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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

4.6 km away

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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

7.0 km away

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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

7.3 km away

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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

11 km away

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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

16 km away

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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

16 km away

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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

17 km away

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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

18 km away

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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

18 km away

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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

21 km away

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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

28 km away

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Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Amusement and Theme Parks

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures

Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is the ultimate outdoor nature experience and is located less than three hours away from Melbourne (via Princes Highway inland route) and 90 minutes from Geelong (via Princes Highway). Experience a breathtaking view of the magnificent Otway Ranges from the 25 metre-high elevate walkway or fly 30 metres high from tree to tree on the Zipline Tour. The Treetop Walk is a one hour rainforest walk experience, that is approximately two kilometres in total and features a 600 metre long and 47-metre high steel structured treetop canopy walkway. The Zipline Eco-Tour is a two-and-a-half hour, fully guided experience including training and simulation, eight cloud stations, six flights and two suspension bridges. Home to magical enchanted forest featuring fairies and dragons! Discover a whimsical neighborhood of fairy homes and their magical inhabitants, snuggled within a magical nook in the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures trail. Check website for current operating hours.

Ferguson VIC

29 km away

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Cape Otway Lighthouse

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cape Otway Lightstation

Cape Otway Lightstation is considered Australia's most significant lighthouse and is also known as the Beacon of Hope. Established in 1848, the lighthouse is perched on towering sea cliffs 90 metres above where the spectacular Bass Straight and the Southern Ocean collide. Explore their extensive Heritage Precinct and hear the amazing history of tragic shipwrecks on this isolated and rugged coastline from the passionate guides. Visit the historic telegraph station built in 1859 and discover Australia's extraordinary secret war history from World War Two. Watch whales at play and soak up the natural beauty and atmosphere or stay overnight in the unique historic lightkeeper's accommodation, with options suitable for families, groups, couples, friends and those hiking the Great Ocean Walk. The Cape Otway Lightstation is located a short drive off the Great Ocean Road, along Lighthouse Road through the serene forest of the Otway National Park.

Cape Otway VIC

34 km away

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Beauchamp Falls
Image credit: DEECA

Natural Attractions

Beauchamp Falls

One of the Otways' most spectacular waterfalls, Beauchamp Falls is in the Otway Forest Park. It is 2.5 hours drive south west of Melbourne, near the town of Beech Forest. The Beauchamp Falls Walk is a three kilometre one-hour return walk. The walk leaves from the Beauchamp Falls Campground picnic area and takes you to the spectacular 20 metre waterfall. Walk through the beautiful towering rainforest and enjoy scenic views of mountain ash forests and thick ferns. The Beauchamp Falls Campground is tucked away in the lush rainforest. This family-friendly campground is flat and spacious with dedicated areas for tents, caravans, campervans and camper trailers. There are fire pits, picnic tables and toilets available for use for campers and for day visitors at the nearby picnic area. This is a free and popular camping spot so it's best to arrive early to secure your spot. The road into the campground is unsealed but can easily be accessed by a two wheel drive vehicle and caravan. The Forrest Mountain Bike Trail network is less than an hour's drive north east of this site via Forrest-Apollo Bay Road. Bring your own water for drinking and cooking as there is no access to potable water. Firewood around the campground is limited and may be wet, so it is recommended to bring your own.

Beech Forest VIC

38 km away

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Koala at Wildlife Wonders
Image credit: Wildlife Wonders

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Wildlife Wonders

Discover Australia's natural beauty at Wildlife Wonders. Guided by a conservationist Nature Guide, you will encounter unique wildlife living freely in a stunning bushland environment overlooking the ocean. Learn about the ecology of the spectacular Otway Ranges and the current research projects saving the Great Ocean Road's threatened species. Wildlife Wonders has Advanced Ecotourism Certification, and 100 per cent of profits support conservation efforts to protect Australia's threatened species. Emu Cafe at Wildlife Wonders also offers light meals and refreshments for the perfect stop along your journey. The Emu Cafe is open daily except for most public holidays, from 9:30am to 2:30pm. Please check the website for updated tour availability. Please note that visitors are not permitted to bring pets or other animals into the Wildlife Wonders Sanctuary at any time, including while participating on a tour. Well behaved dogs on leash are permitted in the café courtyard under owner supervision, and working Guide Dogs are permitted inside the Visitor Centre.

Apollo Bay VIC

41 km away

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Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary

National Parks and Reserves

Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary

Just past Apollo Bay, off the world famous Great Ocean Road, Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary protects 12ha of ocean waters. About 150m offshore, this sanctuary protects a reef system known as Little Henty Reef. Two sections of the reef, the inner and outer reef, are usually exposed and separated by a narrow channel known as 'The Gap'. Composed of sandstone they support wonderful intertidal and subtidal reefs which are packed with sea life. Visitors exploring the intertidal reef may come across many invertebrates including sea snails, tubeworms and abalone. In slightly deeper waters there are beautiful seaweed gardens including towering Bull Kelp forests and beds of delicate green and red species. Between the two small islands, calmer waters support colourful soft corals, sponge gardens and sea urchins. The diverse range of habitats provides resources for a huge range of species. 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.

Marengo VIC

43 km away

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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

43 km away

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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

43 km away

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Marriners Lookout

Natural Attractions

Marriners Lookout

Marriner Lookout overlooks Apollo Bay and is located on the outskirts of the township. An easy but steep 10 minute walk from the carpark is rewarded with a spectacular ocean, beach, hinterland and town view, especially pretty for watching the sunrise. Note that this is a popular spot and the carpark can be quite busy of weekends and public holidays. The track and lookout are located on private property so please follow instructions on signage, closing gates and taking any rubbish with you when you leave. Distance: one kilometre return. Time: 20 minutes. Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Apollo Bay VIC

43 km away

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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

43 km away

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Great Ocean Walk - hike-in-camp
Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk is a one-way, long-distance walk extending just over 110 kilometres. Starting in Apollo Bay, the trail ventures through the Great Otway National Park and Port Campbell National Park, concluding at the famous Twelve Apostles. This once-in-a-lifetime hike will take you eight days in total, or you can sample sections on a range of single day or multi-day hikes. The Great Ocean Walk shadows the iconic Great Ocean Road. Every day is different as you weave through tall forests, coastal heathlands and beside rocky shore platforms. Cross creeks, rivers, pass above wild-rocky shores and deserted beaches with panoramic views and windswept cliff-tops. Walkers can stay at one of the dedicated campsites or find off-walk accommodation nearby with the comfort of hot showers and soft beds. There are seven small hike-in campsites, which must be booked prior to walking. Licensed Tour Operators are available to provide pick up and drop off services. Walkers must consider their noise and environmental impacts and please take all your rubbish with you. 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 the Vic Emergency website.

Apollo Bay VIC

43 km away

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Arts Inc. Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Arts Inc. Gallery

Arts Gallery inc. Gallery is a quality exhibition space on the Great Ocean Road operated by Apollo Bay Arts. Local and emerging artists present exhibitions in this beautiful gallery, housed in the light-filled front room of the heritage Mechanic's Hall on the Great Ocean Road in Apollo Bay. Apollo Bay Arts Inc. is a regional community art and culture nonprofit organisation, operating the gallery, annual art show, literary festival, pottery club and arts studio. Their mission is to encourage and support local and emerging artists by providing a quality, accessible and affordable gallery space to exhibit artwork. Individuals and groups are encouraged to exhibit. Apollo Bay Arts Inc Gallery operates as an artist-run space. The application process aims to ensure that exhibited work is of a professional standard ensuring the long-term success of the gallery.

Apollo Bay VIC

44 km away

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Heritage listed Cable Station Museum housing some of the original cabling and equipment from 1930's

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Apollo Bay Museum

Apollo Bay Museum displays a collection of historical artefacts relating to the history of Apollo Bay and its surrounds. The heritage-listed Cable Station houses three vast rooms of objects and photographs. Features include items from local shipwrecks such as the Casino, Wollamai and Speculant as well as tools, furniture and textiles from as far back as the 19th century. A collection of family histories is also available for viewing. There is also an extensive photographic collection.

Apollo Bay VIC

44 km away

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Stevensons Falls
Image credit: Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism

Natural Attractions

Stevensons Falls

Stevenson Falls is one of the most spectacular and accessible waterfalls in the Otways. It is 2.5 hours drive south west of Melbourne, and just a short walk from a specious well-equipped campground and picnic area beside the Gellibrand River. The 3.4 kilometre return walk to Stevensons Falls passes through a stand of large Californian redwood trees and alongside the river to the base of the waterfalls. This easy walk is suitable for everyone and is wheelchair accessible and pram friendly. The site also has two smaller walks: the Redwoods Boardwalk, showcasing the giant Californian redwoods, and the Blue Spruce Walk which runs along the Gellibrand River. The picnic area, with tables and accessible toilets, is a short walk from the car park along an accessible boardwalk suitable for wheelchairs and prams. This pleasant and spacious free campground is surrounded by giant Californian redwoods next to the river. It has 44 designated campsites suitable for tents, wood-fired barbecues, picnic tables and toilets. This site is not suitable for caravans and camper trailers - nearby Dandos Campground caters for those. Most attractions and facilities at the day visitor area are accessible for people in a wheelchair or with mobility needs and are pram friendly. This includes the car park, walkways, toilets and viewing platform.

Barramunga VIC

44 km away

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