From exploring a vibrant underwater world that rivals the Great Barrier Reef to trekking through a national park rich in wildflower diversity, these six natural attractions present compelling reasons to visit Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula.

1. Brisbane Ranges National Park

Rich in native flora and fauna and located around 50 kilometers north-west of Geelong, Brisbane Ranges National Park is a favorite among hikers and birdwatchers. Venture along its numerous walking trails, and you’re likely to spot a bird or perhaps even a koala; the park is home to about 180 bird species and boasts the highest density of koalas in Victoria.

Venture along the trails, and you’re likely to spot some birds. (Image: Megan Winden)

In the spring, this area transforms into a colorful wildflower haven (you’ll find the largest variety statewide). Discover the rugged cliffs and gullies, adorned with rare wattles, grevilleas, gum trees, and bush peas, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Bring your loved ones to marvel at the diverse native flora and fauna of Geelong. (Image: Visit Geelong & The Bellarine)

2. Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park, Point Lonsdale

Located at the entrance of Port Phillip Bay, near the sprawling urban regions of Melbourne, Geelong, and the adjacent peninsulas, it’s easy to assume these waters lack intrigue. However, the reality is quite the opposite.

Snorkel or scuba dive to discover bustling underwater life. (Image: Visit Geelong & The Bellarine)

On land, explore the Ramsar Convention-listed wetland of Swan Bay, which is a habitat for nearly 200 species of birds. Each summer, around 10,000 migratory waders, such as plovers and curlews, inhabit these intertidal mudflats. Additionally, during low tide at Point Lonsdale, you can discover sizable rock pools, surf reef breaks, and swim in crystal-clear waters.

The underwater surprises are abundant. With over 30 shipwrecks to explore, the marine life in the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park is so diverse that it is said to rival the Great Barrier Reef. Dive in to uncover vibrant sponge gardens, soft corals, dense kelp forests, and expansive seagrass beds, all thriving with marine life. While diving at Pope’s Eye or Lonsdale Wall, keep an eye out for nudibranchs, Gulf wobbegongs, or schools of blue devils, leather jackets, dusky morwongs, giant Australian cuttlefish, and southern hulafish, among others.

3. Barwon River

Beginning in the Otway Ranges, this 160-kilometer river weaves its way east through Forrest and Birregurra before merging with the Moorabool River in Geelong and flowing into the sea at Barwon Heads. It rests on Wadawurrung country and was historically a vital food source for the Indigenous community, who once fished for trout and perch and caught eels along its banks.

Follow this waterway from end to end for a view of abundant native vegetation lining its banks. (Image: Visit Geelong Bellarine)

As you trace this waterway from start to finish, you’ll encounter a variety of native plants along its banks, making it a delight for dendrophiles: river red gums, Australian blackwoods, silver wattles, woolly tea trees, and drooping sheoaks, along with the country’s floral emblem, the golden wattle. Wildlife also finds shelter in the river and along its banks, from the rare nankeen night heron and platypus to swamp wallabies and native water rats.

Enjoy paddle boarding on the Barwon River. (Image: Visit Geelong & The Bellarine)

Geelong features numerous tranquil parks and reserves that take full advantage of the river’s beauty and natural attributes, such as Buckley Falls, Fyansford Common, and Zillah Crawcour Park. The riverside Balyang Sanctuary is arguably the standout; formerly a swamp, this park now encompasses nine hectares of lakes and native bushland, attracting pelicans, pied cormorants, and Eurasian coots.

Geelong offers several peaceful parks and reserves that enhance the river’s natural splendor. (Image: Visit Victoria)

4. Geelong Botanic Gardens, Geelong

Known as the city’s green heart, Geelong Botanic Gardens has been thriving since 1851. It’s home to not only the typical botanic garden highlights like rose gardens and expansive lawns perfect for picnics but also more than a dozen ‘heritage’ trees.

The Geelong Botanic Gardens is renowned as the city’s green heart. (Image: Visit Geelong & The Bellarine)

These significant specimens are listed on the National Trusts of Australia’s Register of Significant Trees and include an enormous Chilean wine palm and a maidenhair tree native to China.

Explore the home of over a dozen ‘heritage’ trees. (Image: Visit Geelong & The Bellarine)

5. You Yangs Regional Park

This mountain range’s granite peaks rise only 320 meters but present a striking profile against the flat Werribee Plain.

Bring your binoculars to spot an array of birdlife. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Prepare to use your binoculars, as the You Yangs Regional Park boasts an abundance of birdlife amidst its scrub and gum-covered slopes. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The You Yangs is excellent for mountain biking. (Image: Visit Victoria)

6. Serendip Sanctuary, Lara

A refuge for a variety of creatures, big and small, Serendip Sanctuary is a paradise for animal lovers. Managed by Parks Victoria, the sanctuary is situated within the open grassy woodlands, marshes, and wetlands of the volcanic Western Plains and houses over 150 species, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, bearded dragons, and spotted-tail quolls. Make sure to stop by one of the bird hides to gaze at the diversity of birdlife: among the 150 species that frequent this wildlife park, you might see black kites, Cape Barren geese, bush stone-curlews, or even the endangered masked owl.