The Road Trip You Need: Top Places to See When Driving From Barooga to Geelong
Australia is full of hidden gems that are best seen on a good old-fashioned road trip. If you're looking for a fun-filled adventure that will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery Victoria and New South Wales have to offer, then look no further! We've put together a guide to the top places you'll definitely want to visit between Barooga, New South Wales, and Geelong, Victoria.
When you’re driving from Barooga to Geelong, you’re in for an unforgettable journey. You’ll drive through the landscape, including riverbanks, beaches, and charming towns that have visitors coming back year after year. Keep reading to discover the top places you can’t miss on your road trip from Barooga to Geelong.
The Nagambie Lakes
About 45 minutes down the road is the gorgeous Nagambie Lakes, an area of five linked lakes with breathtaking scenery. Explore the many activities Nagambie has to offer, including water sports like wakeboarding, skiing, swimming, and fishing, making Nagambie the perfect destination for a day trip for all ages. Nagambie has attracted thousands of travellers because it is a perfect getaway destination for locals and tourists alike.
Apart from water sports and scenic drives, Nagambie is also famous for its shopping and dining experience. The High St. is home to a myriad of shops that cater to different tastes and budgets. You might also want to wake up to a warm cup of coffee and a croissant after a long day of exploring Nagambie's shopping boutiques and water sports.
Historic Beechworth
Take a break from the road and immerse yourself in history as you explore the picturesque town of Beechworth. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and stretch your mind with a visit to the many famous landmarks in the town, including the Ned Kelly Museum, Beechworth Historic Courthouse, Burke Museum, and Precinct Walk. The spacious Beechworth Visitor Centre at the town’s entrance provides comprehensive information on which landmark to visit first.
Visiting Beechworth offers travellers and adventure seekers a chance to learn about a rich and fascinating history. It is one of the last towns to embrace the golden era of Victoria’s goldfields rush. Beechworth offers a unique opportunity to experience a bygone era and is home to some of the finest historical buildings in Australia.
The Rutherglen Wine Region
The Rutherglen Wine Region is just a short drive down the road and should definitely be included on your itinerary. With over 20 wineries to explore, the Rutherglen Wine Region is one of the oldest wine regions in Australia and offers visitors an authentic wine-tasting experience. You can take part in the historic tours of the wineries, enjoy delicious local food and wine, and experience the charm and hospitality of the local winemakers.
As visitors and wine enthusiasts take a break from the hustle-bustle of city life, the Rutherglen region provides a perfect opportunity for a carefree experience. During your visit, you'll find plenty of restaurants and cafes that cater to different tastes, and wine tours which can easily be tailored to suit your mood or budget.
Bright and Its Alpine Scenery
Nestled halfway between Wangaratta and Mt. Hotham, Bright is a town that has gained prominence in recent years, thanks to its year-long outdoor activities and attractions. Bright’s natural surroundings and picturesque scenery make it one of the most popular stopovers for those embarking on this route. Bright is the ultimate destination for those who enjoy trekking, fishing, hiking, cycling, and skiing.
Bright is also popular for its lush vegetation, stunning mountain views, and peaceful rivers that offer a perfect escape from the chaos of the urban jungle. Another attraction that makes Bright a must-visit is its abundance of excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars, which all come together to create a vibrant and colourful food and wine scene.
Geelong and the Great Ocean Road
As you approach the last leg of your travels, your ultimate destination is none other than Geelong, Victoria, which serves as the gateway to the magnificent Great Ocean Road. Geelong has a remarkable waterfront where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, skate, have a romantic walk with your special someone, or paddleboard along the shorelines. Besides, the Geelong waterfront is a convenient stopover to refuel before starting on the final leg of your journey.
From Geelong, visitors can then embark on the Great Ocean Road and visit popular sights such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most beautiful coastal drives that boasts incredibly diverse landscapes and natural features such as long, white beaches, rugged surf beaches, towering cliffs and verdant forests.
Conclusion
We hope our guide has inspired you to take the road less travelled between Barooga and Geelong and explore some of the unique and picturesque destinations that New South Wales and Victoria have to offer. From natural wonders and wineries in Rutherglen Wine Region, Beechworth’s rich history, to the natural beauty of Nagambie and Bright. With so much to see and discover, there’s no doubt that the journey between Barooga and Geelong will be one of the best road trips you’ll ever take. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!