's 19th-century charm, while the Walhalla Coach House offers self-contained accommodation with stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat: The Wally Pub is the heart of Walhalla, serving hearty meals and local brews in a historic setting.