Rediscover the Great Ocean Road Region This Winter
The best escape might be closer than you think.
On our very own doorstep, the Great Ocean Road is brimming with perhaps some of the most spectacular experiences in nature that this country has on offer. Whether you simply want to wind down and get away from the everyday, or you’re looking for that unique experience to share with loved ones and file in the memory bank forever... here’s some inspiration...
Coastal Lookouts and Whale Watching Experiences
The new accessible lookout at the 12 Apostles provides a smooth surface suitable for all abilities, and the view is magnificent – especially in the morning light or at sunset.
While there stop nearby to visit the new Poombeeyt Koontpool lookout at Loch Ard Gorge. Named in Keeray Wurrung language for the breath of the whale and the blowhole it overlooks, which behaves like the blowhole of a Southern Right Whale. Be on the lookout, anywhere along the coast, for these magnificent mammals, as they frequent these waters during their winter migration. Hot spots include:
- Logans Beach Whale Viewing Platform at Warrnambool, where calving mothers shelter with their offspring behind an offshore reef – sometimes for days or weeks.
- Cape Otway Lightstation also offers an exceptional vantage point
- Wildlife Wonders at Apollo Bay is known best for the local land-based wildlife
While whale sightings are by chance and never guaranteed, all locations are worth the visit without them anyway.
Rainforest Walks and Waterfalls This Winter
Winter is the ultimate time to visit a waterfall – with higher rainfall across the region, the cascades turn from trickle to full flow. Venturing through dense, ancient rainforest to get to them is half the fun.
For all abilities access go to Stevensons Falls near the mountain biking mecca of Forrest.
Deeper in the Great Otway National Park near Beech Forest, a walk amongst The Redwoods and a visit to Hopetoun Falls is a must for an encounter with blissful nature.
Nearby is Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, where a manmade elevated canopy walk, cantilever platform and tower bring another perspective to the rainforest. The more adventurous can elect to zipline through it.
Cycling and Walking Adventures Inland
Cyclists should take on the Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail, connecting Port Campbell to Timboon – and through to Camperdown. Peddling on two-wheels in the region has never been better.
Walkers can take on Mount Noorat, Mount Leura or Mount Elephant. All scattered amongst the Volcanic Lakes and Plains on the Princes or Hamilton Highways; they are much more accessible than Everest or Mont Blanc and you’ll only need an hour or two to conquer one of these.
These areas also bring the country vibes; spend a day exploring Colac or Camperdown – with vintage treasures, bakeries and country hospitality that will charm your socks off, even in the chilliest weather!
More Cycling and Walking
Head to Port Fairy for restoration. Long beach walks and gentle explorations of Griffiths Island or Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve provide the right amount of space to refresh your mind and recharge your body. Nearby is Budj Bim Cultural Landscape and Tae Rak – here you can find a deeper connection to Country – undoubtedly a landscape at its most beautiful in winter.
Closer to home, sections of the Surf Coast Walk are book-ended by Torquay, Anglesea and Aireys Inlet – so breakfast or brunch is easy to find before setting out, and there’s plenty of options to refuel after your walk.
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Where to Stay
Explore recommended accommodation options throughout the Great Ocean Road Region