Fine time to

SPRING has finally sprung and it’s the season for hitting the road to chase away the winter blues.

There’s arguably no better way to ring in the warmer weather than to organise a getaway to help rejuvenate for the last stretch of the year.

However, with busy schedules and the upcoming financial strain of the festive season, a big, expensive holiday may be out of the question.

That’s why the Addy has gone on a mission to find the best mini-breaks within a couple of hours’ drive of Geelong to both save some pennies and provide some much-needed relaxation.

Here are five top spring getaway destinations: ONLY an hour away on a V/Line train, Melbourne offers a smorgasbord of activities, including decadent dining, musicals such as Aladdin and The Book of Mormon and live music every night of the week.

One current evening highlight in our state’s capital is the Queen Victoria Night Market, which has been extended from its usual August closing until October 4.

This market, where you can nab some of Melbourne’s best street food, is also right next to the refurbished Radisson hotel.

Named best upscale hotel in Australia at last year’s HM awards, the Radisson is also conveniently within the free tram zone. A COUPLE of hours’ drive from Geelong, Daylesford has options for every kind of getaway. For art lovers, there are galleries such as The Convent and Stony Creek, for those seeking relaxation, there are hot springs such as Hepburn Bathhouse and foodies can’t go past the popular Lake House restaurant.

While Daylesford offers accommodation to suit all budgets, the hotel at the Lake House may be ideal for those who want to crash immediately after finishing an indulgent meal at the restaurant.