The best swimming holes in Victoria

Up in Victoria’s High Country, where the air is clear and the mountains are craggy, you’ll find Ladies Bath Falls. Back in the early 1990s, when travellers wanted to cool off, men and women had to do so separately (think: modesty). Women would do so here (hence the name), while men had to go elsewhere. This cold mountain creek is located on the drive up to the summit of Mount Buffalo, about a 20-minute drive from Bright. It's a short five-minute walk from the Eurobin Falls' car park to the Ladies Bath Falls. The rock pools are a great respite from the summer heat. If you're wondering what time of year to visit, going for a day in spring or early summer (when the forecast isn't too hot) would be ideal. This is when the water level at the falls will be at its fullest. But try to go outside of school holidays, or earlier in the morning, if you want a peaceful visit. 

Address: Mount Buffalo Rd, Bright VIC 3740

Getting there: A 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Take care when walking on the rocks, as they can be slippery.

Free campgrounds around Victoria are few and far between these days, but the Briagolong State Forest in east Victoria is a true winner. It boasts a crystal clear pool in the gorge on Freestone Creek that's surrounded by natural bushland. Easy to access, the water is fresh and a lovely reprieve from the stinking hot temperatures that often hit this area at the height of summer. This spot is beautiful year-round, but it's probably best to avoid at peak times like school holidays, as it can get quite busy. 

Address: Freestone Creek Rd, Briagolong VIC 3860

Getting there: A 3.5-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Carry sunscreen – the pool is not shady

Swimming at MacKenzie Falls is strictly forbidden, but those thunderous falls aren’t the only spot in Grampians National Park where you’ll find cool, refreshing water holes. Take the 2.3km easy walking track from Halls Gap towards Venus Baths, where naturally formed rock pools await you. Keen to try some natural waterslides? There are a few smooth rock formations here that you can try to slide down. The best time of year to visit is in late spring when you have a better chance of the weather being warm enough for a dip, as the pools can dry up in summer. Want to stretch your legs? The Venus Baths walk is a 1.8km return trip and takes about an hour. 

Address: Venus Baths, Halls Gap VIC 3381

Getting there: A 3-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: The pools can dry up in summer, so check before going

The Werribee Gorge circuit walk features a hiking trifecta: gorgeous views, rock scrambling and a refreshing swimming hole to wade into. As the path snakes along Werribee River there are half a dozen spots where you can stop and swim, like Blackwood Pool and Needles Beach. Park the car at Meikles Point Picnic Area and expect to hike for about half an hour before you'll reach a spot for a dip. The hike is isn't an easy stroll either, as it climbs to the top of the gorge, so you'll probably work up a bit of a sweat and feel ready for a swim. The best time of year for a swim here is during the dry months of the year, as the water quality in the river is reduced after rainfall.  Keep an eye out for platypus, too, as they’re also said to be fond of Blackwood. If you do spot one, take a photo and show it to the park rangers, as they like to keep records of all sightings.

Address: Werribee Gorge Circuit Track, Pentland Hills VIC 3341

Getting there: A one-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Look out for platypuses

Hot-as-hell day? Head to the soothing wilderness of leafy Warrandyte. As far as Yarra River swimming goes, you won't do better than Pound Bend. In 1870, gold miners dug 145 metres of rock through a hill to divert the Yarra through a tunnel to dredge for gold. Nowadays, the mouth of the tunnel opens out into a deep river oasis that the locals have been keeping secret. Take a quick dip, chill out by the banks or go for a float. But otherwise, it's a great spot to visit year-round – even if it's not hot enough for a swim, there's a nice walking trail and picnic area. 

Address: Pound Bend Rd, Warrandyte VIC 3113

Getting there: A 45-minute drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Don't go after heavy rainfall; the water quality can be poor 

Heading up to Sydney via the coastal route? Bring your camping gear and head towards the far-eastern coastline of Croajingolong National Park, found just below the border with New South Wales. It’s here you’ll find secluded coastal camping spots, plenty of beach walks and lots of native animals. Cool off after a hike with a dip in the many rivers, streams and beaches that call the coastal national park home. This area is great to visit all year long, but if you go between October and May you can even spot whales on their annual migration. 

Address: W Wingan Rd, Wingan River VIC 3891

Getting there: A 7-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Take your binoculars – half of Victoria’s total bird species are in this park

About one hour west of the Melbourne CBD is Lerderderg State Park which, as well as having a super fun name to say out loud, is also home to the meandering Lerderderg River. MacKenzie’s Flat Picnic Area is the perfect spot for a swim and lunch – just don’t forget to slip, slop and slap. The best time of year to visit is typically in the latter part of spring, as the river can dry up in summer.  

Address: 591 Lerderderg Gorge Rd, Coimadai VIC 3340

Getting there: A one-hour drive from Melbourne

Our tip: Make sure to also go on a walk through rugged Lerderderg Gorge