Melbourne isn’t just a place to visit for the foodie traveler; it’s also the starting point for some of Australia’s most delicious trips. Melbourne isn’t just a place to visit for the foodie traveler; it’s also the starting point for some of Australia’s most delicious trips. There are world class food and wine regions just a few hours’ drive from Victoria’s famous laneways. Each one has its own unique taste of Victoria’s terroir. There are world-class food and wine regions just a few hours’ drive from Victoria’s famous laneways. Each one has its own unique taste of Victoria’s terroir. We aim to make these road trips enjoyable, tranquil and filled with exploration. They take you to a cellar door, a farm gate, or a table with a view. These road trips are meant to be fun, relaxing and full of discovery. They take you to a cellar door, a farm gate, or a table with a view. They honor the farmers, chefs and artisans who put their hearts and souls into the land, giving travelers a chance to taste the land itself. They honor the farmers, chefs and artisans who put their hearts and souls into the land, giving travelers a chance to taste the land itself.
It’s about the stories behind the bottle, the link between the soil and the plate and the beautiful roads that connect them. Every trip pairs beautiful scenery with unforgettable food, from the ocean-spanning drives that affect the sea to the alpine air of high-country valleys. These five itineraries strike a balance between famous must-see areas and up-and-coming gems. You will get to try everything from world-famous Pinot Noir to hand-stretched mozzarella, wood-fired bakeries and paddock-to-plate dining that will change your idea of freshness. So, bring an appetite, a cooler bag for your treasures and a plan that can change. Unsealed roads often lead to family-owned vineyards or unexpected market stalls that offer the best experiences.
The Five Best Food and Wine Road Trips from Melbourne
We chose these itineraries because they have many good producers, beautiful driving routes and a lot of cooking experience. You can change each one from a quick trip on the weekend to a week-long exploration at a slow pace.
- The Great Ocean Road & Otways Hinterland (Gourmet Coastal Circuit)
- The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges (Classic Viticulture & Villages)
- The Macedon Ranges & Daylesford (Provenance & Provençal Charm)
- The King Valley & Milawa Gourmet Region (Italianissimo & High Country)
- The Mornington Peninsula (Coastal Chic & Cool-Climate Wine)
Detailed Itinerary Guides
Here is a thorough look at each journey, including driving directions, important stops and the region’s unique food culture.
1. The Great Ocean Road & Otways Hinterland (Gourmet Coastal Circuit)
This trip includes one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world and the Otways hinterland, which is full of food from the rainforest. The Twelve Apostles are the main attraction, but the food and wine story here is one of outstanding cool-climate wines, artisan producers and seafood that comes straight from the Southern Ocean. Think of creamy cheeses made from milk from cows that eat grass, crisp apple ciders, mushrooms that you find yourself and Pinot Noir that is as delicious as any. The trip is full of dramatic changes, from the roar of the surf to the quiet, green sanctuary of old fern gullies and farmland.
Notes on the route and driving
- Core Route: Melbourne → Torquay (start of B100) → Lorne → Apollo Bay → into Otways Hinterland (via Skenes Creek) → return via Colac or inland route (Princes Hwy).
- Minimum recommended time: 3 to 4 days.
- Distance from Melbourne: Torquay is ~1.5 hours; Apollo Bay ~3 hours.
- Important Tip: For the best ocean views and easy places to pull over, drive from Melbourne to Warrnambool.
Food and wine stops that you can’t miss
- Brae Restaurant in Birregurra is one of the best places in the world. The best hyper-local, ethical fine dining experience is a multi-course tasting. Make a reservation months in advance.
- Timboon Cheesery (Timboon): Try and buy award-winning blue and cheddar cheese. Check out the ice cream shop with whiskey-flavored ice cream that is attached.
- For the freshest fish and chips, scallops and crayfish, go to the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op.
- Timboon Cheesery (Timboon): Sample and purchase award-winning cheddar and blue cheese. Don’t miss the attached ice creamery with whisky-infused flavors.
- For the freshest fish and chips, scallops and crayfish, go to the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Cooperative.
- Forrest Brewing Company (Forrest): This brewery in a small town in the Otways makes great craft beers and serves them with big pizzas. The mountain bike trails nearby make you hungry.
- Sawpit Brewery & Restaurant (Apollo Bay): A more upscale brewpub with amazing views and a menu full of local seafood and produce.
Local Flavor and a Hidden Gem
- Ferguson Valley’s “Apple Lady”: Look for honesty-box stalls along the forest roads selling fresh Otway apples, cider and chutney.
- Chris’s Beacon Point Restaurant, located in Apollo Bay, offers Greek-inspired seafood and breathtaking views. A famous place to stop for a long cooking character experience is the Culinary Character.
Culinary Character
“This trip is a masterclass in terroir.” The oysters taste like the salty ocean, the cheese tastes like the clean richness of the rain and the mushrooms and Pinot taste like the deep earthiness of the forest. It’s tough, new and deeply tied to the area.
2. The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges (Classic Viticulture & Villages)
Victoria’s first wine region is still the most varied and easy to get to. The Dandenongs’ forested hills surround a patchwork of more than 80 cellar doors, from historic estates to cutting-edge micro-wineries. This trip is the perfect mix of world-class sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the cozy, European-style village feel of the Ranges. Picture Devonshire teas, charming pubs and huge mountain ash forests. It has the right mix of elegance and country charm.
Route & Driving Notes
- Core Route: Melbourne → Healesville (via Maroondah Hwy) → explore Yarra Valley wine sub-regions (Coldstream, Yarra Glen, Dixons Creek) → ascend into explore villages like Sassafras and Olinda while driving through the Dandenongs via the Black Spur.
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 days.
- Distance from Melbourne: Healesville is ~1 hour.
- Key Tip: The Black Spur (Healesville to Narbethong) is a stunning drive but can be busy; travel midweek if possible.
Food and wine stops that you can’t miss
- Innocent Bystander (Healesville) is a lively, industrial-chic place to get great pizza, wood-fired food and their own Mighty Craft beers and Giant Steps wines.
- Rochford Wines (Coldstream): Known for big concerts, but Isabella’s restaurant has great à la carte food and views of the valley from all sides.
- Yarra Valley Dairy (Yering): A must-see for cheese lovers. Try a flight of their famous fresh and aged cheeses in a rustic farm setting.
- The Independent (Gembrook): This is a destination pub in the southern Dandenongs with an amazing menu made with local ingredients and a great wine list.
- The Dominique Portet Winery in Coldstream makes beautiful sparkling and aromatic whites that are inspired by French style. A lovely, calm place to have a tasting.
Local Flavor and a Hidden Gem
- Healesville’s Yarra Valley Farmers Market is the best place to taste the area’s goods straight from the people who grow and make them.
- Eleven Steps (Dixons Creek): A small winery that only takes appointments and is run by a husband and wife who are very passionate about it. Some of the most personal and interesting tasting experiences in the Valley.
Cooking Character
“This is the most polished and varied Victorian viticulture.” You can get from a sleek, architect-designed winery pouring méthode traditionnelle to a rustic farmgate selling raw-milk cheese in just a few minutes. The Dandenongs add a layer of cozy, fireside luxury that makes them a great place to get away from the cold.
3. The Macedon Ranges & Daylesford (Provenance & Provençal Charm)
This trip goes north to the volcanic plains and mineral springs region, where the food scene is known for its high-quality ingredients and a European, holistic approach. Daylesford and Hepburn Springs are the heart of the area, known for their spas and great restaurants. The Macedon Ranges have cool-climate wines, especially sparkling and Pinot and a lot of small-batch distillers, organic vegetable growers and craft bakers. It’s a trip for health and taste.
Route & Driving Notes
- Core Route: Melbourne → Woodend (via Calder Fwy) → explore Mount Macedon → Daylesford/Hepburn Springs → explore surrounding towns like Kyneton and Trentham.
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 days.
- Distance from Melbourne: Daylesford is ~1.5 hours.
- Key Tip: This region is famous for its weekend traffic. Leave early Friday or travel Sunday-Monday for a quieter experience.
Food and wine stops that you can’t miss
- Daylesford’s Lake House is a well-known place. The famous tasting menu at Alla Wolf-Tasker’s pioneering restaurant-with-rooms celebrates the area. It is a true culinary landmark.
- Hanging Rock Winery (Newham): It’s not just for the Picnic at Hanging Rock link. The ciderhouse makes great ciders and perry and the cellar door has great views.
- The Farmer’s Arms (Daylesford): The location is a classic Daylesford gastropub with an open fire, a great selection of local wines and craft beers and a menu that is always up to date.
- Animus Distillery (Kyneton): They make award-winning gin, whisky and brandy using local grains and plants. A fancy tasting room in a beautifully restored building made of bluestone.
- RedBeard Bakery in Trentham is a must-see for sourdough fans. Their ancient grain loaves baked over an open fire are worth the trip.
Local Flavor and a Hidden Gem
- The Kyneton Farmers Market is one of the best regional markets in Victoria, held on the first Saturday of every month. It shows off the amazing variety of produce that comes from the volcanic soil.
- Passing Clouds Winery (Musk): A small, family-run winery with a beautiful garden setting. They are known for their elegant Graeme’s Blend and their warm welcome.
Cooking Character
“This area nourishes the body and the spirit.” The soil is rich in minerals, which gives the vegetables and wines a unique flavor. Whether you’re having a fancy multi-course meal at Lake House or a simple, perfect loaf from RedBeard, eating here feels thoughtful and connected. “It’s a deeply satisfying, down-to-earth culinary experience.”
4. The King Valley & Milawa Gourmet Region (Italianissimo & High Country)
Follow in the footsteps of Italian immigrants who came to these hills after World War II because they reminded them of home. The outcome is “Prosecco Road,” Australia’s best sparkling wine route and a food culture full of pasta, salumi and strong red wines. This is a fun and hearty trip. Start in the famous Milawa Gourmet Region, where the Mustard Shop and Brown Brothers are located and then head up into the beautiful King Valley for a real Italian-Australian festa at every cellar door.
Route & Driving Notes
- Core Route: Melbourne → Glenrowan/Milawa (via Hume Fwy) → Follow signs to Milawa/Oxley → Follow ‘Prosecco Road’ (through Whitfield, Cheshunt) → Can extend to Bright/Beechworth.
- Recommended Duration: 3-4 days (can easily combine with the Alpine region).
- Distance from Melbourne: Milawa is ~3 hours.
- Key Tip: Designate a driver or book a tour. The Prosecco flows freely and the hospitality is warm and generous.
Unmissable Food & Wine Stops
- Brown Brothers Epicurean Centre (Milawa): A one-stop village of taste. Sample their vast range, dine at the excellent restaurant and visit the adjacent Milawa Cheese Company and Mustard Shop.
- Pizzini Wines (Whitfield): The heart of the Italian influence. Exceptional wines (their Nebbiolo and Sangiovese are standouts) and a delightful A Tavola! cooking school.
- Dal Zotto Estate (Whitfield): The family that pioneered Australian Prosecco. The cellar door is warm and authentic and their trattoria serves perfect rustic Italian lunches.
- Milawa Cheese Company: Sample and buy a vast array of goat, cow and blue cheeses. The bread and accompaniments make for a perfect picnic.
- Gapsted Wines (Corryong): While slightly off the main drag, their ‘Alpine Valleys’ range beautifully expresses the high-country fruit and the cellar door is architecturally stunning.
Local Flavor and a Hidden Gem
- The King River at Whitfield: Bring a picnic of local cheese, salumi and a bottle of Prosecco and enjoy it by the clear, flowing waters of the King River.
- Billy Button (Bright): If you’re in Bright, don’t miss this award-winning cellar door and bar that shows off the unique, alternative varieties of the Alpine Valleys.
Cooking Character
“This is a fun, communal and tasty trip. It’s about long, loud lunches under the pergolas of the vineyards, learning the difference between Prosecco and Col Fondo and seeing how well Italian culture has adapted to the Australian landscape. Be ready to sing along and bring your appetite.”
5. The Mornington Peninsula (Coastal Chic & Cool-Climate Wine)
A peninsula with two sides: the wild, ocean-bashed back beaches and the calm, yacht-dotted bay beaches. In between, there is a small, rolling landscape with more than 200 cellar doors, boutique breweries, cider houses and some of Australia’s best modern restaurants. People love the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris wines. The food scene is very sophisticated, with a focus on local seafood, farm-fresh produce and stylish, relaxed dining. It’s the best mix of relaxing by the beach and eating fancy food.
Route & Driving Notes
- Core Route: Melbourne → take Mornington Peninsula Fwy/Nepean Hwy → explore the interior wine region (Red Hill, Main Ridge, Merricks) → loop around to the coastal villages (Flinders, Sorrento, Portsea).
- Recommended Duration: 2-3 days.
- Distance from Melbourne: Red Hill is ~1.25 hours.
- Key Tip: The Peninsula gets extremely busy on summer weekends. Visit mid-week or in the stunning autumn or spring shoulder seasons.
Food and wine stops that you can’t miss
- Ten Minutes by Tractor (Main Ridge): The best place to eat on the Peninsula. Their three estate vineyards have wines that go perfectly with their multi-course menu.
- Port Phillip Estate (Red Hill South): An amazing example of architecture. You can have a tasting or a long lunch in the dining room, which has great views of the vines and Western Port Bay.
- Red Hill Cheese (Red Hill): Sample their superb, handmade sheep and cow milk cheeses. The mushroom farm next door is also a wonderful stop.
- The Epicurean (Red Hill): A lively, European-style food hall with a cheese shop, bakery, gelateria and providore. This place is ideal for organizing a picnic or enjoying a cup of coffee.
- St Andrews Beach Brewery (Fingal): Located in a stunning, converted horse stable near the beach, offering great craft beer and solid pub food in a unique, expansive setting.
Local Flavor and a Hidden Gem
- The Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm (Main Ridge): For seasonal pick-your-own berries and decadent strawberry treats.
- Montalto (Red Hill): A beautiful estate with sculpture gardens, two dining options (the casual Piazza and fine-dining Restaurant) and excellent, estate-grown wines. Perfect for a half-day visit.
- Cooking Character
Culinary Character
“Stylish coastal living meets great wine growing.” You can spend the morning in a modern cellar door tasting single-vineyard Chardonnay and the afternoon on the beach eating fish and chips with your toes in the sand. The Peninsula is a polished, easy-to-reach and beautiful taste of the good life, all within a short drive of the city.
The best thing about Melbourne’s food scene is that it is close to so many different types of food and wine. The Great Ocean Road is for rugged, ocean-influenced flavors; the Yarra Valley is for classic viticulture and village charm; the Macedon Ranges is for earthy provenance and wellness; the King Valley is for hearty Italian-Australian celebration; and the Mornington Peninsula is for cool-climate chic by the sea.
The thing that ties them all together is the passion of the people you’ll meet: the winemaker, the cheesemaker and the chef who gathers their own ingredients. A road trip centered on food and wine fosters connection. It makes you slow down, makes you talk and turns a simple meal into a memory of a place that lasts. Plan your route and make a few important reservations, especially at the best restaurants, but leave some room for spontaneity. The best things you find are often the ones you didn’t expect to find when you have a curious palate and an open road ahead of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the best time of year to go on these food and wine road trips?
- Fall (March to May): Probably the best. The harvest is almost over, the colors are beautiful, the weather is cooler, which is ideal for rich food and red wine and there are fewer people.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Beautiful greenery, budding vines and lamb on menus. It can be unpredictable weather.
- Summer (December to February): Busy and lively, ideal for seafood, rosé and long nights. Make all of your plans well in advance.
- Winter (June to August): warm and quiet. This season is ideal for enjoying meals by the fire, sipping robust red wines and hunting truffles in certain regions such as the Macedon Ranges.
2. Should I make a reservation for cellar door tastings?
Yes, always make a reservation ahead of time for smaller, boutique, or appointment-only wineries, like many in the Mornington Peninsula and Otways. It’s not always necessary for bigger, more established wineries, but it’s still a good idea.
3. How should I manage driving and tasting responsibly?
- Choose a Driver: This is the safest and most fun choice.
- Use a Tour: Many areas have excellent food and wine tour companies that will pick you up and drop you off.
- Spit, Don’t Swallow: It’s perfectly fine (and expected) to use the spittoons that are provided during wine tastings.
- Take your time: Don’t taste too much at once; stop for food and water in between.
4. What should I pack for a gourmet road trip?
- A Cooler Bag/Esky: For taking home cheese, meats and wine.
- Reusable Water Bottle & Coffee Cup.
- Comfortable Shoes: For vineyard walks and exploring towns.
- Layers: Weather can change quickly, especially in the Otways and High Country.
- A Good Map/Offline GPS: Mobile reception can be patchy in valleys and hinterlands.
5. Are these trips okay for families or people who don’t drink?
Yes, of course! The Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula are home to excellent breweries, cideries, gourmet food stores and activities like animal farms, nature walks and beaches that everyone can enjoy. Many restaurants have great mocktail and non-alcoholic drink pairings.
6. How much should you spend on food and wine for a weekend trip?
This variable changes a lot. For a two-night trip with a moderate budget, including mid-range lodging, a mix of casual and fine dining meals and some tastings, you should expect to spend between $800 and $1,500, not including the cost of premium wine.
