Gippsland Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Gippsland

Gippsland is a vast region located in Victoria, Australia, known for its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and world-class national parks. The area stretches from Melbourne’s eastern outskirts to the border of New South Wales and boasts a diverse range of experiences for both adventurers and leisure-seekers. From rugged mountains to placid lakes, from wineries to cultural institutions, Gippsland has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gippsland

Gippsland is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Here’s a list of places you should visit in Gippsland.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Old Gippstown Heritage Park
  • Port of Sale Heritage Walk
  • Coal Creek Community Park & Museum
  • Tarra Bulga National Park
  • Phillip Island Penguin Parade

Natural Attractions of Gippsland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wilsons Promontory National Park
  • Gippsland Lakes
  • Buchan Caves Reserve
  • Mount Baw Baw Alpine Resort
  • Ninety Mile Beach

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gippsland

Gippsland is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with trails that range from easy to challenging. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Gippsland.

  • Great Southern Rail Trail
  • East Gippsland Rail Trail
  • Alpine Walking Track
  • Wilsons Promontory Circuit Walk
  • Buchan Caves Reserve Walking Tracks

Best Things to Do in Gippsland: Activities and Tours

When it comes to things to do in Gippsland, the options are limitless. From adventure sports to cultural experiences, here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in Gippsland.

  • Wine-tasting tours
  • Surfing lessons
  • Penguin parade tours
  • Hot-air ballooning
  • Whitewater rafting

Week-Long Itinerary for Gippsland

Gippsland has so much to offer that it can be hard to choose what to do. Here’s a week-long itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in Gippsland.

Day Activity
1 Explore the Gippsland Lakes
2 Hike the Wilsons Promontory Circuit Walk
3 Visit the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
4 Go wine-tasting in Gippsland
5 Take a scenic drive to Lakes Entrance
6 Experience hot-air ballooning in Gippsland
7 Relax on Ninety Mile Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Gippsland

Gippsland is home to an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars that serve up fresh, local produce and wines. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages you should sample while in Gippsland.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gippsland beef and dairy products
  • Seafood from the Gippsland Lakes
  • Freshly baked bread and pastries
  • Kangaroo Island honey

Local Beverages

  • Wines from the Gippsland wine region
  • Craft beers from local breweries
  • Cider from Gippsland’s orchards

Where to Stay in Gippsland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gippsland offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly hostel, here are some of the best places to stay in Gippsland.

  • Lakeside Villas at Crittenden Estate
  • Brandy Creek Estate Accommodation
  • Krowera Cottages
  • Bairnsdale International
  • YHA hostels in Lakes Entrance and Foster

What to Buy in Gippsland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gippsland is home to a wealth of local products and souvenirs that make perfect mementoes of your trip. Here are some things to consider when looking for souvenirs in Gippsland.

  • Handcrafted pottery
  • Locally made cheeses and chocolates
  • Botanical skincare products
  • Aboriginal arts and crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Gippsland

Gippsland has a rich cultural heritage that is rooted in its indigenous history and the experiences of early settlers. Here are some aspects of Gippsland’s local culture and customs to keep in mind while on your trip.

  • Acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land
  • Observe local etiquette and customs
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Explore local galleries and museums

Best Time to Visit Gippsland

Gippsland is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, then the warmer months from October to April are the best. For those who prefer cooler weather, then May to September is ideal for hiking, skiing, and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gippsland

To make the most of your trip to Gippsland, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment
  • Take your rubbish with you
  • Support local businesses
  • Be open to new experiences

Don’t:

  • Touch or disturb wildlife
  • Leave fires unattended
  • Ignore safety warnings and signs
  • Treat locals and their culture disrespectfully

Safety and Health

While Gippsland is generally a safe destination, it’s important to be aware of potential health and safety issues that could arise.

Safety in Gippsland

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while travelling in Gippsland.

  • Be aware of wildlife and their habitats
  • Follow fire safety guidelines during bushfire season
  • Take care when swimming or boating in lakes and rivers

Health in Gippsland

It’s important to take care of your health while on your trip to Gippsland. Here are some health considerations to keep in mind.

  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Be mindful of the potential for heatstroke and hypothermia
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated

Getting to Gippsland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gippsland is easily accessible by road, rail, and air, and there are several transport options available to visitors.

Airports Near Gippsland

The closest airports to Gippsland are Melbourne Tullamarine and Melbourne Avalon. Both airports have car rental and public transport options available.

Bus Stations Near Gippsland

Several bus companies operate in Gippsland, with most services connecting to Melbourne and regional centres.

Other Options

The V/Line train service connects Melbourne to Gippsland, with several stops along the way. There are also several long-distance coach services available.

How to Get Around in Gippsland

Gippsland is easy to explore by car, with several major highways and regional roads connecting the major towns and attractions. Public transport and bike rentals are also available in some locations.

Where to Go Next from Gippsland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Gippsland, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth considering.

  • Melbourne
  • Wilsons Promontory Marine Park
  • Lakes Entrance
  • Buchan Caves
  • Phillip Island

Conclusion

Gippsland is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Gippsland will not disappoint. Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive travel guide and discover the best that Gippsland has to offer.

A V/Line train arriving in Stratford A V/Line train arriving in Stratford Forest in Tarra-Bulga National Park Forest in Tarra-Bulga National Park Fishing boats in Lakes Entrance Fishing boats in Lakes Entrance Outdoor seating area at Nicholson River Winery Outdoor seating area at Nicholson River Winery


    Central Gippsland
    East Gippsland
    South and West Gippsland