Victoria’s most welcoming and memorable destinations have been revealed, with Warrnambool, Mount Beauty and Trentham crowned as the state’s Top Tourism Towns for 2025.
Taking out the major titles in their respective population categories, Warrnambool was named Top Tourism Town (population over 5,000), Mount Beauty claimed Top Small Tourism Town (1,500–5,000), and Trentham topped the charts as Top Tiny Tourism Town (under 1,500).
The prestigious awards, delivered by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), spotlight communities that offer exceptional visitor experiences.
Warrnambool, perched at the end of the Great Ocean Road, is a tourism favourite for good reason. Each winter, Southern Right Whales glide close to shore at Logan’s Beach, offering some of the best land-based whale watching in Australia. Visitors can explore the volcanic beauty of Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, spot native animals, and learn about local Aboriginal culture.
The city’s Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village brings history to life with heritage buildings and tales of shipwrecks, while the Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground and Foreshore Promenade provide outdoor fun for families.
Mount Beauty, tucked at the foot of Mount Bogong in Victoria’s High Country, is a natural gateway to adventure. It’s renowned for mountain biking at Big Hill Trails, scenic Kiewa River rides, alpine hiking, trout fishing and seasonal skiing nearby at Falls Creek. All set within alpine air, local wineries and relaxed village café culture
Meanwhile, Trentham is a tiny Victorian town with big appeal. Nestled by Wombat State Forest, it offers country charm, cosy cafes, RedBeard Bakery’s famous sourdough, and stunning Trentham Falls. Nature trails, historic streets and seasonal produce make it a peaceful retreat just over an hour from Melbourne.
Acting VTIC Chief Executive Chris Porter noted a growing trend. “A theme we have seen this year is that many of the winners are located further out of Melbourne, with destinations showcasing why visitors should travel to enjoy the delights that the winning Top Tourism Towns have to offer,” he said.
Silver awards went to Ballarat, Port Fairy and Halls Gap, with bronze going to Echuca, Portarlington and Whitfield.
“Being named Victoria’s Top Tourism Town strengthens a town’s profile, fosters a vibrant local economy and positions it as a leader in regional tourism,” Porter added.
The three gold winners will now go on to compete on the national stage at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards, to be announced on 3 September at Parliament House in Canberra.
View the full list of winners at: vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/winners.
