Greatopia

Join the official walking tour

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.

Feel the rush of Greatopia’s official sport

Thought Greatopia was all walks along the beach and a cheeky surf now and then? Think again, because our land is an adventurer’s playground. And we’ve got the official sports to prove it.

If you’re dreaming of thrills, Live Wire Park in Lorne is calling. At this elevated adventure park, you can take a walk through the treetops, conquer the high ropes course and ride Australia’s most extreme zip line. The Shockwave Zip Coaster is an adrenaline-pumping roller coaster ride through the rainforest. Are you game?

Bliss out at the official spa and bathing spots

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.

Taste the official dish

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.

Yep, you guessed it – Greatopia’s official dish is fish. Nothing screams holiday-vibes like salty water and fresh seafood mingling on your lips. Be sure to try Coast’s market catch-of-the-day, it’s pan-fried in buttery goodness.

And Coast, if you’re reading this, we have one piece of feedback. Change your cuisine from ‘modern Australian’ to ‘modern Greatopian’ already!

Sip the official Greatopian gin

Gin lovers can’t pass up a visit to our official distillery, 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.

Official residences to rest your head

Better views than Kirribilli House and oodles more fun. 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? Forrest Guesthouse is a quaint little escape in the mountain-biking hub of Forrest. Head out for bushwalks or explore on two wheels. And be sure to taste your way along the Otway Harvest Trail.

Picture waking up to panoramic views of rolling green hills and sparkling waters. Johanna Seaside Cottages are self-contained and secluded, perfect for a romantic getaway. The hardest decision you’ll have to make here is whether to make tracks to the Otways or the coast.

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.