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Victoria’s Best Winter Holiday Destinations
Whether you like to head to the snow or bunker down in a cosy, country town, these are the best winter holiday spots in Victoria.
Escape the winter blues and embrace the magic of Victoria’s most enchanting getaways. As the colder months settle in, the state reveals a breathtaking new dimension—snow-dusted mountains, crackling fireplaces, and steamy hot springs invite you to unwind and explore. From snow-filled adventures in alpine resorts to indulgent days of wine-tasting and gourmet dining, each destination offers its own winter charm.
Whether you’re carving through the slopes or cosying up by the fire, Victoria’s winter havens promise an unforgettable experience, where every moment is steeped in warmth, wonder, and natural beauty. Let the season’s embrace lead you to your next escape.
Macedon Ranges: Wrapped in Wonder
With its misty mornings and storybook villages, the Macedon Ranges offers a winter escape that feels plucked from a fairytale. Just an hour from Melbourne, towns like Kyneton and Woodend invite you to slow down and savour the season. Stroll along Kyneton’s Piper Street, where heritage façades house artisan boutiques, cosy cafes, and acclaimed restaurants. In Woodend, the annual Winter Arts Festival brings the town to life with music, literature, and warmth.
Take a bracing hike through the mist-laced bushland of Hanging Rock or explore cool-climate wineries like the gorgeous Mount Monument, where robust reds are best enjoyed fireside. The Macedon Ranges is magic, bottled.
Heathcote: A Taste of Winter in Every Sip
As winter sweeps over Victoria, there’s something uniquely magical about savouring a glass of rich, full-bodied wine by the fire. Heathcote, a jewel in Victoria’s wine-growing region, offers this perfect combination. With its cool-climate wines and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape, Heathcote provides a peaceful respite for those seeking winter’s quieter pleasures. Wander through vineyards dusted with frost, sample exquisite wines, and relish the beauty of the season, all while experiencing the laid-back elegance of this charming town.
Our top picks? Munari and Vinea Marson—two standout cellar doors pouring character and charm in equal measure. As for lunch, Chauncy is non-negotiable. This French provincial gem delivers effortless elegance and bold flavour in every bite.
Castlemaine: A Cosy, Artful Escape
Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Castlemaine emerges as a winter weekend jaunt where heritage charm, creative energy, and culinary prowess come together. Along Mostyn Street, historic buildings brim with contemporary cafes, boutique galleries, and artisan stores, while evenings pulse with live music at Theatre Royal, The Taproom at Shedshaker Brewing, and The Bridge Hotel.
By day, stroll the 1860s-era Botanical Gardens, browse Castlemaine Art Museum’s Australian collection, or wander The Mill—a converted woollen mill now home to vintage treasures, local makers, and gourmet delights. Thrifters and foodies alike will find joy in the Vintage Bazaar’s 1800 square metres of retro finds, while Boomtown Social pours wine next door and Johnny Baker tempts with cult pastries to-go.
A perfect day might begin with crumpets at Saint Florian, make time for a brew at Love Shack, and end with woodfired pizza at Teatro Regio or fine dining and wine at Bar Midland. Stay in a charming miner’s cottage or a heritage home, and let Castlemaine’s wintery soul and slow country rhythm warm you from the inside out.
Bright: Where Winter Comes Alive
Cradled by the Victorian Alps and the Ovens River, Bright is the ultimate winter escape, where adventure meets indulgence. Meander through misty trails or take on the Canyon Walk, then venture to nearby Mount Hotham or Falls Creek for world-class snow sports. Back in town, unwind with local wines at Billy Button Wines or Reed & Co. Distillery, where Japanese-inspired dishes cooked over open flames take winter dining to new heights—venison lovers, take note. Hearty meals and crackling fires await at Tomahawks, Hometown, and the newly minted Basil’s, while Blackbird serves daytime comfort. Don’t leave without tasting the legendary steak and Guinness pie at Gum Tree Pies.
For accommodation, stay cosy and central at The Nest, or indulge in the sweeping views at The Grove Estate. Whether you’re carving powder or sipping wine, Bright is where winter truly comes to life.
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Mount Hotham: Adventure Awaits in the Snow
Mount Hotham, known as one of Australia’s premier ski resorts, boasts 320 hectares of snow-covered terrain, breathtaking mountain views, and an array of runs for all skill levels. Beyond the slopes, thrilling activities await, from husky sled tours and helicopter rides to relaxing spa retreats where you can unwind in 38-degree waters amid the snow.
For a truly unique experience, Alpine Nature Experience offers a Skidoo to Igloo overnight adventure. Spend a magical night in a real igloo, complete with a three-course dinner featuring a French cheese fondue—a perfect winter getaway for friends, family, or colleagues.
If you prefer more comforting abodes, Mount Hotham also offers cosy cabins and apartments for a relaxed stay. From skiing and tobogganing to snowshoeing or soaking in the spa, Hotham’s winter wonderland promises an unmissable seasonal escape. The sheer variety of activities makes it one of Victoria’s best winter destinations—ensuring every moment is unforgettable.
Daylesford: A Sanctuary for the Soul
As the crisp winter air settles over Daylesford, the town’s natural beauty and renowned mineral springs create the perfect haven. Picture yourself unwinding in a world-class spa, enveloped in the healing waters that have drawn visitors for centuries. For those with an appetite for indulgence, the renowned dining scene offers everything from fresh local produce to decadent desserts. Stroll through art galleries, peruse boutique shops, and pause for a warm cup of tea in one of the charming tearooms—Daylesford has a way of slowing time, making it the perfect winter retreat.
Over the winter months, the town also hosts a number of vibrant festivals, including the annual Winter Sounds. This captivating weekend of intimate performances unfolds in a variety of unique venues—from historic gold-rush-era halls and churches to art deco theatres and even heritage rail cars, adding an extra layer of magic to the town’s winter allure.
Mornington Peninsula: A Winter Wonderland of Wine & Wellness
The Mornington Peninsula, often synonymous with summer beach days, transforms into a surprisingly enchanting winter getaway. While its coastal charm remains, it’s the region’s wineries, thermal springs, and luxurious accommodation that steal the show. Throughout winter, acclaimed wineries like Pt Leo Estate and Oakridge stay open, offering not only exceptional wines but also exquisite dining experiences at their renowned restaurants. Alba Thermal Springs & Spas and Peninsula Hot Springs provide the ultimate in relaxation with mineral-rich thermal bathing, while truffle hunts at Red Hill Truffles add a dash of adventure to your stay.
Accommodation here is nothing short of magical. Polperro Farmhouse, a luxe 3-bedroom retreat nestled within a working vineyard, exudes nostalgia with its 1950s holiday home vibes, set against a backdrop of a mystical pine forest. For those seeking something more indulgent, the Intercontinental Sorrento offers 1920s glamour, elegant dining at Audrey’s, and a serene wellness escape at Aurora Spa & Bathhouse. Paired with oysters and twice-baked cheese soufflé at Bistro Elba, the Mornington Peninsula reveals itself as a dreamy winter haven.
The Grampians: Blustery Outdoor Adventures
The Grampians offers a winter escape where adventure meets serenity, perfect for those who love to embrace the great outdoors even in the colder months. Cooler temperatures make hiking the region’s iconic trails more enjoyable, with fewer crowds and stunning vistas that reveal the true beauty of the land. The reward? Dramatic waterfalls, sweeping mountain views, and the chance to feel the crisp, fresh air all to yourself. After a day of exploration, retreat to charming cottages or indulgent five-star escapes that offer the perfect balance of warmth and relaxation.
The Grampians Wine Cellar is an absolute must—offering a taste of the region’s finest shiraz while you take in the breathtaking landscape. Meanwhile, the Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld serves up an unforgettable culinary experience, where fresh, seasonal produce from Australia’s largest working kitchen garden takes centre stage. A weekend here is a romantic, nature-filled escape that’s truly worth the journey.
Mount Buller: Embrace the Snow
Mount Buller, Victoria’s premier alpine playground, transforms into a winter wonderland where skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing await. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, unwind with a mulled wine by a roaring fire or indulge in the après-ski scene. Just three hours from Melbourne, Mount Buller offers not only thrilling snow sports but also luxurious lodges and relaxing day spas. Nearby Mansfield provides delightful dining at Honcho, The Fields, and Delatite Winery, where breathtaking views await. For a change of scenery, take a bracing walk around Lake Eildon and stop at Fogg’s Lookout for unforgettable views of the snow-capped landscape.
Sitchu Tip: Catch the annual Banff Mountain Film Festival, which showcases adventure films from around the world.
Bendigo: Where History Meets Modern Warmth
Bendigo is a winter retreat where heritage and modern charm quietly blend, offering a relaxed yet refined escape. As winter settles in, the town’s grand gold rush buildings soften in the season’s light, while local galleries and cafes invite you to linger. The warm scent of coffee and fresh pastries fills the air, perfect for slow mornings spent at cosy cafes like Forage. For a taste of the region’s bounty, Ms Batterhams and The Woodhouse offer paddock-to-plate dining, while Hotel Ernest provides a snug, luxurious base.
With gold mine tours, pottery studios, and interactive museums for families, Bendigo offers a subtle mix of culture, comfort, and quiet adventure—a winter escape worth its weight in gold.
Inspired by Victoria’s best winter escapes? There’s so much more to explore. From bucket-list Australian road trips to charming Victorian farmstays, luxe tiny cabins, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, the possibilities are endless. Click through, let your imagination wander, and start dreaming of your next unforgettable adventure. The road to your perfect getaway begins here.
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