The Seymour line

Seymour is the closest true country town on the northern corridor — the Goulburn runs right through it and the platform is a short walk from the river flats.

Add Wallan's ranges and Broadford's hills and you have a line built for short, cheap, low-effort escapes when you only have one night to spare.

• Goulburn River walks and swimming holes

  Deep green swimming holes under river gums, a short flat walk from town — the easiest cold plunge in central Victoria.

• Nagambie Lakes and Strathbogie wineries nearby

  Still water, jetties and vineyards along the shoreline make for a slow, unhurried day trip with a glass at the end of it.

• Vietnam Veterans Museum precinct

  A quietly moving national memorial and museum precinct that rewards a couple of unhurried hours.

• Easy one-night escapes under 90 minutes

  Close enough to leave after work on Friday and still be on a cottage verandah in the dark with a drink in hand.