Victoria, Australia

Victoria has a very appealing mix of natural and man-made attractions. Hikers trek down to Wilsons Promontory or to one of the many superb inland national parks; culture vultures visit the museums and theaters of Melbourne, and the wineries of the nearby Yarra Valley; and surfers and beach lovers head for the Great Ocean Road and Gippsland. Almost every town in the state has some historical claim to fame, and most offer excellent regional produce in their markets and cafes. There are plenty of isolated spots for romantic getaways, from bush camping sites in the Snowy Mountains to well-stocked B&Bs up in the High Country, as well as lots of ...

Victoria has a very appealing mix of natural and man-made attractions. Hikers trek down to Wilsons Promontory or to one of the many superb inland national parks; culture vultures visit the museums and theaters of Melbourne, and the wineries of the nearby Yarra Valley; and surfers and beach lovers head for the Great Ocean Road and Gippsland. Almost every town in the state has some historical claim to fame, and most offer excellent regional produce in their markets and cafes. There are plenty of isolated spots for romantic getaways, from bush camping sites in the Snowy Mountains to well-stocked B&Bs up in the High Country, as well as lots of convivial pubs in which to toast the end of solitude. Outdoor activities are abundant thanks to the state's diverse geography, and visitors who aren't swimming, cycling, or hiking can always opt for a game of tennis or a round of golf. The less active sports fans can spectate at a local football ground or cricket pitch.

About the Expert

Paul Smitz has coauthored a dozen guidebooks for Lonely Planet on places such as Australia, New Zealand, Malaysian Borneo, Brunei, various Pacific Islands, Prague, and Brussels.