If you are coming to this area simply to visit the Great Ocean Road and all its attractions then your holiday will be a success and I can guarantee you will go home with some great memories. But, if you have some time on your hands why not venture further afield? How many times have you stepped off a well worn path and found something extraordinary? Hopefully your answer is lots! If your answer is never then perhaps it is time you did. You don’t have to travel too far from the coast to experience some off the beaten track delights. If you are looking to experience what life is like on a farm you will find some fantastic Otway farm stays.The Great Otway National Park is just wonderful in every season. Covering 103 square kilometres it primarily consists of temperate rainforests with loads of refreshingly cool waterfalls with ancient, massive eucalyptus trees towering over pleasantly cool, forest floors with carpets of ferns and all manner of flora and fauna. All of the major waterfalls are easily accessible with well made tracks which makes it so much easier for all of us to enjoy the sights and sounds. Some of the most popular waterfalls are near the small, historic township of Beech Forest; which was home to legendary runner Cliff Young. The Beechy Pub does a great feed so if you’re peckish feel free to drop in.
If you’re a bit of an adrenalin junkie you might like to consider heading to the Otway Fly, which just happens to be the longest and highest, rainforest canopy walk in the world. The Otway Fly is a great place to take the family. Kids especially love this place with its hidden dinosaurs around secretive corners and let’s not forget the recent addition of a Zip Line. The whole family can now soar from tree to tree high above the ground. Fun and more fun. And if this isn’t enough you can try your hand at abseilling. Not far away is the small town of Forrest. Forrest used to be a rough and ready logging town in the not too distant past but has now reinvented itself and has chosen tourism over the felling of the native forests. You’ll find the Forrest Brewery here which also does great food, good coffee is not hard to find and the accommodation is delectable. What Forrest is most well known for now though is that it has some of the world’s best mountain bike trails. Various trails have been set up from beginners to extreme. Annual competitions take place and events are open to all. Haven’t seen a platypus yet? You can here. You can paddle with the local platypus in a canoe on the beautiful Lake Elizabeth.
Another significant highlight of this area that you should visit is the Cape Otway Lightstation. This is thes oldest, surviving lighthouse in the country. Has to be seen to be believed in stormy weather! It’s also a great place to watch for passing Southern Right Whales as they slowly make their way along our coast to Warrnambool where they give birth to their calves.
It’s very easy to work up a thirst being a tourist. Fortunately for you, the Otway Ranges is now home to a number of boutique wineries and a handful of home made breweries. It’s always great to taste some of the local brews at some of the local watering holes when you’re on holidays. And when it’s time to eat you’ll be well looked after. The Great Ocean Road is a foodie’s paradise. A good way to experience what’s on the table in this region is to follow the Otway Harvest Trail. This will ensure that you don’t miss the finest of what the Otways has to offer. Wineries, provedores, cellar doors, farmgates and loads more. Take your time and soak it all up.