Are there guided tours?

Yes, several companies offer guided tours that provide insights into the natural and cultural history of the area, ensuring a safe and informative hiking experience.

What should I bring for the hike?

Bring water, a day pack with snacks, sun protection, and a rain jacket. For overnight or multi-day hikes, carry a map, compass, and first-aid kit.

Cape Otway to Aire River Hike

Cape Otway to Aire River Hike is one of the best bits of the Great Ocean Walk, with cliff tops and coastal forest. If you want adventure and peace along Victoria’s coast then this is a must do. With its many environments, historic sites and views this hike is an experience that will show you the natural beauty and heritage of the Great Otway National Park.

The Track

The track is 10km and starts at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation and ends at the serene Aire River estuary. Along the way you will walk through coastal scrub, rock platforms and sand dunes. Whether you take the coastal route or the inland route, the track has stunning coastal views of the Southern Ocean and rugged coastline. It’s a track that requires careful navigation through cliffs and loose sand, so it’s best for experienced hikers looking for an outdoor adventure that’s a challenge and natural beauty.

Distance and Grade

10km moderate. Steep climbs and soft sand. Wear good shoes and carry a day pack with water, snacks and sun protection. Check tide times and trail access, as some sections of the track are closed at high tide or due to weather or maintenance.

Track Features

The best bit of the track is the Cape Otway Lighthouse where you can stand at the edge of the cliff and look out before dropping into the coastal forest. The track has great views of the coast and you might see native wildlife like king parrots, kangaroos and even the hooded plover. The last bit of the hike is the Aire River Heritage River, a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the Aire Valley. Join a Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne and witness the majestic Cape Otway Lighthouse, vibrant wildlife, and the tranquil beauty of the Aire Valley. Adventure awaits!

Start: Cape Otway Lightstation

Your journey begins at the Cape Otway Lightstation, one of Australia’s oldest lighthouses. The lightstation has a maritime museum and great views of the Southern Ocean. Don’t miss the Cape Otway Cemetery which tells the stories of shipwrecks and early settlers. Before you start the hike go and explore the museum and café or take a short detour to the Parker Inlet for more coastal views.

History

Cape Otway has a history that goes back thousands of years. The Gadubanud people lived sustainably on the land and sea. European settlers built the Cape Otway Lightstation in 1848 to guide ships through the treacherous Bass Strait. There’s also stories of shipwrecks along the Shipwreck Coast. Visit the Cape Otway Cemetery and learn about the area’s history to add depth to your hike.

Nearby

Before or after your walk check out Johanna Beach, Castle Cove and Melba Gully. Each has its own charm from the stunning beach at Johanna to the ancient rainforests of Melba Gully. For a longer adventure you can add on the Elliot Ridge or Ryans Den both offer more challenge and views.

The Coast

The walk from Cape Otway to Aire River is more than a walk it’s a visual feast of changing landscapes. From the wind swept heathlands and coastal scrub to the towering cliffs above the Southern Ocean, every step is a new view. The coastal route has close encounters with the cliff tops and rock shelves, the inland route is a more sheltered walk through tall forests and dense bushland.

Cliffs and Beaches

One of the best parts of this walk is the series of cliffs and beaches along the way. The rock platforms at Castle Cove and the rock shelves near the Parker River are great for photography and taking in the sea-level views. Look out for the sand dunes and the contrast between the soft sand of the beaches and the rocky shoreline.

Flora and Fauna

The Cape Otway area has a lot of flora and fauna. The coastal heathlands are covered in wildflowers in spring, the tall forests are eucalypt and fern. Wildlife is common and you may see king parrots, koalas and kangaroos along the way. The Aire River Heritage River area is a birdwatcher’s heaven with many birds and a peaceful setting.

Aire River: The End

Reaching the Aire River is the end of the walk. This peaceful estuary is surrounded by vegetation and is a great place to rest and chill out. The Aire River West Campground and Aire River East Campground are good options if you want to stay on. Enjoy the river or take the Aire River Walk to explore the area.

Camping

The Aire River has two campgrounds, the Aire River West Campground and the more remote Aire River Hike In Campsite. Both have basic facilities, toilets, picnic tables and fire pits. It’s a great place to unwind after your walk, you can set up your camp chairs and enjoy the surroundings. Check the campground conditions and book ahead during peak season.

Best Time to Hike

Best time to hike from Cape Otway to Aire River is late autumn to early spring when the weather is cooler and wildflowers are out. Summer can be hot and dry with bushfires and bushfire warnings so plan ahead and check conditions before you go. If you want a more peaceful experience the cooler months have fewer crowds and more comfortable hiking conditions.

Safety and Precautions

Plan ahead for a safe hike. Bring water as there is no water along the trail. Wear hiking boots and layers for changing weather. Check for bushfire advice, access conditions and trail closures. Let someone know your hiking plans and have a emergency response plan. A day pack with a first-aid kit, snacks and a waterproof umbrella is recommended for an overnight or multi day hike.