Spectacular colours on show
Victoria’s regions come alive in autumn, with scenic streetscapes bathed in warm tones and tiny towns abuzz with seasonal activities. Plan your perfect autumn road trip and pop into picturesque towns to enjoy local delights while soaking up spectacular scenery.
Savour seasonal produce, stroll through lush gardens and frolic in the autumn leaves at these 10 idyllic towns.
1. Olinda
One of the highest villages in the Dandenong Ranges, Olinda is home to postcard-perfect scenery and an array of beautiful public and private gardens. See the changing colours of autumn at stunning spots like RJ Hamer Arboretum, Cloudehill Gardens and Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.
After a day of exploring, head to one of Olinda’s cosy cafes or quaint tea rooms and snuggle up with a hot drink. Enjoy a decadent high tea experience at Olinda Tea House or pop into Only Mine Gourmet Chocolates to stock up on sweet treats.
Image: Cloudehill Gardens, Olinda
2. Jamieson
If you’re planning an autumn road trip to Victoria’s High Country, be sure to add the historical township of Jamieson to your itinerary. Head to the Jamieson Arboretum for epic views of the surrounding mountains or set out on a self-guided stroll to see towering trees aglow with brilliant autumn colours.
This picturesque holiday spot will be buzzing in April when the Jamieson Autumn Festival returns, promising a fun-filled day with entertainment, games, local arts and crafts, live music and delicious regional food.
Image: Jamieson Arboretum
3. Coldstream
Plan your ultimate foodie road trip through the Yarra Valley, with plenty of delicious stops to make and autumn scenes to see along the way. Follow the 13-kilometre Coldstream Trail and sample some of the region’s finest produce, from tasty cheese to freshly picked fruit. Join the fun at Napoleone Cider’s festival or enjoy an autumnal spread during picnic season at Punt Road Wines.
Image: Napoleone Cider Orchard Bar, Coldstream
4. Moe
While Walhalla and Buchan are popular for their autumn colours, the tiny town of Moe is a lesser-known gem in western Gippsland, and a gateway to some pretty spectacular national parks. Step back in time and walk the streets of 1850s Gippsland at Old Gippstown or visit Moe Botanical Gardens in the centre of town to frolic in the autumn leaves.
Image: Moe Botanical Gardens
5. Mount Macedon
Revel in autumnal splendour at glorious gardens and award-winning wineries while visiting the idyllic town of Mount Macedon. Stroll through Forest Glade Gardens in autumn to see maples, birches and beeches displaying a riot of colour. Sip on crisp cool climate wines at Mount Towrong Vineyard and Mount Macedon Winery, where the views are just as exceptional as the food and wine.
Image: Mount Macedon Tours
6. Daylesford
Heading to Victoria’s spa country is a must when the weather gets cooler. In Daylesford, you can soak in soothing mineral springs, admire autumn scenery at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens and wander through town to discover speciality stores and boutiques.
Worked up an appetite with all of that exploring? Well, you’re in luck – Daylesford is a true food lover’s paradise. Fuel up at cosy cafes like Cliffy’s and Larder, feast on refined French fare at Bistro Terroir and sample a selection of crisp, award-winning ciders at Daylesford Cider.
Image: Cliffy’s Emporium, Daylesford
7. Warburton
An easy drive from Melbourne, the town of Warburton is another popular destination for admiring autumn leaves in all their splendour. Follow the Yarra River as it meanders through the picturesque Warburton Valley on a leisurely riverside walk or cycle into town along the Lilydale to Warburton rail trail.
Just out of town, pick seasonal produce year-round at Rayner's Orchard or stand beneath towering trees and marvel in awe at the Californian Redwood Forest. With so much to see and do, an overnight stay at the newly renovated Alpine Hotel Warburton is the perfect way to extend your time in this beautiful riverside spot.
Image: Cycling in Warburton
8. Marysville
Come autumn time, the elm trees lining Murchison Street in High Country’s Marysville turn a blaze of deep orange shades. Wander the town to discover the quirky sculpture garden and pop into Fraga’s Cafe for hearty homemade meals.
Nearby, nature lovers will be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring all that the High Country has to offer. Hike the Cathedral Ranges or take an easy stroll along the Steavenson Falls Trail to see one of Victoria’s highest waterfalls.
Image: Marysville township
9. Walhalla
Easily walkable and brimming with historic charm, the sleepy gold rush town of Walhalla is a top spot for seeing autumn leaves in Gippsland. Follow the Tramline Walkway for picture-perfect views of the township blanketed in golden hues or wander through the historic centre to admire heritage buildings surrounded by towering autumn trees.
Image: Walhalla township
10. Castlemaine
Ideally situated between Ballarat and Bendigo is the charming gold rush town of Castlemaine. There’s so much to see and do here, making it the perfect destination for an autumn weekend away. Stop by The Mill for a spot of antique shopping, explore Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, pick up some local produce at Long Paddock Cheese, or catch a flick at the historic Theatre Royal.
Image: Theatre Royal, Castlemaine
