138km | 2:30 hours | Drouin - Mirboo North - Trafalgar - Warragul. Weave through tall trees and lush green hills, dotted with tranquil parklands.
One of Victoria’s most scenic drives, the Grand Ridge Road weaves for 40km through tall trees, native bush and lush green hills, blending together warm country villages, wineries, breweries and tranquil parks and bushland.
Drouin South to Mirboo North
Via Grand Ridge Road
85km | 1:47 hours
From Warragul, make your way to the Korumburra-Warragul Rd (C425), heading south. Your journey along the Grand Ridge Road begins at its western edge, which intersects with the C425 in Tetoora Road. This serpentine road winds its way along the ridge of the Strzelecki Ranges, offering views over handsome hills and bushland.
At Seaview, take McDonalds Track to Mt Worth State Park. Lace up your runners and head for the walking tracks weaving through mountain ash and blue gum forest. This oasis of ferny glades and lush waterfalls is the perfect spot for a picnic or a breath of fresh eucalypt-scented air.
Return along McDonalds Track and continue heading east on Grand Ridge Road. The road intersects with the Strzelecki Highway, taking you on to lovely Mirboo North. This hilltop town boasts plenty of eateries and places to stay.
Leg 1 Highlights
Mirboo North to Trafalgar
30km | 28 mins
Stumble across village charm at Mirboo North with beloved Baromi Park running the length of the main drag, then glide into Lamezleighs for fabulous coffee and brunch delights. Swing through enchanting hilly countryside and eucalypt forest on the 13km Grand Ridge Rail Trail (Mirboo North - Boolarra) then reward your pursuits with a cleansing ale at the Mirboo North Hotel or one of the town's eateries.
Discover a little piece of magic on the Lyrebird Forest Walk (4.8km; 90 mins) where the bush track weaves between tall trees and alongside a gently flowing stream.
In Thorpdale, a visit to the Thorpdale Bakery is a must (the pies, seriously, the pies) and the pub offers warm country hospitality. This town is the heartland of potato country, and you can grab your spuds seasonally (Jan – Jul) from the farm gate at Thorpdale Potatoes.
A quick side-dash to Narracan Falls (add 10 minutes to your drive time) rewards with a beautiful waterfall and large grassy reserve, perfect for picnics.
Then, onwards to Trafalgar.
Leg 2 Highlights
Trafalgar to Warragul
24km | 18 mins
The bite-sized town of Trafalgar offers plenty to do. Check out the quirky Trafalgar Holden Museum celebrating Australia's Holden heritage from the 1850s. It's not just a love affair with cars - there are saddles, military artefacts, golf carts and aero engines.
Enjoy a spot of golf at the Trafalgar Golf Club, get to Bar Twenty4 for a cocktail or watch a game on the giant screens. Discover moss-covered logs, ferny glades and the delightful smell of wet earth at the lovely Uralla Nature Reserve. On your way out of town, stock up at The Spud Shed for their heavenly array of fresh fruit and vegetables, local spuds, homemade cakes and vegan and gluten-free sections.
Head west on the M1 and jump out at Yarragon, your ticket to country charm. The village is a certified browser’s delight with clothing, gifts, antiques, collectables, jewellery, art and crafts. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to cafes too – so much caffeine, so little time.
Time your arrival in Warragul for dinner or lunch at the hatted Hogget Kitchen for a celebration of Gippsland’s bountiful goodness. Located on a beautiful vineyard, this restaurant focuses on local, grass-fed meats butchered, cured or smoked to its succulent best in-house.
Pop in to the Baw Baw Cellar Door, home of great Gippsland boutique wines, where you can sample wines.
