Every great country needs its official ‘things’. The awe-inspiring nature walk that lures visitors from all around the globe. The moorish food everyone is raving about. The local’s secret pub pouring the best drops from around the region.
We’re pretty proud of this little country of ours and we want to share it with you. So read on to discover the official places to visit, overindulge at and rest your head on your trip to Greatopia.
We hope you packed your walking shoes, because the hidden gems of Greatopia are best navigated on foot. Leave the traffic behind and go where the cars cannot: into the secluded rainforest, over the rocky outcrops and along the sandy beaches.
If you want to witness the jaw-dropping natural beauty of Greatopia, sign up for the 12 Apostles Lodge Walk. Over three or four days, you’ll traverse 40 kms of coastline. By day you’ll hike through a veritable highlight reel of our country. By night, it’s rest and relaxation in a luxurious eco-lodge, wine glass in hand.
Discover the secrets and stories of the land as you’re guided through Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views on every step of your journey.
Don’t forget to schedule some time to zen out on your trip to Greatopia. This category was too close to call, so we’ve awarded two winners. Sink into one or treat yourself to both, why not?
Experience the therapeutic powers of the Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool. The geothermal waters are full of nourishing minerals, warmed gently by the earth. Explore the sensory caves and thermal pools or indulge in a little salt therapy. It does wonders for the body and soul.
After a couple of days in Greatopia you won’t even remember the meaning of stressed. But if you need a little help unwinding, Lux Spa in Anglesea promises a sanctuary from the chaos of the outside world. Enjoy an organic facial or be pampered with a full-body oil massage.
If you can’t guess what Greatopia’s official dish is, the name of our official eatery might give it away. The menu at Anglesea’s The Coast Restaurant is jam-packed with locally-sourced ingredients and paired with wines from local vineyards. But the hero of the show is their ocean-to-plate dining.
Gin lovers can’t pass up a visit to Apollo Bay Gin. Their gins are distilled right there on site in Apollo Bay. Imbued with the folklore of this coastal town, these spirits have stories to tell.
Grab a flight of artisan gins and pair it with a wood fired pizza. You can literally taste Greatopia in the local botanics infused in this tasty drop. After trying the salty ocean gin out on the deck in the sea breeze, you’ll never want to settle for a house G&T again.
If whisky is your spirit then look no further than Timboon Railway Shed Distillery. Offering up small batch single malt whisky in their restored railway shed you will be in awe at their collection of Aussie Craft Spirits.
Our tip is to stay for lunch or check out their website and book a tour and learn the history of illicit distilling in the Timboon area.
Greatopia’s official residences were appointed with freedom in mind.
If it’s an action-packed getaway you’re planning, head to RACV Torquay Resort. You’ll be blessed with a massive golf course outside your door and the beach is practically close enough to hear the waves crashing. Surf’s up!
Would you rather breathe that fresh country air? The Roost provides an escape in the beachside rural setting of Johanna, only short stroll from the iconic Johanna Beach. Picture waking up to panoramic views of rolling green hills and sparkling waters. The hardest decision you’ll have to make here is whether to make tracks to the Otways or the coast.
Anchors Port Campbell offers luxury accommodation, perfectly situated in Port Campbell along the Great Ocean Road, providing guests with a delightful retreat amidst breathtaking coastal views and easy access to explore the wonders of the 12 Apostles Coast and Hinterland region.
Redwoods Rest sits high on the ridge line with sweeping view over farmlands, forests and out to the Southern Ocean in the central Otway town, Beech Forest. Designed for couples Redwoods Rest cabins are perfect for a romantic getaway or to simply let nature refresh your soul.
Lady Bay Resort provides luxurious and contemporary accommodation options, offering guests a serene and indulgent getaway in Warrnambool. With stunning views and a range of amenities including an on-site restaurant, it promises a memorable stay for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
A family camping trip at Port Fairy’s Gardens Caravan Park is bound to please everyone. Grab a cosy cabin or pack the tent and sleep under the stars. With the beach on one side, the river rushing past and the pretty botanic gardens nearby, there’ll be no shortage of fun.
Consider this your official invitation. Come on over and check out what Greatopia has to offer. It’s nothing short of spectacular.
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
