Alpine Peaks, Coastal Wonders & Ancient Forests
Victoria may be Australia's smallest mainland state, but it packs incredible diversity into its compact size. From the rugged peaks of the Victorian High Country to the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Great Ocean Road, from pristine coastal wilderness at Wilsons Promontory to the ancient rock formations of the Grampians - Victoria's national parks offer unforgettable experiences in every season.
With over 4 million hectares protected across more than 45 national parks, Victoria delivers world-class natural experiences just hours from Melbourne.
Join Cooee Tours for expert-guided adventures that showcase Victoria's most spectacular landscapes and hidden natural gems.
📍 Western Victoria, 260km from Melbourne
Aboriginal Rock Art Mountain PeaksKnown as Gariwerd to the Indigenous Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali people, the Grampians feature spectacular sandstone mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and over 200 Aboriginal rock art sites dating back thousands of years.
Highlights: The Pinnacle, MacKenzie Falls, Boroka Lookout, rock art shelters, wildflowers (spring), kangaroos, rock climbing
📍 South Gippsland, 200km from Melbourne
Coastal Paradise Southernmost PointAffectionately known as "Wilsons Prom" or "The Prom", this peninsula showcases Victoria's finest coastal wilderness with pristine beaches, granite mountains, rainforest gullies, and abundant wildlife including wombats and emus.
Highlights: Squeaky Beach, Mount Oberon summit, Tidal River, Whisky Bay, wombats, bushwalking, coastal camping
📍 Victorian High Country
Largest Park Alpine WildernessVictoria's largest national park spans 646,000 hectares of stunning alpine and sub-alpine terrain. Experience snow-covered peaks in winter, wildflower meadows in summer, and autumn gold from deciduous trees introduced during the gold rush era.
Highlights: Falls Creek, Mount Hotham, Bogong High Plains, ski touring, mountain biking, 4WD touring, brumbies, alpine wildflowers
📍 Great Ocean Road
Iconic Coastline Twelve ApostlesHome to the world-famous Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, this dramatic coastline showcases millions of years of erosion creating spectacular rock formations along Victoria's shipwreck coast.
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, Gibson Steps, sunset photography, shipwreck history
📍 45km east of Melbourne
Mountain Ash Forests Easy AccessVictoria's most accessible national park features towering mountain ash forests (some of the world's tallest flowering plants), lush fern gullies, and the historic Puffing Billy steam railway running through the ranges.
Highlights: Sherbrooke Falls, 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial, lyrebirds, tree ferns, autumn colours, Puffing Billy
📍 East Gippsland
World Biosphere Wilderness CoastA UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve protecting 100km of pristine coastline, this remote wilderness features secluded beaches, coastal heathlands, rainforests, and significant Aboriginal cultural sites.
Highlights: Point Hicks (first Australian landfall by Cook), Thurra River, Wingan Inlet, remote beaches, birdwatching, fishing
📍 Great Ocean Road region
Ancient Rainforest WaterfallsThe Otways feature lush temperate rainforests with giant tree ferns, myrtle beech, and towering mountain ash. The forest meets the sea along dramatic clifftops, creating stunning coastal and forest experiences.
Highlights: Triplet Falls, Otway Fly Treetop Walk, Cape Otway Lighthouse, koalas, glow worms, surf beaches
📍 Far Northwest Victoria
Outback Experience Pink LakesVictoria's second-largest park showcases mallee scrubland, red sand dunes, and the unique Pink Lakes - salt lakes that turn various shades of pink depending on algae and salt levels.
Highlights: Pink Lakes, sunset over mallee country, stargazing, 4WD adventures, rare mallee wildlife, wildflowers
Spring (September-November): Wildflower blooms in Grampians and alpine areas, mild coastal weather, perfect for bushwalking
Summer (December-February): Beach paradise at Wilsons Prom, alpine wildflowers, coastal camping, warm weather adventures
Autumn (March-May): Spectacular autumn colours in deciduous trees, comfortable hiking temperatures, fewer crowds
Winter (June-August): Snow sports in Alpine National Park, dramatic coastal storms, cozy mountain retreats, whale watching
The iconic Great Ocean Road winds through multiple national parks including Port Campbell, Great Otway, and various marine reserves. This 243km coastal drive is one of the world's most spectacular road trips, offering access to beaches, rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles limestone formations.
Getting there: Most major parks accessible via well-maintained roads from Melbourne. Regional flights available to some areas. V/Line trains and buses service many park gateways.
What to bring: Layered clothing (weather can change rapidly), sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket, sun protection, water, snacks, camera, Parks Victoria parking pass
Best for first-timers: Start with Grampians, Wilsons Prom, or Dandenong Ranges for excellent facilities and spectacular scenery
Best for adventurers: Explore remote Croajingolong, tackle Alpine National Park's high country, or discover Murray-Sunset's outback landscapes
Experience Victoria's national parks with knowledgeable local guides who bring the landscape to life. From day trips to multi-day adventures, we handle all logistics so you can focus on the experience.
Our tours include: Hotel pickup from Melbourne, expert commentary, park entry fees, morning/afternoon tea, and small group experiences for personalized attention.
Book Your Victoria National Parks TourMost Victorian national parks require a vehicle entry fee. Purchase a Parks Victoria Pass for single-day entry or consider an annual All Parks Pass for unlimited access. Fees support conservation, visitor facilities, and habitat restoration programs.