Where to find Victoria’s best autumn colour

Travelling Well | Megan Whitfield | Posted on 26 February 2021

Check out these beauty spots for Victoria's best autumn crunch and colour.

As the chill begins to seep in, noses redden and scarves are retrieved from wardrobes, there’s something magical about the changing leaves of autumn. It’s easy to get away from the stress of daily life when golden trees line the paths, and a litter of leaves crunch underfoot.

But where are the best spots in Victoria to witness all those gorgeous shades of red, orange and yellow? We’ve done the research for you.

Yarra Valley Vineyard in Autumn, with the leaves all yellow and orange and hills in the background

Soft autumn light turns vines to gold in the Yarra Valley.

Nine Victorian towns than look even prettier in autumn

Bright

There’s nowhere quite like Bright in autumn. This is the place for cosy evenings in front of an open fire, sampling some of the state’s best local produce, and marvellng at tree-lined streets transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour. Hire a bike and take in the autumnal hues on a gentle bike ride. The Murray to Mountains Rail Trail is a popular option, or take a drive through Victoria’s High Country along the Great Alpine Road.

Ballarat’s Avenue of Honour

Stretching for around 22 kilometres, this tree-lined avenue is one the longest of its kind in the southern hemisphere and one of the first of its kind in Australia. Incorporating the Ballarat Arch of Victory, the avenue was planted to represent the 3912 local men and women who served in World War I. In autumn, as the leaves turn myriad shades of red and gold, this is a beautiful spot for a drive or, for the more ambitious, a walk. 

Daylesford

With the abundance of scenic walks and waterfalls throughout the region, there’s no shortage of spots to catch the autumnal change in Daylesford. The Lake House is always a beautiful spot for fine dining, with views over a rust-hued landscape adding seasonal drama. Follow an indulgent lunch with a stroll through Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, or head to nearby Trentham Falls. Ah, the serenity.

Royal Botanic Gardens

You don’t need to leave Melbourne to immerse yourself in autumn’s beauty. With its wide green spaces, manicured gardens and abundance of trees, a crisp autumn day is best enjoyed at the Botanic Gardens with a picnic blanket, some nibbles, and good company.

Mansfield

While this charming town at the base of Mount Buller buzzes with life each winter, don’t discount Mansfield in autumn. Watch the town change from green, to red, to white as you explore the natural beauty of the lake and local walking tracks. 

Yarra Valley

It’s always a good time of year for a day exploring wineries, and autumn is no exception as row upon row of grapevines turn various shades of copper, gold and amber. Sign us up. There’s an abundance of wineries to choose from, each offering their own sliver of beauty, so set aside your weekend, grab some loved ones, and soak up the cosy, crisp atmosphere only autumn can offer.

A tree covered in red leaves as the sun peeks through the branches

Autumn colour on the vine.

A street in Bright, Victoria, lined with autumn trees covered in yellow leaves

A gold-lined street in Bright, central Victoria.

Small orange and red maple leaves on a branch

Maple leaves on the turn from orange to brown.

Cloudehill, Dandenong Ranges

Head for the hills in Melbourne’s east for a glimpse of some serious autumnal magic at Cloudehill Gardens. At an altitude of 580 metres, lose yourself in an oasis of 25 garden compartments divided by stone walls and hedges. Each garden brings something different, from peonies to bluebells to stunning weeping Japanese maples, growing on the property since 1928. Drop into the nursery and take something beautiful home, or settle in to the restaurant at the top of the garden for a taste of local produce.

Carlton Gardens

Handily sited at the northern edge of Melbourne’s CBD, city-slickers can stroll through some autumnal glory in the Carlton Gardens on their way to work. Against the glorious backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, it’s a beautiful place to catch up with friends on the lawn or steal a few moments to yourself. 

Valley of Liquidambers, Heathcote

Heathcote might be the shiraz capital of Victoria, but it's also rich in natural beauty and breathtaking countryside. Not far from the town's centre, you'll find the Valley of Liquidambers, which blooms in brilliant red, burnt orange and golden desert shades. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view before meanding across the swinging bridge that leads back to the main street. 

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