Getting here

Two hours from Melbourne on sealed roads. No public transport — a car is essential.

Distance

140 km

Drive time

~2 hours

Roads

Sealed all the way

Fuel

Multiple stops

Driving routes

Melbourne CBD

140 km · ~2 hrs

Take the Eastern Freeway (M3) then the Maroondah Highway (B360) through Healesville, then continue north via Yarra Glen and Alexandra.

Melbourne Airport

150 km · ~2 hrs

Take the Metropolitan Ring Road (M80) east to the Eastern Freeway, then follow the Maroondah Highway route through to Alexandra and Eildon.

Geelong

230 km · ~3 hrs

Take the Ring Road around Melbourne or through the CBD, then follow the Eastern Freeway route north-east into lake country.

Shepparton

130 km · ~1.5 hrs

Head south via Nagambie and Seymour, then east through Yea to Alexandra and Eildon — or via Mansfield for the High Country approach.

Travel tips

Watch for wildlife

Kangaroos and wombats are common on roads in the region, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive carefully and stay alert.

Plan for stops

The drive passes through charming towns like Healesville, Yarra Glen and Alexandra. Fuel and food thin out past Alexandra, so top up before the last leg.

Download maps

Mobile phone reception can be patchy in the hills and around the arms of the lake. Download offline maps before you leave.

Fill up before you go

There are fuel stops in Alexandra and Eildon, but prices may be higher and hours limited. Fill your tank in the outer suburbs for better value.

Towing a boat?

Allow extra time on the climbs between Healesville and Alexandra. Check your brakes and lights, and confirm your ramp is open for the current water level.

The scenic drive

Recommended stops

Healesville for a coffee and the bakeries, Yarra Glen for the wineries and valley views, then Alexandra — the last major town for a supermarket, fuel and cafes — as you drop into lake country.

Alternative routes

Via Yea for a flatter, caravan-friendly run, a scenic detour through Marysville past Steavenson Falls, or in from the east via Mansfield near Mt Buller.

Good to know

There is no public transport to Lake Eildon — a car is essential. Car hire is available at Melbourne Airport and throughout the city. Consider a 4WD if you plan to explore remote areas or bush camping spots.