No matter what direction you decide to trek, you'll never run out of natural wonders to explore in Victoria's diverse ecosystems. Here are my top picks...
North - Murray Sunset National Park
It's not just the sunsets that glow pink here. A red algae present in the salt lakes changes colour from a glistening white to deep pink after rain. Abandoned carts and tools once used to harvest salt from the lakes litter the shorelines.
Location: 5 1/2 hrs north of Melbourne
A little closer: Cactus Country is an example of a family's passion for the prickly succulents. Weave your way through eight gardens displaying cactus from different parts of the world.
South - Point Nepean National Park
Located at the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula, the national park played an important role in shaping the early settlement, quarantine and defence of Victoria.
Follow the trail from Gunners Cottage and past The Rip to explore the tunnels, forts and gun emplacements which were in service until the end of WWII.
Location: 1 1/2 hrs south of Melbourne
The alternate route: Mussel in to Portarlington for fresh seafood before catching the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento.
East - Croajingolong National Park
Discover unspoiled beaches, inlets, estuaries, forests, and not to mention the spectacular sand dunes that tower some 30 metres above Thurra River.
Location: 6 hrs east of Melbourne
If you have time: watch the water tumble over rocky cliff-faces and in to the valley below at Toorongo & Amphitheater Falls in West Gippsland.
West - Cape Otway
From glow worms displays to historic lighthouses, koala-filled trees and sublime surf beaches, the greater area has something for every experience seeker.
Location: 3 hrs west of Melbourne
A must: deviate off the main road and take yourself to Teddy's Lookout; offering panoramic views of the Great Ocean Road and St George Inlet below.
