Southwest Victoria is a rich farming region underlined by a coastline of sweeping sandy beaches. With its fertile soils and lush volcanic plains, the region has a reputation for its magnificent local produce and beautiful woodlands. The region is home to pristine lakes and some of southeastern Australia’s most popular coastal destinations. Explore Southwest Victoria’s pristine national parks, learn about its rich Aboriginal cultural heritage, check out its picturesque towns and take a trip on the unbeatable Great Ocean Road.
The Great Ocean Road follows the breathtaking coastline of Victoria’s southwestern region from Torquay in the east to Portland near the South Australian border. Check out laid-back beach towns fringed by eucalyptus forests, such as Lorne, Aireys Inlet and Apollo Bay.
Discover the natural beauty of the southern tip of Cape Otway and the Great Otway National Park, which features a network of trails that lead through tranquil native forests to waterfalls. Don’t miss stopping by Port Campbell to see the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles, which are a collection of limestone rock stacks standing offshore from plunging cliffs.
Toward the western end of the Great Ocean Road, you’ll find the busy waterfront hub of Warrnambool and the historic wharves of Port Fairy. Visit the far-west town of Portland to see Victoria’s first permanent European settlement and preserved heritage architecture. North of here lies the former volcano of Mount Eccles, known to its traditional custodians, the Gunditjmara, as Budj Bim. Explore lava-flow lakes, such as Lake Condah, which is an important Aboriginal cultural heritage site.
The Glenelg River meanders through the breathtaking Lower Glenelg National Park near the border of South Australia, and is an ideal destination for canoeing and kayaking. See galleries of caves and cliffs as you paddle through the river’s deep gorge.
Southwest Victoria is best explored by car however, some areas can be reached by regional trains and buses. Join a charter tour of the Great Ocean Road or go at your own pace to stop by the numerous beach towns and farming communities along the way.
