TOWN AND VILLAGE INSPIRATION

Surf culture ground zero, Australian National Surfing Museum, surfwear outlets abound.

Waterfront lunching, treetop and aerial challenges at Live Wire Park, multiple waterfalls within easy reach.

Apollo Bay: Where the Great Ocean Walk begins, critter crushes at Wildlife Wonders, foodie forays –cray cravings anyone?

Warrnambool: World-class whale watching from shore, wind back the clock to the 19th century at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, wild, woolly and replenishing.

Ballarat: Quirky gold rush tales, immersive gold heritage at Sovereign Hill, contrast with avant-garde modern-day cultural experiences.

Halls Gap: Gateway to the sacred and spectacular Grampians, wildlife upclose – kangaroos literally bounding up the main road, authentic Indigenous experiences in a natural wonderland.

Daylesford: Perfect for city escapees, deep in spa country, mecca for wellness, community of fabulous producers and hospitality creators as diverse as Cliffy’s Emporium and the Lake House Daylesford.

Geelong: Glittering + fun-filled waterfront precinct, cosmopolitan vibe against regional heritage backstories, hidden secrets revealed on National Wool Museum family tour, lively rooftop bars for the win.