On a recent Friday afternoon in regional Victoria, the usual caravan convoy heading out from Melbourne to holiday destinations was joined by visitors staying in stationary vintage-style caravans at Tasman Holiday Parks in White Hills, located on Dja Dja Wurrung country. The park has introduced four retro-inspired 19-foot caravans, known as the Goldy Vans, as a new accommodation option that offers the experience of caravan living without the need to tow.

The four caravans—named Patty, Selma, Thelma, and Louise—feature bright yellow exteriors reminiscent of 1970s design and interiors bathed in citrus and daffodil tones. The units include modern conveniences such as air-conditioning, queen-sized beds, compact bathrooms, and kitchenettes equipped with essential appliances and crockery. Each van also comes with a curated retro record player intended to enhance the nostalgic ambiance, though some technical difficulties were noted.

Guests encounter a cozy, cleverly designed space where everyday tasks like accessing the bathroom or sharing the bed require coordination due to the compact quarters. Outside, each van is complemented by a private outdoor lounge area shaded by an umbrella and situated near a pool. Additional amenities at the park include communal fire pits, barbecues, an indoor play area, gym facilities, and a bike track.

Bendigo’s city center, a short 10-minute drive away, offers a dining scene that aligns with the region’s designation as Australia’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Visitors to the area can enjoy establishments like Le Foyer, a restaurant emphasizing fire-led cooking techniques and attentive service. The menu, available as a chef’s tasting experience, features locally sourced ingredients, including Ballan’s Sher Farm wagyu and vibrant vegetable dishes accompanied by extensive wine selections.

Following an evening at the park highlighted by outdoor lighting and a nearby fire pit, guests can explore local attractions such as the Bendigo Botanic Gardens. The nearby Omari café provides a scenic breakfast spot where visitors can observe morning park activities and ambient wildlife before departing.

This arrangement allows travelers to partake in the caravan lifestyle and the sense of community that comes with it without the challenges associated with towing a caravan. Tasman Holiday Parks' Goldy Vans present a nostalgic yet comfortable alternative for regional stays in the Bendigo area.