Patch of Paradise: 6 Dreamy Destinations Around Victoria For A Tree Change

Victorians looking for a simpler, slower pace of life are relocating to the regions in droves. With the tree change trend expected to stay, these six towns are perfect for escaping to the country.

Echuca

Straggling the border between Victoria and NSW, the idyllic town of Echuca sits on the banks of the Murray River and has a strong colonial history as Australia’s busiest inland port during the mid-1800s. This river-bound region offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the water – from swimming and water skiing to kayaking or cruising on a heritage paddle-steamer. Follow walking tracks through towering red gums and wetlands or cycle a string of forest pathways keeping your eyes peeled for native wildlife. In town, an emerging food scene includes craft breweries, coffee roasters and local producers, which can be sampled at the bimonthly farmers’ market.

Bendigo

Beautiful Bendigo, with its heritage streetscapes dating back to the gold rush, this is a city that perfectly harmonises history and innovation. It’s home to one of Australia’s largest regional galleries, along with The Capital theatre, artists’ studios and antique emporiums luring creatives and culture vultures out of Melbourne. There’s paddock-to-plate dining (try Masons of Bendigo and The Dispensary) and local farmers’ markets offering up a bounty of fresh produce. Those looking to get back to nature can bushwalk or mountain bike along the Goldfields Track, that stretches more than 200 kilometres from Bendigo to Ballarat.

Myrtleford

Blessed with stunning natural beauty, Victoria’s High Country has seen some of the biggest growth in property prices over the past year. In Myrtleford, myriad cultural and culinary delights create an enviable lifestyle with cellar doors and farm gates to natural swimming holes and walking tracks around Reform Hill. Take in the region’s renowned autumnal hues and rug up and hit the slopes of Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Buffalo, all within easy reach. Cyclists can pedal the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, traversing hidden valleys and mountain ranges on one of the best trails in the country.

Warragul

The provincial town of Warragul lies within the lush landscapes of West Gippsland with a backdrop of undulating hills and dairy fields. Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, residents can hop on the train and arrive straight at Flinders Street station. Here, quaint streets are lined with cafes and providores, where locals can stock up and enjoy a picnic at stunning Civic Park. Here you’ll also find the West Gippsland Arts Centre, the region’s eminent spot for music, festivals and events. Families love the easy Two Towns Cycling Trail (linking the towns of Drouin and Warrragul) and the majestic walk to Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls.

Castlemaine

Historic Castlemaine has long been favoured as a day trip destination among Melbournians, but in recent times has experienced rapid growth with city folk looking to leave the hustle behind. Its stunning Victorian and Georgian homes tell off a rich past, once home to the wealthiest gold field in the world. Today however, it’s known as a vibrant arts hub and treasure trove for antique hunters. Community comes together at The Mill – a precinct for makers, markets and good food, including a Viennese coffee house, cheesemaker and chocolatier. There’s live music at Theatre Royal and The Bridge Hotel and a variety of lovely independent boutiques dotted along the high street.

Daylesford

Long idealised as a tree change destination, towns within the Macedon Ranges region have seen demand skyrocket during the pandemic. Picturesque Daylesford combines a close-knit community with spectacular bucolic scenery – it’s famed for its mineral springs – and acclaimed restaurants that celebrate the region’s excellent local produce. Sip cool climate wines and craft beer, feel rejuvenated at one of its notable spa retreats and fill your lungs on a great number of walking tracks. Picnic beside Lake Daylesford or among the magnificent flora of Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.