Victoria’s secret: 5 easy Phillip Island road trips you should know -

Phillip Island is a peaceful refuge, known for its flora and fauna – think penguins and fur seals – as well as its mesmerising sunsets, fantastic surfing, romantic dining and outdoor adventures on land or at sea.

A road trip doesn’t have to be a long trip. On Victoria’s Phillip Island, the answer to the perennial, “Are we there yet?" question is usually, “Yes, we are!"

Cape Woolamai Walk, Phillip Island, VIC, Australia — Phillip Island is a peaceful refuge known for its flora and fauna.

It packs so much into its 101 square kilometres, you’ll be hopping in and out of the car for hours, and even days on end, to see seals, koalas and, of course, penguins. You can surf, swim or just saunter at uncrowded beaches, and taste everything from succulent seafood to local wines. And there are modern and ancient history lessons, too.

Cape Woolamai Walk, Phillip Island — Victoria’s Phillip Island packs so much into its 101 square kilometres.

Phillip Island is a great destination to visit, whether as a weekender down from Melbourne or as part of the great around-Australia drive. Here are five easy road trips on the island that cover so many of the attractions and, once out of the car, there’s plenty to see and do on foot, too.

Road Trip, Phillip Island, VIC, Australia — Road trips on Phillip island can cover so many attractions.

1. San Remo to Churchill Island

San Remo sits at the mainland end of the bridge onto the island, and it’s a good spot to break the drive if you’ve come down from Melbourne or across from Gippsland. It has a fisherman’s co-op , which means two things: the freshest seafood – including great fish and chips – and pelicans, which are fed daily at noon on the foreshore next to the bridge.

Fish and chips at San Remo Fishermans Co-op, Destination during a Phillip Island Roadtrip, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — Dig into the freshest plate of fish and chips at the fisherman’s co-op.

Once you’ve crossed onto the island, stop by the Visitor Information Centre for maps, brochures, ideas and indispensable local knowledge. It’s only five kilometres to Churchill Island, but you might be waylaid at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory in Newhaven. Give yourself an hour for the tour into Panny’s Amazing World of Chocolate, where even your entry ticket is edible, or just drop into the cafe and shop for a hot chocolate and treats to take home, from boxed selections to a mega three-kilogram chocolate bar.

Hot chocolate at Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — Drop by the cafe for some hot chocolate and treats to take home.

Turn right just past the Chocolate Factory for Churchill Island where the working farm – on land first walked by the Boonwurrung/Bunurong people – was established in the 1850s. Many buildings from the 19th century still dot the 57-hectare island, where you can see displays of milking, shearing, working dogs, blacksmithing and whip-cracking. There’s a wetlands walk, and the picturesque cafe is open for late breakfasts and lunch.

A Family at Churchill Island, on a roadtrip to Phillip Island, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — The working farm in Churchill Island was established in the 1850s.

2. Newhaven to Rhyll

You’ve got two things to do right from the start in Newhaven. Take a scenic flight from the airport with Phillip Island Helicopters and then drop into the National Vietnam Veterans Museum . This engaging facility, run by volunteers, has countless interpretive displays of Australia’s involvement in war, from tanks and aircraft down to the balls used in the controversial conscription ballots.

Red wine being poured onto glass, Purple Hen Winery, Phillip Island, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — Taste the specialty wines at Purple Hen Wines.

Just out of town, look for a small road on the left to the Forrest Caves, a series of dramatic coastal formations visible at low tide.

As you continue along the main road of Phillip Island, you’ll soon see a sign to Purple Hen Wines , one of two wineries on the island. It specialises in pinot noir and shiraz, plus red and white sparkling wines. Back on the road, you’ll be in Rhyll in no time; the tranquil village is located on a protected inlet with a lovely boardwalk through the mangroves. You can follow that boardwalk and enjoy lunch at Wild Food Farm and Cafe , a showcase for native herbs, spices, fruits and berries. Try a wattleseed scone, or perhaps a pepperberry beef pie or even Davidson plum jam with your barramundi. The farm store also sells a huge selection of products inspired by native ingredients, such as dukkah and spiced bush tomato relish and a Davidson plum syrup.

Lunch spread, Wild Food Farm and Cafe, Phillip Island, VIC, Australia — Wild Food Farm & Cafe showcases native herbs, spices, fruits and berries.

3. Cowes Pier to Nobbies

Cowes is the central hub of Phillip Island, a town with a holiday vibe servicing your shopping and dining needs and offering a range of accommodation. For coffee and brunch, head to casual cafes such as M&O Cafe and Tapas , The Waterboy Cafe and Island Whole Foods , which will please proponents of a plant-based diet.

Cowes has kilometres of north-facing beach, so do make a booking at beachfront restaurants such as Beach HQ or Hotel Phillip Island . The drinks list at Grenache Wine Bar includes more than 100 gins so it’s your go-to for a pre-dinner G+T before settling in for Pino’s Trattoria for pane all’aglio (garlic bread) and spaghetti arrabbiata followed by a scoop of gelato at Isola di Capri .

Hire an e-bike for a spin around town from Super Cruzer , or spend time on the water with Wildlife Coast Cruises .

Wildlife Coast Cruises, Phillip Island, Australia — Spend some time on the water with Wildlife Coast Cruises.

Just south of Cowes is a pair of wonderful family attractions: A Maze’N Things , with its wacky maze, illusions and puzzles, and the neighbouring Koala Conservation Reserve with its two treetop boardwalks for close encounters, plus wallabies and other wildlife on its easily accessible bushland trails. Across the road is the Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant and Bar , home to a great variety of Phillip Island brews.

Rusty Water Brewery and Restaurant, Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia — There’s a variety of Phillip Island brews to try at Rusty Water Brewery.

South-west from Cowes, it’s an easy 15-kilometre drive to the most rugged and spectacular part of the island, the western tip known as The Nobbies. On the way down, check out the amazing range of products at The Store . At The Nobbies, the cliffside boardwalk gets you up close to these distinctive rocks and you can look beyond to Seal Rocks, home to the country’s largest colony of Australian fur seals. For a more immersive experience, take a virtual voyage through the Southern Ocean, one of many amazing interactive encounters on offer at Antarctic Journey .

Seal Rocks, Phillip Island, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — See the country’s largest colony of Australian fur seals at Seal Rocks.

We’re not ignoring the world-famous Penguin Parade that you pass just before you arrive at The Nobbies; it’s an evening show, and one like no other.

Penguin sighting at the Underground Nature Parks, Phillip Island, Gippsland, VIC, Australia — Don’t miss the daily parade of little penguins.

4. North to South Loop

From the top of Phillip Island to the bottom and back mightn’t look too far, but you’ll need hours to take in every bit of adventure and nature along the way. Head south-west from Cowes through Ventnor and follow the Newhaven road before turning south to remote Kitty Miller Bay, where you’ll see remnants of the SS Speke, shipwrecked in 1906.

If beachcombing has given you an appetite, there’s a broad menu at Phillip Island Winery , supported by great summer varieties such as prosecco and rosé.

Pyramid Rock, Walking, Phillip Island, VIC, Australia — If you’re keen on a good walk, there is a track linking to Berry Beach.

The day’s third coastal highlight is Pyramid Rock, a distinctive formation best viewed from the lookout at the tip of the cape. (If you’re keen on a good walk, there is a track linking to Berry Beach.)

On non-event days, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is still an arresting sight, because of the way the track dips and twists towards the ocean, making it one of the most exciting circuits in Australia. And you can get a feel of what it’s like yourself on a 750-metre-long track with Phillip Island Go Karts.

Go Karting, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, in Phillip Island — Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is one of the most exciting circuits in Australia.

5. Smiths Beach to San Remo

Smiths Beach is one of the most diverse beaches on the south coast, offering everything from rock pools for paddling in to surf breaks rated as some of the most beginner-friendly in Victoria. If that appeals, Island Surf School can get you started.

There are plenty of other board-riding spots to inspect all the way around to Cape Woolamai, although that’s a break best left to experienced surfers. Instead, explore the scenic Cape Woolamai wonderland on foot. Park at the surf club and follow the loop track off the southern end of the beach down to the cape, where’ll you’ll see everything from wallabies to migratory shearwaters, and maybe even whales in winter.

Cape Woolamai Drift Boat Ocean Adventures, Phillip Island, Australia — There are plenty of other board-riding spots to inspect all the way around to Cape Woolamai.

Soon you’ll be back to San Remo, but maybe only after a meal at the Saltwater restaurant in Newhaven, which juts out right on the jetty and boasts 270-degree waterfront views. If you want one last thrill, Ocean Adventures in San Remo can take you diving, snorkelling on a sea scooter or drifting in a jetboat. Just leave some energy for the drive home.

Roadtripping at Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia — Don’t forget to leave some energy for the drive home.

Want more?

How do they fit all of this in 101 square kilometres, you may ask? Well, there’s even more to see and do, so go to visitphillipisland.com.au

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.

Victoria’s secret: 5 easy Phillip Island road trips you should know