Sale (Victoria) Travel Guide

Discover the best of Sale (Victoria), from its historical museums to natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Learn about the local food and drink scene, as well as where to stay and how to get there.


Introduction to Sale (Victoria)

Nestled in the heart of Central Gippsland in Victoria, Sale is a city of historical importance, surrounded by natural beauty. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse outdoor activities, and countless attractions, it’s no wonder that Sale is a favorite destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Sale (Victoria)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Port of Sale Heritage Centre

Get a glimpse of the city’s rich nautical history at the Port of Sale Heritage Centre. This museum exhibits historical marine artifacts, local stories, and tales of maritime adventures.

Marley Point Lookout and Trig Station

At Marley Point Lookout and Trig Station, visitors can witness panoramic views of the Gippsland Lakes, Ninety Mile Beach, and the surrounding hills. This lookout offers a prime spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Natural Attractions of Sale (Victoria): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mitchell River National Park

Surrounded by limestone cliffs, the Mitchell River National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bushwalking, and kayaking along the Mitchell River, home to rare platypuses.

Sale Common Wetlands

The Sale Common Wetlands is a biodiversity hotspot, renowned for its birdwatching trails. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including the Rufous Night Heron, the Australian White Ibis, and the Brolga.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sale (Victoria)

Sale-Heyfield Rail Trail

The Sale-Heyfield Rail Trail stretches 16 kilometers and offers a scenic escape into the countryside. The trail caters to both cyclists and hikers and has several access points.

Heart Morass

Heart Morass is a large wetland area to the north of Sale and provides a perfect location for canoeing and kayaking. The sight of local birds and wildlife is an awe-inspiring experience.

Best Things to Do in Sale (Victoria): Activities and Tours

Gippsland Plains Rail Trail

The Gippsland Plains Rail Trail, situated in Central Gippsland, passes through many towns around Sale. This popular trail takes you through some of the best scenery nature has to offer.

Sale Heritage Walking Trail

For an educational and enjoyable experience, take the Sale Heritage Walking Trail. This route takes you through Sale’s iconic landmarks, including the Court House, Criterion Hotel, and the Sale Botanic Gardens.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sale (Victoria)

Day Activity
1 Explore the Port of Sale Heritage Centre and the Marley Lookout.
2 Take a walking or biking tour of the Sale-Heyfield Rail Trail.
3 Hike the Mitchell River National Park.
4 Enjoy birdwatching or a scenic walk at the Sale Common Wetlands.
5 Canoe and kayak at Heart Morass.
6 Take a trip to the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail.
7 Take the Sale Heritage Walking trail for a relaxing end to the trip.

Food and Drink Scene of Sale (Victoria)

Must-Try Dishes

Flathead Fish and Chips

For a classic Australian meal, try the fresh flathead catch and chips, a staple of Victorian cuisine.

Lamingtons

Lamingtons were first created in Queensland and have since become a nationwide favorite. These square cakes are made of chocolate sponge, coated in chocolate icing, and sprinkled with coconut flakes.

Local Beverages

Gippsland Wine

Gippsland produces some of the best cool-climate wines, including Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. These wines are available at various cellar doors around Sale.

Espresso Martinis

Sale is home to several chic coffee bars that serve delicious Espresso Martinis. This cocktail is made of vodka, coffee liqueur, and shots of freshly brewed espresso.

Where to Stay in Sale (Victoria): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ibis Styles Sale

Ibis Styles Sale is an excellent choice for travelers looking for refreshed accommodations and excellent value. This hotel situates on the edge of town near bridges to the many nearby tourist destinations.

Famous Flying Chef

A 4-star hotel, guests of the Famous Flying Chef will experience the exceptional, ranging from luxurious fabrics and bedding to delightful cuisine.

What to Buy in Sale (Victoria): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Local Art and Crafts

Unique pieces of art and crafts are available from local artists in Sale. Visitors can purchase handmade pottery, ceramics, and paintings at various shops around town.

Gippsland Wine

To savor the tastes of Sale at home, visitors can bring home bottles of Gippsland’s world-class wines. Indulge in a smooth Chardonnay or a fruity Pinot Noir, great for sharing with friends or enjoying alone.

Local Culture and Customs of Sale (Victoria)

Sale has a rich history of agriculture and fishing, and the locals take pride in their traditions. Visitors will experience a friendly and warm reception, with plenty of opportunities to interact with locals and learn about their customs.

Best Time to Visit Sale (Victoria)

The best time to visit Sale is during the summer when the weather is pleasant and dry. The shoulder seasons of autumn and spring offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sale (Victoria)

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the natural attractions of Sale.
  • Take a walking or biking tour of the city.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces.
  • Disrespect the natural environment.
  • Be disruptive to the peace and quiet of the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sale (Victoria)

Sale is a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should take necessary precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Sale (Victoria)

Visitors should keep themselves hydrated and prevent sunburn, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. The city has several medical centers, including Sale Hospital, that provides 24/7 care.

Getting to Sale (Victoria): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sale (Victoria)

The closest airport to Sale is Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, which offers international and domestic flights. From there, visitors can take a bus or hire a rental car for a three-hour drive to Sale.

Bus Stations Near Sale (Victoria)

Visitors can take the coach from Melbourne CBD to Sale’s bus station, which takes around three and a half hours.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a car from Melbourne or other cities in Victoria to reach Sale. Trains are also available from Melbourne, Albury, and Stratford to Sale.

How to Get Around in Sale (Victoria)

Public transportation in Sale is limited to buses and taxis. It would be best to have a rental car or a bike to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Sale (Victoria): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bairnsdale

Bairnsdale lies just 75 km from Sale and is a scenic town that attracts visitors for its relaxing atmosphere and picturesque views. Visitors can explore the towns’ historic sites, walk around the Mitchell River, or indulge in regional wines.

Lakes Entrance

Lakes Entrance is located about an hour’s drive from Sale and is a popular coastal resort town. The town offers stunning beaches, water sports, fishing, and plenty of seafood restaurants.

Conclusion

Sale is a fascinating destination with numerous natural and cultural attractions. Visitors can experience a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, embrace local customs and indulge in local food and wine. Sale is a must-visit destination, and its charm will keep you coming back for more.

Gippsland Centre Gippsland Centre