Luxe Holiday Dupes: Dream Destinations We Have at Home

As the year winds down, thoughts of a dreamy escape start creeping in—maybe you’re picturing the sun-kissed Amalfi coast or the rolling green hills of New Zealand. A little R&R is just what the soul needs…until you check your bank account and reality gives you a rudely pricey awakening.

Remember when you’d beg your mum for a Barbie or Hot Wheels, only to hear, “No, we’ve got something just as good at home,” and she’d hand you some dupe alternative? Well, think of these gorgeous Victorian destinations as the ultimate glow-up of that childhood logic. They may not be overseas, but they pack just as much charm and adventure—minus the jet lag and eye-watering price tag.

Instead of Provence…visit Daylesford

Provence is renowned for its endless lavender fields, fine wine, and picturesque villages. But just two hours from Melbourne, we have our own version of this enchanting beauty: Daylesford.

This Victorian town is our little slice of the French countryside so close to home. Its lush hills, farmlands, and vineyards exude bucolic charm, coupled with the close-knit community feel unique to small towns. The Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, reminiscent of Provence’s iconic purple fields, is a magical spot for a date or a picturesque picnic.

Embrace the local culinary scene through a selection of gourmet food and wine, found not just in the town’s boutique stores and restaurants but at the vibrant local farmers' market. For more lavender-hued bliss, head to Sault Restaurant, where seasonal dining meets romantic scenery. Its sandstone building evokes the beauty of Gordes, a village in Provence.

Sitchu Recommends: Bar Merenda, the ultimate Euro-style wine bar and bistro serving up refined, seasonal dishes that even a Frenchman would be hard-pressed to turn his nose up at. 

Instead of Big Sur & The Pacific Coast Highway…visit the Great Ocean Road

Picture this: California’s Pacific Coast Highway, a winding ribbon of road that hugs the cliffs of Big Sur, offering jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean below. Think misty mornings, sun-drenched coastal curves, towering redwoods, and the romance of open-road freedom. Stretching from Los Angeles to Monterey, this legendary route takes you past dramatic landscapes, secluded beaches, and charming towns.

Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Perhaps you’re envisioning something equally extraordinary closer to home—Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. Like its Californian counterpart, this coastal masterpiece provides awe-inspiring views of towering limestone cliff, lush rainforests, expansive coastline, and the laid-back charm of seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay.

Both routes are journeys of discovery, where every turn reveals something spectacular—from the Twelve Apostles to the enchanting Redwood Forest, echoing the majesty of California’s towering trees in Monterey.

Sitchu Recommends: Torquay’s Mortadeli is your go-to spot for next-level panini, perfect for the road. Their signature creation, layered with mortadella, stracciatella, and crushed pistachios, is a must-try. And don’t overlook their take on the classic American sandwich, the Continental (or Italian sub)—hearty, flavour-packed, and loaded with cured meats, cheese, and zesty toppings.

Instead of Sorrento…visit Sorrento

How funny…we know. But we’re actually serious, Sorrento in Victoria is a solid dupe for the Sorrento in Italy. Hear us out—it’s not as wild as it sounds. While it might not hug the storied Amalfi coast, it has the same timeless charm, complete with boutique-lined streets and that irresistible seaside vibe.

Spend your day swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Sorrento Beach (bonus: no beach club fees required!), then head to Sage Sorrento for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. Think wood-fired pizzas, pillowy focaccia, and shareable starters that channel all the sun-drenched flavours of Italy. Buon appetito!

Sitchu Recommends: Indulge in seaside luxury at the Intercontinental Sorrento, where every detail enchants. Dine on the freshest seafood at Audrey’s, unwind in the spa, or sip sunset cocktails by the rooftop pool—a haven of elegance by the sea. For a post-swim treat, don’t miss The Vanilla Slice Cafe Sorrento, famed for its award-winning vanilla custard and flaky pastry—a heavenly bite worth the queue!

Instead of the Cliffs of Moher…visit the 12 Apostles

Ireland is home to sweeping landscapes, with the Cliffs of Moher standing as one of its most iconic wonders. These towering cliffs, with their rugged edges and dramatic views of the Atlantic, feel like a slice of magic—much like the famous Twelve Apostles along Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Both offer jaw-dropping vistas of wild coastlines, making them unmissable for nature lovers and photographers alike.

If the charm of Irish coastal villages calls to you, nearby Port Fairy offers a taste of that same idyllic atmosphere. With its beautifully preserved bluestone buildings and maritime heritage, it’s a village that feels frozen in time. Wander its scenic streets, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, where every corner exudes old-world beauty.

Sitchu Recommends: To complete the experience, stay at The Oak and Anchor Hotel, a romantic haven with cosy, stylish rooms above a bistro serving elevated pub fare. Pair your meal with a pint of Guinness, and hey, you might just feel like you're brushing shoulders with Jamie Dornan.

Instead of New Zealand…visit Wilson’s Promontory

Lush greenery, rolling hills, towering sand dunes, and rocky mountains are just some of the awe-inspiring terrains you’ll encounter as you travel through New Zealand. While we adore our next-door neighbours, hopping on a lengthy flight isn’t always on the cards. Thankfully, Wilson’s Promontory offers the same striking natural beauty as New Zealand.

This national park, just a three-hour drive from Melbourne, has a charm that will make you feel like you’ve entered another world. Towering waves crash against the coastline, native animals rustle through the bushes, and birdsong fills the air. There are hiking trails for every level, from easy strolls to challenging treks, so you can choose your adventure and let the path lead you through stunning scenery.

Sitchu Recommends: Road trip down to Wilson’s Promontory and camp in the national park, leaving you all day to explore the hiking trails, beaches, and wildlife. One of our favourite trails is Darby River to Tongue Point. Not too easy, not too hard, it offers beautiful views of the park, and you might even spot seals at Tongue Point if you’re lucky!

Instead of Colorado…visit Halls Gap

Colorado’s rugged landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, abundant wildlife, and endless hiking trails create an outdoor lover’s dream. But what if you could experience something just as extraordinary without flying halfway across the globe? Enter Halls Gap. Located in the heart of Victoria’s Grampians National Park, this destination offers the same stunning natural beauty and thrilling outdoor adventures as Colorado, but on a more local scale.

Picture towering peaks, tranquil waterfalls, and winding trails through lush forests, offering panoramic views at every turn. Hike past ancient rock formations or venture to the Pinnacle Lookout for sweeping views that rival those in Colorado’s most iconic parks. Wildlife is abundant, with kangaroos lounging in open fields and native birds filling the air with song. It’s the same wild, untouched nature that draws explorers to the Rockies, but closer to home.

Sitchu Recommends: Colorado’s Helen Hunt Falls are stunning, but for a similar awe-inspiring experience, visit Halls Gap’s Mackenzie Falls. One of Victoria’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls, it cascades year-round over towering cliffs into a deep pool, sending mist into the air and creating a rainbow effect that dances above the gorge. It’s a serene, tranquil spot in the heart of the Grampians. After, pack a picnic and head to the Pinnacle Lookout for sweeping views that will take your breath away.

Instead of Cambridge…visit Castlemaine

Cambridge is renowned for its historic charm, with its iconic university dating back to 1209 and a townscape filled with lush greenery and stunning architecture that exude old-world allure. But if you're seeking a similar blend of history and charm closer to home, look no further than Castlemaine.

Just an hour and a half from Melbourne, Castlemaine offers its own slice of academic-inspired heritage, born from the gold rush era rather than centuries of scholarly pursuit. The town’s sandstone buildings, much like Cambridge’s, speak to its rich past, but here, they’re set beneath the vast, sun-drenched Australian sky.

Surrounded by bushland and open roads, Castlemaine feels like a historic oasis, where vintage shops, charming cafes, pristine botanic gardens, and a vibrant arts scene collide with its thriving foodie hub. An undeniably beautiful destination, Castlemaine is a cultural haven that blends timeless heritage with creativity and style—an Australian stand-in for Cambridge’s blend of history and inspiration.

Sitchu Recommends: Make sure to carve out time to explore the Castlemaine Art Museum, where local and regional artworks tell the story of this town's rich creative heritage. For a memorable dining experience, reserve a table at Bar Midland, one of the town's standout eateries, where seasonal ingredients shine in every dish.

Instead of Brighton…visit Brighton

Brighton. The name alone conjures images of seaside charm, iconic beach huts, and a blend of coastal relaxation and culture. While the UK’s Brighton is celebrated for its pebbled shores and Victorian charm, its Australian namesake offers a coastal twist that’s just as captivating. Only a short drive from Melbourne, this sweet seaside suburb combines the best of both worlds: the laid-back charm of its British counterpart with the accessibility of modern Aussie living. While the iconic beach huts here are just as photogenic, the serene beaches, local history, and buzzing atmosphere give it a unique flair.

Sitchu Recommends: Start your day with a coastal walk, then enjoy a spot of brunch, as beloved here as in the UK. Try Mazi, a Mediterranean cafe in a charming old schoolhouse (think historic English vibes with fresh interiors and a tasty menu—the hotcakes are a must), or grab a coffee and gooey scroll from 89 Petals. Don’t miss the golden hour glow on the bathing boxes—just as stunning as their UK counterparts, but with an Aussie twist!

Loved reading about the best destination dupes in Victoria and want more travel content? Take a look at our guide to the Great Ocean Road, or venture out to one of the best wine regions in Victoria.