The Great Ocean Road's Great Stays: Winter Edition
Each season, we curate a selection of the best places to stay in the region. Here’s your Winter go-to for stays:
As the cooler months roll in, the Great Ocean Road reveals a different side of its dramatic landscapes. From the powerful waves of the Southern Ocean to the mist-covered forests of the Otways, winter brings a fresh perspective on the region’s wild, rugged beauty. These stays offer the perfect opportunity to experience the best of the Great Ocean Road in the winter season, with the added comfort of retreating indoors to relax in your warm and cosy accommodation after a day spent exploring nature.
The White House, Lorne – Great Ocean Road Holidays
Experience a timeless, luxury coastal stay.
For those who want space, style and sweeping views, The White House in Lorne delivers all three in spades. Perched high above the township, this multi-story home offers uninterrupted views of the ocean and the surrounding green hills, just as breathtaking in the grey-blue light of winter as they are in summer.
Inside, you’ll find three bedrooms, an open fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and expansive living areas perfect for long lunches, card games, and fireside movie nights. Big windows let in the light of the coast, while the elevated balcony is the best seat in town for watching the winter swell roll in.
Managed by Great Ocean Road Holidays, this home-away-from-home is perfect for families or groups wanting a private retreat.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
- Panoramic ocean views from a peaceful hillside perch
- Open fireplace and generous living areas for wintery days
- Family-friendly with three bedrooms and a large kitchen
- The best of Apollo Bay within easy reach
Apollo Bay Motel
Retro Charm Meets Beachside Simplicity
Tucked just off the main road in Apollo Bay, the Apollo Bay Motel offers an easy-going base for winter explorers. This classic brings a modern touch to the humble beach motel – with crisp interiors and a coastal vibe that’s laid-back and welcoming.
Located just across from the beach and a short stroll to Apollo Bay’s food scene, the motel is perfect for travellers looking for a no-fuss stay with thoughtful touches. With heating, comfortable couches for winding down after a day’s walk, and even a few pet-friendly options, so your four-legged friends don’t miss out.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
● Affordable comfort with a stylish refresh
● Central location close to Apollo Bay cafes, bakeries and beach walks
● Pet-friendly options for a complete family escape
● A relaxed, friendly vibe that suits solo travellers, couples or families
● Accessible room available
Great Ocean Road Resort, Anglesea
A Luxury Retreat with Spa Indulgence
When winter rolls in, there’s no better place to be than the Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea. With everything from cosy apartments to luxurious spa and studio rooms, it’s the perfect base for both relaxation and adventure.
After a day exploring the rugged coastline or Anglesea Heath, retreat to your private space where comfort and warmth await. Unwind with a spa treatment at Lux Spa, take a dip in the indoor pool, or just relax in your room. The resort’s commitment to sustainability, with eco-friendly touches like locally made hand soaps, ensures a mindful stay. Whether you’re after an active adventure or a cosy retreat, the Great Ocean Road Resort is the perfect winter escape.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
● Warm, inviting rooms, eco-conscious accommodation with locally made products
● Indoor pool and spa onsite for ultimate relaxation
● Ideal location for exploring both coast and country
● Locally sourced, delicious meals onsite at The Coast Restaurant
Esplanade Ultimate Luxury, Torquay
Unmatched Elegance, Stunning Views
Indulge in the ultimate coastal escape at Esplanade Ultimate Luxury in Torquay. Set along one of the most iconic stretches of coastline, this property offers a lavish stay, blending contemporary style with the awe-inspiring natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road. Panoramic views of the Southern Ocean stretch out before you, offering a constant reminder of the changing seasons just outside your door.
Step inside and unwind in front of the crackling fireplace – the perfect spot to curl up with a good book or enjoy a cup of tea. For those who love to cook, the fully equipped kitchen provides everything you need to craft a delicious meal.
With the beach just moments away, you’re in the best place to explore the coastline, take long winter walks along the shore, or simply sit and watch the waves crash as the season unleashes its best.
Professionally managed by Surf Coast Holiday Rentals, this property provides a spacious and well-equipped base for families or groups seeking a relaxing and private coastal escape.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
● Stunning ocean views from every room
● Luxurious, contemporary design for a memorable stay
● Fully equipped kitchen, perfect for winter feasts
Cumberland Lorne Resort
Coastal Comfort with Everything at Your Fingertips
In the heart of Lorne, Cumberland Lorne Resort offers a front-row seat to winter on the Great Ocean Road. Located opposite the beach and just steps from Lorne’s buzzing eateries, this resort combines the convenience of town with the comforts of a private apartment-style retreat.
Each apartment is designed with space to relax, complete with kitchen, laundry, spa bath and a private balcony to watch the wild weather roll in across the bay. After a morning coffee at a local café or a forest walk to Erskine Falls, return to warm up in the indoor heated pool, unwind in the sauna, or enjoy a hit on the squash or tennis court. There’s also a fully equipped gym for those who want to keep moving, no matter the weather.
Why It’s a Great Stay?
● Beach views and easy access to Lorne’s best restaurants and shops
● Heated indoor pool, sauna, and fitness facilities
● Spacious apartments with spa baths and private balconies
● Ideal for couples, families or small groups looking for convenience and comfort
More Great Stays
From serene coastal escapes to countryside havens, there’s a perfect stay waiting for every type of traveller.
