Victoria

Who needs overseas travel? Regional Victoria has everything you could want and more

Cactus Country

Alice Piper

Posted September 21, 2021

School holidays have started, and if you’re dreaming of that international getaway, here’s how to get a taste of overseas right in our own backyard.

Our little ones have been through a lot in 2021: With the ups and downs this year has brought, September finally brings families in regional Victoria some reprieve, with travel now back on the cards.

So, as another school holiday period descends on parents all around Victoria, you might be wondering how you can have some fun over the term break.

Luckily, regional Victoria is a mecca for picturesque holiday destinations, and we’ve rounded up the best school holiday locations that will have you feeling like you’re sipping a wine off the coast of Europe.

Here’s what’s on offer for regional Victorians these school holidays: 

Three of the best getaways in Regional Victoria
 

Wilson’s Promontory, Victoria

Perfect if you’re dreaming about the Amalfi Coast

Feel like you’re sailing off the coast of the Mediterranean with a day cruise around the rugged coastline of Wilson’s Promontory, one of Australia’s greatest natural wonders.

It’s the largest marine protected area in Victoria and will be all yours to explore for 2.5 hours as you cruise alongside dolphins and seals while gazing at the breathtaking coastline. You’ll also get up close to the beautiful My Oberon and Skull Rock as you learn all about the region.

Bookings are essential for this tour as capacity limits are subject to changing restrictions. Call ahead to get the latest information. 

Cactus Country

Take a day cruise around beautiful Wilson's Prom. Image: Supplied 

Phillip Island, Victoria

Perfect if you’re dreaming of sailing the Greek Islands

You know the feeling of hopping around the islands of Greece? Well, Phillip Island feels just as exciting as you cross over the bridge onto the island and feel like you’re worlds away from your ‘normal’ life.

It’s here you can see Australia’s most famous Fur Seal colony with a two-hour cruise to Phillip Island’s south-west coast. The kids will love how playful and inquisitive the seals are, especially when they come right up close to the boat for a photo op!

And for the parents? Just jump on board, sit back and relax as you enjoy the scenery of the remarkable coastline and look for the dolphin pods playing nearby.

Just make sure you check booking availability, and capacity limits as these are subject to change in line with government regulations.

Cactus Country

Visit Cactus Country in Strathmerton and see more than 4,000 varities. Image: Supplied 

Murray region, Victoria

Perfect if you’re dreaming of Arizona

Get that road trip feeling and take a drive up north to the Murray region, visiting Cactus Country – you’ll feel like you’re in desert country USA!

The kids will burn some energy running around the 12-acre garden, where you’ll see more than 4000 plant varieties, some growing for more than 40 years and so tall they tower over guests.

When you’re done exploring, the on-site café will fuel you back up – if you’re game enough to try the cactus cake and cactus ice-cream!

Open from Thursday to Sunday, entry is subject to government restrictions, so make sure you call ahead to find out the latest guidelines.

These school holidays can be full of the excitement your family needs, and you don’t need to get on a plane to find it, because it’s all right here in regional Victoria.

Check out more of RACV's school holiday activities and RACV Members' save on all bookings when you book through us - now go have some fun!