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National Trust Victoria Launches Driving Trails Through History

Victoria’s National Trust has launched a series of immersive driving trails, inviting travellers to explore the state’s rich heritage and natural beauty. One such trail takes adventurers on a scenic journey from Melbourne to the Otways, weaving through National Trust-preserved properties, unique accommodations, and unforgettable food and wine experiences. From the rugged coastlines and towering forests of the Otways to the historical heart of Geelong’s wool industry, these trails offer more than just a scenic drive—they’re a gateway to discovering Victoria’s past.

Exploring the Otways and Geelong’s Wool History

The trail leads visitors through the diverse landscapes of the Otways, where cool temperate rainforests have thrived for over 140 million years. Along the way, stop at National Trust properties, each telling its own tale of Victoria’s history. The journey also delves into the fascinating history of the wool industry, which once earned Geelong the title of the “wool centre of the world.” Key stops include Werribee Park Mansion and the National Wool Museum, where you can explore how wool shaped the region’s identity.

Photo: National Wool Museum, Geelong (Geelong & The Bellarine)

Heritage Stops Along the Trail

  • Werribee Park Mansion (Werribee) | This 19th-century pastoral empire, built by the Chirnside family, stands as a monument to Victoria’s wool industry.
  • The Heights Heritage Home & Garden (Geelong) | Erected in 1854, this prefabricated German house remains one of the largest of its kind in Victoria.
  • Barwon Grange (Geelong) | A rare example of fashionable riverfront homes built during the 1850s, offering a glimpse into Geelong’s affluent past.
  • Barwon Park (Winchelsea) | A striking bluestone mansion with grand interiors and sprawling rural views.
  • National Wool Museum (Geelong) | Discover how wool shaped Australia’s economy and culture for nearly two centuries.
  • The Redwoods (Great Otway National Park) | Unwind in a serene grove of Californian Redwoods, some towering over 60 metres.

Unique Places to Stay

  • Tarnwarncoort (Warncoort) | Known as “Tarndie”, this working sheep farm, with a homestead dating back to 1848, provides a heritage-rich rural stay.
  • Steam: Train Carriage (Forrest) | This quirky accommodation offers a taste of history, staying in a 1926 train carriage transformed into a steampunk-inspired retreat.
  • Woolbrook Homestead (Teesdale) | A grand homestead dating back to 1857, offering guests a luxurious glimpse into country life.
Photo: Brae, Birregurra (Cameron Murray / Assemble Agency)

Must-Try Local Eats

  • Sailors Rest (Geelong Foreshore) | With a history as a haven for sailors, this restaurant serves all-day dining and boasts Victoria’s oldest electric sign.
  • The Pavilion (Geelong Foreshore) | Originally built in 1927, this landmark now serves up modern fare with a nod to its community roots, along with Asian-inspired dishes at Caledonia Shores.
  • Brae (Birregurra) | Nestled in the Otways hinterland, Brae is renowned for its locally sourced dishes that celebrate the land on which it sits, helmed by acclaimed chef Dan Hunter.

Embark on Your Own Journey

The National Trust’s driving trails offer a unique opportunity to connect with the rich cultural and natural history of Victoria. Whether you’re soaking up the stories behind grand mansions or sampling local cuisine, these trails promise a deep connection with the places and people that have shaped the state. Ready for a road trip? Grab your keys and let the adventure begin!

For more information on the trails and to plan your journey, visit National Trust Victoria.


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