Victoria has a long road network, stretching across square kilometres of coastlines, mountains and inland plains. While Highway 1, Princes Highway East, and South Coast Highway get all the attention, it’s the Calder Highway that’s the longest road in Victoria. This giant paved road connects Melbourne to the far north-west of the state, with stunning views, interesting towns and some of the best roads in Australia.
For people who’ve done a 2 day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne and want to explore inland, the Calder Highway is the next adventure.
What is the Calder Highway?
The Calder Highway (A79) is Victoria’s longest continuous highway, approximately 580 kilometres from Melbourne to Bendigo to Mildura, then joining the Sturt Highway near the New South Wales border. As part of Australia’s national highways, it links the southern coast to the country’s inland routes.
This main road passes through towns and landscapes, just like the new North East Link that’s changing travel in Melbourne’s northeast, from Bulleen Road to Greensborough Road and beyond. These roads support not only tourism but also the Victorian Government’s investment in communities, connecting people from asylum-seeker backgrounds, migrant communities and priority jobseekers with better transport and economic opportunities.
What Can You See?
From beautiful towns like Castlemaine and Kyneton to open spaces near Ouyen and Mildura, the Calder is full of stops. It’s a gateway to Otway National Park, vineyards and even alpine walking routes further afield.
Places to Stop:
- Bendigo – Heritage buildings, a thriving wine scene and cultural festivals.
- Hattah-Kulkyne National Park – For a 360-degree alpine view with wildlife and wetlands.
- Mildura – Home to berry wines, the Murray River and amazing walking tracks near Bulleen Art & Garden.* Falls Creek & Swifts Creek (off Calder) – For a coastal drive or alpine walk.
- Eastern View & London Bridge (via other roads) – Has stunning views and ocean views like on a Melbourne day tour to the Twelve Apostles.
Why Travel the Longest Road in Victoria?
Driving the Calder Highway is about more than just distance it’s about action-packed adventures, rich heritage and getting off the beaten path. You’ll find:
- Adrenaline adventure opportunities like hiking, kayaking and exhilarating water-based adventure near Snowy River.
- An alternative route to the Ocean Road Brewhouse, Doncaster Road, and Rosanna Road, avoiding city congestion.
- Connections to other key roads like Bell Street Road, Springvale Road, and Williamsons Road, make it perfect for flexible travel.
- Remnants of indigenous history, River Red Gums and green spaces near Koonung Creek Trail and the proposed green bridge as part of the Yarra Link.
If you’ve done a 12 Apostles tour day tour before, this inland route will give you a different perspective of Victoria’s raw beauty—less coastal cliffs, more golden plains and red gum forests.
Travel Tips for Driving
To get the most out of your trip:
- Overnight stay in towns with plenty of accommodation like Bendigo and Mildura.
- Take a side road like Mitcham Road, Doncaster Road, and Barkly Highway for extra adventure.
- Keep a recovery kit in your car for emergencies or supplies.
- Use light mode in your browser window for daytime travel planning.
- Look out for massive storage sheds along the route—some are hidden gems with local produce and crafts.
Conclusion
The Calder Highway is more than just Victoria’s longest road—it’s a journey into Regional Australia. With connections to arterial roads, coastal routes, national highways and alpine escapes, it’s a microcosm of the many landscapes and cultures of this great state. Whether you’re after a quiet break or an adrenaline adventure, this road has it all.
If you’ve just done a Great Ocean Road loop or looking to get off the coast, this inland drive has something new to offer.
FAQ
What is the longest road in Victoria?
The Calder Highway (A79) is the longest road in Victoria, 580km from Melbourne to the NSW border near Mildura.
What is the North East Link, and how does it relate?
The North East Link is a major construction project connecting the Eastern Freeway to the M80 Ring Road through Watsonia to Bulleen and is part of the broader road network in northern Melbourne.
Are there lookouts along the Calder Highway?
Yes! From Yarra River trails to River Red Gum forests and alpine walking near Alpine National Park, there’s plenty of nature and history.
How is the Calder compared to the Great Ocean Road?
While the day tours Great Ocean Road with ocean views and attractions like the 12 Apostles, the Calder Highway takes you through the heart of Victoria’s inland—perfect for those who want to go beyond the coast.
Can I find places to stay and eat along the way?
Yes! Cities like Bendigo and Mildura have plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and even detours to wine regions and scenic roads to the Ocean Road Brewhouse.