Victoria

Covering 227 416km of the south-eastern corner of Australia, Victoria is a relatively compact state, the second smallest after Tasmania. The state's mostly temperate climate has four distinct seasons, each with its own attractions. As a result of its manage able size and efficient road system, travelling the state is easy and comfortable.

Transport options are excellent coaches, trains and planes carry visitors into and around the state, and for those who want to explore independently, touring by car is convenient. Most places can be reached within a day's drive of the capital city, Melbourne, and there is a huge array of natural, cultural and historic areas just waiting to be discovered.

Victoria packs a lot within its boundaries. The Murray River stretches along the border with New South Wales and is a delightful destination in itself. The southern coastline is spectacular and varied, taking in the Great Ocean Road to the west, Wilsons Promontory and the beautiful Gippsland Lakes area to the east.

Victoria's magnificent Alpine region has much to explore and the goldfields' districts reveal an exciting episode in the state's history. Tranquil lakes, an exciting selection of national parks, cool forests and fertile countryside await the visitor, with accessible cities, towns and villages offering their hospitality.

Victoria caters well for the discerning traveller. Fresh produce is a specialty all over the state, with specific gourmet focal points like the Milawa Gourmet Region near Wangaratta and the Gourmet Deli Trail in West Gippsland. Wine-lovers can select from 14 winery regions and over 350 wineries, ranging from the Grampians in the south-west to Rutherglen in the north-east. Victorian vineyards are renowned for producing excellent vintages for the Australian and international market.

The Victorian Regions include: The Murray, Lakes and Wilderness, Goldfields, the Great Ocean Road, Goulburn Murray Waters, The City of Melbourne, Macedon Ranges and Spa Country, Legends Wine and High Country, Melbourne Bays and Peninsulas, Mildura and Murray Outback, The Grampians, Phillip Island and Gippsland and the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.