1. Drive The Great Ocean Road
One of the greatest ways to experience the Great Ocean Road is, you guessed it, just drive it! The iconic wooden memorial archway near Moggs Creek is where you’ll get your most iconic photo as you begin along the cliff hugging stretch of road. A few of the noteable, less busy spots are Kennet River, Cumberland River, Wye River and Skenes Creek. Even though they are busy, you can’t miss the 12 apostles. While you’re there, head over to Loch Ard Gorge and the Thunder Caves. There is plenty of signage explaining the history of shipwrecks in the area.
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2. Walk On The Adventurous Side
For those seeking a bit of a thrill, there is plenty to excite all the senses along this unique coastline. Check out Otway Fly Treetop Adventure Walk, Victoria’s only treetop canopy walk elevated 25m off the forest floor. Head to Adventure Park – Victoria’s biggest water theme park situated on the highway about 20 minutes from Geelong. Take a segway tour around Leura Park; one of the best ways to see world-renowned wine regions. Embrace the surf at Bells Beach. Being the location of the annual Ripcurl Pro, it is one of Australia’s most famous surf beaches. There are plenty of other beaches nearby too with locally run surf schools
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3. Get Off The Road
While the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular roads, getting off it will give you some of the best experiences in this area. Head to the air, cycle through the various trails or take to the sea on a cruise or charter.
The Bellarine Railway is a wonderful way to see the area. Take a steam train along the beautiful rural farmlands from Drysdale to Queenscliff along Swan Bay. A dedicated restaurant train called “The Q Train” offers a unique dining experience while “The Blues Train” offers a fun night of food, drinks and live blue’s band. They also run a Thomas the Tank engine ride and Easter and Christmas special events.
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4. Explore Nature
Mother nature has been kind to the region. Aside from the pristine beaches, there is an impressive selection of mountains and rainforests to get lost in. Located in the heart of The Otways is an impressive 85-year-old Californian Redwood plantation. There are picnic tables and toilets and it’s a great day out for families as you run through the forest floor and look up to the soaring trees. A short drive nearby is Hopetoun Falls and Beauchamp Falls, both a must-see while you’re in the area.
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5. Chase Waterfalls
Waterfalls are in abundance throughout the rainforests of southern Victoria. Erskine Falls is a stand out in terms of the region’s waterfalls. Located just at the back of Lorne, it’s a short walk to the first lookout or a more demanding climb down 240 steps to get up close to the magnificent falls. Beauchamp Falls and Stevensons Falls both feature great walking tracks that lead to their stunning waterfalls.
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6. Fill Your Face
This area has some of the state’s most impressive vineyards and local producers. Jack Rabbit, Leura Park and Mount Duneed Estate are all very popular with the locals and they all offer generous menus that utilise local and seasonal produce. Plus there’s Great Ocean Road Gin and Bells Beach Brewery for a tipple of a different kind.
Portarlington and Queenscliff are both teaming with the freshest seafood in the region. The Common Ground Project in Freshwater Creek is a modern farmyard style café that features home grown produce that is showcased throughout their menu.
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