A JOURNEY LIKE NO OTHER
The Great Ocean Road region is an untamed world of nature and inspiration. Named for the spectacular 243km stretch of coastal road at its heart, this place has long lured seekers and free spirits.
SHAPE YOUR OWN STORY.
Car touring is the best way to explore its depth and breadth. Create your own adventure, starting where the Great Ocean Road snakes a rugged coastline carved by the Southern Ocean.
Then seek the road less travelled, looping into the hinterland, across volcanic lakes and plains, through ancient rainforests, charming villages and rural heartland. The further you venture and the longer you stay in the region, the more its people, landscapes, and culture will captivate you. Take your time to savour each moment. Pause to breathe the fresh air, and stay awhile to discover why visitors return to this place again and again.
GETTING HERE.
The Great Ocean Road region is easily reached and closer than you think. By car from Melbourne, take Princes Freeway and Geelong Ring Road to reach the Surf Coast, Great Ocean Road and beyond. From the Mornington Peninsula, add another dimension to your journey with a 40-minute bay crossing with car ferry between Sorrento and Queenscliff with Searoad Ferries. The region’s western reaches are within a comfortable drive of Adelaide. If you’re fly-driving, collect your rental car at Melbourne, Avalon, or Adelaide Airports. Trains run regularly between Melbourne, Geelong, Colac and Warrnambool and buses run the coastal route | visit ptv.vic.gov.au for details
Childers Cove
TASTE THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD
Unlock the essence of this magical place and its people in gourmet experiences.
EMBARK ON A FLAVOUR-FILLED JOURNEY.
Local produce takes centre stage at eateries throughout the region – buy seafood as fresh as can be and delight in paddock-to-plate menus and vibrant café culture.
> Pick up fresh crayfish in Apollo Bay, Port Fairy or Port Campbell. For a variety of locally caught seafood, look no further than Allfresh Seafood in Warrnambool
> Great coffee is available throughout the region, but for a brew with a view, find a spot overlooking the Warrnambool Breakwater and beach at the Pavilion Café & Bar
> In the Otways you will find delicious local produce available at farm gates and general stores in the area. Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at The Perch in Lavers Hill for a paddock (and ocean) to plate experience.
> Regular farmers markets take place in Warrnambool, Port Fairy, Apollo Bay and Torquay
4 X #INSPO
> At the iconic Grand Pacific Hotel enjoy delicious mediterranean inspired food, while overlooking the Lorne Pier and Loutit Bay
> The Chocolateries Great Ocean Road is an essential stop for indulgent treats and gifts to take home to your loved ones.
> Enjoy baked delights – sample sausage rolls or vanilla slices in delightful country bakeries found in towns throughout the region like Hulms Bakery in Colac
> Celebrate local flavours and venture to Apollo Bay Distillery for a Gin Blending Masterclass.
The Perch, Lavers Hill
EPIC NATURE
Wild ocean, towering coastal cliffs, ancient rainforests and volcanic landscapes – these places are timeless, but their impact is transformational.
STUNNING COASTLINE.
Explore Port Campbell National Park, famed for stunning coastlines shaped by the forces of the Southern Ocean. From a secluded cove or a clifftop platform, witness nature’s drama at the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, or discover quieter beaches to sooth your mind and soul at the Bay of Martyrs or Childers Cove
WATERFALLS AND WONDER.
The Otways, where healthy rainfall nurtures year-round cascading waterfalls. Take fairy steps along mossy trails, through fern gullies, and beneath ancient trees to reach them.
Winding forest roads under rainforest canopy will lead you to places where you can be truly still and savour every deep breath of clean air.
CHASE WATERFALLS IN THE OTWAYS.
> From Lorne both, Erskine Falls and Sheoak Falls are within easy reach of the coastal village.
> For drama, visit Hopetoun Falls, Beauchamp Falls and Triplet Falls all located in the heart of Great Otway National Park close to Beech Forest
> Visit Stevensons Falls near Forrest for all abilities access.
Hopetoun Falls
THE CALL OF THE WILD
The region is home to abundant native wildlife. The lucky might spot some of these in the wild, and if you do, take care to give them space and leave them to themselves.
ON THE WATER.
> Between June and October, Southern Right Whales migrate along the entire coastline. Warrnambool’s Logan Beach offers protection for mothers and their calves – your best bet for a sighting.
> Marengo Reef Marine Sanctuary just outside Apollo Bay is home to a fur seal colony. Spot them from the shore with binoculars or join a kayaking tour to get up closer.
> Spot platypus at Lake Elizabeth in Forrest, at Emu Creek at Skipton or Darlington
ON LAND.
> Walk With Wildlife at Wildlife Wonders in Apollo Bay with a conservationist guide to see koalas, wallabies, kangaroos and some of our rarer locals in their natural habitat.
> The crater-bound ecosystem at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a birdwatcher’s heaven – from wrens to Emus
> Kangaroos love the manicured greens of our golf courses – see them at Anglesea, Lorne, and Torquay, or at the Gellibrand River Estuary wetlands in Princetown at dusk or dawn.
> Bring the binoculars to the 12 Apostles viewing platform at dusk and keep your eye on the sand below to see fairy penguins coming ashore for the night.
Wildlife Wonders
MAKE A SPLASH
Take yourself down to the sea – or a lake or a river – and immerse yourself in the natural world.
FEEL THE FREEDOM.
Kayak, sail, swim, surf, dive and more. Line-up on the same shore breaks that lured 1960s surfing pathfinders to make Torquay the spiritual home of surfing. Dozens of beaches fringe the region’s southern edge – seek out your favourite among secluded coves, resort seafronts and remote rocky shorelines. Be aware of your surroundings, stick to designated trails getting there, and swim only at patrolled beaches. Where the forest meets the sea, discover rivers teeming with diversity and wander into the hinterland for vast lakes shimmering with potential.
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> Surf’s up – book a lesson and experience the thrill of riding your first wave in any of the region’s major coastal towns.
> Hire a motorboat – take off at Lake Pertobe in Warrnambool for some giggles and fun with the whole family.
> Fish the Volcanic Lakes – it’s a ‘win-win’ for fishermen. Many lakes including Purrumbete, Tooliorook and Bullen Merri are regularly stocked with fish.
> Float your boat on Anglesea River – hire a canoe and paddle your own path through the estuarine waters of Anglesea.
> Love the chill and thrill of ocean swimming? compete in the Lorne Pier to Pub in January, or the lesser-known swim Apollo Bay in March.
Learn to surf
LAND-BASED ADVENTURES
Leave the beaten path behind for adventure-based activities in big nature. Make terra firma your platform for leaping into the new.
Take to the trails for hours or days on end. Step into new territory and connect with nature at a slower pace. Breathe deeply under the canopy of ancient rainforests, hiking to waterfalls in the Otways
At Visitor Information Centres, learn from locals about the best options to suit your ability.
Feel the freedom of two-wheeling in nature. Mountain biking at Forrest, Anglesea or Thunder Point in Warrnambool. For less extreme cycling, try shared trails connecting towns and villages.
5 X #INSPO
> Seek new horizons on the Great Ocean Walk, hugging the coastline for 104km from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles
> Ride Forrest – Get physical testing out the rainforest obstacles on the super-long and ultra-fast Yaugher Super Loop. There’s even trails for adaptive bikes and a pump track for the kids.
> Explore the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape on trails around Budj Bim National Park or on a tour on Country led by a local Guntidjmara guide with Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tours.
> Power walk the super-scenic 8.2km stint of the Surf Coast Walk from Bells Beach to Point Addis
> Cycle or walk the 17km Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng trail between Port Campbell and Timboon
Budj Bim National Park
SEASIDE VILLAGES
Seek out like-minds, unknown stories, artists and food artisans in the region’s seaside villages, rural towns, and regional cities. Each has a distinctive voice, a character, and an ethos. Together they are the heart and soul of the Great Ocean Road region.
DIVERSE COMMUNITIES.
> Dive into surf culture at the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay, the starting point of the Great Ocean Road.
> Come out and play at Anglesea. Its brilliant beach and boardwalk are perfect for family adventuring. Be empowered to try something new and find the joy in achieving a first.
> Explore Aireys Inlet’s laid-back charm by traversing nearby trails. Refuel at local cafés and restaurants, then take in awesome coastal views form Split Point Lighthouse
> Fall in love with Lorne – a cultured classic seaside hot spot where artists and holidaymakers mingle. Stop in at the Heritage Centre and experience The Great Ocean Road Story or take to the treetops at Live Wire Park
> Discover pure peace and serenity in down-to-earth Apollo Bay – a tranquil harbour village on the edge of the Otway’s rainforest.
> Fish, swim and amble a perfect pine-fringed bay at Port Campbell, and stroll across the suspension bridge to the elevated on the Port Campbell Discovery Walk
> Experience the larger-than-life charm of Warrnambool, a welcoming and historically rich city bursting with lively energy. Take a step back in time at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. Stroll along the awardwinning 5.7km Foreshore Promenade or rejuvenate your senses in the therapeutic waters of Deep Blue Hot Springs
> Step back in time to the beautiful seaside village of Port Fairy Steeped in history, yet with a vibrant creative and cafe scene - perfect for a slower-paced visit.
Flagstaff Hill
DISCOVER THE HINTERLAND
Where the forest meets the ocean, and where The Otway’s meet the rich Volcanic Lakes and Plains, choose magical adventures in enchanted settings.
VOLCANIC LAKES AND PLAINS.
Scale the ancient volcanic peaks of Red Rock Lookout, Mount Noorat or Mount Elephant for panoramic views across this remarkable landscape, or relax waterside at one of the many crater lakes throughout the landscape. Go on a vintage shopping adventure and stop in at a charming country pub for a hearty lunch.
COUNTRY COMMUNITIES.
> Meander in Camperdown’s spacious elm-lined streetscapes and pastoral heritage. Browse for antiques and collectables here or in nearby towns – pick up a Vintage Trail brochure form the Camperdown Courthouse.
> Colac is a tranquil escape from city life, with its historic streets and lush lakeside botanic gardens. Explore the many shops or enjoy picturesque views while dining at Lake View Café
> Pick up supplies form a local bakery and picnic by Cobden Lake, Tea Tree Lake in Mortlake, Jubilee Lake in Skipton, or in shady botanic gardens in Camperdown or Koroit.
Lake Bullen Merri Lookout
ESCAPE TO LORNE’S OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARK
27 Baines Cres, Torquay 0432 922 811
Home of Great Ocean Road Brewing, the Taphouse welcomes arvos with mates, date nights, family hangs and four-legged friends - serving craft beer, local drinks, and share plates to hearty meals.
greatoceanroadbrewing.com.au/taphouse
LORNE RAAS LEELA / KARMA BAR
116 Mountjoy Pde, Lorne 03 5207 7296
Experience Raas Leela, Lorne’s vibrant modern Indian restaurant just moments from the beach. Discover bold flavours, street-food favourites, and creative cocktails inspired by India’s rich culinary heritage. raasleela.com.au
COLAC LAKE VIEW CAFÉ COLAC
1 Fyans St, Colac 03 4245 1121
Lake View Café is nestled on the edge of the Botanic Gardens, overlooking Lake Colac, offering a sumptuous menu of locally sourced produce, the perfect pitstop on your travels.
FB: lakeviewcafecolac
1200 Great Ocean Rd, Bellbrae 03 5263 1588
Experience a chocolate lover’s paradise with a chocolate showroom, hands-on experiences, free tastings and an all-day café. Open daily 9am-5pm (except Christmas Day). Free entry and pet friendly.
BELLBRAE gorci.com.au THE CHOCOLATERIES GREAT OCEAN ROAD
4285 Cape Otway Rd, Birregurra 03 5236 2226
Experience Australia’s most celebrated farm restaurant, where seasonal tasting menus and guided farm tours connect guests to the land, produce and people of the region. Reservations essential.
BIRREGURRA BRAE braerestaurant.com
23-27 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay 03 5237 7165
Try our handcrafted gins and spirits or our locally brewed beers. Enjoy a pizza or snack from our café or takeaway from our drive thru. Also, pop by the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse next door! apollobaydistillery.com.au
WHERE LOCALS MEET & TRAVELLERS FEEL AT HOME
The Great Ocean Road Brewhouse is the only truly local hotel in town - owned by locals, run by locals. Discover Australia’s most southerly pub on the mainland. Enjoy local craft beer, spirits, regional wine, and all-day dining. Bring the family, bring the dog, and enjoy live music, TAB, foreshore views, free Wi-Fi and affordable accommodation rooms. Open 7 days.
greatoceanroadbrewhouse.com.au
Enjoy unique Australian wildlife and landscapes on a guided tour of our Sanctuary in Apollo Bay. Drop in for a coffee or stay for lunch
At Wildlife Wonders, 100% of profits support Great Ocean Road conservation.
29-35 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay 03 5237 6240
A dining experience beyond the ordinary. Stop by to enjoy our breathtaking views, feed native birds, or take a stroll through the gardens & old-growth forest walking trails.
1-15 Great Ocean Road, Lavers Hill T: 03 5237 3110
Open 7 days: Lunch/Dinner 11am-2:30pm & 5.30pm-late www.theperchlavershill.com.au
Perfect for a quick stop or an extended wildlife getaway! 30min personalised Koala Experience: meet koalas, take your own photos. Designed for busy travellers. All-weather. Limited daily bookings. Stay & Explore: Self-contained units. Midway between Apollo Bay & Port Campbell. Close to waterfalls, Treetop Walk & Californian Redwoods. 5mins to Melba Gully glowworms. LAVERS HILL
5040 Colac-Lavers Hill Rd, Lavers Hill 0400 836 996 koalaphoto.com.au
360 Phillips Track Beech Forest, Weeaproinah
03 5235 9200
Experience the Otway rainforest from above at Otway Fly Treetop Adventures. Explore elevated walkways, climb the Spiral Tower, and immerse yourself in Victoria’s natural beauty.
WEEAPROINAH otwayfly.com.au OTWAY FLY TREETOP ADVENTURES
2549 Cobden-Port Campbell Rd, Port Campbell 0417 434 400
Quiet luxury meets the wild beauty of the 12 Apostles coast. Romantic couples retreat, ocean views, and pure tranquillity. Unwind by the fire, soak in the spa, reconnect in nature.
anchorsportcampbell.com.au
Sea Foam Villas is situated in the heart of Port Campbell. Offering luxurious accommodation: 1BR villas, spa suites, queen studios, family villas and deluxe penthouses. Many of our villas offer stunning views of Port Campbell Bay and town centre. We offer free Wi-Fi, parking, and guest laundry.
14 Lord Street, Port Campbell 03 5598 6413 info@seafoamvillas.com.au seafoamvillas.com.au
Port Campbell 0429 986 450
Curated with bespoke interiors inspired by the 12 Apostles coastline, Port Farm and Port Cottage offer exceptional accommodation for travellers wanting to slow down and experience the Great Ocean Road differently.
portstays.com.au
16 Macs St, Peterborough 03 5598 5225
Open daily for all your last minute needs. Large range of bait, fishing tackle and all your grocery and milk bar items. Liquor supplies, including wine, beer and spirits. Golf club hire available. Come for a game of golf at our 9-hole course.
Discover the beauty of the coastal village of Peterborough. Peterborough House offers spacious single, double or family rooms. Perfect getaway for families or couples. Directly across the road from the stunning Peterborough Beach. Located 20mins from the 12 Apostles. Café & Restaurant onsite. Free Wi-Fi and parking.
110 Merri St, Warrnambool 03 5561 1415
Breathe in fresh coastal air with scenic walks, cafés, shops and galleries nearby. Relax at Clovelly Bar & Restaurant or unwind in beautifully refurbished rooms, all backed by top-rated reviews.
9 Irvine St, Peterborough 03 5598 5418 enquiry@peterboroughhouse.com.au
Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool 03 5559 2050
Soak in the warmth of an open-air geothermal mineral bathing sanctuary, where rock pools, sensory caves and cascading waterfalls invite you to slow down and unwind. Mineral waters soothe the body, quiet the mind.
thedeepblue.com.au
Princes Hwy, Warrnambool
03 5562 9936
Set in the historic former factory with heritage-listed garden, a mustvisit stop! Specialising in antiques, collectibles, retro clothing, books, records, artwork, and more. Open daily from 10am-5pm.
fletcherjonesmarket.biz
55 Anzac Ave, Koroit
The magnificent Convent at Koroit. Experience divine accommodation in an original 1906 convent. Explore the rich history of The Convent with its fascinating heritage on a guided tour! Perfect for wedding ceremonies. Limited opening times.
www.conventkoroit.com
50 Viaduct Rd, Warrnambool 03 5561 1551
Housed within a superb architectural building overlooking the water with views of Lady Bay, Southern Ocean and Middle Islands. Contemporary café cuisine, wine, cocktails & coffee.
pavilion.net.au
51 William St, Port Fairy 0493 673 116
Historic 1870s bluestone suites in the heart of Port Fairy. Thoughtfully renovated, offering adults-only, S/C comfort with timeless charm, all within a gentle stroll to village shops, restaurants and beaches.
oldmarketinn.com.au
TALK TO A LOCAL
To get the most out of your visit to the Great Ocean Road plan ahead at visitgreatoceanroad.org.au and for the latest information and local tips call into an accredited Visitor Information Centre and chat to a local.
When travelling, look for this symbol, it denotes accredited Visitor Information Centres, open daily 9am to 5pm.
Scan the QR Code and get ‘local knowledge’ on the Great Ocean Road website
DISCOVER MORE AND SHARE YOUR GREAT OCEAN ROAD STORY
Scan the QR code to find more inspiration on the Great Ocean Road’s official visitor website and social channels, and don’t forget to tag #visitgreatoceanroad in your own social posts and stories. visitgreatoceanroad.org.au /VisitGreatOceanRoad @VisitGreatOceanRoad @visitgreatoceanroad
BALLARAT
CDS REFUND POINTS
Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, CDS Vic, provides a 10 cent refund for every eligible drink container returned. Each bottle, can and carton that you return helps to divert valuable containers from landfill. Find your TOMRA Cleanaway West Zone refund point where you see the 10c mark on the map, or download the app via this QR code.
DRIVING THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD
Travel times are a guide only and may vary due to the scenic winding nature of roads and di erent weather conditions. The region is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace with lots of detours and stops! Expect travel times to be longer during peak season. Drive on the left in Australia and use slow turn out lanes to allow others to pass. Share the drive – don’t do the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne in one day.
Stay safe: Be aware of the environment within which you are travelling. In an emergency call: 000 (police, fire or ambulance). VicEmergency hotline: 1800 226 226 (free call). www.emergency.vic.gov.au To report injured native wildlife, please call
Secondary
Secondary
Great Ocean Road
Great Ocean Walk
Surf Coast Walk