Raymond Island draws nature lovers for some of the best koala-spotting around. Jump on the ferry from Paynesville, 300 kilometres from Melbourne, and hit the island’s Koala Trail.

The clearly marked path leads you among the gumtrees. Don’t forget to look up: the cute creatures are probably fast asleep above you, though you may be lucky enough to spot one out and about.

You can walk the trail in 20 minutes, and follow up with a scenic picnic lunch.