drives in melbourne

After proper drives in Melbourne that don’t involve tram tracks and beige traffic? Start with the Dandenong Ranges via Mount Dandenong Tourist Road—twisty, shaded, and close enough for a late brekkie.

The Black Spur from Healesville dishes up smooth sweepers and towering gums; go early before caravans turn corners into queues.

Crave sea breeze? Loop the Mornington Peninsula to Arthurs Seat, or stretch to the Great Ocean Road for cliffs, koalas, and tourists wielding selfie sticks.

Wine on the mind? Glide the Yarra Valley back roads and pretend the boot’s for “tasting notes,” not cheese.

Or point north to the Macedon Ranges and Mount Macedon—cool air, big trees, and brakes that will thank you on the descent.