good drives in melbourne

For coastal drama, the Great Ocean Road (Torquay–Apollo Bay) serves sweeping bends and sea spray—allow 300+ km return from the CBD. North-east, the Black Spur (Healesville to Narbethong) threads ferny rainforest with smooth, cambered corners—go early to dodge caravans. Closer in, loop the Dandenong Ranges via Tourist Rd, Sherbrooke and Olinda for short, twisty fun and bakery rewards. Wine and views? Cruise the Yarra Valley and up to Lake Mountain for alpine air without crossing the Alps. For bayside bliss, run the Mornington Peninsula from Arthurs Seat to Flinders, then back via Red Hill’s cellar doors. Pack patience for long weekends, watch the wildlife at dusk, and keep it legal—the only souvenirs you want are photos and a pie crumb in the seat.