East Gippsland Travel Guide

Plan your trip to East Gippsland with our comprehensive travel guide, including the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to East Gippsland

Located in the eastern part of Victoria, Australia, East Gippsland is a picturesque region known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. The region boasts of pristine beaches, spectacular mountains, serene lakes, lush forests, and charming towns that are waiting to be explored.

In this comprehensive travel guide to East Gippsland, we will take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, the food and drink scene, and much more. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, East Gippsland has something special for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in East Gippsland

East Gippsland is a vast region with numerous places to visit and experiences to enjoy. Here are some of the must-visit places in East Gippsland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, Art Galleries, and Historical Places

East Gippsland has a rich history and culture that is evident in its numerous museums, art galleries, and historical places. The following are some of the best cultural attractions to visit in East Gippsland:

  • Bairnsdale Historical Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase the history and culture of the region.

  • Nicholson Museum and Heritage Centre: Located in Nicholson, this museum displays exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the Nicholson and Tambo River regions.

  • Gabo Island Lighthouse: The iconic Gabo Island Lighthouse, built-in 1858, is a popular tourist attraction known for its history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of East Gippsland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Gippsland is renowned for its natural beauty and offers plenty of outdoor activities and scenic locations. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions in East Gippsland:

  • Croajingolong National Park: One of the most beautiful and diverse national parks in Australia, Croajingolong National Park features beaches, rainforests, and rugged mountains.

  • Lakes Entrance: A popular holiday destination, Lakes Entrance is a coastal town famous for its picturesque waterways, scenic views, and abundant marine life.

  • Buchan Caves: These limestone caves are a geological marvel and are home to underground rivers, rock formations, and cave-dwelling creatures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Gippsland

East Gippsland offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the best routes for hiking and biking in East Gippsland:

  • East Gippsland Rail Trail: This 96-kilometer trail follows the old railway line through the beautiful Gippsland countryside, offering a glimpse into the region’s history and natural beauty.

  • Buchan Caves Reserve Walking Tracks: The Buchan Caves Reserve has a network of walking tracks that take visitors through the stunning landscape of the area, including the spectacular limestone caves.

  • Croajingolong National Park Walking Tracks: The Croajingolong National Park has a range of walking tracks that offer visitors the chance to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

Best Things to Do in East Gippsland: Activities and Tours

East Gippsland has an array of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in East Gippsland:

  • Fishing: East Gippsland is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with a range of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. Fish species include trout, bream, salmon, and more.

  • Boating and Water Sports: With its abundant waterways, East Gippsland offers plenty of opportunities for boating, kayaking, jet-skiing, and other water-based activities.

  • Wildlife Tours: East Gippsland is home to a variety of unique and endangered wildlife species, including the platypus, koala, and wombats. Wildlife tours offer visitors a chance to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Gippsland

If you’re planning a trip to East Gippsland, a week-long itinerary would allow you to explore the region’s best attractions and experiences. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Bairnsdale Historical Museum, East Gippsland Rail Trail
  • Day 2: Lakes Entrance, Metung
  • Day 3: Buchan Caves, Buchan
  • Day 4: Croajingolong National Park, Mallacoota
  • Day 5: Gippsland Lakes Discovery Tour, Raymond Island
  • Day 6: Dinner Plain Alpine Village, Mount Hotham
  • Day 7: Wilsons Promontory National Park, Foster

Food and Drink Scene of East Gippsland

East Gippsland is known for its fresh and delicious local produce, including seafood, meat, cheese, fruit, and more. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in East Gippsland:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gippsland Ribeye Steak: This succulent and juicy steak is made from Gippsland beef and is available in many restaurants across the region.

  • Lakes Entrance Prawns: East Gippsland is renowned for its fresh and sustainable prawn industry, and Lakes Entrance is the perfect place to sample these delicious crustaceans.

  • Bairnsdale Goat Curry: This specialty dish is made from locally raised goat meat and is a favorite among foodies in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Gippsland Wine: East Gippsland is home to many vineyards and wineries that produce a range of high-quality wines, including chardonnay, pinot noir, and shiraz.

  • Two Bays Brewery: This award-winning craft brewery produces a range of gluten-free beers that are loved by locals and visitors alike.

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

East Gippsland has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in East Gippsland:

  • Captains Cove Resort: Located in Paynesville, this resort offers luxurious self-contained apartments with stunning views of the Gippsland Lakes.

  • Lakes Entrance Holiday Units: These comfortable and affordable holiday units are situated in the heart of Lakes Entrance and offer easy access to the town’s attractions and activities.

  • Bairnsdale Motor Inn: This cozy and welcoming motel is located in the heart of Bairnsdale and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for travelers on a budget.

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

East Gippsland is home to many unique and original products that make excellent souvenirs and gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best products to buy in East Gippsland:

  • Gippsland Cheese: This award-winning cheese is produced using locally sourced milk and is a favorite among cheese lovers in the region.

  • East Gippsland Art: East Gippsland has a thriving art scene, with many artists producing original and beautiful artworks that make great souvenirs.

  • Lakes Entrance Prawns: Fresh, sustainable, and delicious, Lakes Entrance prawns are the perfect souvenir for seafood lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of East Gippsland

East Gippsland has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its natural surroundings, history, and people. The region is known for its warm hospitality, community spirit, and love of the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit East Gippsland

The best time to visit East Gippsland is from December to February, which is the summer season in Australia. During this time, the region experiences warm and dry weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Gippsland

Do:

  • Respect the environment: East Gippsland is home to many unique and endangered ecosystems, so it’s essential to respect the environment and leave no trace.

  • Try the local food and drink: East Gippsland has a vibrant food and drink scene, so be sure to sample some of the local specialties during your stay.

  • Be prepared for the weather: East Gippsland is known for its changeable weather, so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment: East Gippsland is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful and unique landscapes, so it’s important to leave it in the same condition as you found it.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Gippsland

East Gippsland is a safe and welcoming region with a low crime rate. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, such as locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in East Gippsland

East Gippsland has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical centers in major towns and cities across the region.

Getting to East Gippsland: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Gippsland is easily accessible by road, air, and rail. Here are some of the transportation options for getting to East Gippsland:

Airports Near East Gippsland

  • Melbourne Airport: This is the closest international airport to East Gippsland, located about 285 km west of the region.

  • Bairnsdale Airport: This small regional airport operates daily flights to and from Melbourne.

Bus Stations Near East Gippsland

  • Bairnsdale Bus Station: Located in the heart of Bairnsdale, this bus station offers connections to major towns and cities across the region.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring East Gippsland, with several car rental companies operating in major towns and cities.

  • Train: V/Line operates a train service from Melbourne to Bairnsdale, where visitors can connect with other transport options.

How to Get Around in East Gippsland

Getting around in East Gippsland is relatively easy, with several transport options available. The best way to explore the region is by car, but there are also bus and taxi services available in major towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from East Gippsland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Gippsland is situated in a beautiful and diverse part of Victoria, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring. Here are some of the best places to visit near East Gippsland:

  • Wilsons Promontory National Park: Located about 2.5 hours’ drive from East Gippsland, Wilsons Promontory National Park is a stunning coastal park known for its beautiful beaches, coastal hikes, and abundant wildlife.

  • Mallacoota: This charming seaside village is located in the heart of Croajingolong National Park and is known for its stunning natural beauty, fishing, and boating opportunities.

  • Rye: Rye is a popular coastal town located on the Mornington Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wineries.

Conclusion

East Gippsland is a magical destination with plenty of natural beauty, rich culture, and memorable experiences. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to East Gippsland and make the most of your visit. Happy exploring!

Gippsland lakes as seen from space Gippsland lakes as seen from space Buchan Caves Buchan Caves


    Cann River
    Croajingolong National Park
    Mallacoota