Geelong, Victoria's second-largest city, is a vibrant destination with a rich industrial heritage and a modern cosmopolitan makeover. Set around the sparkling Corio Bay and surrounded by rolling hills dotted with award-winning wineries, breweries, and farm gates, Geelong is the gateway to the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula.
Geelong and its surrounds offer a wide range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can spend a day hiking in the You Yangs, a range of granite peaks that rise up from the Western Plains. The award-winning Kevin Hoffman Walk is perfect for those who appreciate Australian native species of plants and flowers. For a more thrilling experience, try skydiving or a helicopter ride high above the region.
Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can gain insight into Indigenous history along the Bellarine on a tour of the building and grounds, taste traditional bush tucker, and try their hand at throwing a boomerang. The region is also home to various native animals, such as kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and koalas.
Geelong has an evolving and exciting food and wine scene, with gastronomic pubs, award-winning cocktail bars, and French-style eateries alongside authentic Italian fare and Asian cuisine. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of dining experiences, from fine dining at hatted restaurants to more casual options.
There are various tour options available for those who want to explore Geelong and its surrounds. One popular option is the 5-hour Geelong & Bellarine Day Tour, which takes visitors on a sightseeing tour of Geelong, Queenscliff, and Barwon Heads. For those who prefer a more personalized experience, the 5-hour Geelong, Bellarine & Wildlife Tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing visitors to choose additional educational, adventure, and foodie options.
Geelong is conveniently located just over an hour's drive (74 kms) southwest from Melbourne, around Port Phillip Bay. A short ferry ride from Geelong can also take visitors to the Mornington Peninsula, making it an ideal hub for exploring the region's diverse attractions.