SPARKLE!
Lia Spencer
07/09/2026
SPARKLE Gippsland Announces Its Next Women’s Wellbeing Retreat — Tickets Now on Sale
SPARKLE Gippsland Announces Its Next Women’s Wellbeing Retreat — Tickets Now on Sale
If a thrilling read is what you’re after, then you should absolutely take the time to check out some of
SPARKLE Gippsland Announces Its Next Women’s Wellbeing Retreat — Tickets Now on Sale
If a thrilling read is what you’re after, then you should absolutely take the time to check out some of
Not sure about anyone but if I have a free Saturday or Sunday, I am always eager to explore this beautiful part of the world where we live. So, if you have a free Sunday and you’re thinking “let’s go do something” I have collated a list of some of my favourite road trips that absolutely do not break the bank, don’t you worry, I have factored in a cost of living crisis. The beauty about this area is we have the best of farm, forest and beach all within 2 hour drives of eachother, it’s so rare to find this anywhere else!
So I give you, my favourite day trips across the Bass Coast & Gippsland.
Toora & Port Welshpool
This South Gippsland day trip perfectly combines waterfalls, country cafés and seaside views and an impeccable Fish & Chips.
Begin with coffee at Tooradeli, a local favourite known for excellent coffee and fresh seasonal food and delicious paninis. It has also recently been taken over by new owners, so show them so love and support!
From there, head to Agnes Falls, Victoria’s highest single-drop waterfall, where water cascades almost 60 metres into the gorge below. It is a super short walk from the car park makes it an easy stop for all ages, if you wanted – you could even stop here at the picnic area, finish your coffee and then go check out the waterfall!
Continue on to Port Welshpool, a fishing village overlooking Corner Inlet. Grab classic fish and chips from the general store by the water before strolling the historic Long Jetty, which stretches dramatically out into the bay and offers beautiful views back towards Wilsons Promontory on a clear day. I will say, only get the Welshpool Burger if you haven’t eaten all day, because the size of that thing is absolutely wild.
If you have extra time, explore the nearby Great Southern Rail Trail or browse the small local shops back in Toora.
Don’t miss:
Kilcunda: The Best Beach Views You’ll Find!
Few places showcase Bass Coast’s beauty quite like Kilcunda.
If you’re after a gentle stroll, wander along the beach or across the historic Kilcunda Trestle Bridge. For something more adventurous, tackle the George Bass Coastal Walk, where dramatic clifftops, secluded beaches and endless ocean views make every kilometre worthwhile although a big walk nonetheless.
After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at the Kilcunda Ocean View Hotel, or one of the several delicious cafes in the heart of town. Enjoy some good food with sweeping views across the Bass Strait. If you’re lucky, you might catch the Ocean View Hotel on a day where there is live music with amazing local talent adding to the atmosphere.
Before heading home, spend some time exploring the boutique stores, galleries and produce shops that make Kilcunda a great place to visit.
Don’t miss:
Mirboo North: Country Cafés & Forests
Tucked amongst the Strzelecki Ranges, Mirboo North is one of Gippsland’s prettiest country towns and makes for an easy day trip any time of year. It is a town lots of people have likely driven through, but might not have pulled over to have a look.
Start by wandering the main street, where you’ll find homewares, local boutiques, gift stores and galleries full of Gippsland-made treasures.
When hunger hits, settle into Lamezleighs Coffee House & Eatery for one of the region’s best café lunches and exceptional coffee, it is always absolutely buzzing here so enjoy great coffee and a busy atmosphere. My personal favourite is the loaded hash, absolutely beautiful feed, I must say.
After lunch, stretch your legs on the peaceful Lyrebird Forest Walk, where large ferns and native bushland fill the paths. Alternatively, bring a bike and ride or walk part of the Grand Ridge Rail Trail, which begins in town and winds through beautiful rolling countryside.
Don’t miss:
Noojee: Waterfalls, Forest & A Typical Country Pub
Hidden amongst towering mountain ash forests in West Gippsland, Noojee is such a unique place in Victoria. It’s the perfect escape when you’re craving fresh mountain air and a slower pace.
Start your morning walking the iconic Noojee Trestle Bridge. This is one of Victoria’s tallest surviving timber railway bridges. Wander beneath the impressive structure before taking one of the surrounding walking trails through the forest.
If you have time, make the short drive to Toorongo Falls, where an easy walking circuit leads you through lush fern gullies to two spectacular waterfalls.
By lunchtime, settle in at Noojee Hotel. Just note, you are likely to struggle to find a table unless you make a booking. Despite being pretty much in the middle of nowhere, “The Nooj” is one of Gippsland’s most iconic country pubs. Think delicious meals, roaring fireplaces in winter and a classic country atmosphere that makes you want to stay all afternoon, plus you might get lucky with some live music as well as a meat tray raffle. Lately one of my girlfriends and I have been making this our go-to lunch spot because you spend a bit more time together, and who doesn’t love that!
Don’t miss:
The Best Part? That’s only a few of your options.
One of the greatest things about Gippsland is that incredible day trips never require hours in the car. Whether you’re wandering through rainforest in Noojee, watching waves crash along the Bass Coast, discovering hidden country towns or enjoying fresh local produce, these destinations prove you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve truly escaped.
So if you’re feeling down you’re not living it up in Europe or taking a huge holiday elsewhere, remember there is so much to explore in our backyard.
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