48 Hours in Wilsons Promontory
If there’s any time for a getaway, it’s most certainly now – and Wilsons Promontory is the place to do it.
It’s the perfect time of year to rug up, put your hiking shoes on and take advantage of the peace and quiet that comes with most Aussies adhering to winter hibernation. The southernmost tip of mainland Australia, Wilsons Prom’s breathtaking landscape boasts rugged granite mountains, pristine beaches and bushland abundant with native wildlife wherever you turn.
Just under a three-hour drive from Melbourne, the national park is truly accessible and enjoyable to all, from day trippers and beach explorers to campers and hikers of all fitness levels.
If you’re looking to spend a weekend discovering what this southeast peninsula has to offer, we’ve put together a list of must-see spots for an unforgettable Prom trip.
Friday
Skip the city traffic and head off for an early dinner at Fish Creek Hotel. This stunning art deco building, complete with a giant fish statue on the roof, has served up classic, no-frills pub fare since 1939. Fill up on a hearty meal and verse the locals in a game of pool before checking in to your luxury accommodation at Prom Country Lodge.
Grab some dinner at the accommodation’s own restaurant before calling it a night. Be sure to wake up early to take advantage of the sunrise views overlooking the surrounding rolling hills and start exploring Wilsons Promontory.
Saturday
Start the day with a walk through Miller’s Landing. This short track weaves through granite outcrop heathlands and mangroves, giving you a chance to introduce yourself to the native flora and stretch your legs before you scale the peaks of the Big Drift. The impressive inland sand dune system transports you to an other-worldly place, with breathtaking views of the surrounding farmlands and ocean outlets.
You’re sure to work up an appetite climbing those sandy peaks, so next head down to the Tidal Overlook Trail and stop for a seaside picnic on the famous white sand of Squeaky Beach. Dip your feet in the pristine turquoise waters or explore the rock formations that line the bay.
The best is yet to come. Head over to Whisky Bay for even more impressive granite rock formations that have been smoothed by the harsh ocean, leaving a maze of intricate boulders to climb over and explore.
Once your day of on-foot exploring is up, catch a movie at the Tidal River Open Air Cinema before heading to the Tidal River Campground for a night of sleeping under the stars.
Or, if you’re wanting to acquaint yourself with the four-legged locals, stay in a safari-style tent at the Tidal River Wilderness Retreats. These spacious glamping-style tents are situated in quiet areas of the park, allowing you to fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean and wombats rustling in the surrounding heath.
Sunday
Located just south of Tidal River is Norman Bay. This is where the Prom’s incredible marine ecosystem – which also happens to be Victoria’s largest marine sanctuary — is best explored. Bring a snorkel and plunge into the waters (if you dare) to spot brilliantly coloured fish and sponge gardens on calm days, or join a boat tour to explore offshore rock stacks (including the famous Skull Rock) and catch a glimpse of the local fur seals and oceanic birds, including penguins.
Swimmers and surfers are welcome at Norman Bay, too. With the nearby Tidal River General Store stocked with groceries and hot tuckshop food, this beach makes for the perfect base to spend the majority of your Sunday.
Finish your trip on a high note by scaling the granite peaks of Mount Oberon. While the track will be sure to get your legs burning, the walk is accessible to all fitness levels and will take around 45 minutes to make it to the top. At the summit, take in 360-degree sights of the large boulders and sweeping beaches you’d have explored the day before — and stick around to catch sunset from one of Victoria’s best vantage points.
Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We’ve teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
Images: Julia Sansone