Author: beaumicheli

The Great Ocean Road; one of Victoria’s most beautiful drives and travel destinations. For many, the Great Ocean Road offers a plethora of beaches, forests and views to suit visitors of any age an demographic. But while the Twelve Apostles, Erskine Falls and Loch Ard Gorge are all amazing destinations to visit, why not add something a little different into your journey?

HOPETOUN FALLS, BEECH FOREST

Located 30km from Apollo Bay, Hopetoun Falls is nestled deep within the Great Otway National Park near Beech Forest and can be accessed via a steep but short walking track. With a 30 metre drop, Hopetoun Falls in one of the larger and more majestic waterfalls in the area, and is most-powerful in the cooler Winter months. Find it on the map >

CALIFORNIAN REDWOODS, BEECH FOREST

Just down the road from Houpetoun Falls sits a large acreage of Californian Redwoods. Planted in 1939, the California Redwoods now tower over 60 meters in height, creating an intricate canopy of branches and leaves high above. At ground level, the trees are dotted along a beautiful stream, and can be heard and seen slowly swaying in the wind. This is an ideal spot to unwind from the outside world. Find it on the map >

LOWER KALIMNA FALLS, LORNE

While there are many waterfalls hidden around Lorne, this one is my favourite. Located 3km from the Sheoak Picnic Area at the back of Lorne, Lower Kalimna Falls is definitely something you should have on your to-see list. Upon arriving at the Waterfall, you’re be greeted by a towering cascade of water, flowing over a cave into a shallow pool of water, surrounded by ferns, trees and bushes. While swimming in the pool of water isn’t a possibility, you are able to enter the cave and go behind the waterfall – which is something that sets this waterfall apart from the rest in the area. Find it on the map >

CRAYFISH BAY, CAPE OTWAY

Perfect for a snorkel, afternoon picnic or escape from the Great Ocean Road’s busier beaches, Crayfish Bay is located near the Cape Otway Lightstation, just a 40 minute drive from Apollo Bay. The area is characterised by high bluffs teeming with vegetation, white sandy beaches, rock pools and clear blue water. At low tide, the main swimming area of Crayfish Bay becomes a protected shallow pool that is shielded from the open water beyond. This allows you to explore more of the bay which is full of a wide variety of fish. Find it on the map >

PARADISE, APOLLO BAY

While many people visit Apollo Bay’s stunning beach and harbour, there’s a spot which is regularly missed. Aptly named “Paradise”, this hidden oasis sits on the Barham River, a mere 10 minutes drive from Apollo Bay. A perfect spot for a picnic and a swim, Paradise lets you escape from the hustle and bustle of Apollo Bay without the long drive. The area is packed with short walking trails and dense vegetation that will keep you coming back for more. Find it on the map >