Have you ever dreamed of stepping into a fairytale forest, where towering trees whisper secrets and fairies dance among the ferns? At the Redwoods in Beech Forest, you can make that dream a reality, whether you are seven or seventy. Nestled in the heart of the Great Otway National Park, this grove of Californian Redwoods flourishes in Victorian soil, far from home.
Discover The Redwoods
This is a place to slow down and truly connect with nature.
The first sight of these towering trees — whether it’s your first visit or a return trip — leaves you in awe. As you wander deeper into the forest, the magic of the landscape wraps around you, a striking reminder of nature’s power and the importance of treading lightly on this earth.
But the experience goes beyond the trees. The forest is alive with the calls of birds and the subtle presence of fungi, adding to its enchanting atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting for a gentle family stroll along the Aire River or through the forest, where kids will delight in games of hide and seek amongst the towering giants.
Pack a picnic – pick up some local produce on your way and set out your picnic blanket beneath the majestic canopy or choose one of the available picnic tables. It’s a unique way to see the world, surrounded and sheltered by the serene embrace of the forest.
Getting to the Redwoods
The Redwoods are located in Beech Forest, deep within the Great Otway National Park, approximately 200 km from Melbourne’s CBD. It takes around 2.5 hours to drive there, but the journey is part of the adventure.
Just getting to the forest is a magical experience. As you pass through Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road, follow the signs to Binns Road. The lush rainforest beckons you to stop, take a break, and slow down. Wind down your window, breathe in the fresh, clean rainforest air, and enjoy the slow, winding drive. Just note that this road is narrow and winding, so it’s not suitable for caravans or larger vehicles.
Always drive slowly around corners, keeping an eye out for other cars or, during the week, logging trucks from nearby plantations. Remember, you share this road with the wildlife that calls this area home.
How Tall are the Redwoods?
These towering redwoods, over 60 metres tall, were first planted by Victorian foresters in 1936 as an experiment. Now flourishing in their Otways home, experts predict they could nearly double in height in the coming century, perhaps even challenging the heights of their Californian relatives.
For personalised advice and expert recommendations, stop by one of our Visitor Information Centres. Our local Great Ocean Road experts can help you tailor your trip and provide insights on top attractions, camping spots, and travel tips to make your stay unforgettable.
