Geelong Hotels

Genteel Geelong

Sitting right on the edge of glistening Corio Bay is the awesome city of Geelong. It’s such a shame that this place is constantly overshadowed by its glam younger sister (*cough* Melbourne *cough*), because this ol’ gal is full of natural charm.

If you want history, you’ll be spoiled rotten in Geelong! For some top titbits, visit the National Wool Museum (nowhere near as boring as it sounds), the Old Geelong Gaol and The Heights Heritage House and Garden for a peek into life back in the 1850s. Next on the agenda should be some fine wine – another thing Geelong does exceptionally well. Hit the Shadowfax Winery, Bellarine Estate Winery and Barwon Grange Winery for some quality plonk (and possibly a hangover). Lastly, be sure to stop by Narana Creations to pick up some authentic Aboriginal art.

GEELONG’S TOP 10

GEELONG EVENTS

You want cars? We’ll give you cars! Head to All Ford Day to celebrate some real beauties in February.

Lose the undies and slap on a kilt for the Geelong Highland Gathering, held every March.

October’s Toast to the Coast festival is a big ol’ celebration of the good things in life – namely fine wine, fine food and fine entertainment.

The city comes alive with buzzing crowds for the annual Central Geelong Sidewalk Sales, held on Melbourne Cup Day (November).

WHEN TO GO

• Geelong sees plenty of cool, mild days and not much heat (even in summer). The average annual temp? 14°C (57°F).

• If you’re not up for umbrellas and gumboots, stay away during July and August. For slim chances of rain, try December to March.

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• Benders and McHarrys buses are awesome. Between them, pretty much all the touristy spots are covered, and the fares are cheap as chips.

• If you want to explore further out (anywhere from Mount Gambier to Melbourne), jump on a V/Line train.

• Need to get home after a long night? Get your bum on a NightBus. They run every Saturday night from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m., on four routes to over 20 suburbs.

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