From fruit picking to stargazing, here are the best places for a cute autumn getaway in Victoria

Of all the states in Australia, Victoria is perhaps the best for adventures during autumn.

From weekends away to admire golden leaves to day trips for hikes in the mountains, the state has a lot to offer before winter really sets in.

Here are our top picks for the best things to do in Victoria in autumn.

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Bendigo and Heathcote for autumn leaves

Victoria is absolutely spoiled when it comes to autumn foliage. Trees across the state start their slow transition through red and orange until they bare their branches for winter - giving you the perfect excuse for a weekend trip.

Bendigo's city streets are lined with these autumn beauties, and Rosalind Park is a fabulous place for a picnic. The nearby town of Heathcote is a hidden gem for golden leaves. Head to the path along McIvor Creek and walk towards the Valley of Liquid Ambers.

Other great spots include Bright, Daylesford, and the Dandenong Ranges. Read our full guide to Victoria's autumn leaves here.

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Yarra Valley for fruit picking

There's only one thing better than enjoying seasonal fruit: enjoying seasonal fruit that you've picked yourself.

Rayner's Orchard in the Yarra Valley comes alive in autumn, when you can pick your own apples, plums, lemons, and much more.

Or, just 40 minutes from Melbourne in Bacchus Marsh, February to June is peak apple picking season at Payne's Orchards.

Beechworth for cycling

Autumn is the perfect weather for cycling, as it's not too chilly but not too sweaty. Victoria has thousands of kilometres of cycling option for all skill levels, but we think that a bike trip is best when it's paired with local produce.

There are multiple Pedal to Produce routes across the state, which take you through towns and lush valleys to experience fresh local honey, gourmet cheeses, orchards, wineries and craft breweries.

There's a great 9-kilometre route starting in Beechworth, where you can pick up local jams then cruise past olive groves and cellar doors, finishing up in the cute town of Wahgunyah.

Another option is the loop trail from Bright, which hits up Wandiful Produce where you can get delicious homemade pizza for a mid-trip fuel-up.

Mt Buffalo for stargazing

Camping during winter sounds kinda miserable, but camping in autumn is magical. Head out of the city and the night sky comes alive, perfect for stargazing by a campfire.

Lake Catani campground at Mt Buffalo is a local fave spot, set among snow gums with a limited number of both caravan and tent spots. The lake and nearby waterfalls will also keep you busy during the day.

If roughing it isn't your style, a tiny home like Stella the Stargazer in Mansfield is a great alternative.

Olinda for cute town vibes

Victoria has a seemingly endless supply of quaint towns, which are even more cute and cozy to visit in autumn.

Olinda is one of the highest villages in the Dandenong Ranges, and looks like a postcard come to life. Once you've admired the autumn colours at RJ Hamer Arboretum, head to high tea (with scones, of course) at Olinda Tea House or snuggle up with a hot drink at at Miss Marple's Tearoom.

Coldstream is another great choice, especially if you're a foodie - the 13-kilometre Coldstream Trail will take you past some of the region's best produce. And there's nothing quite like picnic season at Punt Road Wines.

Silvan for flower fields

Flowers might feel like more of a springtime activity, but the flower fields at Tesselaar KaBloom come alive in the Dandenong Ranges during early autumn. Millions of flowers bloom in bright colours across over 12 acres

The Kabloom festival also includes activities that will entertain kids and adults alike, including tractor rides and delicious food options when you get peckish.