Villages of Victoria - A Guide to Metung
Metung is a tiny, almost secret, waterfront village tucked away in the heart of the Gippsland Lakes. This quiet getaway destination is a scenic four hour drive east of Melbourne and is surrounded by calm peaceful waterways. It is the perfect place for holiday makers seeking to enjoy the simple pleasures of life and coastal living.
Outdoor and nature
Being surrounded by water makes Metung an obvious destination of choice for water-lovers. Embark on a cruise, hire a boat or even bring your own. No visit is complete without an offshore experience. Fishing is another popular activity in the area due to Metung’s waterfront setting. Anglers can cast their lines off the boardwalk for fishing in Bancroft Bay, or from public jetties in the village centre and back beach. Prawn season runs between January and April each year. Walkers can enjoy scenic trail walks including several in the Nyerimilang Heritage Park, located on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes.
Wining and dining
Gippsland is home to Victoria’s largest number of farmer’s markets, including the Metung Farmers’ Market. Held every second Saturday, it is an ideal place to pick up fresh local produce to complement your weekend away. Dining-wise, Metung offers an array of options, from fine-dining at the new and expanded Metung Galley at Bancroft Bay to casual dining at café Bancroft Bites at the Metung Hotel. Outdoor lovers can opt for a takeaway of freshly baked goodies from Metung Bakery and enjoy a relaxing picnic on the village green.
Contemporary art
Despite the town’s total population being a humble thousand, the natural beauty of the area has attracted many contemporary artists. Some notable artists in Metung include sculptor Kate Shones who creates her inspired pieces from junk and found objects, artist Tim Armstrong, gallery-owner and artist Lee Nickless and copper sculptor Daniel Jenkins. Artistic couple Owen and Lyn Piggot made Metung their home 27 years ago, with Owen’s paintings exhibiting in Australia and overseas and silversmith Lyn creating silver and gold jewellery. Another notable artist in the area is Max Nicholson, who specialises in watercolour and oil interpretations of the Gippsland Lakes and keeps his studio open every weekend.
For more information: go to www.visitvictoria.com/villages
Media contact: Lisa Hunt, Tourism Victoria, Ph: (03) 9653 9745
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