The Great Ocean Road's Great Stays: Autumn Edition
Each season, we curate a selection of the best places to stay in the region. Here’s your Autumn go-to for stays:
From luxury to camping, find your perfect spot to stay and enjoy spectacular big nature, from the rugged coastline of the Southern Ocean to the tall timber of the Otway’s National Park, the lakes & plains carved from volcanic country to rich agricultural pastures.
The Monty, Anglesea
A Palm Springs-Inspired Stay
Relax in Palm Springs style at The Monty, where vintage charm meets modern comfort. Located right on the Great Ocean Road in Anglesea, this boutique accommodation is just a short walk from the Anglesea River, main beach, and the town’s local boutiques and cafés.
Guests can unwind by the outdoor swimming pool, soak in the spa, or relax in the lounge area after a day exploring the coast. With everything within walking distance, The Monty makes it easy to settle in and explore Anglesea at your own pace.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Palm Springs-inspired boutique accommodation with vibrant, retro design.
- Outdoor pool, spa, lounge area, and EV charging on site.
- Walk to the Anglesea River, main beach, cafés, and local shops.
King Parrot Cottages & Event Centre, Pennyroyal Valley
A Nature Escape in the Foothills of the Otways
Tucked into the foothills of the Otways and a short drive from Lorne and the Great Ocean Road, this peaceful property spans 196 acres of rainforest and rolling hills. Choose from six architecturally designed, self-contained cottages all surrounded by sweeping valley or bushland views.
Each cottage blends rustic charm with comfort, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, indoor fireplace, barbeque and generous outlooks across the landscape. Dogs are warmly welcomed, making it easy to bring the whole family along.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Architecturally designed cottages
- On-site pool, sauna, bushwalks and a private waterfall to explore.
- Dog-friendly accommodation close to Lorne and the Great Ocean Road.
Chocolate Gannets, Apollo Bay
A Romantic Oceanfront Retreat
Set right on the beachfront in Apollo Bay, Chocolate Gannets is designed for couples seeking a luxurious and private escape. With uninterrupted ocean views and a front-row seat to the Southern Ocean, this is the kind of stay where the landscape becomes part of the experience.
Inside, each villa centres around its standout features – a fireplace and a spa bath overlooking the water. Spend slow mornings watching the swell roll in, unwind in the spa as the light shifts across the horizon, and cosy up by the fire in the evening. Choose from Beachfront Villas with full ocean views or Garden Villas with partial views, both offering space, privacy and a true sense of retreat.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Luxurious, romantic villas with ocean-view spa baths and fireplaces.
- Absolute beachfront location in Apollo Bay.
- Ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries and special-occasion escapes.
BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park, Anglesea
A Family-Friendly Base on the Great Ocean Road
BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park is a boutique-style park offering a mix of modern units, powered sites and glamping accommodation, right on the doorstep of the Great Ocean Road. Within a short walk you’ll find safe beaches, boutique shopping, local restaurants, a championship golf course often visited by kangaroos, and the Anglesea River for kayaking, picnics and relaxed afternoons by the water.
Back at the park, families can make the most of the indoor water complex with three heated pools and a waterslide, an adventure playground, an indoor activities space, toddler playroom and on-site café.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Modern units, sites and glamping in a boutique-style holiday park.
- Indoor water complex with heated pools and waterslide.
- Walk to beaches, river, shops and dining in Anglesea.
Anchors Port Campbell
A Coastal Couples Retreat Near the 12 Apostles
Anchors in Port Campbell is an upscale getaway for couples seeking tranquility just a 10-minute drive from the iconic 12 Apostles. With three coastal villas, it’s the only 4.5-star sustainably accredited self-catering accommodation in the area.
Each villa features a spa with ocean views, a cosy fireplace, and a private terrace. Guests can enjoy the on-site farm experience, meeting Bonnie the Irish Donkey, Olive and Porky the pigs, Madge the goat, and watching cattle graze across 30 acres. Optional local artisan hampers, a welcome bottle of wine, and chocolates make the stay even more indulgent.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Upscale villas with spa baths, fireplaces, and ocean views.
- Unique on-site farm experience on 30 acres of farmland.
- Close to the 12 Apostles, with e-bikes, yoga space, and all modern comforts.
Southcombe Deluxe Villas, Port Fairy
Spacious Beachside Villas for Groups and Families
Step into comfort and style at Southcombe Caravan Park with their modern Deluxe Villas. Designed to accommodate up to 8 guests, each villa features up to 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, with smaller 1- or 2-bedroom options also available.
Ideal for families or groups, the villas include full kitchens and private decks with sweeping views of South Beach. One villa is fully accessible, ensuring convenience for all guests.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Spacious, modern villas with up to 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
- Private decks with sweeping South Beach views.
- Accessible villa available, perfect for families or groups.
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs, Warrnambool
A Coastal Wellness Escape
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs is Warrnambool’s premier spot for rest, relaxation, and coastal views. Many rooms offer ocean or partial ocean vistas, letting you take in nearby beaches, scenic walking trails, and the surrounding coastline from the comfort of your room.
The real draw is the wellness experience: the award-winning Hot Springs Sanctuary features geothermal rockpools, sensory caves, and waterfalls, while additional facilities include an indoor Bath House, swimming pool, sauna, day spa, and salt therapy.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Stylish rooms with ocean or partial ocean views.
- Award-winning Hot Springs Sanctuary with geothermal pools and waterfalls.
- On-site restaurant, bar, and wellness facilities for a full coastal escape.
More Great Stays
From serene coastal escapes to countryside havens, there’s a perfect stay waiting for every type of traveller.