The Shakedown Begins
Melbourne to Lakes Entrance
We picked up the motorhome from Patto’s RV in Geelong, still smelling faintly of new plastic and promise. Back home, we packed it to the brim with pots, clothes, tools, half the pantry, and a few things we couldn’t quite explain later. It looked like we were heading off to live permanently, not just taking it for a trial run.
A few days in, we’d already realised our mistake. By the time we reached the coast, we’d mentally listed half a dozen things to turf. By the end of the week, we’d shed about half of it. Turns out, you don’t need five chopping boards on the road.
We aimed for Lakes Entrance, our first proper stop. The drive was calm enough once we got past the nerves of merging in traffic in something that felt as wide as a tram. Wyanga Campsite became our first home base. Set on the grounds of a winery, surrounded by tall trees and the sound of cockatoos that seemed to laugh at our reversing attempts.
It didn’t take long for Neil to find himself swept into the local men’s choir practice after a few glasses of red. A fun night where no one really sings in tune, but everyone leaves smiling.
Lakes Entrance turned out to be a good spot to start learning the rhythm of van life. We walked along the foreshore, tested our first proper camp coffee, and figured out that Zoe preferred sitting up front, taking in the view like a small, furry navigator.
From there, we wound our way east to Eden—a name that felt optimistic for a town built on whaling history. We spent the day exploring the Whale Museum and lookouts, soaking up the stories and sea air. It was surprisingly moving, standing by the old tryworks where whale oil once boiled, now quiet except for the gulls.
Back then, we didn’t have the luxury of a towed car, so every outing meant packing everything up to grab lunch or groceries. It got old fast, but it made us slow down and make each stop count.
By the time we left Eden, the cupboards had space, the fridge was half full instead of overflowing, and we’d started to feel like maybe, just maybe, we could make this road life work.
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Lakes Entrance and Eden
The shakedown leg was all about finding our feet. Lakes Entrance offered calm waters and coastal light, while Eden gave us history and sea stories. A good balance of rest and fresh adventure.
How to Get There
From Geelong, follow the Princes Freeway through Melbourne, then take the A1 east past Sale and Bairnsdale to Lakes Entrance. Continue another two hours along the coastal highway to Eden, just over the NSW border.
Tours and Access
What we did:
Camped at Wyanga Park Winery — worth it for the views (and the wine).
Wandered the Lakes Entrance footbridge and beaches.
Visited the Eden Killer Whale Museum and local lookouts.
Other highlights you might explore:
Cruise the Gippsland Lakes.
Stop at Metung or Paynesville on the way east.
Check out the Seahorse Inn near Boydtown.
Best Time to Visit
Spring to autumn is best with calm seas, mild weather, and fewer crowds. Winter can be blustery, but whale sightings around Eden are common from May to November.
Final Reflections
That first trip taught us more than any manual ever could, like how to pack less, laugh more, and let go of a plan when the road offers something better. We came home lighter, dustier, and full of ideas for where to head next.
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Fast Facts
Location: Lakes Entrance and Eden, VIC–NSW
Distance: Melbourne to Lakes Entrance – 320 km; Lakes Entrance to Eden – 240 km
Traditional Owners: Gunaikurnai (Lakes Entrance), Thaua (Eden)
Access: Sealed roads via the Princes Highway
Facilities: Caravan parks, shops, fuel, winery campsite
Walking Track: Foreshore and lookout trails
Dog Friendly: Check local beaches
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer
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