With the holidays almost here and everyone getting in the festive spirit, getting away from all the chaos is something lots of us crave. Whether you’re looking to take your SUV for a beach trip to remember or hoping to head out for a grassy picnic next to a stunning waterfall, there are so many places to visit in Victoria that will leave you relaxed, amazed and refreshed.

At Mantello PEUGEOT, our favourite places to visit in Victoria are the ones where we can take our much-loved four wheels for a satisfying spin and find some peace and quiet amongst the madness. Here are our top ten places to visit this holiday season in Victoria.

1.    Phillip Island

Picture the scene: you’ve bagged yourself a brand new PEUGEOT 508, you’ve packed your car full of road trip snacks and you hit the open road towards the beautiful Phillip Island.

Whether you take your Christmas hats or not, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get some fresh sea air at Phillip Island. Blow away the Christmas cobwebs with a coastal walk along the George Bass Coastal walk or bring in the new year at a Phillip Island winery.

2.    Ballarat

Ballarat during the festive season really comes alive. With sunny days and warm nights, it’s the perfect place to visit for those who love a little alfresco dining, rainforest walks and picnics.

3.    Great Ocean Road

If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip this summer in Victoria, there’s no better place than the Great Ocean Road. There are rainforest walks, local produce, outdoor adventures, relaxed dining and lots of natural beauty to discover.

How about taking a plug-in PEUGEOT for a spin and experience driving with a small environmental footprint? Stop by at Timboon Ice Creamery on a hot summer’s day or head to Timboon’s Berry World for some strawberry picking fun.

4.    Mornington Peninsula

Mornington Peninsula in summer is heaven. Whether you are looking to have a beachside Christmas with a difference or you’re after a chilled New Year’s Eve somewhere new, the peninsula has so much to offer.

There are wineries to explore, coastal trails to discover and enough local produce to keep you happy all year. In fact, the Wine Food Farm Gate Trails is the perfect way to celebrate summer.

5.    Yarra Valley

If you’re hoping to escape the crowds this Christmas, you might just find your own slice of heaven with a visit to the Yarra Valley. Whether you choose a day trip or a weekend away, there is so much to see and do.

For something a little different, explore the historic township of Yarra Glen – and don’t forget to pack a picnic!

6.    Gippsland

At Mantello PEUGEOT, we love a weekend away to Gippsland. A little further afield for many, Gippsland offers cool canopied rainforests, rugged coastlines and enough amazing local produce to satisfy all your holiday eating and drinking needs.

7.    Grampians

Whether you want to relax or find adventure, the Grampians has all the ingredients for your perfect summer holiday. Visit the iconic MacKenzie Falls to see one of the biggest and most stunning waterfalls in Victoria or head to Paper Scissor Rock Brew Co to experience independent microbrewing at its finest.

8.    Bendigo

Whether you want vintage shopping this Christmas or the joy of a New Year’s farmer’s market – you can’t go wrong with a holiday trip to Bendigo. Take your PEUGEOT for a spin around the area and explore Bendigo’s unbeatable gastronomy scene or take your bike along the historic Goldfields Track to Ballarat.

9.    Geelong & the Bellarine

If you’re looking for a taste of coastal life this Christmas, Geelong & the Bellarine is a great option. Opt for Christmas Day on Geelong’s sensational waterfront or cool off in an art gallery with a little more culture. Alternatively, check out the Bellarine Taste Trail – with cool climate wine, casual cafes and elegant restaurants.

10. High Country

Ever spent New Year’s Eve in Victoria’s High Country? Summers here are full of local brews, unmatched scenery and alpine ambience. Nothing says summer like splashing around in High Country lakes and rivers, and when you match it with some seasonal wining and dining, it’ll be a holiday to remember.

Where will you go this summer?

Whether you opt for wine and food, or natural scenery, Victoria has so much to offer. At Mantello PEUGEOT, we just love sitting back, relaxing and enjoying the festive cheer with loved ones – wherever we are.