Falls Creek
Falls Creek is best known for being Australia's blackest ski run with over 450 hectares of snow covered fields. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, you'll benefit from Victoria's largest snow making facilities and the steepest and deepest skiing and snow boarding. Falls Creek however is a great place to explore all year round. Drive along the 230-kilometre Bogong Alpine Way, which loops through Bright, Mount Beauty, Falls Creek and over Dinner Plain and Mount Hotham. Cycle up the High Country's highest peaks or simply enjoy riding between wineries and gourmet producers. Hike to the top of Victoria's highest peak, Mt Bogong for breathtaking views. Stroll through Alpine National Park and Mount Buffalo and see wildflowers, high country plains and rocky escarpments. Experience 'The Man From Snowy River' horse trail. Falls Creek is a five-hour drive from Melbourne and eight hours from Sydney.
Rutherglen
Rutherglen is best known for its fortified wines and it is one of the oldest wine-growing areas in Australia. Shop at antique and bric-a-brac shops, which are in historic buildings as the area was once a gold mining town. Taste some wonderful wines including robust red wines, crisp, modern style whites and the regions superb fortified wines, especially Muscat’s. There are 20 magnificent wineries to choose from and you can join a tour, ride a bike or hire a limousine to enjoy the scenic winery circuit. The area produces some wonderful chutneys and preserves as well as honey, cherries, berries, nuts, trout and Murray cod. Other activities include fishing, water skiing, canoeing, swimming, horse riding, parachuting, gliding and speedway racing. The drive from Melbourne is about three hours away. If great food and wine as well as fun outdoors are what you are seeking, then visit Rutherglen today.