Picturesque doesn’t quite cover Daylesford, the town nudging the Great Dividing Range. Known for its natural mineral springs, this eye-catching location demands some of your attention. Grab breakfast at Cliffy’s Emporium before you wander around town stopping for a souvenir from retro haven Mill Market. Then on to Alla Wolf-Tasker’s famed Lake House, a hotel, restaurant and spa in one. (Pictured: Lake House, Daylesford. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Southern coast gem Phillip Island has long attracted visitors thanks to its resident population of fairy penguins and seals. But that’s not all you can do while here – bring your walking gear and hike your way to the top of rock formation the Pinnacles, before stopping for a beer at local drinking hole Phillip Island Brewing Co. (Pictured: The Knobbies, Phillip Island Nature Parks. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Surfers will be all too familiar with the cluster of coastal villages which line the stunning Great Ocean Road. The 243-kilometre stretch wedged between Allansford and the Torquay is famous for its coastline, which is well-worth taking your time to explore, especially with the outstanding restaurants along the way, The Wye General and Brae included. (Pictured: Twelve Apostles at sunset. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Arguably one of Victoria’s most famous wine regions, the Mornington Peninsula is home to a cluster of beaches, vineyards, and increasingly lavish hotels. Immerse yourself in the region with a visit to one of its acclaimed grape specialists and acclaimed restaurants in one like Pt Leo Estate, before a stay at the statement-making Jackalope. (Pictured: Portsea Pier, Mornington Peninsula. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Just past Geelong is one of Victoria’s best-kept secrets, the Bellarine, a haven of producers (wine included). Visit the Point Lonsdale lighthouse, grab a bite to eat (and a glass of local vino) from Basils Farm, and drop by suavely styled The Lon for a massage and place to spend the night. (Pictured: Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

These adjoining regions are abundant in both food and wine offerings and natural wonders, with clusters of national parks present, home to flora and fauna aplenty. Reward yourself after tackling the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk of 1000 steps with a tipple at the Four Pillars Distillery, and a bite to eat at Jayden Ong. (Pictured: Dandenong Ranges. Photo: Tsvibrav.)

It’s not just historic buildings galore which will tempt you to this regional town born from the Gold Rush, but a burgeoning foodie scene. Casual fare is the specialty here in Ballarat – drop by Hop Temple down one of the city’s famed laneways, Mitchell Harris Wines, or the Pub with Two Names. (Pictured: Ballarat. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Another of Victoria’s heritage-laden destinations, Bendigo continues to blossom in terms of its edible offerings. Start your day strong with breakfast at The Good Loaf Sourdough Bakery and Cafe, or save yourself for the steak of a lifetime at The Woodhouse Restaurant, followed by a drink in a former vault at the Wine Bank on View. (Bendigo Tram. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Perched on the Murray River in the top north-west corner of the state is Mildura, rich in grape and fruit growers. After a day spent exploring the river aboard a historic paddle steamer cruise, drop by Langtree Avenue (nicknamed Feast Street), home to local institutions Stefano’s, and Mildura Brewery. (Pictured: Murray River Salt, Mildura. Photo: Visit Victoria.)

Get better acquainted with Victoria’s second largest city, a place that boomed with the rise of the Ford Motor Company. These days outstanding food offerings are the area’s specialty – drop by Eddy and Wills or Little Green Corner for breakfast, Igni for dinner, and Flying Brick Cider House for a tasting paddle. (Pictured: Cunningham Pier, Geelong. Photo: Visit Victoria.)