The hustle and bustle of city life can be draining; but we can’t always find the time for a long relaxing holiday. An easy day trip may be all you need to recharge those batteries. Here’s 5 of the best that are just a hop and skip away from inner Melbourne.
1) Peninsula Hot Springs
Photo Credit: Julia Hammond
Sore neck? Tired muscles? A hot bath should do the trick. Upgrade your relaxation time with a trip down to Peninsula Hot Springs. Treat yourself to an entire day of warm waters and calming views and make it through the next work week unfazed. If you’re feeling luxe there’s always the full spa packages however, their bathing packages are just as relaxing for half the cost.
Distance: 90 mins South-East of CBD
2) Dromana
Photo Credit: Julia Hammond
The Mornington Peninsula is dotted with tiny towns and beautiful beaches worth a visit. Dromana is one such town with more than enough to keep you busy for the day. One highlight is the Arthur’s Seat summit offering a birds-eye view of the coast and town below. There are multiple walking tracks that lead you to the top and picnic facilities on the peak for your convenience. There’s also seaside shops and cafes in town to dawdle away the afternoon or there’s always the quintessential option of fish and chips on the sand.
Distance: 75 mins South-East of CBD
3) Daylesford
Photo Credit: Julia Hammond
If you’re looking for variety then Daylesford is a perfect choice. There’s spas and hot springs, art and culture and plenty of fine food to keep you busy. The Convent Gallery is a must-see with more than 8 rooms for exhibiting local, emerging and international artists. Don’t forget to look in the restored chapel and keep an eye out for convent history on your way around the halls. There’s even a café on site to recharge between activities. The gallery is located right near the Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens where you can continue to take in the fresh air and natural surrounds of Daylesford.
Distance: 90 mins West of CBD
4) Trentham Falls
Photo Credit: Julia Hammond
Sometimes what you really need is a secluded escape and waterfalls are just the thing. They’re typically less crowded than other natural walks and parks making them a cool hideaway for the day. Not too far out of Melbourne you’ll find the picturesque Trentham Falls gushing 32m over the rocks. Winter is the best time to visit when the falls are most active due to rain.
Reward yourself on the way home with a visit to one of the nurseries, gardens or tearooms in nearby towns Olinda and Sassafras.
Distance: 75 mins West of CBD
5) William Ricketts Sanctuary
Photo Credit: Julia Hammond
Art and nature collide in a forest full of Aboriginal sculptures by Australian artist William Ricketts. The William Ricketts Sanctuary is situated within Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges and embodies the Indigenous Australian way of life which practices respect for earth and the natural world. There are around 90 sculptures tucked away in the sanctuary; from the trunks of trees to the archways and paths. It’s a place of quiet reflection, perfect for shutting off the tech and engaging with the forest for a while instead.
Distance: 60 minutes East of CBD
These 5 getaways are proof you don’t have to venture far to relax and escape city life. Which one will you be trying this weekend?
Julia is a Melbourne-based writer specialising in content marketing and digital content. When she’s not writing, you’ll usually find her sipping hot tea, reading a great book and planning the next big travel adventure. Visit Work With Me if you’d like to collaborate.