The Great Otway National Park is Australia’s hidden paradise. The park covers rugged coastlines and mountain ranges. You can see waterfalls, springs, streams, and lakes dotting the Otways. It is also home to wide different varieties of plant and animal species.
Travelling to the Otways on our Great Ocean Road Tour is an exciting experience. From spectacular coastal views to naturally carved landscapes, from giant beech and redwood trees to spring wildflowers, from cascading streams to a serene lake, from lazy koalas to the elusive platypus, and flying falcons to the lovely parrots. These are fair enough reasons why you should explore this Victorian paradise.
Otways visit
The Otways cover the towns of Torquay through the hinterlands of Colac. Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Anglesea’s quaint towns are some of the park’s gateways.
At the Otways, you can do many things on your adventure. You can have a lazy picnic or an adrenaline-infused zipline tour. You can take photos of wildlife or spend your time birdwatching. You may relax and enjoy the minty cool breeze of the forest or reflect on your image like Narcissus on the lake. Perhaps you could stretch those legs for nature walks. I would choose the last one.
Cora Lynn Cascades
Nearby the town of Lorne, you can stroll along the trail to Cora Lynn Cascades under the giant eucalyptus trees and tree ferns. It only takes a little more than a two-kilometre walk from Blanket Leaf car park. Let the cascades freshen up your senses.
Johanna Beach campground
From the Aire River information centre, you can have a little over twelve-kilometre beach hike to Johanna Beach campground. As you pass through the heathland, don’t miss the spring wildflowers and the fantastic ocean views. You can even spot peregrine falcons flying above as you cross Johanna River.
Phantom Falls
Or you may take a three-and-a-half-kilometre hike from Allenvale Mill to Phantom Falls. You can climb up to Sheoak Picnic Area when you get into the waterfalls. The majestic Phantom Falls is such a beauty to behold. At Sheoak, you can visit Swallow Cave, where you can witness the swallows nesting in the Cave.
Kalimna Falls
From the Sheoak picnic area, you can stretch your legs hiking along the trail towards Kalimna Falls. It is an eight-kilometre walk tracing the old timber tramway route. Just be constantly on the lookout for some native wild animals and lovely birds as you listen to the music of nature.
Stay near National Park
Accommodation options near the Great Otway National Park are available to suit diverse preferences. Discover your ideal lodging in and around the Otways region based on your desired vacation experience.
Forrest is an ideal place to stay for mountain biking, adventure, and great local produce.
Wye River, Kennett River, and Separation Creek are popular destinations for families, offering a range of accommodation options from holiday houses to camp spots and access to beautiful bushland and beaches.
For those who wish to stay on the Great Ocean Road with convenient access to amenities, shops, and restaurants, as well as the opportunity to explore the Otways daily, Apollo Bay or its neighbouring areas of Marengo and Skenes Creek offer excellent options.
Great Ocean Road Holidays is your reliable option for vacation rentals in and around the Otways.
Great Ocean Road Parks offer beachside campsites that are ideal for camping.
Erskine River
From Erskine Falls car park, you can challenge yourself to a 7.5-kilometre hike down the Erskine River track to the river’s mouth at Lorne’s seashore. Be ready to step on slippery stones, fallen logs, and river crossings. You will end up at Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park.
Melba Gully picnic
Suppose you’re in the Melba Gully picnic area near Apollo Bay and Layers Hill. In that case, it will be an excellent opportunity to take a leisurely hike along a 1-kilometre stretch of Madsen’s track under the giant myrtle beech and blackwood trees. The way is beside Johanna River. Just enjoy the experience of being in the midst of a dense forest.
How long should I visit the Great Otway National Park?
We recommend spending 3-4 days in the region for a few reasons. The weather can sometimes be unpredictable and may limit outdoor exploration.
Another essential aspect to consider is the vastness of this region. It takes a significant amount of time to travel between places, so it’s natural to want to take breaks, enjoy a cup of coffee, and have a meal, which can unfortunately take away from the time available to chase waterfalls.
A helpful tip is to strategically plan your 3 day Great Ocean Road trip by grouping the locations you want to visit to minimise travel distances.
Create unforgettable family memories
Visitors to Cape Otway Lightstation can enjoy family-friendly activities, including hiking, whale watching, and exploring nearby beaches. Thrill-seekers can also participate in the Otway Fly Treetop Adventure walks and zip line tours. Those looking for more adventure can try the flying foxes at Treetop Adventures Yeodene Park. For a further excursion, Wildlife Wonders Sanctuary near Apollo Bay offers guided walks to observe koalas and the opportunity to plant trees for future habitats in the bushland.
Hordenvale Wetlands
From Aire River Bridge, take a 4-kilometre walk to the Aire River Escarpment lookout, where you will have the reward of having the best view of the Hordenvale Wetlands. You may also spot some kangaroos and wallabies along the way.
Rainbow Falls
If you’re in Cape Otway exploring the light station, you might as well take a 10-kilometre hike to Aire River. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes – dunes, cliffs, and coastal views. You can also stop at Rainbow Falls, then follow the route to the Aire River lookout. This 10-kilometre adventure walk will be worth it.
Visit the coastal villages of Otway
There are several small towns and hamlets along the coast that tourists do not frequent. One is Kennett River, where you can explore a secluded beach and have lunch at Kafe Koala. On the Koala Walk, you can even spot real koalas. Another place to visit is Teddy’s Lookout, which offers a beautiful view. If you continue to Cumberland River, you can discover the cliffs and beaches there. Separation Creek is also worth a visit, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. You can take Paddy’s Path to Wye Beach and have a meal at the general store and café or the Wye Beach Hotel. For a more luxurious stay, consider booking accommodation in nearby Wongarra.
Have a picnic in the Otways outdoors
Picnic grounds with scenic surroundings are available at several attractions within the park. Visitors can purchase supplies at general stores in Forrest or Wye River and experience tranquillity while enjoying the park. Various camping areas in the park cater to different preferences, whether a family-friendly location for caravans or a peaceful night of stargazing alone. Great Ocean Road Parks manages the campsites and offers incredible spots for camping.
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