Holiday experiences to book on the Great Ocean Road (Avalon, VIC)
The spectacular Great Ocean Road, which winds alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean, begins just 40 minutes drive from Avalon Airport in the town of Torquay. Home to craggy cliffs, empty beaches, bountiful wildlife and unforgettable Aboriginal experiences and UNESCO World Heritage listed landscapes, there's an effortless affinity with nature along this iconic road.
- What to do:
- This is what everyone comes to see: the glorious limestone towers known as the 12 Apostles, rising out of the ocean. Don’t let the name fool you: there are only seven of these spires, all of which were part of the mainland before wind and water eroded the surrounding rock. For the best views, book a scenic flight with a local operator. The experience of swooping around the rock formations, with miles of coastline unfurling in front of you, is simply unforgettable. 12 Apostles Helicopters offer scenic flights to see the Bay of Islands, London Bridge or the entire Shipwreck Coast.
- In Great Otway National Park you'll see thundering waterfalls and sparkling gorges and walk through the tops of ancient, mossy trees. The Otway Fly Treetop Walk is a 600-metre (0.4-mile) long elevated treetop walk that ascends at a gentle grade through a magnificent stand of cool temperate rainforest. Thrill seekers can choose the Otway Fly Zipline Tour and zip between "cloud stations" 30 metres (98 feet) above the forest floor.
- Also along the Great Ocean Road is a new protected habitat called Wildlife Wonders, offering visitors a guided walk with a conservationist around the Otways bushland to spot potoroos, kangaroos, koalas and bandicoots, while showing the region’s conservation projects in action.
- Where to eat: If you find that the crisp ocean air has put you in the mood for seafood, stop at Airey's Inlet. About 25 minutes from Torquay, this tiny township hides a big secret: the charming A La Grecque restaurant, which dishes up some of the best seafood on the coast. On a sunny day, a plate of their tender fried calamari or freshly grilled fish, eaten at an outside table, is heaven.
- Where to stay: For a truly memorable stay along the Great Ocean Road, guests can choose to stay at Great Ocean Road Resort which is surrounded by beautiful beaches and bushland, or the Great Eco Lodge which is entirely self-sufficient.
Geelong, Victoria’s second city, and the many villages and coastal towns of the Bellarine Peninsula offer a thriving foodie scene, complete with craft breweries, award-winning wineries, a glut of great waterfront cafés and dynamic food experiences. Surf, paddle and swim at bay and ocean beaches, and get close to local wildlife in Port Phillip Bay.
- Where to do:
- Explore the delicious tastes of Bellarine on the Taste Trail, which will see you visit almost 50 food and wine destinations. Stop in and try samples from local producers, unique winners and award-winning restaurants.
- Spend time immersed in local culture, visit the Geelong Gallery, one of Australia’s leading and oldest regional art galleries. With a range of events and exhibitions on offer make sure to pop by with all the family.
- Stop by Geelong’s famous Mill Markets in the town centre if you’re on the hunt for vintage items, home decor, books or even just a walk around the streets with a cup of coffee in hand.
- Where to eat: Head to Pik Nik, the quirky converted roadhouse with a premium edge. Originally a small market stall selling local jams and other produce the restaurant now offers a delicious all-day menu with the best of Bellarine produce on offer.
- Where to stay: Surrounded by 200 acres of rural stunning land, Lon Retreat in Bellarine is the ideal location for those wanting to unwind. With an onsite spa,local artisan breakfast hampers and only seven guest suites, it is perfect for those seeking some personal time.
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