5 best Victorian towns to see stunning autumn leaves

As the summer heat fades and the crisp air of autumn rolls in, Australia transforms into a canvas of rich reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges. While the land Down Under may be best known for its sun-soaked beaches and eucalyptus forests, there are plenty of places where you can soak up the magic of autumn. If you’re chasing the perfect fall foliage for a weekend getaway, a road trip in a campervan, or just a stunning photo op, Camplify has you covered. Here’s where to find the best autumn leaves in Australia.

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1. The Dandenong Ranges

The Dandenong Ranges – otherwise known as the Dandys – is a much-loved destination for anyone who considers themselves partial to fifty shades of autumnal reds. The Dandenong Ranges National Park and the villages surrounding it, like Olinda and Sassafras, are only an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD and boasts a bunch of hiking trails. Everyone flocks to the 1000 Steps, but in all honesty, it’s nothing special; head instead to R.J. Hamer Arboretum for epic views, bright colours and longer trails, or visit the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens for a more landscaped – though just as beautiful – take on autumn. You can also take a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train, which runs through the national park and is always a good time.

2. Bright

If you haven’t been to Bright, now’s the time to pop it at the top of your itinerary. This beautiful town bleeds red and orange through autumn and attracts foliage fanatics every year. You can take an easy stroll along the Ovens River or explore Mount Buffalo National Park, the latter of which offers jaw-dropping views of the High Country as well as plenty of adventure at the base (and top) of its granite cliffs. The town also hosts the Bright Autumn Festival, which is a month-long celebration of all things autumn, featuring street parades, live music and lip-smacking local food and wine.

3. Mount Macedon

An easy, one-hour drive from Melbourne, Mount Macedon makes for an excellent day-trip destination packed full of quaint cafes and wineries. You better believe there are some cracking colours come autumn too, with the mountain being home to a number of gardens and parks. Check out Mount Macedon Regional Park and its Memorial Cross, where you’ll find native forests, landscaped gardens and views for days.

4. Daylesford

Head west out of Melbourne, take an exit or two and you’ll eventually come across Daylesford, an ever-welcoming town known for its natural springs, antique shops, gastronomical scene and, of course, quiet streets ablaze with autumnal bliss. The town also hosts the Daylesford Macedon Produce Harvest Festival, which is a celebration of local food and wine, while the famous Daylesford Farmers’ Market runs every fourth Saturday and is not to be missed.

5. Beechworth

The gold rush has been replaced by the autumn rush these days, with day trippers and weekend wanderers flocking to Victoria’s northeast for historic, well-preserved buildings and A+ autumn foliage. The trees in Beechworth put on a show worthy of Ned Kelly himself, who has long been associated with the town, while the brewery, distillery and famous Beechworth Bakery provide more than enough reasons to stay a while longer.

Ready to kick some leaves? Snap some selfies? Breathe that fresh air? Motorhome, campervan and caravan hire in Victoria and immerse yourself in vibrant autumn bliss.