With demand for Australian regional getaways said to be heating up, Gippsland is marketing itself as a stay-put destination for Kiwi travellers as opposed to just an add-on to Melbourne or Sydney.
Roughly the size of Switzerland, and spanning the coastal area between Melbourne and Sydney, Destination Gippsland’s Kelly McCarthy says the region caters to New Zealanders seeking a holiday that combines nature, outdoor adventure and food and wine, which can easily fill a week-long itinerary.
“Gippsland offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, attractions and experiences, from pristine beaches and national parks to charming villages, food trails and wilderness adventures,” she says. “In fact, most visitors leave with a list of reasons to return.”
. . . Experiences
McCarthy says signature experiences include cruising to Skull Rock with Wanderer Adventures at Wilsons Promontory and a soaking at Metung Hot Springs, as well as exploring Raymond Island and its resident koala population, and the preserved goldrush town of Walhalla.
Honorable mentions also go to Buchan Caves and Tarra-Bulga National Park for the more active, while for clients looking to get off the beaten track McCarthy highlights the ‘charming’ townships of Noojee and Neerim South, the foodie villages of Loch (pictured), Meeniyan and Fish Creek. The Snowy River National Park, offers hiking, rafting and four-wheel driving adventures.“Another local favourite is Marlo, where the Snowy River meets Bass Strait,” she says. “This peaceful village is ideal for fishing, boating, nature walks and birdwatching.”
. . . Events
The events line-up includes the East Gippsland Winter Festival in Jun and Jul, and the Mallacoota Wild Harvest Seafood Festival in Sep.
Accommodation choices include Karbeethong Lodge and Gipsy Point Lodge in East Gippsland, the lakeside Mariners Cove and Captains Cove in Paynesville, Mansi on Raymond in Central Gippsland, West Gippsland’s Mirador Springs Retreat. See more on the region HERE.
