Beyond the finish line

Your feet hit the pavement, your breath fills with the fresh, salty air. . .

The ocean roars beside you, pushing you forward. And then, victory. You cross the finish line at the Great Ocean Road Running Festival - a moment of triumph. But before you pack up and head home, ask yourself: What if the experience is just beginning?

Slow down. Take in the coast at a different pace.

The Great Ocean Road isn’t just for running, it’s for unwinding, indulging, and stretching out the moment. As the race day adrenaline fades, a little comfort goes a long way. Sink into plush bedding at RACV Torquay, where One Spa offers recovery treatments to ease tired muscles. Or gather your crew and relax on a private balcony at a luxury Great Ocean Road Holidays property.

For a family-friendly stay, Apollo Bay Big 4 has cabins for everyone just steps from the sand – perfect for a post-run beach dip to relax those muscles. If a boutique retreat is more your style, Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea blends relaxation and luxury, with spa treatments on site, scenic trails right outside your door and they are recently ecocertified.

Looking for a different kind of challenge?

Tee off at RACV Torquay Golf Course, hit the Forrest Mountain Bike Trails, explore Hopetoun Falls, or head to Otway Fly and find yourself amongst towering trees and walk high above the forest floor. For something a bit wilder, head to Wildlife Wonders in Apollo Bay to walk among koalas, wallabies, and birdlife all in their natural habitat and guided by conservation experts. 

After fueling your body for performance, it’s time to eat for pure pleasure.

In Lorne, Toast your achievement with a cold drink and a bite to eat on the Lorne Hotel balcony, or enjoy classic coastal dining with stunning ocean views at the Grand Pacific Hotel. If you’re craving bold Indian flavours, Raas Leela serves up rich, aromatic dishes, perfect for warming the soul after a weekend of endurance. And for something sweet, Gelato Gelato offers a tempting selection of creamy, handcrafted flavours, the perfect post-race treat.

In Anglesea, The Coast delivers seasonal dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. If you’re heading in the opposite direction, seafood lovers can’t miss Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-op for the freshest fish and chips by the harbour or a premium catch to take home. Thinking of dinner? Graze in Apollo Bay is the place! Pair local seafood with a glass of wine for a perfect evening. And for a sweet finish, Dooley’s Ice Cream is legendary. Grab a double scoop and find a spot by the beach.

 

A longer stay?

If you’re looking to head further, why not visit Cape Otway Light Station? You can also stay in the Head Light Keepers Cottage for an unforgettable experience. 

The finish line may mark the end of the race, but it’s only the beginning of your coastal adventure.

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