Equally passionate about football and ballet, food and fashion a new face of Melbourne – cosmopolitan, avant garde, conservative – is revealed at every bend of the Yarra, in every tiny city arcade and in each of the colourful suburbs of the city fringe. Gothic style churches and art deco theatres contrast with striking glass sky scrapers and the ultra modern lines of Federation Square.
Take a tram to the Greek eateries and bargain factory outlet shopping in Richmond or the designer boutiques in style conscious South Yarra. See world class performing arts and groovy galleries at Southbank, trendy cafes and night clubs in the beachside suburb of St Kilda. Catch the Australian Open Tennis in January, the Formula One Grand Prix in March or the Melbourne Cup horse race that stops the nation in November. Melbourne celebrates life 365 days of the year.
Less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, tall trees and ancient mountain ranges meet rolling vineyards and world class wineries. Easy to get to, not so easy to leave – the Yarra Valley provides so many reasons to stay: fine wines, romantic retreats, heritage houses, elegant eateries, glorious golf courses and stunning scenery.
The frenetic fever of the gold rush first attracted people to Daylesford. Today they visit Australia’s premier spa centre in search of rest and rejuvenation. Combine the restorative powers of the region’s mineral springs with epicurean sophistication, holistic spas, antiquarian curiosities, luxury accommodation and laidback bohemianism to create the perfect escape. Organic growers, creative restaurateurs, resident writers and artists all add to the flavours of Daylesford.
The North Eastern corner of Victoria is a place of scenic alpine landscapes and green valleys; sheer cliffs give way to tumbling waterfalls and imposing granite outcrops boast stunning views. It comes as no surprise then that the region offers an almost endless list of nature based outdoor pursuits: fly fishing, mountain biking, horse riding, hiking, canoeing, paragliding and skiing. However a drive along the Great Alpine Road reveals a host of other highlights at each scenic bend. The fascinating heritage of bushrangers, horsemen and gold in townships such as Beechworth, Mansfield and Glenrowan. Delicious local produce from fine wines to gourmet cheeses in Rutherglen and Milawa. Scenic riverside walks and a buzzing café culture along the majestic tree lined streets of Bright.