How Ballooning Fits Into a Road Trip Itinerary Around Victoria
Victoria is one of Australia’s best states for road trips — full of rolling vineyards, coastal drives, mountain ranges, and charming small towns.
And right at the heart of it all is a hot air balloon flight: a peaceful, unforgettable way to start your journey from above.
Whether you’re beginning in Melbourne or winding through regional Victoria, ballooning fits perfectly into your itinerary as the highlight of your trip.
1. Start in Melbourne – The Ideal Beginning
Most travellers begin their Victorian adventure in Melbourne, and this is the perfect place to take to the sky.
A sunrise balloon flight over the city gives you a panoramic view of everything you’ll explore later on the ground — from the Yarra River to the distant Dandenong Ranges.
After your optional champagne breakfast, you can hit the road feeling inspired, camera in hand, ready to see it all from a new angle.
2. Head East to the Yarra Valley 🍇
Distance: About 1 hour from Melbourne
From the city, it’s an easy drive to the Yarra Valley, one of Victoria’s most scenic regions.
If you didn’t fly over Melbourne, you can book your balloon flight here instead, drifting over vineyards and farmland as the morning mist rises.
Stay the night at Yarra Valley Lodge, Balgownie Estate, or Chateau Yering, and spend the rest of the day visiting cellar doors, distilleries, and farm gates.
It’s the perfect balance of adventure, wine, and countryside calm.
Suggested stops:
Oakridge Wines
Four Pillars Gin Distillery
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie
Healesville Sanctuary
3. Continue to the Dandenong Ranges 🌿
Distance: 45 minutes from Yarra Valley
After ballooning, drive through winding forest roads lined with giant ferns and mountain ash trees.
Stop for a walk in Sherbrooke Forest, ride the historic Puffing Billy Steam Train, and enjoy afternoon tea in Sassafras or Olinda.
It’s a lush, romantic area that pairs beautifully with the peaceful mood after your morning in the sky.
4. Down to Mornington Peninsula 🌊
Distance: 1.5 hours from Melbourne or 2 hours from Yarra Valley
Once you’ve seen Victoria from above, head south to the coast for a completely different kind of scenery.
The Mornington Peninsula is known for its beaches, cliff-top views, and hot springs — ideal for unwinding after early mornings.
Highlights:
Peninsula Hot Springs
Pt. Leo Estate (art, wine, and ocean views)
Sorrento & Portsea coastal walks
Local farm produce and seaside cafés
5. The Long Drive: Great Ocean Road 🌅
Distance: 2.5–3 hours from Melbourne
If your road trip continues west, the Great Ocean Road offers one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal drives.
Your ballooning photos will set the tone — and the views here feel like a continuation of that sense of wonder.
Make stops at Lorne, Apollo Bay, and the Twelve Apostles, and stay overnight to catch a second sunrise from the cliffs.
6. Optional Northern Loop – Daylesford & Macedon Ranges 💆♀️
Distance: 1.5 hours northwest of Melbourne
If you prefer mountain air and mineral springs, add Daylesford to your route.
It’s a relaxing contrast to the ballooning adventure — full of spas, art galleries, and boutique hotels.
Highlights:
Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa
Lake House Restaurant
Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens
7. The Perfect Itinerary Example
Day 1: Arrive in Melbourne, explore the city
Day 2: Sunrise balloon flight over Melbourne → brunch → drive to Yarra Valley
Day 3: Wine tasting and stay overnight in the valley
Day 4: Drive through the Dandenong Ranges → continue to Mornington Peninsula or Great Ocean Road
Every stop feels connected — from the air to the vineyards, the forests, and the sea.
8. Why Ballooning Belongs in Every Road Trip
It’s a unique perspective on the landscapes you’ll soon explore.
It sets the tone — calm, scenic, and full of wonder.
It breaks up driving days with something unforgettable.
It fits perfectly between city stays and regional escapes.
From Sky to Road
A hot air balloon flight isn’t just an activity — it’s the perfect beginning, middle, or highlight of your Victorian road trip.
See the land from above, then drive through it with fresh eyes.
From Melbourne’s skyline to the vineyards, mountains, and coastlines beyond — your adventure starts where the horizon begins.
✨ Ready to plan your trip?
Book your Hot Air Balloon Flight over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley, then set off on a road trip that captures the very best of Victoria — from sky to sea.