Looking for the perfect weekend escape from Melbourne? A cosy weekend retreat in Nungurner offers the ideal getaway in Victoria’s stunning Gippsland region. Nestled close to Lakes Entrance, this serene spot provides everything from peaceful nature activities to wine tasting and scenic coastal towns. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Nungurner and Lakes Entrance have something for everyone.
Getting There: The Scenic Route to Nungurner
The drive from Melbourne to Nungurner takes about three and a half hours. As you leave the city behind, the scenic Gippsland landscape unfolds with its lush greenery, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Gippsland Lakes. The journey itself is part of the experience, with plenty of picturesque stops along the way.
Where to Stay: Finding Your Perfect Gippsland Accommodation
For our trip, we stayed at Jetty Road Retreat, a cosy cabin nestled right by the lake. Although this particular accommodation is now permanently closed, we recommend checking out unique stays on platforms like Riparide, which offers a variety of charming and secluded spots. Whether you’re after a lakeside cottage or a peaceful cabin, you’ll find plenty of options in the area to suit your needs.
Things to Do in Nungurner and Lakes Entrance
Here’s a list of the top activities we personally enjoyed during our cosy weekend retreat in Nungurner:
Bird Watching from the Cabin
We started our mornings with peaceful bird-watching, right from our cabin window. With bird seed provided by our host, we saw a variety of native birds up close, which was a calming and rewarding way to connect with nature. Whether you’re a bird lover or just looking for some tranquility, it’s the perfect way to begin your day in Gippsland.
Kayaking on the Gippsland Lakes
Even during winter, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to use the free kayaks available at Jetty Road Retreat. Kayaking on the Gippsland Lakes was a unique and serene experience. The calm waters and stunning views of the surrounding landscape made it a perfect morning activity. Couples and families alike will enjoy paddling through the lakes and soaking up the peaceful surroundings.
Koala Spotting on Raymond Island
A short ferry ride from Paynesville Pier brought us to Raymond Island, home to the famous Koala Trail. This easy walking loop lets you see koalas in their natural habitat, and we were lucky enough to spot ten during our visit! Koala spotting on Raymond Island is a must-do activity, especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The combination of nature and wildlife made this one of the highlights of our trip.
Exploring Lakes Entrance
Lakes Entrance is a charming coastal town in East Gippsland, known for its beautiful beaches and lively waterfront esplanade. We spent a leisurely afternoon strolling along the esplanade, enjoying coffee from a local cafe, and taking in the breathtaking ocean views. If you’re visiting Gippsland, Lakes Entrance is the perfect place to unwind, explore local shops, and enjoy the natural beauty of the coast. For a more detailed guide on what to do and see, check out our Lakes Entrance Travel Guide.
Wine Tasting at Lightfoot Winery
We love visiting Australian wineries, so we knew that during this weekend away we wanted to visit some of the local ones in the area. Our visit to Lightfoot Winery was another highlight of the trip. Nestled in the rolling hills of Gippsland, the winery offers breathtaking views and a welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed a relaxing afternoon tasting a selection of their finest wines, all while admiring the scenic surroundings. The staff’s knowledge and passion for winemaking made the experience even more enjoyable, and we couldn’t resist taking home a few bottles!
Relaxing at the Jetty
The jetty near our accommodation became our go-to spot for unwinding. Whether it was enjoying our morning coffee or casting a line for some peaceful fishing, the jetty provided the perfect spot to relax. It’s also a great place to watch the boats drift by or simply take in the stunning scenery of the Gippsland Lakes.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Cosy Weekend Retreat in Nungurner
Our cosy weekend retreat in Nungurner offered the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From kayaking and bird-watching to koala spotting and wine tasting, we made unforgettable memories in the Gippsland region. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape close to Melbourne, Nungurner and Lakes Entrance are ideal destinations. Whether you’re a nature lover or a foodie, this area has plenty to offer.
