Car Rental Bairnsdale Downtown

Bairnsdale is your gateway into the Gippsland Lakes. Full of walking trails, wildlife reserves, conservation reserves, lakes, Bairnsdale is just over three hours east of Melbourne by car, past the Yarra Ranges National Park but before Snowy River National Park. So, if you are travelling to Bairnsdale, you might consider taking a few stops along the way. 

If you are driving from Bairnsdale to Melbourne or vice versa,plan a stop at the Yarra Ranges National Park, which sits between the two locations. See the world's tallest flowering tree, The Mountain Ash, and other unique flora and fauna in this cool temperate forest. Then, hike to the Top of Mount Donna for stunning views of Port Phillip. Finally, see the three towns of Marysville, Healesville and Warburton that border the park.

Closer to Bairnsdale, there is also some fantastic nature to observe, including Lake Wellington, the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, and many nature reserves and beaches. Bairnsdale also has much to offer in terms of culture, with art galleries, old churches, museums, restaurants and cultural sites. Being the location many use to stock up before trips into the Gippsland Lakes, it also has all the modern conveniences you would expect from a small town, such as shopping centres, camping stores, B&B's and chemists. 

Take a Rental Car to the Top Attractions in Bairnsdale

Regional towns often have hidden architectural gems. In Bairnsdale's case, this is St Mary's Catholic Church. The church, located close to the town centre, is a red brick church built in 1913 with additions of the front entrance and bell tower in 1937. But the most impressive part is the painted ceiling and stunning stained-glass windows - the colour and spectacle of the church are very impressive. The level of craftsmanship is well worth the visit, and entry is free, although donations towards the church's upkeep are appreciated.

The East Gippsland Art Gallery is a 5-minute drive from the city centre in your car hire. Experience the creativity of the region through exciting exhibitions exploring the mediums of painting, pottery, illustration, textile work and more. The Gallery is open most days of the week, and admission is free. The Gallery also includes a shop selling items from East Gippsland artists such as jewellery, ceramics, paintings and other designs. Stop by on your way out and pick up something unique.

Islands, Animals and More Available in Your Hire Car

Head out into nature in Bairnsdale. Surrounded by lush forests, picturesque lakes and hiking trails, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor activities. The East Gippsland trail, running from Bairnsdale to Orbost, runs 100 kilometres long, following the rail line. At this length, completing some sections with a car can be a good idea, or just sightseeing the start of the trail. However, most would attempt the whole trail on a bike, which is available to hire.

Within an hour's drive of the centre of Bairnsdale, you can arrive at Lakes Entrance, Metung and other coastal towns that sit on the edge of the lakes. The Gippsland lakes cover over 600 square kilometres, and feature a wide variety of beaches, perfect as part of a walking trail such as the 'Entrance Walk' that begins at Lakes Entrance. This walk features the famous 90 Mile Beach. If you are by the water, you might be lucky enough to spot a lake dolphin or seal, as well as a wide variety of birds.