This pretty seaside town on the Gippsland coastline offers an array of accommodation and boat launching facilities, plus top swimming and surfing opportunities. Anderson Inlet is a haven for wind surfers. The shallow estuary is constantly changing and at low tide its sandy bottom is exposed and many species of waterbirds line the shores.

Boardwalks and tranquil tracks abound for shorter and longer strolls, or bushwalks and hiking activities. Drive the Bunurong Coastal Drive to Cape Paterson and back for some awe-inspiring coastal photo opportunities.

Look out for Eagles Nest, a large rock structure adjacent to the coastline that resembles the top half of a map of Australia. The excellent Bunurong Environment Centre interprets the natural surroundings, including the shells and dinosaur diggings of the area.

Browse gift shops and linger in boutique eateries and cafes in the busy retail centre. The Inverloch Food and Wine Festival offers a weekend of hedonism in March.

Inverloch is just under two hours from Melbourne. Travel south-east along the Monash Freeway to the South Gippsland Highway and onto Bass Highway.