The Best of Victoria’s Wine Regions
Whoever said you can’t live in luxury while enjoying the outdoors hasn’t been camping in Victoria’s wine regions (or camped in a Royal Flair Caravan). Whether you love a good glass of red or white, we’ve got you covered. These grape-filled parts of Victoria cater to all tastebuds. So, sit back, fill up a glass, and have a read of where your next wine-filled trip could be.
1. Yarra Valley
Home to over 300 vineyards and wineries, a visit to the famed Yarra Valley will spoil you for choice. The moderate climate and balanced granite and limestone soil help create some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties in the market.
Some of our favourite wineries in the region are Oakridge Wines, Levantine Hill and Giant Steps. Head to any one of these spots for a wonderful meal and a glass of their finest to match. Breathtaking views are, of course, also included in the package here at the Yarra Valley.
For some close interaction with nature, park your caravan at one of the many sites in the area. Campsites like Andersons Mill, Feiglin Campground and Toolangi Recreation Reserve Campground are even free of charge. You’ll soon be swimming and fishing in crystal-clear rivers during the day and enjoying your new bottle of Chardonnay in the evening, before falling asleep in your comfortable Royal Flair Caravan.
2. Mornington Peninsula
Only an hour’s drive south of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is blessed with beautiful views, and a yet another perfect for place Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to thrive. Wineries like Polperro, Jackelope, Montalto Vineyard & Olive Grove are recommended for some prime wine tasting.
Another must see is the Port Phillip Estate. As one of best food and wine destinations in the country and an architectural landmark, this winery won’t dissapoint. For an elegant experience try the Cellar Door, or a more casual meal at the Cellar Door Kitchen.
While you are in the area, Mornington Peninsula is also home to white sandy beaches, fantastic fishing spots and other aquatic activities. The Sorrento Foreshore and the Big4 Mornington Peninsula Holiday Park are well equipped – shower and toilet blocks, shaded sites, and barbecue pits are readily available. Coastal towns in the area are also home to some fantastic restaurants and cafes, if you are still keen for a bite after a vineyard visit.
3. King Valley
The King Valley Wine Region, located in the North East of Victoria, has one of the largest varieties of any wine region in Australia. The mix of steep slopes, different soil types and microclimates help to make the magic of wine-making happen. This region is especially well-known to have an Italian influence, reflected in the Prosecco, Barbera and Marzemino wines available here.
One of the best places to experience this is at Dal Zotto. With spectacular views, a cellar door and an Italian restaurant to die for, this is the perfect place to enjoy a sparkling glass of Prosecco.
Plenty of wonderful campsites are also in the area and waiting for you to park your Royal Flair Caravan and enjoy. Pioneer Bridges and Gentle Annie Caravan and Camping Reserve are our personal favourites. These spots are ideal to getting dirty in nature during the day and savouring a bottle of wine by the campfire later at night.
4. Macedon Ranges
If you’re not from Victoria, fly into Melbourne and you won’t be too far away from the Macedon Ranges. The coolest wine region in mainland Australia produces wonderful bottles such as the Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Riesling. The wineries not to be missed are Gisborne Peak, Hanging Rock Winery and Granite Hills. But make sure to set some time aside for Curly Flat winery if the wine cellar experience is what you’re all about.
If you’re still not convinced, the Macedon Ranges are also home to rugged river gorges and spectacular rock formations suitable for plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy when you’re not sipping on a glass of Chardonnay. And if you’re not a creature of comfort, worry not! The Macedon Caravan Park and Rowallan Scout Camp aren’t far and have all the amenities you’ll need.
5. Beechworth
Lying at the foothills of the Victorian Alps is the beautiful Beechworth wine region. Much of the enthusiasm in this area stems from the Giaconda winery – known in particular for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz. Established in the 70’s, Giaconda received the Australian Winemaker of the Year Award from the Australian Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine and while the area’s production is on a much smaller scale in comparison to other regions in Victoria, they excel in bringing out the best quality and exciting new flavours from their crops.
The Beechworth area itself is also known for its gold rush history. Visit the Beechworth Historic and Cultural Precinct to see the gaol that hosted Ned Kelly or head to the Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum for a spooky tour. If you’re in the mood for more adventurous activities, there is no shortage of cycling and mountain biking trails for both the thrill seekers and the relaxed riders. Finally come home to your caravan in either the Beechworth Lake Sambell Caravan Park or Mount Pilot Park – and end your day with a lovely bottle of wine.
