My partner and I escaped to Metung in April 2021 post-Covid concerns. The looming uncertainty about potential lockdowns kept us on edge, compounded by Melbourne’s regional separation. This restriction hindered intra-state travel and limited family visits, amplifying the frustration caused by Melbourne’s frequent lockdowns. The recurrent lockdowns, four within two years, made Melbourne one of the most challenging places to reside. The longing for travel during such times was palpable, highlighting the collective desire for freedom of movement and exploration.
Metung, a quaint town just 25 minutes from Lakes Entrance, boasts a handful of shops including a grocery store, women’s clothing boutique, bakery, cafes, restaurants, and a pharmacy. Lakes Entrance is a bigger coastal town with lots more options for cafes, restaurants, takeaways place and grocery stores. They are popular places over summer to have a vacation, so make sure you book accomodation if you are going between November to March.
Nestled along the stunning Gippsland Lakes, Metung is my haven. Here, serene waters mirror the beauty of lush landscapes, inviting peaceful strolls along the boardwalk. Quaint cafes dot the shoreline, offering delightful tastes while boats sway gently in the marina. The town’s warmth extends through its community, welcoming visitors to embrace its relaxed pace and picturesque scenery. It’s a place where the sunsets paint the sky in hues of gold, casting a tranquil spell over this coastal gem, inviting all to savor moments of pure serenity by the water’s edge.
Metung
Embark on a serene 4-hour drive along the highway from Melbourne to reach the picturesque waterside enclave of Metung. Nestled at the tip of a peninsula, Metung is embraced by Lake King and Bancroft Bay. With panoramic waterfront vistas and boats swaying gently in the marina, tranquility awaits along the winding Tambo River.
Metung Hot Springs
Experience geothermal relaxation amidst stunning clifftop vistas at the bathing pools near Metung village. Enjoy massaging showers, sauna sessions, a reflexology walk, and bathing barrels. Luxurious accommodation, a day spa, and a café await within the scenic 25-acre grounds.
Angling and Nautical Activities
Metung is a haven for fishing and boating fans, offering convenient amenities like boat ramps, jetties, and mooring facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a novice, its calm waters make it an ideal spot. If you’d rather stay on land, try fishing from the jetties or along the Tambo River for yellow eye mullet, galaxias, bream, and trout.
Head to the town jetties for a shot at flathead. For a refined angling experience, try Bancroft Bay, Chinamans Creek, and Box’s Creek for bream and luderick.
Prefer trolling? Cruise Nungurner’s Lake edge with pippies and mussels for whiting and flathead. Join a guided fishing tour from nearby Lakes Entrance for expert tips.
Walking
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Bancroft Bay, perhaps with fishing gear in hand, on the Metung Boardwalk. Pass Legend Rock, steeped in Gunaikurnai legend. Traverse the Boxes Creek Walking Trail, spotting sea eagles and kingfishers along the creek.
Aboriginal Heritage
Legend Rock stands among eleven significant Indigenous sites on the Bataluk Cultural Trail. According to Gurnaikurnai legend, it marks the transformation of a greedy fisherman into stone for his excessive catch.
Arts and Culture
Metung’s relaxed ambiance fosters a creative community, including artisans, photographers, jewellers, and sculptors, who showcase their work in boutique galleries. At the monthly Farmers Market (held every second Saturday), their creations are on display alongside local produce and flowers.
Boat Tours and Charters
You can rent boats and kayaks from Riviera Nautic or join a fishing tour with Lakes Entrance Offshore Charters, offering pick-up from a private jetty and access to prime fishing spots.
Water Sports
Escape city stress by immersing yourself in the water. Metung offers hire shops like Venture Out and Riviera Nautic for all your needs.
Kayaking
Discover Bancroft Bay or paddle to Metung village. Silvershot Jetty offers a scenic stroll.
Paddleboarding (SUP)
Enhance core balance while sightseeing on the lake. Hire a stand-up paddleboard for a unique experience.
Jet Skiing and Water Skiing
Explore authorized ski zones and join locals for exhilarating water adventures.
Land Activities
Swap the sails for shoes and explore more on land! Metung offers stunning nature walks, prime birdwatching spots, and thrilling mountain biking trails.
Nature Walks in Metung
A nature stroll isn’t just exercise—it’s a rejuvenating experience for body and mind. Research highlights the mental and physical benefits of outdoor activities, including improved focus, learning, and creativity.
Parks Victoria champions this connection through its Healthy Parks Healthy People initiative, managing vast landscapes with Traditional Owners. They ensure preservation while respecting culture and the environment.
Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park (East)
A tranquil natural sanctuary spanning from Seaspray to Lakes Entrance along the Ninety Mile Beach. This varied terrain features wetlands, shorelines, and countless islands, providing an array of leisure pursuits. Explore bushwalks, swim, kayak, and fish in the surf or serene lake waters.
Accommodation options vary from free and paid camping spots to cozy lodgings in Metung, each providing distinct access to the park’s splendor.
Tambo Delta – Gippsland Lakes Reserve
The Tambo Delta – Gippsland Lakes Reserve captivates with its rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes. A haven for nature enthusiasts, it offers birdwatching, fishing, and exploration of diverse wetland habitats. Its tranquil ambiance invites relaxation and immersion in nature’s beauty. An essential destination for those seeking to encounter the serene wonders of the Gippsland Lakes region.
Metung Bushland Reserve
The Metung Bushland Reserve is a serene retreat, inviting nature lovers to explore its diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for bushwalks and wildlife spotting, it offers a peaceful outdoor experience amidst the Australian bush. Discover, unwind, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this natural gem—a must-visit destination for anyone seeking solace in Metung’s wilderness.
Nyerimilang Homestead & Reserve
Nyerimilang Heritage Park, nestled by the Gippsland Lakes, offers a serene retreat amidst lush gardens and scenic trails. Explore the historic homestead, admire panoramic lake views, and revel in birdwatching. With well-marked trails, it’s perfect for leisurely walks or tranquil lakeside picnics—a true haven for nature lovers.
Bird Watching
For bird enthusiasts, Metung offers diverse species against picturesque backgrounds. Track sightings with Ebird’s data or identify birds using the Merlin Bird ID app. Join Birdlife East Gippsland’s group outings for a shared birdwatching experience.
Koalas on Raymond Island
Discover koalas and wildlife on Raymond Island, just an hour from Metung. Board the Paynesville Ferry for koala spotting and scenic walks. Explore the 1.3km koala trail, observing kangaroos, echidnas, and native birds. Enjoy biking or strolling along boardwalks with maps available for a donation. Rent bikes from Ride The Koalas for a unique experience. Raymond Island offers BBQ facilities, a playground, and toilets for convenience. Remember mosquito repellent for a comfortable visit.
Buchan Caves
Just an hour from Metung, delve into Victoria’s largest cave system on a guided tour. Explore the captivating underground realm shaped by ancient rivers. Secure your tickets 24 hours ahead for Fairy Cave and/or Royal Cave adventures. At the Visitor Centre, enjoy picnics amid kangaroos and native bird sightings like the Bell Miner, Powerful Owl, Superb Lyrebird, and Pied Currawong.
Scuba-diving & Snorkelling
Cape Conran Coastal Park is 1hour 20minutes from Metung and offers excellent diving opportunities to discover vibrant kelp forests and bustling reefs inhabited by marine creatures such as Starfish, Rock Lobsters, and Port Jackson Sharks. To the southeast lies Beware Reef, a popular diving location showcasing vibrant marine ecosystems and the remains of sunken ships. The park’s rugged ocean beaches are ideal for observing seals, dolphins, and migrating whales from May to October.
Mountain Activities
About 2 hours and 15 minutes from Metung, Mount Hotham sits within the Victorian Alps of the Great Dividing Range. In winter, the Big D Ski Centre beckons skiers and snowboarders, while summer visitors can enjoy hiking trails and high-altitude fitness training.
These photos were captured on the boardwalk along Metung Road, Metung. It’s a delightful stroll along the water’s edge, offering views of Lake King. The prominent rock featured is known as Legends Rock.
In April 2021, during autumn, we explored Metung. While the ocean sunsets were breathtaking with reflections, I advise bringing a warm jacket, beanie, and gloves as it was quite chilly while waiting for the sunset.
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy trails and wildlife encounters, with diverse birdlife and occasional dolphin sightings enhancing the region’s appeal. Metung offers a laid-back escape, perfect for waterfront strolls and outdoor pursuits, promising rejuvenation amid serene surroundings. Conclude the day with a sunset walk along the water’s edge, admiring sailing boats. The village’s natural beauty inspires local artists, reflected in galleries featuring sculptures, jewelry, and paintings celebrating the area’s landscapes.
Metung Tours and Activities:
- Riviera Nautic
- H20 Tours & Adventures
- Ninety Mile Beach
- Metung Hot Springs
- Metung Market
- Opera by the Lakes
- Metung Country Club
- Paynesville Sunset Cove Walking Track
- Raymond Island
- Bulls Cruisers
- Sail Safari
- Ride the Koalas.
Places To Get Food
- Metung Bakery & Cafe
- Effloresce Flowers & Cafe
- The Local Metung
- The Metung Hotel
- Aroma Metung
- Cafe Chez Joe
- SARDINE dining’s
- Ferry Cafe 85C Esplanade
- Metung Country Club
- Sardine CANTINA
- Pier 70
- Three double8zero
- Paintsville Café
- Marlo Ocean View Takeaway & Kiosk
- Marlo Bait & Tackle Cafe
- The Marlo Hotel
- Chooky’s Roost
- Berties Burgers
- The Orbost Club
- Orbost Pizza and Ice Cream
- Leon Palace
- Orbost Club Hotel
- Cafe One2Five
- Orbost FoodWorks
- Salt Organics
- Orbost Bakery
Accommodation
5 Knots Metung is where I selected for my stay. The journey to Lakes Entrance is only 24 minutes by car. Booking.com
- A Stones Throw
- Howitt House
- The Village Lighthouse
- Clovelly Cottage
- Foreshore
- The Apartment, Metung
- Stradbroke
- Metung Waters Motel and Apartments
- Cliff House Cottage
- The Moorings at Metung
- Glan-y-mor Studio in Metung
- Lisieux
- Metung Akora 2Bdrm Apartment 4 Pets and Boats welcome
- Nautique
- A Window on the Bay
- Lake Suite Metung
- A Wood Haven
- The White Cottage
- Korak
- Bancroft Haven
- Stirling Escape
- Boat House
- Kennys Cottage
- Metung Holiday Villas
- Lakescapes Cottage
- Lakeview Treehouse
- Casuarina
- Treetop Retreat House
- McMillans of Metung Coastal Resort
- Metung Hot Springs
Essential Packing List for Metung
Click here to view my packing list
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Metung worth visiting?
Metung is a haven for boating and fishing aficionados, boasting convenient boat ramps, jetties, mooring facilities, bait shops, and boat charter services to facilitate easy water access for enthusiasts.
Does Metung have shops?
Visit the Metung Village Store for all your needs during your Gippsland Lakes getaway. We offer groceries, fresh local produce, newspapers, magazines, wine, liquor, and boating/fishing gear.
Can you swim at Metung?
Metung is renowned as a hub for fishing and boating. With water surrounding three sides, the town boasts multiple marinas and jetties. Cruise operators cater to visitors, while safe swimming spots are found at Shaving Point and near the jetty along the western coast.
What is the meaning of Metung?
Initially named Rosherville, Metung derives its current name from an Aboriginal term believed to signify either “mainland” or “ti-tree river bend,” inspired by the trees adorning its beaches.
Does Metung have a beach?
Metung, renowned as the gem of the Gippsland Lakes, sits nestled on a peninsula enveloped by water. Discover sandy beaches, jetties, boat ramps, and picturesque coastal boardwalks. Visit the Village Green with its charming shops and eateries, offering delightful views of Bancroft Bay.
Is the Metung Market on this weekend?
Come rain or shine, the Metung Farmers Market occurs every second Saturday of the month from 8 am to 12:30 pm.
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Ferntree Gully Quarry: Nature’s Playground
Great details here! Beautifully written and beautiful pictures! I’d love to go!
Looks amazing, thanks for sharing.
I have not checked in here for some time since I thought it was getting boring, but the last several posts are good quality so I guess I will add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
Thank you for your feedback. I will be adding more information to all my old posts, I am not happy with them.