New driving route opened in south-east Australia

Travellers planning to hire a car during their holidays in Australia this year will be able to explore a new self-drive tour that has been launched in the state of Victoria.

Tourism Victoria announced that a route had been set up linking Melbourne, the Yarra Valley wine region, Phillip Island and the Mornington peninsula.

The tour, which has been arranged in a convenient triangle formation, takes visitors to scenic valleys, luxury accommodation, golf courses, parks, gardens and more.

With nearly 100 wineries to visit, Yarra Valley provides plenty of opportunities for visitors to sample local produce, as well as more adventurous activities such as hot-air ballooning.

The Mornington peninsula boasts rolling hills dotted with olive groves and vineyards, while Phillip Island is known as a wildlife haven, with attractions including a daily penguin parade.

Another new attraction in Victoria, the state tourist board announced recently, is a tour of Melbourne run by street artists - the first of its kind in Australia - which introduces visitors to the city's underground art scene.

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