Melbourne is the perfect gateway to some of Australia’s most breathtaking road trips — from the winding curves of the Great Ocean Road to the vineyard-dotted Yarra Valley and the cool forest trails of the Dandenong Ranges. To make the most of your journey, you need a rental car that’s reliable, affordable, and ready when you are. That’s where Alpha Car Hire comes in, offering the perfect vehicle to explore Victoria’s stunning landscapes on your own terms.
Why Choose Alpha Car Hire for Your Melbourne Road Trip?
- Top-Rated Service – We’re trusted by thousands of travellers for our friendly, efficient customer care and dedicated support. Our goal is to make your rental experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
- Wide Vehicle Range – Our fleet caters to every kind of trip. Choose from small, fuel-efficient city cars perfect for couples to spacious SUVs and people movers ideal for family holidays and long drives.
- Competitive Prices – We offer affordable daily rates and transparent pricing, so the price you see is the price you pay. Say goodbye to hidden fees and unexpected costs.
- Convenient Locations – Alpha Car Hire has branches near Melbourne Airport and in the city. As a reminder, while there is no branch at the airport terminal, we provide a free shuttle bus service to take you directly from the terminal to our nearby depot, ensuring a seamless pick-up and drop-off process.
- Flexible Rental Terms – Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, we offer a range of short-term and long-term rental options to perfectly suit your itinerary.
Popular Melbourne Road Trips with Alpha Car Hire
1. Great Ocean Road
📍 Route: Melbourne → Torquay → Lorne → Apollo Bay → Port Campbell → Twelve Apostles
⏱ Driving Time: 4.5–5 hours (one way, without stops)
📏 Distance: 243 km
🌟 Highlights: Experience the world-famous coastal drive with highlights including the stunning beaches of the Surf Coast, charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, the lush Otway rainforest, and the iconic Twelve Apostles at the journey’s end.
🔗 Route Map: View Google Map
2. Yarra Valley Wine Region
📍 Route: Melbourne → Healesville → Yarra Glen → Coldstream
⏱ Driving Time: 1 hour (one way)
📏 Distance: 60 km
🌟 Highlights: A paradise for food and wine lovers, this trip includes world-class wineries and cellar doors, gourmet cheese shops, boutique chocolate factories, and the possibility of a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the vineyards.
🔗 Route Map: View Google Map
3. Dandenong Ranges
📍 Route: Melbourne → Belgrave → Olinda → Sassafras
⏱ Driving Time: 1 hour (one way)
📏 Distance: 50 km
🌟 Highlights: Escape the city to a cool, misty rainforest. Key attractions include the historic Puffing Billy steam train, stunning botanic gardens, bushwalks through towering mountain ash trees, and charming villages filled with quaint tea houses and art galleries.
🔗 Route Map: View Google Map
4. Mornington Peninsula
📍 Route: Melbourne → Frankston → Arthurs Seat → Sorrento
⏱ Driving Time: 1.5 hours (one way)
📏 Distance: 80 km
🌟 Highlights: Known as Melbourne’s playground, the peninsula offers a blend of pristine coastal lookouts, relaxing experiences at the Peninsula Hot Springs, charming seaside towns, and opportunities to sample fresh seafood directly from local markets.
🔗 Route Map: View Google Map
Melbourne Road Trip Distance & Time Guide
Planning a road trip from Melbourne is simple with these popular routes. To get you started, here is a handy guide that outlines the distance, drive time, and key highlights for each journey.
| Destination | Distance (One Way) | Approx. Drive Time | Trip Highlights |
| Great Ocean Road 🌊 | 243 km | 4.5–5 hrs | Surf Coast beaches, Otway rainforest, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. |
| Yarra Valley 🍷 | 60 km | 1 hr | Wine tastings at world-class cellar doors, gourmet produce, and hot air balloon rides. |
| Dandenong Ranges 🌳 | 50 km | 1 hr | The historic Puffing Billy steam train, scenic botanic gardens, and peaceful rainforest walks. |
| Mornington Peninsula 🛁 | 80 km | 1.5 hrs | Relaxing at the Peninsula Hot Springs, stunning coastal lookouts, and fresh seafood markets. |
Tips for Road Trip Success with Alpha Car Hire
- Book Early during peak seasons, such as school holidays or long weekends, to ensure you secure the best rates and your preferred vehicle.
- Choose the Right Vehicle for your trip. A compact car is perfect for navigating the winding roads of the Dandenong Ranges, while an SUV provides the space and comfort needed for a longer Great Ocean Road adventure.
- Check the Weather before you depart and pack accordingly. Melbourne’s weather can be unpredictable, so carrying layers is always a good idea, especially for coastal or mountain trips.
- Carry Snacks & Water, especially for remote scenic routes. Plan your rest stops in advance to enjoy a picnic at a scenic lookout or a stop in a charming local town.
