The school holidays are almost here! Sometimes we can forget that school for kids is very much like work for us. That's why it’s so important for our kids to get some much-needed rest, relaxation and respite during their end-of-term holidays. Those two weeks off are always a great chance for them to recharge their batteries and get ready for another busy term full of learning.

For parents, the school holidays can be difficult to juggle, as most of us just continue working during school holiday periods. Some people put their kids in holiday programs, or rely on grandparents, friends or other relatives. But the weekends are free, and these are the best days to spend with your kids. 

So today, we’ll be sharing our top weekend trips for parents and kids who are looking to embark on a short trip here and there during these coming school holidays.

Visit The Otways

This gorgeous part of Victoria is well worth a visit and is only a few hours away from Melbourne. For a scenic option, drive along the Great Ocean Road, which is a breathtaking experience for both adults and children. 

There are a few towns to visit and parks to camp in the Otways, such as Apollo Bay and Cape Otway. This part of the state also has breathtaking rainforests, perfect for exploring as you hike through them. The Great Otway National Park is well worth a visit. There are a few waterfalls to visit, too, and the Otway Fly Treetop Adventure is a perfect destination to take the kids for some fun. And how can we not mention The Twelve Apostles, towering natural rock formations of the Great Ocean Road, which are worth seeing once in your lifetime?

Of course, driving to the Otways can also be an experience in and of itself, with passing views of thick redwood forests and coastal cliffs. But it’s important to keep in mind that these roadways can get quite isolated, with risks of hitting wildlife or even falling trees during the winter months. With this in mind, it’s imperative that you pack safety essentials in your car and ensure that your car insurance policy and roadside assistance is also up-to-date in the event that you do experience an accident and may need professional assistance or to make an insurance claim.

The Mornington Peninsula 

Located a medium-length drive from Melbourne, the opposite side of the bay from the Otways is the gorgeous Mornington Peninsula. There are lovely beaches along here, which while being too cold for a swim in winter, are still worth a walk along or sitting outside a cafe enjoying the ocean view.

The Peninsula Hot Springs is worth a visit so you can soak and soothe those worries—the kids will enjoy it, too. The Mountain cable car at Arthur's Seat is an experience to behold as well, with awesome views. Point Nepean National Park is there for avid nature lovers and adventurous kids. The Enchanted Adventure Theme Park is an excellent place to visit with kids, with sledge rides and more to enjoy.

There are also breweries and distilleries to visit, so the adults can sample some excellent beer and spirits while the kids enjoy a gourmet lunch or dinner – and all after a long and luxurious day at the region’s marvellous beaches or following a good afternoon soak at a Mornington spa. 

Take the Black Spur Drive

The Black Spur Drive traverses through the lush rainforest landscapes of the Yarra Ranges, and this road route links the Yarra Valley with the mountainous regions around Marysville. This location is famous for its towering trees and amazing valley views. The Black Spur connects the outer Melbourne suburb of Healesville with Narbethong on the Maroondah Highway as it winds its way up the Great Dividing Range.

As you drive, lower the windows and savour the fresh fragrance of the Australian bush as you make your way through the forest. Enjoy the imposing presence of the immense mountain ash trees, which scatter the sunlight on the picturesque ground covered by green ferns below. At the base of the Black Spur, you will find the Fernshaw picnic area with rest facilities to use and where you can stop and enjoy a packed lunch. You can also use the picnic facilities at Dom Dom in the Marysville State Forest.

Explore the Macedon Ranges

This mountainous region is set off on the Calder Freeway on the way from Melbourne to Woodend,  and you'll travel towards the verdant rural landscapes and gorgeous vistas of the Macedon Ranges. It's easy from there to dip into Moorabool Shire on your return to Melbourne if you want to take a scenic route home. 

Make sure to pack trousers a few sizes larger to accommodate the awaiting gastronomic delicacies in the fit-for-a-foodie towns of Kyneton, Woodend, and Trentham. Some places will have kids' menus. While you're there, stock up on excellent local produce, organic bread, other treats, and locally roasted coffee. 

The kids will love to explore the pine forest regions of this area, and explore the shops in the towns above.

Set out on the Open Road Safely these School Holidays

From traversing through the Otways, to cruising around Mornington Peninsula, to navigating the winding Black Spur Drive, there are plenty of great weekend getaway destinations all across Victoria for you and the kids to enjoy these coming school holidays. Just remember, however, that all of these road trips can involve driving through isolated regions where winter weather may result in environmental hazards like falling trees, damaging hail, or even just low visibility. 

You can ensure your family stays safe and that your kids have a great time, by checking weather forecasts ahead of your journey, packing safety essentials like cold weather gear, a first aid kit, and non-perishable snacks and water, and ensuring your car insurance and roadside assistance is up-to-date in the lead-up to your trip. 

With these considerations made, you should be able to take full advantage of these winter school holidays, experiencing all of these Victorian destinations with a stunning wintery backdrop.