Victoria

Victoria (VIC) is one of Australia's southern most territories which borders both New South Wales and South Australia. The state capital is Melbourne which prides itself as being one of Australia's largest and most cosmopolitan cities. Like NSW the weather in Victoria can be extremely variable from season to season. The winter months see their fair share of rain and snow on the highlands further inshore. Summer months can see high temperatures with long sunny days for sunbathing and other backpacking favourites.

Victoria's coastline is on the shores of the Bass Strait and boasts some of the best scenic coastline in the country (if not the world). Many visitors flock to the state for the views along the world famous Great Ocean Road that are purely breathtaking. The states coastline is also a draw for surfers from all over the world when at the right time of year some of the largest swells in the country can be found.

Victoria also boasts some fabulous national parks and natural phenomenons. Locations such as the great ocean road draw visitors for its scenery, while Phillip Island draws visitors for its fabulous wildlife. The Twelve Apostles have intrigued visitors for years and they still draw the crowds to the south coast of Victoria in their droves. If the coast isn’t your thing then VIC has plenty to offer inland with numerous national parks providing stunning walks and habitat for some of Australia's most famous animals. The state has many beautiful and vibrant towns and cites. The state capital, Melbourne has a very European feel and acts as the main transit point for Tasmania. With a very busy international airport the city also draws backpackers from all over the world. Other towns like Lakes Entrance boast incredible beaches, and a vibrant holiday maker scene that resembles UK favourites such as Bournemouth and Bognor.

Things not to miss in Victoria include a visit to Phillip Island to see the famous Penguin Parade or the Australian leg of the Moto GP. Visit Melbourne for the F1 Grand Prix and the Australian open tennis. Skiing during the winter months in parts of inland Victoria is some of the best the country has to offer. And who could forget a scenic drive down the Great Ocean Road finished off with a look at the impressive twelve apostles that jut out in the Bass Strait.

Victoria also offers an abundance of backpacker hostels with dozens of Melbourne backpacker hostels spread throughout the city at very reasonable prices. If you find yourself in other parts of the state then you can be sure there is a Victoria backpacker hostel just around the corner.