Geelong takes full advantage of its unique north-facing bay with fabulous waterfront eateries, landscaped gardens, public artworks and walking paths set against the backdrop of Corio Bay. Cool off in the art deco-style pool and kick back in the promenade complex and restored pavilion at Eastern Beach.

Use the city as a base to explore the famous Geelong wine region and visit craft breweries, sign up for an eco-adventure tour, or take your pick from a wide range of adrenaline-charged activities.

Dine out in the bayside CBD and Pakington Street, the ambient tree-lined avenue linking the suburbs of Geelong West and Newtown. Have your pick of the many renowned restaurants and eateries as well as delicatessens and wine merchants.

Explore the city's 100 National Trust listed buildings and delve into the history of wool at the National Wool Museum, housed in an impressive bluestone building dating back to 1872. Take in the Geelong Art Gallery's outstanding collection of Australian works and visit the Powerhouse Museum, home to work by some of the country's finest street artists.

Swap the arts for sport and enjoy a game of Australian Rules football at Simonds Stadium, the home ground of the Geelong Football Club.

From horse racing to multicultural festivals, Geelong is a city of major events. Visit in January for the Festival of Sails, kick up your heels with 100,000 happy revellers at the Pako Festa cultural celebration, and take part in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Aircraft enthusiasts will want to book in for the Australian International Airshow at Geelong's Avalon Airport, held every second March.

Geelong is about one hour from Melbourne via the Princes Highway. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.