melbourne scenic drive Page 547

Start with the Great Ocean Road: from Torquay through Lorne to Apollo Bay, it’s cliffside drama and koala cameos—allow a full day unless you’re part time wizard. For forests and sweepers, the Black Spur (Healesville to Narbethong) serves cathedral‑tall mountain ash and silky bends best tackled early before the caravan conga line. Closer to town, the Dandenong Ranges loop (Sassafras–Olinda–SkyHigh) gives views, bakeries and corners that scold heavy feet. The Mornington Peninsula circuit—Arthurs Seat, Flinders, Cape Schanck—mixes vineyards with sea breezes and a smug picnic. Yarra Valley backroads add wineries and wombats if you’ve still got daylight and restraint. Pack patience, check conditions, and remember: Victoria’s speed cameras have better reflexes than you do.