Turning inland from the Great Ocean Road can have you climbing through rugged bushland, or travelling between green pastures. There are many gorgeous county towns that make our region one of the best country getaway destinations in Victoria.
Winchelsea is a rural town steeped in rich history and located just a 27-minute drive from the coastal hub of Torquay. Here are our top picks for activities while you are here.
Built in 1871 the lavish bluestone Barwon Park Mansion is a must-see when in Winchelsea.
Tours operate on Wednesday and Sundays and the opulent manor and gardens play host to various functions and events.
Built by Thomas Austin, famous for introducing the rabbit to Australia!
Spending an afternoon to explore the Winchelsea Heritage Trail is well worth it. The trail commences at the Winchelsea Visitor Centre and includes a series of landmarks in and around the township.
Barwon Park, The Globe Theatre, Winchlesea Railway Station and the triple-arched bluestone bridge are highlights.
If you wish to head further afield nearby Birregurra and Deans Marsh are just a short drive away.
Camperdown is situated on the world’s third largest volcanic plain dotted with dormant volcano cones, craters and waterways created from lava flows thousands of years old. Similarly to Winchelsea, Camperdown is a country town that is full of history at every corner.
The clocktower is Camperdown’s pride and joy, standing proud on the main street since 1896. It is the tallest structure in town at an impressive 31.4m tall and well worth a climb, tours run on Sunday 10.30-3pm or by appointment.
The Camperdown Botanical Gardens, planted in 1870 were designed by William Gulfoyle, renowned director of the Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne. Perched above two volcanic crater lakes — Lake Bullen Merri and Lake Gnotuk the gardens provides a tranquil shady place to take in the views.
Admire the 360 degree views as the sun slowly reveals the local landmarks of Mt Elephant, Camperdown clock tower and Lake Purrumbete. On a clear day you can even see the Grampians, over 100km away.
Timboon is a gourmet hub that will literally delight every sense!
Timboon is a feature of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, the 70km loop from Port Campbell that is a must-do for foodies. It punches well above its weight with award winning produce and gourmet treats suitable for the most discerning traveller. Stops in Timboon along the trail include Timboon Fine Ice Cream and Timboon Railway Shed Distillery among others – the trail is a must see!
For the active adventurer you can hire a bike or ebike from Ride With Us and head along the Timboon to Camperdown Rail Trail.
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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.
