South Gippsland Hinterland

Rolling green hills, lush dairy pastures, and pockets of cool temperate rainforest define the South Gippsland Hinterland, a serene escape from Melbourne’s bustle. This is authentic farming country, where country roads lead to artisan cheeseries, boutique wineries, and historic towns with veranda-lined main streets. The air smells of eucalyptus and fresh grass, and the pace slows to a gentle amble. It’s a region that rewards self-drive exploration, with scenic drives through the Strzelecki Ranges and along the Great Southern Rail Trail.

Highlights & What to See

• Great Southern Rail Trail – Cycle or walk this 70km rail-trail from Leongatha to Port Welshpool, passing farmland, forests, and old railway stations. Best for a half-day ride or a longer multi-day trip.
• Koonwarra – A tiny village with a vibrant food scene: the Koonwarra Store is legendary for its homemade pies, and the weekly farmers’ market brims with local produce.
• Meeniyan – Browse the Meeniyan Art Gallery, then grab a coffee at the quirky Meeniyan Store. Don’t miss the nearby Prom Country Cheese for tastings.
• Tarwin Lower & the Tarwin River – Canoe or kayak on the tranquil river, or explore the coastal dunes at the river mouth. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic.
• Strzelecki Ranges – Drive the winding roads through towering mountain ash forests and tree ferns. Stop at the Morwell National Park for short rainforest walks and lyrebird spotting.
• Foster – A charming town with antique shops, the Foster Brewing Co. for craft beer, and access to the northern edge of Wilsons Promontory.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to soak up the hinterland’s character. Spend one day cycling or driving the Great Southern Rail Trail and visiting Koonwarra and Meeniyan. A second day could explore the Strzelecki Ranges and Foster, with an evening at a local pub. If you have a third day, add a trip to Tarwin Lower or head south to the coast. The region is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, stopping for cheese tastings and spontaneous walks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wilsons Promontory National Park – Just south of Foster, this is Victoria’s premier coastal wilderness, with stunning beaches and hiking trails. Combine for a perfect nature escape.
• Phillip Island – A short drive west, famous for the Penguin Parade, surf beaches, and wildlife parks. Great for families or a coastal contrast.
• Bass Coast & Inverloch – The coastal towns of Inverloch and Cape Paterson offer beaches, rock pools, and the Bunurong Marine Park. Ideal for a seaside day trip.
• Korumburra – Known for the Coal Creek Heritage Village, a living-history museum recreating a 19th-century mining town. Worth a morning detour.
• Leongatha – The hinterland’s main service town, with a good farmers’ market on Saturdays and the popular Dalwhinnie Bakery. A practical base for exploring.

Please check official sources for current details.