10-Day Family Adventure: Nature, Culture & Food in Reservoir, Victoria, Australia

Day 1: Explore Reservoir

Reservoir, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Reservoir Café

Kick off your trip with a delicious breakfast at the local Reservoir Café, known for its classic Aussie breakfast options.
Located at Edwardes Lake Park, a short drive or 10-minute walk from most accommodations.
AUD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Edwardes Lake Park

Enjoy a picturesque morning stroll around Edwardes Lake Park, where you can feed the ducks and let the kids enjoy the playground.
5-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Reservoir Hotel

Grab lunch at The Reservoir Hotel, a family-friendly venue with a varied menu that is sure to please everyone.
A quick 5-minute drive from the park.
AUD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Bundoora Park

After lunch, visit Bundoora Park, a nature park with walking trails, a farm, and a large playground—perfect for the kids.
20-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Aangan Indian Restaurant

Savour authentic Indian cuisine at Aangan, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and spice-infused dishes.
5-minute drive from Bundoora Park.
AUD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Day in Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hardware Société

Enjoy a flavoursome breakfast at Hardware Société, a critic’s choice famous for its French-inspired dishes.
Take the train from Reservoir to Flinders Street Station (~30 minutes).
AUD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, where your family can learn about local flora and enjoy a picnic.
15-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Southgate

Indulge in lunch overlooking the Yarra River at Southgate, which offers multiple dining options.
15-minute walk from the Gardens.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Melbourne Museum

Visit Melbourne Museum to immerse in local history, culture, and science found throughout its exhibits.
15-minute tram ride from Southgate.
AUD48 (family ticket), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chin Chin

Savour modern Southeast Asian cuisine at Chin Chin, a bustling restaurant perfect for families.
5-minute walk from the museum.
AUD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Yarra Valley Day Trip

Yarra Valley, Australia

7:30AM

Breakfast on the Road

Grab takeaway breakfast pastries from a local bakery in Melbourne before hitting the road to Yarra Valley.
30-minute drive from Reservoir to a bakery.
AUD30, 45 minutes

9:00AM

Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

Begin your Yarra Valley adventure with a sweet stop at the Chocolaterie offering free tastings and beautiful views.
About 1-hour drive from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit a local winery

Spend the late morning at the family-friendly Yarra Valley winery, such as De Bortoli, where adults can taste wine while kids can enjoy outdoor spaces.
10-minute drive from the chocolatier.
AUD30 (wine tasting), 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Healesville Hotel

Savour a hearty lunch featuring local produce and dishes at the Healesville Hotel.
15-minute drive from the winery.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Healesville Sanctuary

After lunch, explore the Healesville Sanctuary, where the family can see Australian wildlife up close.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
AUD124 (family ticket), 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Reservoir

Head back to Reservoir to relax after a busy day exploring Yarra Valley.
1-hour drive back.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Casa Ciuccio

Finish the day with Italian cuisine at Casa Ciuccio, known for its wood-fired pizzas.
5-minute drive from home.
AUD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Dandenong Ranges Adventure

Dandenong Ranges, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Giddy Goat Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Giddy Goat, a quaint café in the Dandenong area.
30-minute drive from Reservoir.
AUD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Puffing Billy Railway

Ride the historic Puffing Billy steam train through the lush forests and gardens of the Dandenong Ranges.
15-minute drive from the café.
AUD144 (family ticket), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Jolly Miller Cafe

Refuel at The Jolly Miller Café, which offers a delightful selection of lunch options for families.
5-minute drive from the railway station.
AUD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Sherbrooke Forest Walk

Explore the tranquil Sherbrooke Forest via various walking trails, where the kids can spot lyrebirds and experience nature.
15-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Tuckers Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Tuckers Restaurant before heading back to Reservoir for the night.
20-minute drive back towards Reservoir.
AUD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Phillip Island Excursion

Phillip Island, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at a Local Bakery

Visit a local bakery for freshly baked goods and coffee to fuel up for the adventure.
30-minute drive from Reservoir.
AUD30, 45 minutes

8:00AM

Drive to Phillip Island

Enjoy the scenic drive to Phillip Island, preparing the family for an exciting day ahead.
1.5-hour drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Phillip Island Wildlife Park

Start your day at Phillip Island Wildlife Park, where you can get up close with kangaroos, koalas, and more.
30-minute drive from the entrance.
AUD95 (family ticket), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rhyll Trout and Bush Tucker Farm

Enjoy a unique lunch featuring fresh trout and local bush foods in a beautiful setting.
15-minute drive from the wildlife park.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Treat your family to a delightful visit at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory, featuring interactive exhibits.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
AUD50 (family ticket), 2 hours

4:30PM

Penguin Parade

Experience the Penguin Parade at sunset, a magical event that your family will never forget.
30-minute drive to the viewing area.
AUD160 (family ticket), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner on Phillip Island

Wind down with dinner at a local restaurant like The Cape Kitchen, overlooking the ocean.
5-minute drive from the penguin parade.
AUD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Mornington Peninsula Delight

Mornington Peninsula, Australia

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Mornington Peninsula Bakery

Start your day with freshly baked goods and coffee from the renowned Mornington Peninsula Bakery.
1.5-hour drive from Reservoir.
AUD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Sorrento Back Beach

Head to the stunning Sorrento Back Beach for a morning of beach fun and relaxation.
30-minute drive from the bakery.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Point Nepean National Park

Visit Point Nepean National Park where you can walk trails and learn about the area's history.
30-minute drive from the beach.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Eagle Ridge Restaurant

Savour a great lunch featuring local produce at the beautiful Eagle Ridge Restaurant.
15-minute drive from the park.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens

Get lost in the wonders of Ashcombe Maze, a fun hedge maze and beautiful lavender garden.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
AUD50 (family ticket), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Rye Hotel

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at The Rye Hotel featuring a relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu.
30-minute drive from Ashcombe Maze.
AUD90, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Reservoir

Head back to Reservoir to rest and recharge after a full day.
1.5-hour drive back.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Great Ocean Road Adventure

Great Ocean Road, Australia

6:00AM

Breakfast at The Beach House

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at The Beach House before hitting the Great Ocean Road.
1.5-hour drive from Reservoir.
AUD50, 1 hour

7:30AM

Depart for Great Ocean Road

Set off on an early journey along the world-renowned Great Ocean Road, enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
1.5-hour drive to the start of the road.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the 12 Apostles

Stop at the iconic 12 Apostles for stunning views and family photos against the backdrop of towering cliffs.
1-hour drive along the coastal road.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre

Enjoy lunch with a view at the visitor centre, surrounded by nature.
On-site at the visitor centre.
AUD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Gibson Steps

Take a short walk down Gibson Steps to see the 12 Apostles up close from the beach.
5-minute drive from the visitor centre.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Loch Ard Gorge

Explore the stunning scenery of Loch Ard Gorge and learn its remarkable history.
10-minute drive from Gibson Steps.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Wares in Apollo Bay

End your day with a delightful dinner at The Wares restaurant in Apollo Bay on the way back.
30-minute drive from Loch Ard Gorge.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Reservoir

Drive back to Reservoir after a memorable day of exploring the Great Ocean Road.
2-hour drive back.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 8: Geelong Day Trip

Geelong, Australia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Black Gold

Enjoy breakfast at Black Gold Café before setting off to Geelong.
5-minute drive from home.
AUD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Head to Geelong

Start your 50-minute drive to Geelong for a fun day out.
50-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Geelong Waterfront

Stroll along Geelong's picturesque waterfront, stopping at playgrounds and viewing public art installations.
Arrive at Geelong Waterfront.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Geelong Gallery

Visit the Geelong Gallery to appreciate art and cultural exhibitions that are fun for the whole family.
15-minute walk from the waterfront.
AUD20 (family ticket), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sailors' Rest

Savour an exquisite lunch at Sailors' Rest, overlooking the bay.
5-minute drive from the gallery.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Adventure Park Geelong

Spend the afternoon at Adventure Park Geelong, where the kids can enjoy water slides, rides, and more fun activities.
20-minute drive from the restaurant.
AUD140 (family ticket), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Geelong Cats' Club

End your day with a casual dinner at Geelong Cats' Club, popular among families.
30-minute drive from Adventure Park.
AUD80, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Reservoir

Head back to Reservoir after a whirlwind day in Geelong.
50-minute drive back.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 9: Grampians National Park

Grampians National Park, Australia

6:30AM

Breakfast at Taylors Lakes Bakery

Start early with a breakfast stop at the Taylors Lakes Bakery for delicious baked goods.
45-minute drive from Reservoir.
AUD30, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Grampians National Park

Hit the road to Grampians National Park, anticipating a day of stunning nature.
2-hour drive.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Mackenzie Falls

Start your exploration at Mackenzie Falls, where you can admire one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls.
30-minute drive from the entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Halls Gap Hotel

Enjoy lunch with views of the Grampians at Halls Gap Hotel, with a family-friendly menu.
30-minute drive from the falls.
AUD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Halls Gap Zoo

Interact with animals at Halls Gap Zoo, which offers a chance to see native and exotic species.
10-minute drive.
AUD60 (family ticket), 2 hours

4:30PM

Lookout at The Balconies

End your park adventure with views from The Balconies, a spectacular lookout point.
20-minute drive from the zoo.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Grampians Estate

Conclude your day with a lovely dinner at The Grampians Estate, which offers local dishes.
30-minute drive from The Balconies.
AUD90, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Return to Reservoir

Drive back again to Reservoir after a day full of exploration.
2-hour drive back.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 10: Relaxing Day in Reservoir

Reservoir, Australia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Harvest Café

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Harvest Café known for its delightful brunch options.
Close to home.
AUD40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at the local library

Spend some quiet time at the Reservoir library, where kids can join reading sessions or activities.
Short walk from cafe.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Crisp Cafe

Indulge in a light lunch featuring fresh and healthy options at Crisp Café.
10-minute walk from the library.
AUD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit local parks

Explore some of Reservoir's beautiful parks, perfect for unwinding and playing outdoor games.
Short drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Proud Peacock

Enjoy your last dinner at The Proud Peacock, offering a warm and friendly atmosphere complemented by hearty meals.
5-minute drive from the parks.
AUD80, 1.5 hours
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