Victoria, Australia, is a treasure trove of experiences packed into a relatively small area. Its stunning coastlines, lush vineyards, dramatic mountains, and intriguing historical sites make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking authentic adventures. We particularly love the Wilsons Promontory: Afternoon Wilderness Cruise for its breathtaking marine scenery and wildlife encounters, and the Yarra Valley: Self-Guided River Sledding Adventure, which offers a fun and relaxed way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re into wildlife, history, wine, or outdoor activities, Victoria has a tour that will fit your style.
Victoria’s diverse landscapes mean you can indulge in everything from tranquil river float trips to moonlit ghost tours. With multiple options, each offering something special, you’ll find plenty to pique your interest. Below is a carefully curated list of the 7 best tours and experiences, complete with insider details to help you choose the right adventure.
- 1. Wilsons Promontory: Afternoon Wilderness Cruise
- 2. Grampians: J Ward Lunatic Asylum Night Ghost Tour
- 3. Yarra Valley: Self-Guided River Sledding Adventure
- 4. Pizzini Wines: Italian Wine Tasting and Picnic Experience
- 5. Ocean Grove: 1.5-Hour Private Surf Lesson
- 6. Daylesford: Gin-Making Masterclass
- 7. Yarra Valley: Orchard Tractor Tour with Fruit Tasting
- How to Choose
1. Wilsons Promontory: Afternoon Wilderness Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the Wilsons Promontory: Afternoon Wilderness Cruise, which offers a spectacular look at Australia’s southernmost mainland point. This 2.5-hour cruise takes you along the granite coastlines of Wilsons Promontory National Park, renowned for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife. The boat used is the world’s largest custom-built amphibious vessel, allowing for close-up views of the rugged shoreline and islands like Skull Rock.
What makes this tour special is the combination of wildlife spotting and scenic cruising. You’ll likely see seals, dolphins, and seabirds, while the expert guides share insights about the area’s natural history. The highlight for many is viewing the iconic Skull Rock and other secluded islands that are otherwise inaccessible. The guides’ storytelling adds depth, making this more than just a boat ride.
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8/5 score from 163 reviews, praising the professionalism and knowledge of the crew. The cruise is well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a comfortable, engaging way to explore this stunning marine park. The price offers excellent value for the quality of the experience and the scenery.
Bottom Line: This tour combines adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty in a relaxed, accessible format perfect for nature lovers who want a memorable afternoon on the water.
2. Grampians: J Ward Lunatic Asylum Night Ghost Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Grampians: J Ward Lunatic Asylum Night Ghost Tour, an eerie yet fascinating exploration of Australia’s notorious asylum. The tour lasts about 2 hours and is centered around the historic J Ward Lunatic Asylum in Ararat, known for housing some of the country’s most infamous criminals, including Chopper Read.
During this tour, you’ll visit parts of the asylum that are usually closed to the public, including original buildings and the museum. The ghost tour component adds a spine-tingling element, with guides sharing chilling stories about the asylum’s darker history and the inmates who once lived there. The atmosphere is enhanced by the dim lighting and the building’s creepy architecture.
Rated 4.4/5 from 40 reviews, visitors appreciate the mix of history and haunted tales. It’s perfect for those interested in macabre history or who enjoy a spooky evening. The tour is a bit intense and not suitable for very young children or those sensitive to ghost stories.
Bottom Line: For history buffs with a taste for the spooky, this tour offers a rare glimpse into Australia’s mental health history, with a ghostly twist to keep you on edge.
3. Yarra Valley: Self-Guided River Sledding Adventure
At number 3 is the Yarra Valley: Self-Guided River Sledding Adventure, a surprisingly fun way to enjoy nature’s tranquility. This 2-hour experience on the Yarra River combines gentle paddling with a relaxed float on a specially designed sled. It’s ideal for those who want an active, outdoor escape without the complexity of guided tours.
The adventure begins at the Warburton Cricket Club, where you’ll get a safety briefing, then hop into the Yarra River Van for transport to the launch point. The main event is a 100-minute self-guided float down a 3 km stretch of accessible, gentle rapids. The sleds are easy to control, making this suitable for beginners or anyone looking for a laid-back experience.
Participants rave about the fun and serenity, with one reviewer giving it a perfect 5/5 rating. The tour includes all necessary gear, plus a shuttle back to the start. It’s a wonderful activity for families, groups, or solo travelers seeking a simple outdoor adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour is an affordable, low-stress way to connect with nature while enjoying a leisurely float down a scenic river—perfect for all ages.
4. Pizzini Wines: Italian Wine Tasting and Picnic Experience
Number 4 is the Pizzini Wines: Italian Wine Tasting and Picnic Experience, which offers a taste of Italy right in Victoria’s vineyards. This two-hour experience combines a structured wine tasting at their cellar door with a relaxed picnic featuring a glass of your choice.
Pizzini is renowned for its northern Italian wine varieties, making it a standout in the region. During the tasting, you can sample both current releases and back vintages, providing insight into the winemaker’s evolving craft. The staff’s expertise shines as they guide you through each wine’s story and pairing options.
Afterwards, enjoy a picnic with local cheeses, charcuterie, and bread, all enjoying the scenic vineyard views. The balance of educational tasting and casual grazing makes this tour a top pick for wine lovers seeking authentic regional flavors.
Rated for its quality and friendly service, this experience is ideal for those looking to indulge in fine wine without the formality of a winery tour. The value lies in the combination of tasting and relaxed enjoyment in a picturesque setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine connoisseurs or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Italian-style wines paired with a beautiful picnic.
5. Ocean Grove: 1.5-Hour Private Surf Lesson
Number 5 on our list is the Ocean Grove: 1.5-Hour Private Surf Lesson, tailored for those eager to learn surfing in a safe environment. This private lesson offers personalized coaching from qualified instructors, ensuring you get the attention needed whether you’re a complete beginner or eager to refine your skills.
The lesson focuses on safety, proper positioning, paddle technique, and board control, all in the warm waters of Ocean Grove. The instructor adapts the lesson to your comfort level, making it a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers. Many participants say they felt confident enough to stand on their board by the end of the session.
The 1.5-hour format hits the sweet spot for learning without feeling rushed or exhausted. The focus on safety and tailored feedback makes it stand out from group lessons. The only potential downside is that it’s weather-dependent, so booking in good conditions is wise.
Bottom Line: This private surf lesson is a top choice for first-timers and intermediates who want a focused, safe introduction to surfing in Victoria’s excellent waves.
6. Daylesford: Gin-Making Masterclass
Number 6 is the Daylesford: Gin-Making Masterclass, a two-hour hands-on experience at Daylesford Spirit Distillery. This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about creating your own bottle of gin. You’ll start with a welcome cocktail and learn the history of gin from the distillery’s expert staff.
The main event is distilling your own 500ml bottle of custom gin, choosing from 10 premium botanicals to craft your signature flavor. You also get to design and print a personalized label, making it a memorable keepsake. The class combines education, creativity, and a bit of fun—perfect for cocktail enthusiasts or those interested in craft distilling.
Past participants appreciate the approachable and informative style of the hosts, and many leave with a unique souvenir. While the price isn’t specified here, the value is clear in the personalized experience and takeaway bottle. It’s best suited for adults with an interest in spirits and some patience for the craft process.
Bottom Line: A perfect activity for those who love cocktails or want to learn about gin production firsthand, ending with a custom bottle to take home.
7. Yarra Valley: Orchard Tractor Tour with Fruit Tasting
Finally, number 7 is the Yarra Valley: Orchard Tractor Tour with Fruit Tasting. This 1.5-hour guided tractor tour takes you across a working farm to see, taste, and learn about local produce. It’s a hands-on experience perfect for families or anyone curious about sustainable farming.
You’ll sample fresh fruit right off the trees, including strawberries, apples, or other seasonal bounty. The tour also features friendly farm animals, and you’ll have the chance to crack open fresh macadamias and taste them fresh from the shell. The hosts talk about sustainable practices and showcase some of the region’s most unique fruit varieties.
Guests love the opportunity to interact with animals and enjoy homemade jams and sauces. The tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, educational experience that combines tasting with farm life.
Bottom Line: For a wholesome, family-friendly experience that combines farm knowledge with delicious tastings, this orchard tractor tour is a delightful choice.
How to Choose
When deciding which Victoria experience suits you best, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. Wildlife enthusiasts might prefer the Wilsons Promontory cruise, while history lovers could lean toward the J Ward ghost tour. For those wanting a relaxing day with good food and drink, the Italian wine tasting or gin masterclass are excellent options. Adventure seekers should consider the surf lesson or the river sledding, depending on your comfort level and fitness.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the self-guided river float or the wine tasting experiences. Weather can also influence outdoor activities, so check seasonal conditions beforehand to maximize your fun.
Victoria offers a rich array of tours that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re after wildlife, spooky history, or a good glass of wine, you’ll find something that excites you. For a taste of wild coastlines, wildlife cruises like the Wilsons Promontory Afternoon Wilderness Cruise are hard to beat. If you’re into immersive, hands-on experiences, the Gin-Making Masterclass or the Italian wine tasting might be your best pick.
No matter what you choose, booking early and planning around your interests will ensure your Victoria adventure is one to remember.