Do you consider yourself a novice ghost hunter? There are several haunted locations throughout regional Victoria, where the spirits of the dead and otherworldly figures linger.
The general public can only visit some locations on guided excursions. Staying in the late autumn or on a cold winter day (or night) will assist in creating a more foreboding atmosphere.
A Brief Overview of What to Anticipate
Disused Institutions and Haunted Prisons
Aradale Lunatic Asylum is Australia’s largest closed mental hospital in operation until 1998. The old asylum buildings are now open to the public for tours. Visitors looking for a thrill can tour the J Ward, a psychiatric hospital that houses violently psychotic patients.
The abandoned Beechworth Asylum, once known as the Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum, is one of the most haunted structures in Australia.
Established in 1867, it remained open until 1995, and hundreds of patients perished within its walls. Only during guided tours and special overnight activities can guests enter the building.
Once open to the public, the infamous Geelong Gaol eventually became a museum after closing to the public in 1991. Many people died here, both inmates and workers and six executions took place in this building. Visitors on ghost tours and paranormal investigations claim to have felt “odd vibes” and heard unexplainable noises while at the prison.
Spooky Motels
Dunolly’s Railway Hotel originally opened in 1861 as the Criterion Hotel and is haunted by the ghost of an older woman. One of Seymour’s first constructions, the Royal Hotel, dates back to the 1840s. There have been rumours of ghosts for decades, and the building’s colourful history includes a stint as a mortuary.
Restless humans do not just inhabit some of these locations. Ten horses were killed in a stable fire in the 1870s, which haunted the lovely Kangaroo Hotel in Maldon, a historic goldfields town.
Victorian Abandoned Cities
Once home to 1500 people, the ancient gold-mining town of Steiglitz is about an hour’s drive from Melbourne on the way to Geelong. Today, just a select few survive. The old Court House at Steiglitz Old Park is available to the public on Sundays and holidays, while the rest of the park is accessible every day of the week.
A few hundred people live in Linton, a former mining town 33 kilometres from Ballarat. You can go for a bike ride on the Ballarat-Skipton Rail Trail, a hike in the nearby bush, or a stroll through the town’s cemetery. Chinese miners who died in the area hoping to strike it rich are buried here in a massive cemetery section.
Fryerstown, located about a half-hour’s drive from Castlemaine, was a thriving community of its right during the gold rush. Buildings like the courthouse and mechanics’ institute are stunning representations of late 1800s architecture.
Walhalla, Gippsland, has a population of about 20 permanent residents. Its architecture and natural beauty (especially in the fall and spring) have made it a tourist destination of note. Join a local ghost tour on a Saturday night to learn more about the mysterious past of Walhalla.
What’s Behind Hanging Rock?
Hanging Rock, located less than an hour from Melbourne, is the eroded ruins of an extinct volcano that inspired the novel Picnic at Hanging Rock and its numerous film and television adaptations.
The ancient volcano is a sacred spot for rituals and initiations among indigenous people.
Hiking, picnicking (if you dare), and large-scale activities can all occur here daily.
Travellers’ reports of watch and electrical device failure upon nearing Hanging Rock add to the area’s mystique.
Victoria’s 15 Most Mysterious Attractions
1. A Gravity-Defying Hill in Mount Macedon
In Woodend, at the base of the hill on Straws Lane, face up the slope. If you put a ball on the road, it will not roll down the mountain but slowly up the hill. Considering you’re within two kilometres from the equally spooky Hanging Rock, it’s a reasonable amount of spookiness.
2. Pink Lakes in Northwest Victoria
Find two lakes perfect for a Barbie Dreamhouse in far northwest Victoria, roughly six hours from Melbourne.
Crystal is transparent throughout the day; Lake Crosbie and its smaller sibling Lake Hardy glow pink, particularly in the late summer. The crimson colour of these salt lakes is caused by a type of algae called Dunaliella salina.
Algae bloom in response to rainfall, making the lakes seem pink. The water is lighter in colour at other seasons of the year, sometimes appearing almost white and crystal pure.
Lake Hardy and Lake Becking both have hiking trails around the lakes. Pioneer Drive will lead you to several beautiful sites near the lakes, and if you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, you can also visit the Mount Crozier Lookout or the abandoned Mopoke Hut. Some routes may close due to flooding, so checking the forecast before setting out is essential.
Camping near Lake Crosbie will allow you to see even more of the area; campgrounds have flush toilets, gas grills, fireplaces, and picnic areas.
Parks Victoria warns visitors to exercise caution if they plan to swim or wade in the photogenic lake. Bring your water, as the lake water is too salty to drink. Because you’ll be in the wilderness, don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray. It’s common knowledge that insects thrive in the lake during warmer months.
3. Australia’s Biggest Hedge Maze
Melbourne residents get the honour of getting lost in the country’s largest and most impressive hedge maze. This maze, found at the Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens on the Mornington Peninsula, was planted more than 40 years ago and has since grown to a height of more than three meters. Can you handle the pressure?
Find the oldest and most famous hedge maze in the UK near Ashcombe. More than a thousand cypress create this maze, which has several paths. There’s no way to cheat in this giant maze because the hedges are almost three meters tall and two meters thick.
Fans of flora can also enjoy the stunning circular rose maze and the ever-blooming lavender labyrinth, surrounded by the magnificent Arboretum, which has more than 3,000 lavender plants.
Pack the sunscreen and lots of water for a day of adventure in the more than 10 hectares of woodland and gardens.
4. A Black Lighthouse on the Bellarine Peninsula
A black lighthouse, unique in the Southern Hemisphere, is near Queenscliff. The Queenscliff High Light, painted red, helps ships determine their distance from the white Queenscliff Low Light as they enter the dangerous throat of Port Phillip Bay.
5. Victoria’s Largest Inland Salt Lake
Lake Tyrrell, Victoria’s largest inland salt lake, is in the state’s northwest, around four hours from Melbourne. This stunning lake exists, and you’ll be kicking yourself that you didn’t know about it sooner.
The lake, around 208 square kilometres, has a salt content primarily determined by the weather. The basin can fill about a meter in wetter and cooler months, but practically all the water evaporates throughout the summer.
The most fantastic time to go is on a clear winter evening when the shallow water covers the lake, creating unique, expansive reflections of the night sky.
Lake Tyrrell’s water takes on a pink hue during wet and warm periods of the year. The pink microalgae, often known as red marine phytoplankton, are responsible for this because of the red pigment they secrete.
The Aboriginal word “tyrille,” meaning “sky” or “space,” is the source of the surname Tyrrell. Famous for their astronomical practices, the indigenous Boorong people of Sea Lake have watched the sky overhead for centuries.
Mallee reptiles, kangaroos, emus, and birds, including white-fronted chats and seagulls, are regulars in the area. Do not camp or drive on the lake bed or start fires near the lake.
6. Grampians National Park
In Melbourne’s Grampians National Park, you may view majestic waterfalls, magnificent mountains, challenging hiking trails, and bright spring flowers, among many other things.
The wildlife (kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and native birds) and the craggy sandstone ridges are the principal attractions. Tourists from all over the world agree that it is one of the top attractions in Victoria.
It’s about a 260-kilometre drive from Melbourne. Cabins, flats, cottages, and lodges are only some of the alternatives for overnight stays close to the park. Canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, and bird watching are just some of the activities on offer.
7. Torquay and The Great Ocean Road
As the starting point of the Great Ocean Road, Torquay is a picturesque seaside town in Victoria. Bells Beach, a popular surfing destination, is one of many. Take a stroll along the Surfing Coast or lay out in the sun.
The Great Ocean Road is a popular destination, a 245-kilometre trip that offers visitors breathtaking views of the region’s stunning mountains and coastline. The powdery white sands of its beaches have made this area famous.
It’s roughly 310 kilometres from Melbourne, and Torquay and the Great Ocean Road provide a variety of places to stay. The Bells Beach Rip Curl Pro is an international surfing competition and one of the many things to see and do in the area.
8. Alpine National Park
Alpine National Park is an absolute must-see in Victoria during the winter. Beautiful plants and animals, especially during the wildflower season, call the area’s two mountains, Buller and Hotham, home. Visitors can choose from various sports and activities in the summer in these mountains.
Various lodging options are here, and it is approximately 286 kilometres from Melbourne. Activities such as abseiling, pyrotechnics, and film festivals are popular in the summer, while winter sports are also popular.
9. Yarra Valley
This valley is well-known for its coffee and wines, but it is also home to many iconic Australian species, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, wombats, and even platypuses. All visitors can have an unforgettable cultural experience here. If you want to observe native Australian animals in their natural habitat, the Healesville Sanctuary is your best bet.
About 60 kilometres from Melbourne, Yarra Valley, offers a variety of accommodation alternatives, from B&Bs to apartments and cottages. You can go on a hot air balloon ride, check out the modern art at the Heide Museum, or enjoy woodland adventures like the Zipline and Free Falls.
10. Great Otway National Park
Whether in Victoria for the waves or the trails, you can’t miss the Great Ocean Road and its eventual plunge into Great Otway National Park. Visit the tall eucalypt woods and the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary at Aireys Inlet, learn about the colourful maritime history at the Cape Otway Lighthouse, and explore the intriguing underwater mini-ecosystems of rock pools at Maits Rest.
The massive beech trees and various outdoor pursuits found here also draw visitors. Torquay, close to the Great Otway National Park, is about 330 kilometres from Melbourne. Activities and sights include rock climbing, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, and bird watching.
11. Bendigo
Bendigo is one of the most exciting destinations in Victoria for those interested in history and architecture. Because of its gold deposits, many people worldwide have flocked to this once-quiet village. The city’s many beautiful features are national parks, a science museum, and the superb Bendigo Art Gallery.
Bendigo is around 165 kilometres away from Melbourne and provides access to many different hotels in Melbourne. Visit the Discovery of Gold Monument, spin the Tramway, and learn about the history of the Golden Dragon at the Golden Dragon Museum.
12. Phillip Island
Phillip Island, off the coast of Victoria, is a renowned tourist destination because of its cute penguin population. Other attractions include a koala conservation centre, a wildlife park, and the well-known Warrook Farm. The beaches on this Island are among the best in the world.
Since no places to stay on the Island, we recommend day trips from Melbourne. The Island is roughly 140 kilometres from Melbourne. The chocolate factory, the annual carnival, and the waves are just a few of the attractions and activities available.
13. Carlton Gardens
The Carlton Gardens are home to the Royal Exhibition Building, an Imax theatre, and the Melbourne Museum; they comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gardens are beautiful and renowned for their various plant and animal life.
Attractions and activities in Carlton Gardens, which is around 2 kilometres from Melbourne, include watching wildlife and seeing historic buildings.
14. Mornington Peninsula
This peninsula, known for its wines, cherries, and berries, is one of Victoria’s best day trip destinations. Check out the beautiful hiking paths while you’re here. Tourists flock here year-round to enjoy the area’s many national parks, peninsular hot springs, and seaside bars.
It is about 75 kilometres from Melbourne, with many accommodation alternatives within the city.
Walking, eating delicious seafood, and touring a historic lighthouse from the 19th century are just a few of the many things to see and do here.
15. St Kilda
St. Kilda offers its visitors various ways to have fun, from quiet time on the beach to exciting adventures in the city’s vibrant nightlife.
kSt. Kilda is one of Victoria’s most charming neighbourhoods, and it’s known for its abundance of vegetarian eateries and various ethnic bakeries (including Greek and Jewish options) — one of the best places to spend the day in Victoria.
This city offers many lodging options 7 kilometres from Melbourne’s centre. Boutiques, antiques, and the brightly coloured shacks on the beach are just a few attractions.
Thrilling Activities Available Elsewhere in Victoria
1. Check out the Royal BC Museum.
The Royal British Columbia Museum, which has been around since 1886, is a fantastic resource for learning about the history of life in British Columbia. Inside are the Natural History, Becoming BC, and First Peoples Galleries, all open year-round. More than 750,000 records of specimens, nearly entirely from the province, are in the natural history collection alone.
Titanic, Egyptian, and Viking exhibits have stopped at the Royal BC Museum. The IMAX Victoria Theater shows both independent and mainstream films. It’s in a beautiful spot, too, steps away from the inner harbour and the nearby Empress Hotel.
2. Go on an Adventure to Victoria Pier and the Inner Harbour.
Victoria has one of the most picturesque harbours in the world in its inner harbour, which is perfect for a stroll. There are many old streets and buildings here and summertime festivals and performances. Float planes, an international ferry terminal, and other ecotourism firms are located there.
3. Explore the Halls of Craigdarroch Castle
It would help if you visited Craigdarroch Castle to feel transported back to the Victorian era and see a real-life example of a “bonanza castle,” the large residences erected for affluent entrepreneurs during the industrial age.
Beautiful stained-glass windows, ornate woodwork, and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings are throughout the four stories of this mansion, built between 1887 and 1890 and boasts breathtaking views.
4. Enjoy a Food-Based Walking Tour
A walking tour is a terrific way to see a new area and discover helpful information about it simultaneously. Walking down a street or through a neighbourhood while informing you about its history will bring the city to life.
But if you take a 3-hour food tour with A Taste of Victoria Food Tours, you may sample a wide range of delectable dishes from local eateries.
5. Travel to the Wharf of Fishermen
The picturesque floating community of Fishermans Wharf is not far from Victoria’s Inner Harbour. This undiscovered gem is a fantastic spot for eco-tours, local cuisine, and boutique shopping. People were busy eating fresh seafood when we came, but our favourite part was exploring the floating homes and fantasising about life on the ocean. If you’re looking for unique accommodation in Victoria, I’m sure we spotted a few guesthouses.
6. Take in the Fragrant Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada that attracts over a million visitors annually, symbolises Victoria. With its stunning 55 acres, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners, this nursery has everything a plant enthusiast could want.
The Butchart Gardens is a must-see for anybody visiting Victoria, whether on your own, with your family, or on a romantic getaway.
It’s a beautiful area for strolling around in. But they also have a beautiful gift shop, boat trips, nightly entertainment, and a firework show every Saturday. This world-famous garden is home to various stunning plants, including roses, tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and Japanese maples.
7. Visit Beacon Hill Park and Take a Walk
Beacon Hill Park, located in the heart of Victoria, is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a scenic place to spend the afternoon strolling.
Take Belleville Street toward the Imax Theatre and the Museum of Natural History; turn right into Douglas Street; and finally, take a short uphill walk to your destination. A stunning urban forest is waiting for you. However, remember that the park spans an enormous 200 acres, and plan accordingly.
8. Stop by the Victoria Legislative Buildings.
The British Columbia legislature buildings are a prominent landmark in Victoria, located immediately adjacent to the Inner Harbour. These antique structures, which overlook Victoria Harbour, are as gorgeous on the inside as on the outside.
There are 35-minute guided tours of the buildings offered seven days a week throughout the summer, or guests can explore independently. The Parliamentary Dining Room and Gift Shop are also available to the public all year round.
9. Plan a trip to the Victoria Bug Zoo.
First, a miniature version of the planet, and now a zoo? Victoria seems obsessed with little matters. You’ve come to the right place if you’re a bug or spider person!
It is an excellent chance to learn about and interact with exotic, multi-legged animals worldwide in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
The largest ant colony in Canada, giant walking stick bugs, alien-eyed praying mantids, and even glow-in-the-dark scorpions are just a few of the roughly 50 species you’ll see. Bring your camera to the Victoria Bug Zoo, whether you’re there with kids or not, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
10. See Some Whales
During the warmer months, whale viewing is a popular activity. Because of the high concentrations of these magnificent mammals, the waters near Victoria and Vancouver Island are among the greatest in the world for whale-watching.
We haven’t gone whale watching from Victoria, but our trip to Port Renfrew, a few hours to the north, was the best we’ve ever had. Vancouver’s mainland whale viewing was fantastic, and we’ve done it twice and strongly suggested it!
11. Abkhazi Garden
It is evidence for Victoria’s “The Garden City” moniker. The stunning Abkhazi garden and historic palace were built in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi.
It may only be an acre, but its spectacular glaciated rocky slopes, majestic native Garry oaks, breathtaking vistas, Japanese maples, rhododendrons, and carpets of naturalised bulbs more than make up for its diminutive size. Even though it’s pretty compact, the thoughtful design impresses guests.
12. Travel to Chinatown
The sheer number of cities with Chinatowns is astounding. Victoria’s is unlike any other Chinatown in North America because it is only the second oldest after San Francisco’s. More than 150 years after its founding, Chinatown is a living witness to the strength of Chinese traditions that made the journey across the ocean.
From the auspicious red and gold decorations to the iconic Gate of Harmonious Interest, Chinatown is a must-see in Victoria. Don’t leave without exploring Fan Tan Alley, one of Canada’s tiniest alleys.
13. Experience Breathtaking Scenery From the Malahat Skywalk
Only 30 minutes from Victoria, the Malahat Skywalk offers breathtaking panoramas of the islands and sea. Mount Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and islands in two nations are all visible from this brand-new, magnificent observation point, which soars to 250 meters above sea level.
Walk out onto their robust 84 m2 Adventure Net while you’re at the top, and you’ll be hanging over the tower’s centre with a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding arbutus forest and the winding tower below you. Better yet? You may take the ramp back down or use their 20-meter Spiral Slide to zoom to the bottom.
14. Check out the Empress Hotel.
The Fairmont has once again succeeded — one of the city’s most famous hotels is one of its oldest structures. Visiting the interior is reminiscent of visiting a time capsule from the heyday of the British Empire. Seeing the vegetation clinging to the outside of the building is a sight to behold.
Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway between 1904 and 1908, this hotel quickly rose to prominence and is now considered a global classic. Even if you can’t afford to stay the night at the Empress Hotel, you can still pay a visit and enjoy the afternoon tea provided to more than 800 guests daily in the hotel’s lobby.
15. Kayak Trips
Victoria is a fantastic site to paddle a kayak, whether it’s your first time or you consider yourself an expert, and it serves as a hub for access to world-class paddling spots across Vancouver Island. It’s an excellent opportunity to exercise while seeing the harbour and the city in a new light and spot some aquatic life.
Victoria has water all around, so paddlers can choose from the tranquillity of a lake, the delight of an urban paddle on the inner harbour, or the exhilaration of a swiftly moving river. There’s more than simply kayaking involved. Canoeing and other watercraft, such as paddleboards, are also quite common.
Although April through October is peak kayaking season in Victoria, the city’s mild temperature makes paddling viable year-round. Numerous businesses provide rental and sightseeing opportunities.
16. Go on a Hike
Victoria is a beautiful starting place for trips into the city’s stunning natural scenery. Inside and outside the city borders, you may find several waterfalls, mountain summits, historical monuments, and beach walks. In roughly 30 minutes, you can be on most roads and feel like you’re in the middle of the wilderness but with more people.
The trailheads and trails themselves have clear signs and corresponding maps. Most hiking paths are accessible year-round and dog-friendly as long as they are on a leash. The Coast Trail in Sooke, the Mount Work Hiking Trail, the Thetis Lake Hiking Trail, and the Trestle Bridge Hiking Trail are just a few of the well-known paths in Goldstream Provincial Park from which to pick.
17. Historic Site of Fort Rodd Hill
This coastal artillery fort from the 19th century is one of Parks Canada’s many National Historic Sites. Camp out in a group-friendly oTENTik after a day of exploring bunkers, military bases, and historic structures from the 19th century. The first lighthouse on Canada’s west coast is near Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site.
When to Visit Victoria, BC
Victoria is one of the warmest cities in Canada, with temperatures that rarely drop below freezing. However, there is significant precipitation during the winter.
- March-May: Spring is a great time to visit Victoria, as many flowers bloom and the weather warms up. The average temperature is about ten °C – 18°C (50-65 degrees F).
- June-August: The summer months are the busiest and most expensive times to visit Canada. However, the weather is at its best during this time. Now is the finest time to walk, ride, or trek because temperatures are ideal and precipitation is rare. It’s also an ideal time to see whales in the wild. Please consider reserving a room weeks or months in advance. The typical high is around 73 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).
- September-November: Even though there will be more rain in the fall months, it is still a beautiful time to visit the Island. However, when we visited the Island in September, we enjoyed weeks of perfect weather.
On the final day of whale season, we went on the best trip we’ve ever been on. You won’t need much more than a sweater, raincoat, or an umbrella. Temperatures often hover around the mid-20s.
- December-February: These are “off-season” in Victoria. If you can bundle up and deal with the rain and cooler temperatures, this is the most significant time to visit the area to save money on lodging and avoid crowds. You may also do it on Vancouver Island if you want to go skiing or snowboarding. The typical high is 47 degrees, and the low is 9 degrees.
Planning a Trip to Victoria, Australia? Here’s What to Pack
Packaging sensibly for a trip to Victoria, Australia, to relax and enjoy your time there is crucial. Consider packing the following necessities:
- Pack all necessary identification documents, including a valid passport, visa (if applicable), and driver’s license during your travels. Keep hard copies of all travel documents, including hotel confirmations, airline tickets, and emergency contacts.
- Victoria’s climate varies throughout the year, so bring items worn in various temperatures and conditions. For the summer months (December – February), pack light and breathable garments like shorts, t-shirts, and dresses. Layers, including sweaters, jackets, and long pants, are essential for the cooler months (June to August). Bring an umbrella or raincoat, as the weather in Victoria is notoriously unpredictable.
- Comfortable walking shoes are necessary for touring Victoria’s many sights and landmarks. Comfortable, supportive footwear is a must for any excursion in Melbourne, whether it be a stroll through the city or a hike through the national parks.
- The 230V Type I power outlets are found in most hotels and restaurants in Victoria. If you travel from a nation that uses a different plug type or voltage, you will need a power adaptor to charge your electronics.
- Pack enough prescription meds to last the entire trip if you need to take them while away. Throw in any painkillers, antihistamines, or motion sickness meds you could take if you need them.
- Pack miniature versions of your toiletries or buy them there. Don’t forget to pack the essentials like soap, shampoo, toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a comb.
- Protect yourself from the harsh Australian sun using high-SPF sunscreen and insect repellent. Insect repellent is also helpful, especially if you intend to spend time outside.
- Carry a travel guidebook or maps to maximise your time exploring Victoria. Offline maps and apps for smartphones are also available.
- It would be best to have some Australian dollars on hand for little transactions in case you visit a business that doesn’t accept credit cards. For larger purchases, a credit or debit card is also helpful to have on hand.
- Pack some food and water for the trip, especially if you need to watch what you eat because of allergies. Keep yourself hydrated with tap water in Victoria; drinking is generally safe.
Your packing list will likely change based on the activities you plan to participate in and the vacation season, so double-check the specific requirements and recommendations for your trip.
Plan and Visit Victoria, Australia
In conclusion, Victoria, Australia, has many strange places to visit. The state offers many opportunities to engage curiosity and imagination, from mysterious natural wonders to hauntingly gorgeous landmarks.
Travellers to Victoria can travel along the Great Ocean Road, where the mysterious Twelve Apostles loom over the churning Southern Ocean. Grampians National Park is full of ancient rock formations and secret waterfalls that inspire awe in every visitor.
The secret laneways and underground pubs of Melbourne’s thriving metropolis are part of the city’s allure. Sovereign Hill is a spooky and immersive attraction in the old gold rush town of Ballarat, where visitors may learn about the mysterious history of Australia’s gold mining industry.
The Old Geelong Gaol allures individuals searching for ghost sightings and other paranormal experiences.
Whether it’s the vast, untamed nature or the exciting stories woven into the fabric of Victoria’s history, these mysterious sites offer a riveting experience that leaves visitors amazed and wanting to learn more.
Victoria’s mysterious appeal demonstrates that exploring the unknown may yield some of the most rewarding and formative travel experiences.
A captivating journey that leaves travellers with a sense of awe and a yearning for further exploration.
Victoria’s enigmatic allure proves that the most memorable and fulfilling travel experiences sometimes lie in the realms of the unknown.