scenic drives near melbourne Page 9

For scenic drives near Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road delivers cliffs, koalas and corners for days—start at Torquay and aim for Lorne or Apollo Bay.

Short and sweet, the Black Spur Drive from Healesville to Marysville winds through towering rainforest like a leafy cathedral.

Prefer vineyards? Loop the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges for views, bakeries and an excuse to buy too much cheese.

The Mornington Peninsula coastal run with a detour up Arthurs Seat is peak picnic-and-postcard territory.

Got more time? The Great Alpine Road via Bright and Mount Hotham swaps sea breeze for mountain air and cracking vistas.

Pack a thermos, keep an eye for wildlife at dusk, and enjoy the bends without pretending you’re setting lap records.