Welcome to Altona North, a quiet yet charming suburb that is flying under the radar of avid travellers. This pocket of Melbourne might not be your typical tourist hotspot, but don’t let that fool you - here you’ll find a captivating blend of urban attractions, parks and nature reserves, plus a warm and welcoming community. It’s the perfect mix which makes this destination a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Conveniently locatedapproximately a breezy 25 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD and right on the Princes Highway, Hertz Altona North Downtown is the ideal jumping point for all your Melbourne adventures, no matter how big or small. It’s time to pack up your Hertz rental car and hit the road as we discover all that Altona and beyond has to offer.
Experience a different side of Melbourne
Located on the edge of Melbourne, Altona North is the ideal starting point for your travels if you’re exploring destinations beyond Melbourne. There’s no need to rush though, because there’s more to Altona North that meets the eye, so why not spend some time exploring the local area and experiencing the city like a true Melburnian.
Got your Hertz rental car? Head 15 minutes down the road to Altona, a serene beachside destination on the shores of Port Phillip Bay. Pier Street is a busting commercial hub of the village, lined with charming boutiques, buzzing cafes and bars. Stop in at Rockabye Candy for an irresistible brunch and the best coffee this side of the Yarra has to offer (as voted by the locals).
Once you’refueled by a dose of caffeine, it’s time to stretch your legs with a stroll along the picturesque Altona Pier and Esplanade - a lovely stretch of coastline to explore. Along the walk, don’t miss Altona Homestead, the area’s first homestead dating back to the mid 1840s. Today, this beautiful old homestead houses the Altona Laverton Historical Society, a small and quaint museum dedicated to the history of the Altona region.
Tucked away in the suburbs, Altona boasts a wide array of nature reserves and parklands just waiting to be discovered. Head to Kororoit Creek Nature Reserve and discover a unique wetland environment with excellent birdwatching opportunities, or take a stroll around the picturesque Cherry Lake. The nearby Altona Lakes Golf Course is another local favourite; this scenic course and green includes a driving range as well as the 9-hole course, if you’re feeling up for a round.
After a day of exploration in the suburbs, make your way over to Grazeland Melbourne and get ready for an exciting culinary experience that’s bound to tantalise and excite the senses. Just 10 minutes from Altona North, Grazeland is home to over 50 food vendors under one roof, a great showcase of Melbourne’s world-famous and vibrant food scene. From Asian to African, Middle Eastern to European, the choices are endless, and there is something for everyone. Enjoy the unique outdoor dining experience and atmosphere, all set against a backdrop of live music and entertainment. If you were looking to stay locally, Quest Williamstown North is the ideal base for adventures in and around Altona. Located on the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay, it’s mere minutes from the amenities and dining options of Altona Village.
Adventures beyond the suburbs
If you’re seeking adventures a little further out and can’t escape the hustle and bustle of the city soon enough, your Hertz rental car is your ticket to a whole host of exciting adventures beyond Melbourne. No matter which way you point your wheels, you’re bound to discover something special in this beautiful part of the state. 1 hour south-west of Altona North is where your journey to the Great Ocean Road begins, in the town of Torquay.
Torquay itself is a lively seaside town worth spending some time exploring. Watch surfers carve up waves at Bells Beach, meander along the Jan Juc trail or take in the breathtaking open ocean views from the clifftop lookouts at Point Addis. Continuing further South, the Great Ocean Road winds its way around the cliffs and inlets, hugging the coast all the way to Warrnambool. Just over an hour to the west of Altona North, the goldfield city of Ballarat will enchant and inspire you with its unique heritage, top-rated attractions and historic city centre. To the north, the spa towns of the Macedon Ranges are an invitation to retreat and find respite within their quaint villages and naturally therapeutic hot springs.
Altona North is the perfect place to get a taste of the other side of Melbourne, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A place for those who are seeking a slower paced getaway. Home to an abundance of lush green spaces, charming seaside neighbourhoods and road trip adventures, Altona North is the sort of destination that encourages exploration off the beaten path.
