When the mercury rises this summer, there’s nothing quite like a relaxing swim in a cool, clear swimming hole surrounded by nature. If your mates have well and truly done the beach thing, a visit to one of these little-known swimming holes is the kind of outing they won't forget in a hurry. Round them up and hit the road.
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.
Address: Venus Baths, Halls Gap VIC 3381
Time Out tip: Bring a basket full of goodies for a picnic
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.
Address: Werribee Gorge Circuit Track, Pentland Hills VIC 3341
Time Out tip: Keep your eyes open 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.
Address: Tongue Point-Darby Riv Walk, Wilsons Promontory VIC 3960
Time Out tip: Check the tide for the day you're going there – don't arrive close to high tide when swimming may not be possible
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 a refreshing dip then chilling out on the banks as the sun goes down.
Address: Pound Bend Car Park, Warrandyte, Victoria, 3113,
Time Out tip: Bring binoculars and look for native birds, kangaroos and other animals that inhabit the reserve
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.
Address: 591 Lerderderg Gorge Rd, Coimadai VIC 3340
Time Out tip: The picnic area is the trailhead for numerous walks – from short ones to multi-day hikes
Does your dad consider himself a bit of a foodie? Impress him by booking one of Melbourne's hottest restaurants for lunch or dinner. From culinary institutions like Flower Drum and France-Soir to emerging standouts and instant icons such as Serai, Gimlet and Kafeneion, you can't go wrong with any of these options.
When you think about it, what's not to love about mini golf? It's easy for everyone to play (hello, wholesome family outing), and honestly, mini versions of bigger things are always a fun time. Plus, what dad doesn't love flexing his golf skills? Many of these venues also feature well-stocked bars, so the festivities don't stop once you've played through your round.
Dust off dad's hiking boots, pack that scroggin, fill your Camelbak and get ready to explore some of the most gorgeous hikes within an easy drive of Melbourne. Because fresh air + the great outdoors + quality conversations = a very special Father's Day.
Does your dad know his Monet from his Manet? If that's a yes, take him to an art exhibition this Father's Day. The NGV Winter Masterpieces exhibition is a chance to marvel at dazzling examples of French Impressionism, or for the dad who's a history buff, head to Melbourne Museum to discover a rare collection of artefacts from the Viking Age at 'Treasures of the Viking Age: The Galloway Hoard'.
From historic boozers to gastropubs, we believe that Melbourne boasts some of the finest pub culture in the world. And what better way to celebrate Father's Day than by cheersing your old man with a pint at a cosy watering hole – and maybe ordering a parma, too.
At BattleKart, you'll drive real electric karts around a real race track, but play with with augmented reality elements, like firing off virtual rockets at other racers or spraying virtual oil puddles to trip up your competitors. Yep, it's kinda like Mario Kart IRL – and we reckon your dad's gonna love it.
Let dad live out his captain fantasies by hiring a GoBoat and cruising down the mighty Yarra River. These five-metre-long boats seat up to eight people and no boating licence is required. The best part? They come equipped with a built-in wooden picnic table in the middle of the boat, so BYO snacks.
Turn Father's Day into a weekend-long affair by packing your swag and exploring this beautiful state of ours. Whether dad is keen on a scenic riverside, a prime beachfront location or an alpine hideaway, you're guaranteed to find the perfect spot to set up camp on this list.
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