Victoria, Australia, easily boasts some of the most beautiful small towns in the world. These charming Victoria towns feature quaint shops, cafés, and historic buildings that provide a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural heritage. Whether visitors prefer coastal towns with stunning ocean views or mountain hamlets nestled in the hills, Victoria caters to every traveler’s preferences, and some of them might even rival the world’s best summer destinations.

This article will delve into the most beautiful small towns Victoria, Australia, has in store for visitors, showcasing the state’s enchanting and charming locales. Prepare to fall in love with Victoria’s hidden gems; it’s time to explore its most breathtaking towns.

15

Portland

10,000-ish people, the birthplace of Victoria, and century-old structures

Rocky beach and foreshore cliffs near Portland in Victoria, Australia.

One of the many beautiful places in Victoria, Australia, is the somewhat small town of Portland. However, recently, it has seen new residents flocking to its borders.

Portland is known for being the birthplace of Victoria, with many of its buildings being constructed from bluestone in the 19th century. Convicts built many of the historic homes, public offices, etc., so we have them to thank for Portland’s beauty.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Portland Botanical Gardens, Portland Powerhouse Motor and Car Museum, Point Danger Gannet Colony, Portland Lighthouse, Yellow Rock Farm
• Best Time To Visit: January to mid-March
• How To Get Around: By car, train, or bus

14

Colac

A population of ~9,000 people, a massive fishing lake, and scenic green spaces

Sunset over the town of Colac in Victoria, Australia

Another one of the scenic small towns in Victoria, Australia, to visit is Colac. This town is in the Western District of Victoria​​​​​​ ​and is perfectly near Melbourne. Because of its proximity to such a popular city, people often forget Colac, but they shouldn’t.

This town has Botanic Gardens, Lake Colac, and a rich farming and forest history, all situated on the lands of the Eastern Maar People. Colac is rather peaceful and is often considered a nice place to retire or start a family in the Melbourne area.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Colac Botanic Gardens, Lake Colac, Memorial Square, Meredith Park, Lake Corangamite
• Best Time To Visit: January to early March
• How To Get Around: By bus, train, or car

13

Bright

Known for its hiking and biking, plus a small community of 2,400 people

Fall foliage in the autumn in the rural town of Bright, Victoria, Australia

Bright shines bright with its scenic hiking and biking trails as well as the serene Ovens River and Centenary Park, making it one of the best small towns in Victoria, Australia, for outdoor fans. Although the town is beautiful all year, the fall foliage season elevates its splendor to new heights, and the winters transform it into a hub for snow activities and a gateway to the Alpine Region.

The town’s food and drink scene is another plus factor. Visitors can enjoy exquisite wine and good times at any number of breweries and distilleries, including Bright Brewery, Billy Button Wines cellar door, and Reed & Co. Distillery. Overall, Bright is among the most beautiful rural towns in Victoria for those seeking ot combine scenic hiking with excellent beer and wine tasting.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Bright Autumn Festival, Mount Buffalo National Park, Ovens River and Canyon Walk, Alpine Village Atmosphere
• Best Time To Visit: April to May
• How To Get Around: By bus, train, or car

12

Maldon

~1,665 people, 1850s Gold Rush charm, and a historic railway

The Main Street of the old gold mining town of Maldon, Central Victoria, Australia

Maldon is among the many beautiful historic towns in Victoria, Australia, and is the ideal location for anyone who wants to get a glimpse of Victoria during the 1850s gold rush. The village has maintained its old-world beauty with its ancient weatherboard residences, stone structures, and traditional storefronts.

Visiting the town is like stepping back in time. Visitors can check out the Central Deborah Gold Mine, enjoy a scenic ride on the Victorian Goldfields Railway, witness the beautiful surroundings of Mount Tarrengower, or attend vibrant events like the Maldon Antique Fair. Above all, this town is also an excellent antique shopping destination in Victoria.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Maldon Historic Reserve, Beehive Mine, Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum, Mount Tarrengower Lookout
• Best Time To Visit: January through April and October through December
• How To Get Around: By car, bus, or train

11

Healesville

~8,000 residents, nature walks, a historic railway, wildlife reserves, and wineries

Healesville in Victoria, Australia

One of the best country towns in Victoria, Healesville entices visitors with its nature walks, delicious food, wildlife reserves, and wineries. The main street, lined with cafés, pubs, and boutique shops, is bustling all through the week. The town, however, comes alive on weekends with a multitude of visitors.

There is so much to see and do in this small town, like riding the historic Yarra Valley Railway, going on gorgeous nature walks, touring the TarraWarra Museum of Art, and, of course, sampling wine at some of the most prestigious wineries in the world. Another big highlight is the Healesville Sanctuary, a wildlife reserve and a popular tourist destination in Victoria.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Healesville Sanctuary, Yarra Valley Wine Region, Maroondah Reservoir Park, TarraWarra Museum of Art
• Best Time To Visit: September through November
• How To Get Around: By car

10

Sassafras

~1,000 residents and laid-back charm in the Dandenong Ranges

Miss Marples Tea Room in Sassafras, Mt Dandenong, Victoria, Australia

Sassafras is a must-visit town in Victoria to experience laid-back vibes and stunning vistas of the Dandenong Ranges. There are many specialty shops and boutiques to explore, but one of the main draws is Miss Marple’s Tearoom, inspired by famous author Agatha Christie.

The town is close to Alfred Nicholson Gardens, Sherbrooke Falls, and the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, so visitors will have plenty to explore and experience. Additionally, the Dandenong Ranges offer a variety of fun activities that can certainly make a trip full of priceless memories.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Miss Marple’s Tearoom, Sherbrooke Forest, Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens, Sassafras Creek Nature Trail
• Best Time To Visit: January through May
• How To Get Around: By bus, train, or car

9

Daylesford

A wellness retreat home to 3,000 people, mineral springs, spas, and gold mining history

The lake in Daylesford, Victoria, Australia

Situated in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, about 90 minutes northwest of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia, Daylesford is among the best towns to visit in Victoria, famous for its natural mineral springs and spa culture, drawing in many visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.

The town’s fascinating history goes back to the 1850s when gold was discovered in the area. Several of the historic buildings from that period remain to this day and can be viewed during a walking tour of the town.

Furthermore, travelers can browse through the local art galleries, antique stores, and specialty shops. Plus, visiting this beautiful town might be one of the best things to do in Australia for wellness buffs, thanks to its natural mineral springs and spa culture.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, Daylesford Sunday Market, Wombat Flat Mineral Spring, Passing Clouds, The Convent Daylesford
• Best Time To Visit: December through February
• How To Get Around: By bus or car

8

Castlemaine

Home to ~7,000 people, gold mining history, museums, and the Campaspe River

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, approximately 120 km northwest of Melbourne, lies the delightful small town of Castlemaine. Surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, it is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, with the scenic Campaspe River flowing through it.

Castlemaine has a rich history that dates back to the 1850s when gold was discovered in the region, and visitors can take a leisurely walk around town to see numerous historic buildings and landmarks.

The town is home to many attractions, including the Castlemaine Art Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Australian art, and the Buda Historic Home and Garden, which offers visitors a glimpse into the life of a 19th-century gold rush family.

Given its old-world buildings, Castlemaine is definitely one of the most beautiful small towns in Australia.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Castlemaine Art Museum, Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, Theatre Royal, The Mill Castlemaine, Castlemaine Art Museum
• Best Time To Visit: September to November
• How To Get Around: By train, bus, or car

7

Kyneton

~ 5,000 people, gold rush history, and old-world buildings tucked in the Macedon Ranges

The Heritage-listed Post Office in Kyneton, Victoria, Australia

Located in the scenic Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, Kyneton is among the most beautiful towns in Victoria and is situated about an hour’s drive northwest of Melbourne. With its delightful blend of historical architecture, gourmet food scene, and charming boutiques, Kyneton is a popular destination for visitors seeking a laid-back and authentic rural experience.

Dating back to the 1850s, Kyneton has a rich gold rush history, and many of its historic buildings have been beautifully preserved to this day. A walking tour of the town allows visitors to see some of these stunning structures, including the Kyneton Post Office, the Bank of New South Wales, and the Mechanics Institute.

Staying in Kyneton might not be as extraordinary as staying at Australia’s first underwater hotel, but it is definitely a charming option!

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Historic architecture, gourmet food scene, and charming boutiques
• Best Time To Visit: September through November
• How To Get Around: By car, bus, or train

6

Beechworth

A small town of 4,000 with Gold Rush-era history in the Australian Alps

The town center in Beechworth, Victoria, Australia

Beechworth is one of Victoria’s most beautiful small towns situated in the northeastern region of the state, approximately 270 km northeast of Melbourne. It lies in the foothills of the Australian Alps and is renowned for its well-maintained historical structures, gold rush past, and natural beauty.

Since it’s one of the most beautiful towns Victoria has to offer nature lovers, roaming around the mountains of Beechworth is right up there with the most beautiful hikes in Australia.

The town was established during the 1850s gold rush, and numerous historic buildings from this era have been impeccably conserved. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the town and witness these edifices, including the Beechworth Courthouse, the Telegraph Station, and the Powder Magazine.

• Popular Attractions/Things To Do/Top Sights: Bridge Road Brewers, Old Beechworth Gaol, Woolshed Falls, Beechworth Historic Courthouse, Burke Museum
• Best Time To Visit: November to March
• How To Get Around: By car

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