Your Ultimate State-by-State Guide to Caravan Parks and Scenic Getaways
NSW | QLD | SA| NT, WA & TAS
Spring is the perfect season to explore the vibrant beauty and diverse landscapes of Australia. To help you make the most of this delightful time of year, we're launching an exciting new series that will take you on a journey across the country, one state at a time. Each week, we'll uncover the best spring destinations, must-see attractions, and top caravan parks in a different Australian state.
From the lush blooms and gourmet experiences of Victoria's High Country to the sun-kissed beaches and festive events of Queensland, our series will provide you with detailed guides and insider tips to enhance your spring adventures. Whether you're a seasoned caravanner or just looking for a scenic escape, our weekly insights will ensure you find the perfect spot to park your van and soak up the season.
Stay tuned as we roll out our comprehensive guides, offering everything you need to plan unforgettable spring getaways. Let's hit the road and discover the best of Australia together!
Week 1
Victoria Spring Guide
Mornington Peninsula tourism map
Hastings Jetty Fish Shed at Hastings Foreshore Reserve
source: Alpha (https://www.flickr.com/people/avlxyz/)
Mornington Peninsula Spring Guide
The Mornington Peninsula is a diverse region with stunning coastal views, relaxing hot springs, and a vibrant food and wine scene. Spring is a great time to explore its beaches, vineyards, and charming towns as the weather warms up and the landscapes come alive with color.
Top Attractions
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Peninsula Hot Springs
Enjoy natural thermal pools and spa treatments in a beautiful setting. Spring is a great time to relax and rejuvenate. -
Mornington Peninsula National Park
Explore coastal walks, scenic views, and diverse wildlife. -
Arthurs Seat Eagle
Take a gondola ride to the top of Arthurs Seat for breathtaking views of the Peninsula and beyond.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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BIG4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park
- Location: Situated in Rye, close to the beach and local attractions.
- Amenities: Powered caravan sites, modern amenities, outdoor pool, and playground.
- Why Choose This: Ideal for families and those wanting easy access to the beach and Peninsula Hot Springs.
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Halcyon Caravan Park
- Location: Situated opposite the beautiful Safety Beach
- Amenities: Powered sites, playground, and BBQ facilities.
- Why Choose This: A 20 min walk from Dromana township or a 5 min drive. A 10-15 min drive of local wineries, golf courses, back beaches, fine dining.
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Kanasta Caravan Park
- Location: 500m from the beach.
- Amenities: Powered sites, playground, and BBQ facilities.
- Why Choose This: 5 minutes walk from the Rye boat launching ramp, cafes, shops, restaurants, pubs/clubs and safe swimming beaches.
Local Dining and Culinary Experiences
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Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove
Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience with views over the vineyards and a menu that highlights local produce. -
The Rocks Mornington
A stylish spot for seafood and modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. -
Red Hill Brewery
Sample craft beers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere at this popular local brewery.
Spring Events and Festivals
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Mornington Peninsula Food and Wine Festival
Held in November, this festival celebrates local produce, wine, and gourmet experiences. -
Rosebud Market
Explore local crafts, food, and produce at this vibrant market held in the heart of Rosebud.
Insider Tips
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Visit the Local Wineries
The Mornington Peninsula is renowned for its vineyards. Spring is a great time to visit wineries like Red Hill Estate and Port Phillip Estate. -
Explore the Coastal Walks
Take advantage of the spring weather to explore coastal walks, such as the Cape Schanck Lighthouse Trail.
Ninety Mile Beach Gippsland Victoria Australia
source: Simon Chapman | Flickr
Gippsland Spring Guide
Gippsland, located in Victoria’s southeast, is known for its diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush forests and rolling hills. Spring is a fantastic time to explore this region’s natural beauty, charming towns, and outdoor activities.
Top Attractions
- Wilsons Promontory National Park: Known for its stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and ideal hiking conditions.
- Lakes Entrance: A popular beachside town with a range of water activities and beautiful lakes.
- Tarra-Bulga National Park: Explore lush rainforests and scenic walks in this picturesque park.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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BIG4 Holiday Parks
- Location: 11 locations across this region, with many close to the waterfront and some inland.
- Amenities: Powered caravan sites, modern amenities, and direct beach access.
- Why Choose These: Ideal for families and those looking to enjoy the beach and local nature.
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Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park
- Location: Situated in Bairnsdale, along the river.
- Amenities: Spacious sites, BBQ areas, and close to local attractions.
- Why Choose This: Fishing, boating, and four-wheel driving.
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Wilsons Promontory Caravan Park
- Location: Located near Wilsons Promontory National Park, formerly known as Yanakie Caravan Park
- Amenities: Powered sites, modern facilities, and easy access to hiking trails and wildlife.
- Why Choose This: Great for nature lovers who want to stay close to the park’s natural beauty.
- Metung Holiday Villas
- Location: Situated in Metung, near the lakes and waterways.
- Amenities: Modern villas and caravan sites with easy access to the water.
- Why Choose This: set under a canopy of beautiful trees amidst terraced native gardens. An easy 10-12 minute walk will take you to the centre of the Metung Village with its restaurants, bakery, cafes, boutique shops and waterfront hotel.
Local Dining and Culinary Experiences
- Narkoojee Winery: Enjoy wine tastings and a relaxed dining experience in the heart of Gippsland’s wine country.
- The Waterwheel Tavern: A popular spot in Lakes Entrance offering hearty meals and local seafood.
- Bairnsdale Wine Bar: Sample local wines and enjoy a range of tapas-style dishes.
Spring Events and Festivals
- Gippsland Food & Wine Festival: Held in November, this festival showcases the region’s best food and wine.
- Wilson’s Promontory National Park Spring Wildflower Festival: Celebrate the blooming wildflowers with guided walks and local flora exhibitions.
Insider Tips
- Explore the Lakes: Take advantage of spring weather to explore Gippsland’s lakes and waterways, including boating and fishing opportunities.
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Hike the Trails: Spring is a perfect time for hiking in Wilsons Promontory and Tarra-Bulga National Park, with blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures.
The summit of Mount Howitt taken from West Peak
source: Alex Cohen
High Country Spring Guide
Victoria’s High Country is renowned for its rugged landscapes, charming towns, and outdoor activities. Spring is a wonderful time to visit, with blooming wildflowers, milder temperatures, and a range of seasonal events.
Top Attractions
- Mount Buller: A popular destination for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Spring is a great time to enjoy the trails and stunning alpine views.
- Bright: A picturesque town known for its stunning autumn colors
- King Valley: Famous for its wineries and gourmet food, the King Valley is a great destination for food and wine lovers.
Caravan Accommodation Options
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BIG4 Bright Holiday Park:
- Location: Located in Bright, near the Ovens River and local attractions.
- Amenities: Powered sites, modern amenities, outdoor pool, and playground.
- Why Choose This: Perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to Bright’s attractions and nearby hiking trails.
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King Valley Caravan Park:
- Location: Located in the heart of the King Valley wine region.
- Amenities: Powered sites, BBQ areas, and easy access to local wineries.
- Why Choose This: Great for those exploring the King Valley’s wineries and gourmet food scene.
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BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks - Bright:
- Location: Located in the resort precinct of Bright in Victoria's spectacular Alpine High Country, situated directly along the banks of Ovens River.
- Amenities: Accommodation options, beautifully landscaped gardens, and ultra-modern facilities.
- Why Choose This: Close proximity to Mount Buffalo and Alpine National Parks, offering a wide variety of outdoor adventures including hiking trails, swimming spots, lookouts, rock climbing, and snow sports.
Local Dining and Culinary Experiences
- Pizzini Wines: Enjoy a wine tasting and hearty Italian-inspired meals in the King Valley.
- The Alpine Hotel: Located in Bright, this historic hotel offers a range of locally sourced dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
- The Mt Buller Chalet: A great spot for après-ski dining or enjoying a meal with alpine views.
Spring Events and Festivals
- Bright Autumn Festival: Held in early spring, this festival celebrates the region’s natural beauty with art, music, and food events.
- King Valley Festival: Experience the best of local wine and food with a range of tastings, tours, and gourmet events.
Insider Tips
- Explore the Rail Trail: The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is perfect for cycling and walking, with beautiful scenery and charming towns along the way.
- Visit Local Wineries: Spring is a great time to visit wineries in the King Valley, such as Pizzini Wines and Dal Zotto Wines, with blooming vineyards and seasonal specials.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this exploration of the regions of Victoria’s stunning scenic getaways and caravan parks guides.
As you plan your next springtime adventure, remember that Van Go Collections has everything you need to enhance your caravanning experience. From practical accessories to stylish essentials, our products are designed to make your travels more enjoyable and convenient.
Stay tuned for our next installment, where we’ll uncover the best caravan parks and scenic spots in New South Wales (NSW). We’ll bring you more expert tips and recommendations to make your travels even more memorable.
Happy Travels,
Victoria
