Does taking a break and escaping to the surf coast sound good to you? Make the most of popular tourist spots outside of peak season and taste the epicurean delights this spring.
Bike it
There are many iconic places to cycle throughout the Surf Coast region. For those with plenty of miles in the legs, the ride between the Geelong train station and Warrnambool takes in 266 kilometres of Great Ocean Road goodness. Another popular stretch is between Torquay and Warrnambool – this ride passes through Lorne, Apollo Bay, Great Otway National Park, and the 12 Apostles. For weekend warriors looking for a shorter hit-out, the 45.7 kilometres between Torquay and Lorne offers unforgettable, sweeping views of the rugged coastline. While each coastal town is decorated with local cycling hotspots ready for you to explore.
Port Fairy – Griffitts Island
Put a spring in your step
Stock up on wholesome food and everyday supplies at Wye General Store, or drop into the adjoining cafe for delicious coffee and pastries. Icaro Wholefood Cafe in Apollo Bay offers a delicious menu of locally sourced produce. Savour some of the region’s most decadent treats at each of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans, a boutique producers group that includes Timboon Fine Ice Cream, Schulz Organic Dairy and Apostle Whey Cheese.
Twelve Apostles
Make an off-peak trip to the Twelve Apostles. Sunrise and sunset are the most impressive backdrop for the iconic limestone pillars, no matter the weather. Engage with a tour group or a knowledgeable eco-guide to learn about local flora, past shipwrecks and the primordial coastline. Take a self-guided 45 minute walk from the Visitor Centre along a series of boardwalks and viewing platforms, or soar over the dramatic cliffs on a luxury helicopter flight with local insights from your accomplished pilot.
Ancient forest walks
A surf coast pilgrimage is not complete without a visit to Great Otway National Park. Stroll through ferny gullies at ground level, or head to Otway Fly Treetop Walk, for a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the forest floor. Connect with the region’s Aboriginal heritage at Budj Bim National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage List site central to the history of the Gunitjmara people. This long dormant volcano provides pleasant bushland surrounds for nature trails, and hikes along the old crater rim.
Hopetoun Falls – The Otways
Plunging beauty
Rushing water is the signature sound of spring in the rainforests along the Great Ocean Road. Take an hour-long walk through thick ferns, blackwoods and myrtle beech and be rewarded by the site of stunning 20-metre waterfall Beauchamp Falls. Erskine Falls plunges a full 30 metres into the tree-fern gully of the Erskine River and can be viewed from two lookouts. Experienced walkers can traverse a further 7.5 km downstream, to take in both Straw Falls and Splitter Falls, as well as the lush river surrounds.
Pubs with a view
Atop the intersection of the Wye River and the ocean, the Wye Beach Hotel offers fantastic views all year round. Choose from a hyperlocal classic pub menu or the chef’s special, set at two or three courses. It’s not uncommon to see koalas in their natural habitat, relaxing in the big eucalyptus trees right outside the door. The Great Ocean Road Brewhouse in Apollo Bay features a seasonal menu and has over a hundred craft beers on tap to enjoy inside, or in the dog-friendly beer garden.
Down-to-earth distilleries and breweries
The award-winning Timboon Railway Shed Distillery is inspired by the colourful 1890’s illicit whisky makers of the region. Drop in for tasting sessions of their single malt drop, or settle down for a long lunch. Apollo Bay Distillery handcrafts exotic gin in one of the oldest buildings in town. Get a taste of the surrounding landscape with these handcrafted gins, which are made using local botanicals. The Forrest Brewing Company is independently owned and family run, with all beer brewed using water from the Otways rainforest. The adjoining restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced fare, a perfect match for their micro-brewed ales.
Apollo Bay Seafood Cafe – Fishermen’s Co-op
Wash away winter
Make the most of crisp mornings and cool afternoons with a dip in the region’s hot springs. Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool provides a myriad of open-air pools, fed from the 50 million year old Dilwyn Aquifer. Saltair Day Spa in Lorne is Australia’s first BABOR concept Spa, designed in Germany and located in the main street of the town. Choose from day spa packages, world-class skincare treatments and heavenly massages.
Paradise by the sea
Soak up ocean views at Seahorse Retreat in Skenes Creek and be lulled to sleep by the sound of waves breaking on nearby Snapper Rocks. For a truly maritime experience, indulge in accommodation right at the edge of the water at Cape Nelson Lighthouse. The original lighthouse keepers’ cottages have been restored with modern touches of comfort, including open fireplaces and luxurious bathtubs.
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