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The Courthouse Camperdown

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Courthouse Camperdown

Situated in the heart of the Volcanic Lakes and Plains of South West Victoria, The Courthouse Camperdown offers expert tips and advice on how to explore the picturesque Corangamite shire. One of many beautifully preserved heritage-listed buildings in Camperdown, The Courthouse also hosts a local art exhibition which changes monthly and a fabulous range of gifts, preserves, home wares and essential travel items, with a strong emphasis on locally made goods, at the very least Australian made. Whether it's a tour of the 125-year-old iconic Clocktower, taking in the panoramic views from Mt Leura, having a picnic in the hilltop botanic gardens overlooking two craters, taking a bike ride on the scenic Camperdown - Timboon rail trail, or finding unique places to visit within the shire, the friendly Courthouse Ambassadors will be more than happy to help you make the most of your stay.

Camperdown VIC

4.2 km away

Aerial view of Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf

Natural Attractions

Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves

Mount Leura and Mount Sugarloaf are part of a large volcanic complex known as the Leura Maar which was formed more than 20,000 years ago by a series of major volcanic eruptions. Since 1995, community involvement on the Reserve has resulted in major conservation and revegetation activities, including planting thousands of Indigenous trees, grasses and herbs, construction of paths, information displays and shelters. Located in the third-largest volcanic plain in the world, the summit of Mt Leura affords magnificent views of the districts many volcanic cones. Take the time to explore the amazing natural beauty of the reserve − you never know what you might find!

Camperdown VIC

5.2 km away

Train on replica of Curdies Bridge

Amusement and Theme Parks

Cobden Miniature Railway

Cobden's Miniature Railway Park features a 1.8-kilometre railway with bridges, tunnels, overpasses and lakes. It runs through a parkland environment, which was formerly part of the Cobden Racecourse. Visitors can enjoy multiple train rides as there are many different trains to ride - all run by volunteers who own the locomotives. The trains are operated by the South Western Model Engineers. There is no charge to enter the Park. They operate on the third Sunday of every month and every Sunday during Victorian school holidays. Bookings for family get togethers, birthday parties, bus trips and any other groups can be made on other days.

Cobden VIC

10 km away

Cobden and District Historical Society

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cobden and District Historical Society

The Cobden and District Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the rich history of the local area. Their collection spans a wide range of subjects, including schools, timber cuttting and milling, the dairy and sheep industries, war memorabilia, and the histories of local clubs, families, and businesses. In short, they are committed to preserving the past and the present for the future. Established in 1985 at the request of local residents, the Society operated from several temporary locations before finding its permanent home at The Chocolyn Hall in Grayland Street, Cobden. They also assist with family history research for those with connections to the Cobden district. If you're interested in learning more or seeking help with your own family history, please contact them via email.

Cobden VIC

11 km away

Cobden Pioneer Park — Image credit: Cobden Pioneer Park

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cobden Pioneer Park

Cobden Pioneer Park is a living tribute to the region's early settlers, preserving the rich farming, dairy, timber and agricultural heritage of the Cobden and Heytesbury district. Set among authentic and faithfully recreated buildings, the park showcases vintage machinery, historic tools, and the exceptional Harold Lamb buggy and carriage collection, including rare treasures like the famed Boneshaker bicycle. Established in 1998 and located beside the Cobden Miniature Railway, the park invites visitors to step back in time and experience the ingenuity, resilience, and everyday life of our pioneering community. Cobden Pioneer Park opens to the public every third Sunday of the month, as well as every Sunday during the School Holidays as part of the 4 Fun Day activities at the Cobden Racecourse Reserve. Cobden Pioneer Park is also available for hire for special events, gatherings, and community functions.

Cobden VIC

11 km away

Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail

Natural Attractions

Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail

From volcanic lakes through forest to sea. Discover quiet trails with big moments and a network of road and gravel loops to explore. This is a place for walkers, riders and lovers of nature. An escape pod to accessible adventure and simple pleasures in spectacular settings. A place where stories unfold beneath tyre and feet, and artisan flavours fuel journeys of discovery. Follow the Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail as it winds through the heart of Keerray Wooroong country from the tall forests and gourmet delights of Timboon to the rugged beauty of Port Campbell. Along the way, experience ever-changing landscapes of farmland, coastal gullies, and tranquil wetlands. Cross elevated bridges, glide along the cantilevered boardwalk, and take in breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, a journey where the land tells its own story.

Port Campbell VIC

44 km away

Seat and playground — Image credit: Corangamite Shire

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Port Campbell Playground

The Port Campbell Playground is a sensory delight for the little people in your life. The main play area is nautical themed and designed with nature in mind. The slides, climbing nets, swings and balance boards are surrounded by sand, rocks, wooden elements and grass. The playground, barbeque area and toilets are all accessible. The Carousel is ideal for wheelchairs and prams. The public park reserve also houses and an all age skate park for rollerblading, skateboarding and associated activities. The facility is located within walking distance to the main shopping precinct in Port Campbell. There are no steps to access the playground and barbeque shelter. The toilet block has both Accessible and MLAK toilets.

Port Campbell VIC

44 km away

Colac Botanic Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Colac Botanic Gardens

The Colac Botanic Gardens, designed by Wiliam Guilfoyle (Melbourne Botanic gardens), occupy about 16 hectares in an elevated position along the southern banks of Lake Colac. A 1.1 kilometre carriageway circumnavigates the gardens, providing access to cars, runners, walkers and cyclists. Mature oak trees planted along the perimeter provide shade and weather protection to visitors. A series of walking paths weaves through the gardens, showcasing feature garden beds and trees, places to sit, open lawn areas and beautiful vistas across the lake. At the eastern end of the gardens, a children’s playground and barbecue area provides a fantastic place for family time. The former curator’s cottage (c.1924) at the western end of the gardens has been converted into the popular Botanic Café. On the centre northern fringe of the Gardens a viewing platform provides a place to rest and enjoy the view across the lake towards Warrion Hills, while a set of steps down the steep escarpment provides easy access to the Lake Colac foreshore. Public toilets are located on the lake foreshore. Gates enabling vehicle access to the gardens are open from 10:00am to 4:00pm daily. Dogs on leads are welcome in the Gardens. Doggy disposal bags are provided at the western and middle gates.

Colac VIC

44 km away

Port Campbell National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Port Campbell National Park

Port Campbell National Park is world famous for its extraordinary collection of wave-sculpted rock formations and the Twelve Apostles. Loch Ard Gorge, site of a 19th century shipwreck 'Loch Ard', as well as the Island Archway and London Bridge are other highlights. The Island Archway collapsed in 2009, highlighting the fragile and ever-changing nature of Victoria's coastline. Discover the heritage of the Shipwreck Coast on short walks such as the Port Campbell Discovery Walk. Take a scenic drives along the Great Ocean Road, stopping at points of interest. For refreshments visit the kiosk at the Twelve Apostles visitor centre. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Port Campbell VIC

44 km away

The Arches Marine Sanctuary

National Parks and Reserves

The Arches Marine Sanctuary

Just off the coast near Port Campbell, The Arches Marine Sanctuary protects a remarkable seascape. This area is known for the above water limestone landscape, however 19 to 25 metres below the waves there is a labyrinth of towering limestone canyons, caves, arches and walls. It is these structures which give the park its name. The area is characterised by high energy waves and cool water with flows from the Southern Ocean. The complex structures beneath the waves provide a foundation for brilliantly coloured seaweeds and sponges to grow on. Due to the shaded underside of the underwater arches, habitats here are typical of those found in the deeper waters of Bass Strait. Fish species seen here are typical of those found in western Victoria at places like the nearby Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, however The Arches Marine Sanctuary is also notable as an important site for Port Jackson Sharks that are frequently seen during the day sleeping under ledges within the park. Before traveling, visit Parks Victoria's website to check for changes in park conditions which may impact your visit. Remember to stay bushfire ready using the Vic Emergency website while in nature.

Port Campbell VIC

44 km away

Saturday Painting

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Colac Makers' Space and Gallery

A vibrant, volunteer-run, artist's space adjacent to the Colac Otway Performing Arts Centre. The Makers' Space has regular workshops, ranging from crochet to eco-printing, mosaic, drawing and painting. Monthly exhibitions are packed with beautiful original artworks for sale. There is also a workshop shed at the showgrounds for silk screen printing and messy art, and weekly sessions are open to all to learn or 'play'.

Colac VIC

44 km away

Colac Tenpin Bowl

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Colac Tenpin Bowl

Colac Tenpin Bowl is South West Victoria's premier family entertainment venue, offering fun for all ages in the heart of Colac. Whether you're visiting the region, travelling along the Great Ocean Road, staying in Colac for business, or simply looking for a fun indoor activity, Colac Tenpin Bowl provides entertainment for families, friends, groups and visitors all year round. The centre features 10 tenpin bowling lanes, arcade games, a licensed snack bar and a range of options for casual visitors, competitive bowlers and special events. Bowling is suitable for all ages and abilities, with lightweight balls, bowling ramps and bumpers available to help everyone join in the fun. Visitors can enjoy a casual game with family and friends, challenge each other in the arcade, or relax with food and drinks while taking in the atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a quick game, a rainy-day activity or a memorable outing with family and friends, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Colac Tenpin Bowl also hosts birthday parties, corporate functions, school groups, sporting clubs and community events throughout the year, with a variety of group packages available. Conveniently located in Colac's town centre, the venue offers a welcoming and inclusive environment where visitors of all ages and experience levels can create lasting memories together.

Colac VIC

44 km away

Poombeeyt Koontapool

Natural Attractions

Poombeeyt Koontapool at Loch Ard Gorge

Completed in 2025, Poombeeyt Koontapool is a new lookout taking in the full view of the blow hole at Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell National Park. The lookout structure is inspired by the shape of a Southern Right Whale, and Poombeeyt Koontapool means 'breath of the whale' in First Nations Keerray Woorroong language. The water spouting from the blowhole is named for the whale spout. The Loch Ard Gorge Precinct includes several trails and lookouts taking in different views of the landscape, cliffs and Southern Ocean and to explore the full precinct you should allow at least an hour. This site is free for public access and wheelchair accessible. There is limited parking near the blowhole, and the main car park is around a 10 minute easy walk from Poombeeyt Kootapool.

Port Campbell VIC

46 km away

Bay of Islands Coastal Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Bay of Islands Coastal Park

The wild Southern Ocean has carved a stunning collection of rock stacks and sheltered bays with clifftop walks, scenic lookouts and small beach coves near Peterborough along the Great Ocean Road. Peterborough is a secret summer destination for many Victorian visitors escaping the busier sections of the Great Ocean Road to the east. Bay of Islands beach on Boat Bay Road is one the best spots along the coastline to easily launch a sea kayak and explore the park. Dogs are welcome on lead at Sandy Cove near Murnanes Bay, but need to kept well away from the area between the high tide marks and edge of the dunes that are home to Hooded Plovers's nests. The park's small beaches are not patrolled. Parks Victoria does not recommend them for swimming. As beaches and coasts are natural environments, you may encounter hazards. Follow the water safety advice to make sure your day out at Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a safe and enjoyable one. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. Before your visit, please check the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website for updated changes of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information to ensure your experience is safe and enjoyable. For information about fires, Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans visit Emergency Victoria's website.

Peterborough VIC

46 km away

Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre Render — Image credit: GORCAPA

Natural Attractions

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

A new, world-class Visitor Centre is transforming the Twelve Apostles into one of Australia's most memorable coastal experiences. Opening October 16 2026, visitors can discover new interpretive experiences, local dining, retail and a rooftop observation deck with sweeping views across the Southern Ocean. Designed in consultation with Traditional Owners, Eastern Maar, the Centre features native gardens and interactive exhibits to help visitors understand this iconic coast through the perspectives of one of the world's oldest living cultures. Interactive displays, artifacts and guided tours reveal the stories behind the famous view: millions of years of climate history, maritime shipwreck stories and ecological wonder. From the Centre, a meandering path leads to the Twelve Apostles viewing platforms, with a return walk of approximately 2 kilometres (1.2 miles). Allow time to explore the full precinct and use the Centre as the starting point for a longer journey along the Great Ocean Road. Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre ambassadors will provide expert advice, curated itineraries and local insights, helping you uncover hidden coastal gems, scenic hinterland drives, local artisanal flavours and authentic community experiences. ***All visitors must book their Twelve Apostles experience - bookings are now open*** Bookings secure parking, reduce congestion and protect the landscape, ensuring every visit directly contributes to safeguarding this sacred coast for generations to come.

Port Campbell VIC

48 km away

Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

The iconic golden cliffs and crumbling pillars of the Twelve Apostles can be found seven kilometres east of Port Campbell. As well as the above water beauty, spectacular arches, canyons, fissures, gutters and deep sloping reefs make up the environment below the waves. Powerful waves of the Southern Ocean constantly pound the coastline which has shaped the area into what you see today. The remarkable underwater structures provide a complex foundation for magnificent habitats including kelp forests and colourful sponge gardens. Many animals prosper here including seabirds, seals, lobsters, reef fish and sea spiders. The intertidal and shallow subtidal reefs are known to have the greatest diversity of invertebrates on limestone reef in Victoria. Marine mammals, such as whales, are also known to visit the area. Patient visitors after dark or in the early morning may see Little Penguins which nest in caves below the Twelve Apostles. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Princetown VIC

48 km away

Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park

Located on 39 acres of picturesque grounds just 15 minutes from the iconic Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park is a privately owned wildlife sanctuary offering memorable encounters with Australia's unique native wildlife. Visitors can hand-feed friendly kangaroos, wallabies, and emus in the interactive petting area, enjoy an up-close koala encounter, and meet wombats along with a variety of other native species. Set within spacious, free-range surrounds, the park provides the opportunity to observe wildlife while learning about conservation, native habitats, and Australia's unique biodiversity. A highlight of the park is the hands-on dingo encounter, where knowledgeable staff share insights into the behaviour, ecology, and importance of Australia's native dingo. Guests may also have the opportunity to meet one of the park's resident dingo pairs (subject to availability and conditions) while gaining a greater appreciation of the species' role as an apex predator. Complete your visit at the Clean Cravings Eatery, serving a selection of organic vegetarian and vegan meals, freshly prepared desserts, light snacks, specialty coffees, and teas. The park is also home to the Dingo Awareness Centre, dedicated to increasing public understanding of these iconic yet often misunderstood animals. Through interactive experiences and expert interpretation, visitors can discover the important role dingoes play in maintaining healthy ecosystems and the value of conserving one of Australia's most remarkable native species

Gellibrand Lower VIC

53 km away

Woollen yarn balls on the shearing shed floor with a crochet rug — Image credit: Chris McConville

Agritourism

Tarndwarncoort Wool Shop

Tarndwarncoort is a wool shop on a sheep farm near Colac in the Great Ocean Road region. It is the home of Polwarth sheep. With a yarn shop, flock of Polwarth sheep to meet, farm accommodation, mini-museum and gallery, and program of classes and events, it's a place primarily for fibre artists and crafters, and travellers who are more generally interested in history, farming and local culture. Set amongst heritage listed Tarndwarncoort Homestead, the Wool Shop offers a wonderful selection of wool products for craft, including bespoke yarns and one off dye lots using the Polwarth wool grown on the farm. Visitors to the Wool Shop can also walk around the Homestead garden, get close to a flock of Polwarth sheep and enjoy a coffee in the courtyard. You can request a visit outside regular hours and the team would get back to you. Check for classes, workshops and community events such as the monthly Crafty Sundays to book in a special visit. Located inland from the Great Ocean Road in the Otway hinterland 1.5 hours drive west of Melbourne. Two guest cottages provide a unique experience of staying on an historic farm where a flock of naturally coloured Polwarth sheep provide a backdrop to a relaxed stay central to the Great Ocean Road, Otway National Park, Geelong, Warrnambool and Ballarat.

Warncoort VIC

55 km away

Fletcher Jones Market

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Fletcher Jones Market

Visiting the Fletcher Jones Market is a unique experience. Located in the iconic former Fletcher Jones factory, and fronted by a heritage-listed garden, the market is a must do visit either for a day trip, weekend away or passing along Great Ocean Road. Driving down the highway into Warrnambool lookout for the iconic silver ball towering over the gardens. The market specialises in antiques and collectables, furniture, bric-a-brac, old books, giftware, memorabilia, retro clothing, collectable records for the 60s and 70s, antique and retro furniture, original artwork, coins and much more. With over 2,000 square metres and 60 plus experienced stallholders, there is always something interesting and new to discover. They have two floors to choose from; the Market has something for everyone and is heaven for collectors. Whether you are looking for something rare or unique, or for something familiar, they are likely to have it. This market is the largest antique and collectable market in Southwest Victoria and is where dealers come to find unique items. The market has two entrances, so if you find it difficult to walk for any distance, the rear entrance via Lava Street provides ready access with ample free street parking. Alternatively, enter through the garden. The market has rest room facilities and dog friendly so bring your best friend.

Warrnambool VIC

55 km away

AquaZone's 25m indoor pool — Image credit: Warrnambool City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Aquazone

Warrnambool is a city that loves to swim, and AquaZone is the premier aquatic and recreation centre in the area. It's a perfect place for you, whether you want to swim a few laps or take your toddler for a paddle. AquaZone caters for all levels of activity and social engagements. AquaZone operates a heated 25 metre pool, as well as two smaller pools with one featuring fun water fountains and a 'beach style' entry. Over the warmer months, Aquazone's 50m outdoor pool opens which is an essential part of the classic Aussie summer experience. Fully qualified lifeguards are on duty providing a high level of safety at all times. And if you need to scratch your fitness itch while you're in Warrnambool, check out the gym or join in on one of the numerous fitness classes. The gym is equipped with modern Technogym equipment and AquaZone offers an extensive range of Les Mills exercise classes.

Warrnambool VIC

56 km away

Friendly Koalas: all abilities staff

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Fauna Australia Koala Experience and Accommodation

Experience Australia's wildlife at Fauna Australia, where you can interact personally with iconic animals in a stress free environment. Join their 30-minute Koala Experience where you can take your own photos, tailored for busy travellers. Undercover photo area enables all weather experience. Connect with koalas, capture your memories, and enhance your Great Ocean Road itinerary. Book your Koala Experience today. Conveniently located midway between Apollo Bay and The Twelve Apostles, Fauna Australia is only 45 minutes away from Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay and Colac. Some other nearby attractions such as Triplet Falls is 15 minutes away, Otway Fly Treetop Walk is 20 minutes away and Melba Gully glowworms is only five minutes. At Fauna Australia, they prioritise inclusivity and diversity within the team through the Progressive Pathways Program. The talented all-abilities keepers and guides, including individuals with disabilities, bring unique perspectives that enhance the organisation. For travellers with more time on their hands, experience the Great Ocean Road and Otways with their conveniently located accommodation. Watch the place come alive at night with their nocturnal species from your fully self-contained spa cottages that sleeps four. Feed friendly kangaroos and wombats.

Lavers Hill VIC

56 km away

All ages from 4-75 years — Image credit: Yeodene Park

Amusement and Theme Parks

Treetops Adventure Yeodene

Re-tree-t into this Australian native forest and recharge with a 100 per cent natural high. Soar through the messmate trees of the Otway Forest and relive your playground days on the 15-metre-high monkey bars. Featuring a double-storey 'Home Tree' deck, Treetops Adventure Yeodene gives climbers and spectators a 360-degree birds-eye view of this rustic forest. A 2.5-hour session through the aerial challenges (including gearing up) will have you laughing along with the Kookaburras. After safety, your adrenaline is our top priority, so our courses are designed to challenge you, no matter what level you're at.

Yeodene VIC

56 km away

Melba Gully — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Melba Gully

Known as the Jewel of the Otways, Melba Gully is one of the wettest places in the state. The gully has prolific plant growth and is a dense rainforest of Myrtle Beech, Blackwood and Tree-ferns, with an understorey of low ferns and mosses. Perhaps the most unusual inhabitants of the area are the glow worms, which can be seen at night along the walking tracks. The 35 minute Madsen's Track Nature Walk departs from the picnic area, providing an adventure into a world of ancient, mossy trees and cool fern gullies. Picnic tables, a gas barbecue and toilets are provided at this site. Camping is not permitted. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Lavers Hill VIC

56 km away

With so much to see and do at Flagstaff Hill by day, take your time and explore!

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village

Experience the fascinating history of the Shipwreck Coast with a visit to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. Containing over 10,000 artefacts, the Flagstaff Hill maritime collection is the largest of its kind in Victoria. Central to this is the stunning Minton Peacock sculpture which remarkably survived the wreck of the Loch Ard, a sailing ship which met its demise at Loch Ard Gorge, a highlight when visiting the Great Ocean Road. Discover the many historical treasures and stories of the Shipwreck Coast within our museum, village and heritage precinct. As night falls, step inside the village to experience the dramatic stories of Australia's rich maritime history, told vividly through the multimillion-dollar Sound and Light experience. Tales of the Shipwreck Coast takes you on a journey through the ages. From local creation stories to their colourful whaling past then to events that gave their coastline a reputation that inspired fear and trepidation among mariners. See the village come to life and experience the stories through projections onto a nine-metre water wall.

Warrnambool VIC

56 km away

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