Winter may cool off some Australian hotspots, but Victoria shines bright during the cooler months. From woodfired culinary experiences, cool-climate wineries and winter time shows to fireside ambience, Victoria is the place for unrivalled winter inspiration - and a weekend getaway is the perfect way to indulge. Here’s a guide to four of the best places to visit this winter.

Perfect for a winter evening, The Woodhouse Bar & Grill is one of the best places to eat in Bendigo. With premium steaks and wood-fired delicacies cooked over local redgum on the chargrill and local applewood in the charcoal oven, there are plenty of seasonal flavours to savour - as well as a heart warming drinks selection. 

And if you’re looking for morning inspiration, Percy & Percy Cafe is the perfect place. Nestled in what was once a 1920’s grocery store, this local favourite offers a cosy setting with wooden tables and delicious brews that combine Coffee Basics beans and Inglenook Milk. You’ll also find hearty breakfasts, from bread and butter pudding to ‘green eggs and ham’. 

Fortuna Villa

Once a private mansion, Fortuna Villa is an iconic landmark filled with incredible gold rush-era wealth. Today it’s open for you to enjoy a winter’s high-tea (complete with nearby harpist) or to simply explore. Marvel at its stained glass windows, ornate ceilings, solid marble baths and fountains and botanic-style garden. This heritage-listed site offers guided tours..

Warm up at the Bendigo Art Gallery, one of the oldest and most largest regional galleries in Australia. Opening its doors in 1887, today this gallery is home to a huge collection of 19th-century European art and Australian works from the 1800s. You’ll also find modern Australian and international work exhibitions to keep you inspired.

One of Australia’s largest cathedrals, the heritage-listed Sacred Heart Cathedral offers a glimpse of grand architecture as well as a peaceful retreat. Funded and raised by local gold-mining parishioners, this is a quiet and meditative space where you can admire intricate stained-glass windows and the towering spires that are the second tallest in Australia.

Where to stay 

Stay close to the best wintertime things to do in Bendigo, Quality Hotel Lakeside is in a quiet location directly opposite Lake Weeroona, and only a short stroll away from the town centre.

No winter trip is complete without a glass of fine wine, and Brown Brothers Milawa produces an award-winning range of varietals to sip and enjoy. Situated in the gourmet hub of King Valley, the Cellar Door is open seven days a week for seated tastings with the restaurant offering seasonal menus that cater for lunches, shared feasts, or a 5-course wine and food experience.

Ryan’s Lookout

For a panoramic view of the region, Ryan’s Lookout offers a stunning eyeful of the Wangaratta region and distant snow-capped peaks during the winter months, showing you why this town is one of the best winter locations in the region. The lookout area also provides picnic tables and a fireplace with grill. 

Combining some of Australia's finest artisan produce, the Gateway Restaurant & Bar is the one of the best places to eat in Wangaratta. With a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a modern Australian Asian fusion twist, the warm ambience also makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the adjacent bar.

Wangaratta Art Gallery

Art lovers will appreciate a stop at the Wangaratta Art Gallery, which showcases contemporary and textile-based artworks, as well as sculptures and major works from the north-east Victoria region and around the country. There are also frequent artist talks and workshops. An excellent place to explore local creativity.

Where to stay

Close to the best wintertime things to do in Wangaratta, Quality Hotel Wangaratta Gateway is located in the heart of town, with convenient access to the CBD and local attractions.

Travel back in time at the Pioneer Settlement in Swan Hill. This open-air museum brings history to life with real-life Mallee cottages, historic schools and shops and vintage machinery. Set on the banks of the Little Murray River, you can even take a cruise on the historic paddlesteamer Pyap, built in 1896.

Silo Art

Only 15 minutes from Swan Hill, Lake Boga's new silo art installation at the Graincorp site is a colourful tribute to its rich history. The mural features the historic Catalina aircraft and famed aviator George Urquhart "Scotty" Allan set against a breathtaking Lake Boga sunset. It highlights the region’s natural beauty and popular activities like water skiing and sailing. 

Andrew Peace Wines

Established in 1960 on rich Murray River bank soil, Andrew Peace Wines is a fantastic stop for wine lovers. Their selection of rich reds and crisp whites is perfect for a winter tasting session. This vineyard is home to 20 globally well-known Australian and award winning wines. Perfectly situated for cold to mild winters, this winery consistency produces richly flavoured masterpieces.

Spoons Riverside

Overlooking the tranquil Little Murray River, Spoons Riverside offers delicious meals made from fresh, regional produce. Settle in an enjoy floor to ceiling windows or rest on the wide deck with full river views nestled amongst the River Red Gums. With a menu that changes with the season, you’ll find plenty of winter warmers in the cooler months.

Where to stay 

Enjoy some of the best places to eat in Swan Hill as well as surrounding shops and attractions by booking in at one of the many hotels in town and around the area.

Sitting on the picturesque riverbank at Trentham Cliffs, Trentham Estate Winery is the perfect place to enjoy some exceptional wines with stunning views of the Murray River. Winter time is when the last batch of varietals are transferred to French and American oak barrels. Pair with a selection from the restaurant, crafted from the the vineyards garden, or take a cellar door tour. 

Mildura Arts Centre

Established in the 1950s, the Mildura Arts Centre has grown into a vibrant arts hub which features exhibitions, performances, and a huge collection of works. Between 1961 and 1988 he the Mildura Sculpture Triennials put Mildura on national arts scene map, and today there are five exhibition spaces and a 500 seat theatre. 

For a relaxed and delicious meal, visit Vista Cafe Bar. With its light seasonal dishes, locally produced cakes and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch or lunch in Mildura. Or just relax with a coffee or wine and enjoy the ambience. 

RAAF Memorial and Museum

For history buffs, the RAAF Memorial and Museum is a must-visit. Learn about Australia’s aviation history through exhibits and displays that highlight the bravery and skill of the Royal Australian Air Force. Many of the artefacts and exhibits immerse you in the history of Australia’s air force through the story of the 20TU, Mildura’s Operational Training Unit. 

Where to stay 

Enjoy some of the best places to eat in Mildura as well as nearby shops and attractions by booking in at Comfort Inn Deakin Palms on the banks of the Murray River. Discover things to do in Mildura and see why it’s one of the best regional Victoria towns all year round.