4 tips to have a Victorian winter getaway without breaking the bank

Did you know that you can now travel to any V/Line destination for the same daily price as catching public transport within Melbourne? That’s right, under the new fare cap, daily fares throughout Victoria are capped at $10 for a full fare and $5 for concession. That means you can jaunt on over to the likes of Bendigo, Geelong, Albury Wodonga or Port Fairy for the same price as your daily commute. Aside from being economical, taking the train is also a great way to kickstart the relaxed vibes – you’ll be lounging around with a cuppa and a book instead of carefully navigating winding roads.

It seems simple, but booking your getaway during the week rather than on popular weekends can slash a big chunk off your accommodation costs. Get access to the fresh mountain air for less when you stay at Breeze Holiday Parks in Halls Gap. They’re offering 25 per cent off cabins in winter, as well as lower nightly prices when you book a longer stay. Bendigo Backpacker is a short walk from the city’s bustling centre and also offers lower rates during the week. 

Just one hour from Melbourne, Araluen Boutique Accommodation is a prototypical stylish yet homely Yarra Valley retreat. You can get 25 per cent discount on stays until the end of August, so your biggest concern will be who scores prime position in front of the fireplace. 

Fancy a few nights in a cosy cottage surrounded by the natural wonders of the Great Otway National Park? Book in at King Parrot Cottages and Event Centre during winter and you can get a generous 35 per cent off select cottages.

Now that you’ve got your destination and accommodation sorted, the best way to keep yourself occupied without blowing the budget is by getting out into nature. There are plenty of delightful spots that are accessible even if you’re relying on public transport. Bendigo’s Lake Weeroona is right on the city’s vintage tram line, giving visitors easy access to 18 hectares of parkland and the striking ornamental lake.

If you’re driving, Harman’s Valley Lookout is a short drive from both Port Fairy and the Grampians. You’ll be able to check out the panoramic views and one of the world’s best examples of a lava flow constricted by a valley, all for zero dollars.

For those who want more of a challenge, make the hike to the Pinnacle lookout near Halls Gap, marvelling at the seemingly precariously perched boulders along the way. If you're keen to keep the walking to a minimum, head to Hopetoun Falls in Great Otway National Park. The upper viewing platform is an easy 20-metre walk from the carpark.

Just because you’re on holiday doesn’t mean you need to throw your wallet wide open for an extravagant meal each day. Sometimes, local cheap eats and hidden gems can taste even sweeter for the dollars they save. 

 Bendigo-bound travellers should be sure to check out the affordable all-day breakfast classics, sandwiches and pizzas at Brewhouse Coffee Roasters. If you’re off to wine country, stop at the gateway to the Yarra Valley for a feed at Round Bird Can’t Fly in Lilydale. For a cheap and cheerful dinner in Port Fairy, you can’t go past the Red Hen, while those who’ve travelled close to the border should head to Wodonga’s Andiamo Street Food for tasty food in a relaxed alfresco atmosphere.

 Fancy a taste of the Yarra Valley? Pay a visit to Victoria's first vineyard at Yerring Station. You can taste their Village series for $10 and the tasting fee will be negated if you buy a bottle.