When it comes to jaw-dropping vistas, look no further than the Grampians. A trail for the experienced hiker, this 8.4km track offers sweeping views across the postcard-worthy Grampians National Park for those up to the challenge.

Wanderers, hikers and nature lovers alike will love trekking the George Bass Coastal Walk. Grab your pup or best hiking buddy and follow the folds of the land sitting high above the dramatic ocean landscape. This one-way 7km route (from Anderson to Kilcunda) takes you through some of the most rugged coastal scenery on the Bass Coast, featuring dramatic cliffs, woodland gullies and tucked-away coves. The views over picturesque Half Moon Bay will blow you away!

This spectacular trail to the summit of Mount Bogong begins at the Mountain Creek picnic area and follows a vehicle track to the foot of the aptly named Staircase Spur, where the ascent begins through a forest of peppermint gums. Bivouac Hut, about halfway along the climb, offers a welcome resting place for weary hikers. The track then passes snow gums and alpine scrub before opening out onto the summit plain.

While technically still in Melbourne, the breathtaking Werribee Gorge feels a world away from the chaos of city life. And though it might be a little on the challenging side (complete with climbs, descents, and river crossings), this 10km bushwalk offers a genuine taste of outback adventuring within an hour of the CBD.

A scenic 6km walk that starts at Trentham’s former railway station, the Domino Rail Trail follows the now disused tracks on an ambling journey through the local countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass everything from farmland to dense bush as you enter into the Wombat State Forest. Best finish up at a country pub for some well-deserved sustenance.

While technically still in Melbourne, the breathtaking Werribee Gorge feels a world away from the chaos of city life. And though it might be a little on the challenging side (complete with climbs, descents, and river crossings), this 10km bushwalk offers a genuine taste of outback adventuring within an hour of the CBD.

The true definition of the ‘scenic route’, the Bushrangers Bay Hiking Trail begins on the well-appointed boardwalk to the famous Cape Schanck and its lighthouse, built back in 1859 alongside an awe-inspiring volcanic plug. The entirety of the walk is equally impressive, complete with sweeping ocean views over the wild coastline.

Wilson’s Promontory is about as beautiful as they come. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any better, there’s the prospect of watching a glorious sunset over the water from the peak of the Mount Oberon Summit Walk. Add to that a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding national park and, well, what are you waiting for?

There’s something magic in the air out in the Dandenong Ranges. Soak it all up on the Sherbrooke Falls Trail, as you wind your way past mossy river banks and lush ferns along the path to the gently trickling falls. Along the way, you’ll amble by towering sassafras and mountain ash – some of which are an impressive 200 years old.

You’ve likely heard of the legend surrounding Hanging Rock. A beautiful site, rich in history and mystery – this hiking trail passes through the area made famous by the iconic Australian novel (and film and TV series) Picnic at Hanging Rock. Offering beautiful views over the surrounding farmland and Macedon Ranges, it’s the perfect low-key day trip that comes complete with an intriguing back story.