I AM Warrnambool
Self-drive itinerary (4 days, 3 nights)
Warrnambool, Victoria’s largest coastal city is just a breezy 3 hour drive from Melbourne by car. Its allure lies in a rich tapestry of history, natural splendour, cultural vibrancy, and warm hospitality where life plays out with a lively coastal tempo. Here in Warrnambool, amidst nature's embrace, embark on a journey of serene indulgence within a vibrant cityscape.
We acknowledge the Peek Whurrong and Kirrae Whurrung Peoples of the Gunditjmara, Eastern Maar Nations as the Traditional Owners of the land, waterways and skies within the City of Warrnambool. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
How to get to Warrnambool
Warrnambool is easily accessible by car, train, or bus.
- 3 hour drive (257km) from Melbourne City (or Tullamarine Airport)
- 2 hours, 20 minutes (205km) from Avalon Airport
- 2 hours, 15 minutes (194km) from Mount Gambier Airport
- 7 hours (615km) from Adelaide City via Riddoch & Princess Highway
CAR: Warrnambool is 257 kilometres away from Melbourne CBD and will take approximately 3hrs to drive via the inland route or 5hrs and 30 mins via the Great Ocean Road. From the 12 Apostles – staying on the Great Ocean Road, travel west to the A1 at Allansford, before arriving in Warrnambool (80km or 1 hour 15 minutes).
TRAIN: V-Line Train departs Southern Cross Station, Melbourne to Warrnambool up to 6 times per day – www.vline.com.au/Timetables
BUS: V-Line operate from Mt Gambier to Warrnambool – www.vline.com.au/Timetables
While our suggested itinerary is perfect for lovebirds cruising in their own wheels, we’re all about flexibility! Whether you’re a bus buddy, a train trekker, or a tour enthusiast, fear not! Please contact the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre via phone, email or in person and our staff will provide you with a range of options to ensure you see all our town and surrounds has to offer.
Arrive safely in Warrnambool
Take a TAC Pause Stop
We want to see you in Warrnambool safely for a wonderful holiday. To reduce driver fatigue and ensure you arrive here safely, here are some important tips:
- Plan your journey ahead of time with breaks, at least one break every two hours.
- Have enough quality sleep before driving, share the driving if you can.
- Avoid driving at times when you would usually be sleeping.
- Don’t travel for more than 8 – 10 hours a day.
- Don’t drink alcohol before your trip – even a small amount can significantly contribute to driver fatigue. Pull over and take a 15-minute powernap if you feel drowsy.
For more information and to view the interactive map, visit tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/pausestop
DAY 1 Morning: pioneers, shipwrecks & a sunken peacock
Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre
3 hour drive from Melbourne (257km) | Price Range: $ (Free to visit)
Start your journey at the award-winning Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre, proud winners at the 2024 Victorian Tourism Awards! Here, friendly locals bring the region to life with their stories! Indulge in Taste the Great Ocean Road, a showcase of locally made delights, drizzle Lana’s Garden Rhubarb & Tomato Chutney over your favourite dish, savour the pure joy of Gorge Chocolates, or sip on homemade cordial that tastes like a childhood memory. Looking for a keepsake? Take home a souvenir to remember your adventure. And before you set off, let our local experts help you map out the perfect Warrnambool wander. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
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Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre
89 Merri Street, Warrnambool
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum & Village
Price Range: $$$ | Duration: Session times vary from 1.5 – 3 hours
Optional: 11:30 am Guided Tour (complimentary with ticket)
Stroll down the cobblestone streets of the 1870’s maritime village and step into the past as you explore what life was like for the Shipwreck Coast’s first European settlers. This is Victoria’s most active maritime museum with Australia’s most significant shipwreck artefact collection. Marvel at the Loch Ard Peacock, once destined for the spotlight at the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition, now proudly displayed at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum. Crafted by the skilled hands of French sculptor Paul Comolera, this majestic masterpiece defied the odds, washing ashore intact after the tragic Loch Ard shipwreck. Valued at $4 million and listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, it stands as a timeless symbol of maritime history.
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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum & Village
89 Merri Street, Warrnambool
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum & Village Continued...
It’s also home to the stories of hundreds of 19th Century ships, their crewmen and passengers, passed on by the lucky few who survived the journey to start a new life in a foreign land. Flagstaff Hill stands as a testament to the courageous souls who forged new beginnings in distant lands, laying the foundation for the Warrnambool we know today. Once you’ve enjoyed the historical village of over 40 buildings – including a school, fire station, boat builder’s yards and even a blacksmith’s forge, climb the hill which gives this site its name. Here you can scale the lighthouse staircase, inspect the 80-pound cannon and take in some of the best coastal views in Warrnambool.
Sailor’s Secret – Capture a selfie with the mesmerising panorama of Lady Bay and Flagstaff Hill from the Visitor Information Centre balcony – an image to cherish forever!
*Note: This itinerary includes the Day and Night package at Flagstaff Hill, which is highly recommended to be booked at least two weeks in advance due to the popularity of the sound and light show. However, if you’re not interested in the sound and light show, you can opt for regular day tickets instead. These can be purchased at the front desk when you visit and will remain valid for 7 days.
DAY 1 Afternoon: eat an icon & unleash your inner zen
Lunch at Kermond’s Hamburgers
3 minute drive from Flagstaff Hill (1.3km) | Price Range: $$
Indulge in a classic Warrnambool tradition, a burger at Kermond’s Hamburger’s, an iconic burger and milkshake bar that has stood the test of time since its humble beginnings as a caravan on the Warrnambool foreshore in 1949. Now in its third and fourth generation of family ownership, Kermond’s continues to delight taste buds with its timeless recipes that have remained unchanged over the years. As you join the eager queue of locals and tourists alike, you’ll soon understand why these burgers are a must-try experience in Warrnambool. Plus, rest assured knowing that your ticket allows you re-entry to Flagstaff Hill for more adventures after your delicious lunch break.
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Kermond's Hamburgers
151 Lava St, Warrnambool
Relax, Dine & Stay at Deep Blue Hot Springs
Your warm welcome to Warrnambool continues by the geothermal rock pools and sensory caves of The Deep Blue Hot Springs. The twilight bathing session will blissfully ease you into holiday mode as you make your way through the steamy open-air sanctuary. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the rainforest pool inspired by the nearby Otway’s, relax in the aromatic lavender mists, and gaze at the stars in the shallow pools of Reflection Bay.
The Deep Blue Hotel continue to indulge your senses at the Deep Blue Restaurant, serving up seasonal menus that celebrate local produce. Good food in a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere. What a way to finish the day.
Rejuvenate, replenish, now rest, as the sound of the Southern Ocean sends you into the deepest sleep when you stay in one of the 81 spacious deluxe or premium suites at the opulent Deep Blue Hotel. You’ll need it, Warrnambool is waiting to wake you up with its never-ending list of exciting adventures.
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Deep Blue Hot Springs
1 Worm Bay Road, Warrnambool
DAY 2 Morning: Oddball odyssey & bathhouse bliss
Breakfast at Pavilion Café
5-minute walk from Deep Blue Hotel (500m) | Price Range: $$
A morning at the Pavilion Café isn’t just about great coffee and a stunning ocean view, it’s about the warm hospitality of owners Jon & Mary-Ellen, who have perfected the art of seaside dining. Indulge in a picturesque start to your morning with a leisurely 10-minute stroll south from Deep Blue Hotel, along the esplanade to the Pavilion Café, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the salty breeze of the beach. As you savour your breakfast, be captivated by the sight of racehorses savouring their morning swim with their trainers – graced by legendary champions, including none other than the illustrious 2015 Melbourne Cup winner, Prince of Penzance. As you relish in your breakfast against the backdrop of the glistening Lady Bay and the serene breakwater, allow yourself to be captivated by the echoes of past triumphs and the boundless potential of future champions.
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Pavilion Cafe
50 Viaduct Rd, Warrnambool
Maremmas, Middle Island & Magic Views
Price Range: $$$
Duration: 1.5 hours
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Penguin Protector Educational Experience, where the captivating tale of Maremma dogs unfolds amidst the breathtaking coastal vistas of Warrnambool. Delve into their remarkable role in safeguarding the Little Penguins and seabirds, with the added delight of capturing a photo with one of the beloved Maremma’s! Your adventure commences at the south side of the Pavilion Café, a 5 minute walk from Deep Blue and includes a brief walk to the picturesque Stingray Bay, where the experience will culminate, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the coastal landscape.
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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum
Warrnambool
Maremmas, Middle Island & Magic Views Continued...
Crossing the Merri River via the footbridge, you’ll enter the gateway to Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. Follow the rocky path along the cliff’s edge. To your right, the Merri River, Lady Bay, and the steadfast Breakwater stretch out in a tapestry of hues, while ahead, the South Warrnambool wetlands shimmer in the soft light, a testament to nature’s boundless grace. As you continue along the path, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of Middle Island, made famous by the beloved movie “Oddball.” Marvel at the silhouette of the Middle Island Maremma standing guard against foxes, a symbol of conservation and community resilience inspired by true events.
When the time comes to bid farewell to this coastal wonderland, retrace your steps with a heart full of memories and a spirit reinvigorated by the majesty of nature. For in Warrnambool’s coastal paths, adventure awaits at every turn.
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Middle Island
Viaduct Rd, Warrnambool
Deep Blue Bathhouse
Price Range: $$
Duration: 60 Minutes
After your refreshing morning walk, let the tranquillity of the Deep Blue Bathhouse wrap around you like a warm embrace. Slide into the naturally heated geothermal pools, their soothing waters sourced from deep beneath the earth’s surface, offering a unique blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Deep Blue Bathhouse
1 Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool
DAY 2 Afternoon: Art, Culture and Cocktails
Fishtales Café and Warrnambool Art Gallery
5 minute drive from Deep Blue (3km) | Price Range: $$-$$$
This vibrant café in the centre of town is celebrated for its diverse and extensive menu that caters to every palate. From the classic comfort of their Fish & Chips to the exotic allure of risotto, pasta, curries, burgers, and salads, each dish is a celebration of global cuisine. Indulge your sweet tooth with a dessert, including the Triple Choc Mousse Cake and the Caramel Supreme Raw Cheesecake.
Your next stop: the Warrnambool Art Gallery. Here, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring work of Eugene von Guérard, capturing the quintessence of Tower Hill (Victoria’s first National Park) in a symphony of colours and brushstrokes. Commissioned over a century ago, von Guérard’s painting transcends time, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of this iconic landmark.
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Warrnambool Art Gallery
26 Liebig St, Warrnambool
Street Art and Shop Til You Drop
The adventure beckons beyond the gallery’s walls, embark on a quest through Warrnambool’s hidden laneways. Follow the siren call of street art, guided by the geo located interactive Storytowns App that unveils 13 treasures, each a vibrant tale of the city’s past and present. Discover awe-inspiring murals, sculptures, mosaics, and installations that showcase the creativity of local and international artists.
Start your adventure just 20 metres off Liebig Street to Grape & Barley, the town’s newest hotspot for local wines and craft beers. Pronto Fine Food Merchants awaits with a gourmet selection of cheeses, smallgoods, and premium local wines. If fashion’s your thing, Clancey’s Menswear is the place for sharp suits, casual weekend wear, and luxury brands. For something unique, Abbey Lane Linen and Gifts offers beautiful treasures. Elm Lifestyle Store has timeless pieces designed for effortless elegance. PHINC delivers chic outfits that’ll keep you confident and stylish. And don’t forget to pop into Collins Booksellers, the ultimate spot for book lovers seeking their next great read.
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Warrnambool Art Street
Warrnambool CBD
Dinner at The Dart & Marlin
3 minute walk from Liebig St (200m) | Price Range: $$$
As the sun begins its descent, bid farewell to the vibrant streets and indulge in an epic night out at The Dart & Marlin, located conveniently in the heart of the city. This hip joint transforms into a buzzing hub, rocking out with live bands, DJ sets, and a stellar line-up of gourmet stone-baked pizzas complemented by an array of specialty cocktails, boutique wines, and local craft beers. Whether you’re cosying up by the fire, chilling in a private booth, or soaking in the vibes in the vine-covered courtyard, the Dart & Marlin guarantees the ultimate backdrop for your night out in Warrnambool.
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The Dart and Marlin
216 Timor St, Warrnambool
DAY 3 Morning: Wildlife Encounters
Breakfast at Deep Blue
Price Range: $$
Breakfast is just a hop, skip, and a jump away – down the lift and to your left! Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast featuring a full Australian breakfast with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausage, mushrooms, and grilled tomato. For a healthy kick, load up on fresh fruits paired with creamy Greek yogurt and drizzled with honey, or treat yourself to our irresistible selection of pastries and refreshing fruit juices.
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Deep Blue Hot Springs Hotel
Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool
Explore Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
22 minute drive from Deep Blue Hotel (16km) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 120 Minutes
Embark on a journey into the heart of Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a dormant volcano formed over 30,000 years ago, and immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystem that thrives within this ancient landscape. Proudly established as Victoria’s first national park, Tower Hill presents a vibrant mosaic of life within its living tribute to geological heritage. Here, you can encounter adorable koalas, graceful kangaroos, birds soaring above. Be on the lookout for mischievous emus, renowned for their playful frolics in picnic areas. For those seeking tranquillity, stroll along the serene boardwalk by the lake, perfect for contemplation and birdwatching.
Nature’s Whispers: Pick up a delightful treat with Worn Gundidj Tower Hill inspired Bush Tucker wattle seed ice-cream from the IGA supermarket.
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Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
725 Princes Highway, Tower Hill
Day 3 Afternoon: Market Delights to Coastal Marvels
Lunch at Cheeseworld
25 minute drive from Tower Hill (26km) | Price Range: $$
Just a short drive from Warrnambool, nestled along the meandering Great Ocean Road, lies a paradise for cheese lovers and adventure seekers alike. Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of artisanal cheese-making and indulge in a variety of cheese tastings that showcase the rich flavours and heritage of Warrnambool’s esteemed cheese-making legacy. Treat yourself to artisanal treasures like the Pecorino & Raclette Omelette or the Smashed Avocado on Zeally Bay Sourdough, topped off with a decadent White Chocolate and Strawberry Pancake. After your taste buds are satisfied, let the Dairy History Museum whisk you away on a quirky journey through time, filled with vintage tools whispering tales of craftsmanship and interactive displays unravelling the secrets behind Warrnambool’s renowned cheese factory.
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Cheeseworld
5330 Great Ocean Road, Allansford
Explore Childers Cove
11 minute drive from Cheeseworld (14km) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 90 Minutes
This place is an unknown gem! Whilst not on most bucket lists, Childers Cove, Murnane’s Beach and Sandy Cove should be near the top of yours. The cruisy 10 minute drive continuing on from Cheeseworld, leads you to 3 beautiful coves with large seas and surf, sandstone stacks reminiscent of the iconic 12 Apostles and colourful sandstone and limestone cliffs, with Childers Cove being the main attraction. A photographer’s playground, walking on these beaches is one of those rare experiences of solitude mixed with awe at the forces of nature. Not overly popular due to the big surf, stairs and soft sand, you’ll likely find yourself amongst the company of only a few others, who will also be awed by the cliffs, coves and coloured water.
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Childers Cove
608 Childers Cove Rd, Mepunga
Optional: Skip the drive and set sail
Mako Ocean Adventures | Warrnambool Boat Ramp, Viaduct Rd | Price Range: $$$ | Duration: 90 Minutes
Join Matt Pettit, a retired fisherman and the mastermind behind Mako Ocean Adventures, for an unforgettable boat tour. Departing from the Warrnambool boat ramp, you’ll glide across the water, making six captivating stops along the rugged coastline, all leading to the breath taking Childers Cove. Experience the coast from a whole new perspective as you cruise past towering cliffs and pristine beaches, immersing yourself in the beauty and excitement of the open ocean.
DAY 3 Evening: Twilight Treat & Seafaring Tales
Drink at Hotel Warrnambool
28 minute drive from Childers Cove (28km) | Price Range: $$$
Duration: 60 Minutes
Celebrate your afternoon with the ultimate chill-out session at ‘the Warrny’, the go-to spot for those seeking a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair. Originally born in 1890 as the Grand Ozone Coffee Palace, this historic gem has transformed into a haven for relaxation and good times. Live music serenades your afternoon as you kick back by the fire or soak up the sun in the heated outdoor area. Sip on craft beers or indulge in local wines while sharing stories and creating unforgettable memories – where each sip, every melody, and all the laughter weave together.
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Hotel Warrnambool
185 Koroit Street, Warrnambool
Dinner at The Cally Hotel
5 minute Walk from Hotel Warrnambool (350m) | Price Range: $$$
As twilight paints the sky with hues of purple and gold, follow the aroma of freshly cooked seafood to the Cally Hotel, where dining transcends into an oceanic adventure. Sink your teeth into the tantalising Salt & Pepper Calamari or the flavourful pasta marinara, featuring fresh fish, prawns, mussels, and calamari tossed in a herb butter sauce. Amidst the twinkling stars and contagious laughter, complement your experience with an extensive wine list tailored to satisfy the most discerning palate.
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The Cally Hotel
112 Fairy st, Warrnambool
Flagstaff Sound and Light Show
Day & night package ticket continued* | 3 minute drive or an 8 minute walk from the Cally Hotel (900m) | Duration: 90 Minutes
As the sun dips beneath the horizon, the village awakens with tales echoing through the cobblestone streets. Prepare to be captivated by “Tales of the Shipwreck Coast,” a masterpiece of sight and sound illuminating Australia’s maritime saga. From ancient Aboriginal legends to the daring exploits of whalers, each story unfolds like chapters in a gripping novel. Traverse through epochs where the Southern Ocean challenged the resilience of those seeking a new life, and where men wrestled with the mighty leviathans of the deep. The show commences at dusk, a beacon of enlightenment amid the twilight. Weather becomes a mere backdrop to the spectacle, as the Wharf Theatre beckons visitor’s rain, hail or shine.
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Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum
89 Merri Street, Warrnambool
DAY 4: Nature's Aquatic Symphony
Breakfast at Bohemia Cafe
6 minute drive from Deep Blue (2.9km) | Price Range: $$
Rise & Shine adventurers! Begin your day in the heart of Warrnambool, where culinary delights await! Bohemia isn’t just a café, it’s a place where good food, good coffee and frivolous conversation converge. From the tantalising eggs benedict with house-made lemon & herb crumpets to the indulgent hotcakes adorned with raspberry puree and macadamia praline, each dish offers a symphony of flavours that transport you to a world of gastronomic bliss.
Explore Logan’s Beach Whale Nursery
8 minute drive from Bohemia (4.8km) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 60 minutes
Cross the historic Hopkins River bridge and discover a year-round coastal escape – where ocean breezes, crashing waves, and panoramic views create the perfect adventure in every season. Logan’s Beach is more than just a whale-watching wonderland (though, they are pretty spectacular!). From May to September, watch Southern Right Whales put on a show, tail-slapping and frolicking in Lady Bay, but the fun doesn’t stop when they do. Year-round, the beach is a surfer’s dream, a cliff-side explorer’s haven, and a secret spot for some peaceful ocean views. Take a stroll past the Blue Hole, catch the waves, or snap a selfie with the cliffs as your backdrop.
Whale Talk: Follow the Great Ocean Road Whales Facebook page for live updates on whale sightings.
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Logans Beach
Logan’s Beach Road, Warrnambool
Explore Moyjil / Point Ritchie
2 Minute drive from Logans Beach (1km) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 30 Minutes
Just a stone’s throw from Logan’s Beach lies the mouth of the Hopkins River and the rocky headland revered by the local indigenous Whurrong people as ‘Moyjil’. This sacred site holds the promise of rewriting history, as archaeological findings of shell middens and remnants of ancient fireplaces might date back a staggering 60,000 years. It’s a place of profound connection, inviting visitors to pause, absorb, and breathe in its salty air.
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Moyjil / Point Ritchie
Point Ritchie Road, Warrnambool
Explore Hopkins Falls
15 minute drive from Moyjil (17km’s) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 60 Minutes
Venture north from Logan’s Beach to discover the awe-inspiring Hopkins Falls, Victoria’s widest cascades spanning an impressive 90m, resembling magnificent curtains of cascading water, a sight that will leave you breathless. Follow the easy path leading to the pools below, where the tranquillity of nature awaits.
Eel-mazing Winter: Keep your eyes peeled for the sight of baby eels gracefully leaping from the rocky ledges as they embark on their winter migration.
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Hopkins Falls
Hopkins Falls Road, Wangoom
DAY 4 Afternoon: Let Your Inner Child Run Free
Lunch at Browns Depot Bakery
21 minute drive from Hopkins Falls (21km) | Price Range: $$
Your next location is a stunning picnic area, so grab a light lunch from Brown’s Depot Bakery. A family run bakery where everything is made on site, select from a range of pastries, breads, sugary snacks or the quality sandwich bar. Be wary though, you’ll have to fight the locals to the front of the line!
Explore Fletcher Jones Gardens & Markets
3-minute drive from Browns Depot Bakery (1.6km) | Price Range: $ (Free)
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
With your light lunch in hand, find the perfect spot to spread out a blanket in Warrnambool’s time capsule – Fletcher Jones Gardens & Markets. This historic site has been transformed into a lively market hub that seamlessly blends nostalgia with contemporary flair, creating an amazing atmosphere for your dining experience. The gardens, originally designed to ignite joy in employees, now exude a different type of magic, offering a glimpse into Warrnambool’s playful heritage. Explore the market stalls filled with treasures from local artisans and vintage enthusiasts, each item narrating stories of creativity and community spirit unique to Warrnambool. Let your inner child roam free as you giggle at unexpected finds, rush to discover unique stalls, and relish the excitement of uncovering hidden gems.
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Fletcher Jones
83 Flaxman Street, Warrnambool
Time to Head Home
Before you embark on your journey home, why not add a dash of excitement to your return trip? Stop by the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre and let our knowledgeable team add some zest to your travels back. Whether it’s discovering hidden treasures along the way or finding peaceful rest stops to recharge, we’ve got everything sorted for you.
Remember, the journey is just as thrilling as the destination!
