Five epic secret swimming spots around Melbourne

Crowds will always head to MacKenzie Falls for some water action in the craggy Grampians region of Victoria. But if you’re wanting to actually take a dip in those fresh mountain waters, best to head to Venus Baths for a cool and refreshing water hole experience. The best part? You can access it from Halls Gap via an easy 2.3 kilometre walking track.

Many Melburnians have headed out west to do the Werribee Gorge circuit walk. The reason? It’s a decent distance to get your heart rate up. It’s got great views and some fun rock scrambling. Plus, as the path snakes along Werribee River, there are a half a dozen spots when you can stop and cool down. Blackwood Pool is the biggest and best spot for a quick swim during your hike. Watch out for platypus!

If you’re headed out on a hike towards Tongue Point down in Wilsons Prom, take the path down towards Fairy Cove for a secluded swim in the ocean. Flanked by large weathered rocks, this picture-perfect spot is quite calm compared to the wild thrashing of the Bass Strait, so it’s perfect for a mid-hike dip.

Located in Melbourne’s closest national park, Warrandyte National Park, Pound Bend is a deep river oasis that locals have been keeping secret for yonks. Plus, if you’re going to swim in Melbourne’s famous Yarra River once in your life, best to dip where it’s at its most fresh and clean. We suggest throwing your head under then chilling out on the banks as the sun goes down.

You’ll find this spot about one hour west of Melbourne's CBD in Lerderderg State Park. The park is populated by the meandering Lerderderg River and MacKenzies Flat Picnic Area, which also happens to be a great spot to stop to soak up the sunshine, go for a swim and have some lunch.

A secluded place to splash around in the great outdoors with friends makes summer good times all the better.