Gippsland, Australia, MAY 2016 – Known for its yawning coastal stretches, quintessential villages and scenic touring routes, Gippsland, located to the east of Melbourne, boasts a variety of nature based experiences and eclectic villages waiting to be uncovered by travellers.

Easily accessible from Melbourne or via the scenic coastal route from Sydney, visitors to Gippsland will find a surprising variety of scenic routes to take by road. Each touring route exposes myriad activities for travellers to explore; from the raw wilderness of Wilsons Promontory, the genteel charm of the historic village of Walhalla to the striking Gippsland Lakes and its surrounding villages.

Close to Melbourne, West Gippsland is home to one of Victoria's most beloved national parks, Wilsons Promontory. Boasting stunning nature walks along untouched beaches and through granite-studded headlands, visitors are treated to spectacular views from the heights of Mount Oberon, and an abundance of native Australian wildlife closer to the coast at Tidal River. Bunyip Tours offer a guided journey of the highlights of Wilsons Promontory and, those looking for a little added luxury should consider a night at the Wilsons Promontory Wilderness Retreats.

Renowned for its family friendly atmosphere, Mount Baw Baw is a winter playground from June to August, offering easy access to beginner skiers and great snow play fun for the kids. Nothing compares to the Howling Huskies experience. In spring and summer, Mount Baw Baw transforms into a magnificent landscape with an abundance of adorning wildflowers to admire through 10km walking trails, cycling tracks to the Baw Baw Village and cross-country mountain bike riding through the rugged terrain. Visitors to the region can venture to the nearby historic town of Walhalla. Nestled amongst a spectacular wilderness valley, guests can check in at the central Star Hotel before venturing out on foot to discover the rich history of this quirky village.

The breathtakingly scenic Sydney Melbourne Coastal Drive weaves its way from Sydney down to Victoria where the first must-see location is the spectacular wilderness of Croajingalong National Park, then on to the beautiful Gippsland Lakes. Visitors can spend the day discovering tranquil waterways, coastal hamlets, stunning coastlines and river systems on board one of the many available boating tours, including the Riveria Scenic. A comfortable 40ft catamaran suitable for the whole family, the Riveria Scenic offers a relaxing afternoon to spot dolphins, take in picturesque views and hop off for a stroll along the beach. Visitors can indulge in the abundance of fresh local seafood straight from the ocean before unwinding at one of the various accommodation offerings from 5 Knots, The Moorings of Metung and McMillans of Metung to The Esplanade Spa & Resort and Waverley House Cottages in Lakes Entrance or the award winning Jetty Road Retreat, a secluded waterfront accommodation offering treetop views overlooking the lake and a private jetty.

Travelling through central Gippsland, Sale offers a great pit stop, with attractions including the Port of Sale Heritage cruise, wetlands, gardens, galleries and accommodation such as Captains Lodge International which hosts magnificent dinners, inspired by traditional Austrian and international fine foods.

Further south lies the historic Port Albert, Victoria's oldest port with buildings dating back to the 1850s. Historians, walkers, diners and those with an interest in maritime history will relish in Port Albert's offerings on display at the Maritime Museum.

A highlight of the Sydney Melbourne Coastal Drive is Wilsons Promontory, the southernmost point of mainland Australia, where visitors can explore small, hidden bays, see wildlife in its natural habitat, and visit the historic lighthouse. Active travellers can walk on a beach that squeaks (Squeaky Beach), and hike to the summit of Mt Oberon for a spectacular vista over Norman Bay and Bass Strait.

Heading east, travellers journey through the delightful Meeniyan and Koonwarra, both villages offering an array of culinary delights, vibrant galleries and a range of good local shops.

At neighbouring Inverloch, visitors will find the Bunurong Marine Park, filled with delightful rock pools, caves and abundant marine life, and the very first evidence of dinosaurs on a site that continues to be excavated by archaeologists. This seaside town is a surfing haven with accommodation at the expansive RACV Inverloch. Unwind with nature trails or head down the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine for a little adventure.

The journey also takes in Phillip Island, home to the famously cute Little Penguins at the Phillip Island Nature Parks. Travellers can unwind at Silverwater Resort, set high on the rolling hills of San Remo with spectacular views over Phillip Island and nearby Westernport Bay.

For more information about inspiring travel adventures in Gippsland visit www.inspiredbygippsland.com.au.