Rediscover Awe and Wake up to the Otways

This is where you have the open space to explore magnificent wonders during the day and enjoy local produce and wine whilst your weary head rests in some of the most stunning accommodation options.

Do not be fooled by the quaint size of the town Forrest, this little gem has you spoiled for choice with mountain bike trails spanning over 60km from easy to difficult rides. You will be riding through eucalypt forests, fern gullies with some spectacular spots to stop and take in the view.

Just under 5km round trip walk, the tranquil surroundings of Lake Elizabeth has the calming waters featuring magnificent petrified trunks of mountain ash surging from the depths of the lake. And after all this exploring, head into the township and be rewarded with one of the many artisan food establishments. Take your pick of delicious gourmet produce and fresh local coffee at Forrest General Store, a refreshing locally made beer or share plate of fuelling food at Forrest Brewing Company or the fine sweet and savoury delicacies at Platypi Chocolates.

Heading deep into the Otways for some more adventure brings us to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures. Here you can be as radical as you please. All ages can enjoy the rainforest walk in the treetops with a birds-eye view of the forest, or those looking for for something more adrenaline pumping can zip-line their way high above through the magnificent forest.

Looking for more time amongst the trees, you will find yourself at Trees Adventure Yeodene Park where you will be challenged with courses high in the tree canopy, crawling balancing and of course, flying.

The breathtaking Californian Redwood Forest is a must see. Feel a sense of calm enter your soul as you walk through the spectacular age-old Redwoods that capture your breath. Just further along the road will have you at the Hopetoun Falls (a 500m return walk), one powerful spot in the Otways. These falls are an easy reward of beauty and coolness.

Mother nature sure does put on a show in the Otways, including the visually stunning boardwalk loop through ancient cool temperate rainforests. Maits Rest is a 30-minute stunning walk with myrtle beech trees towering above, some 300 years old. The recently reconditioned raised walkway now offers seating spots along the way for a rest and reflection.

The Otways is without saying where the forest meets the sea. The Great Ocean Walk is 100km walking track through an ever-changing coastline with loads of native wildlife to boot. But if just here for a weekend, pop in your diary the 4km loop walk through eucalypt trees to the beach of Elliot River, the quiet beach of Blanket Bay and as the name suggests, Wreck Beach with rusting anchors on low tide. Whichever distance you choose, this track is a truly magnificent winding trail through forest and beach views.

After you mount the steep staircase to the peak at Cape Otway Lightstation, you will be rewarded with the salty sea air smacking you in the face to take your lighthouse adventure to the next level. If that’s not enough to entice you, how about listening to tales of tragic shipwrecks from one of the many passionate guides, explore the vast grounds with Aboriginal cultural sites and WWII bunkers, followed by fueling your belly at the Lightkeepers Cafe.

The Otway Coast Hamlets offer peaceful seclusion where the coastline and bush join for rejuvenation of the soul amongst nature. Taste the salt on your lips whilst you inhale the eucalypt in the air. Separation Creek has pure serenity with luxury accommodation offering mornings waking up to koalas and kangaroos at your doorstep whilst the birds sing with their hearts.

Just a hop, skip and jump away, Wye River boasts accommodation for families or that long awaited friends trip away. The Wye General Store offers those mouth watering breakfasts, whilst the pub overlooks the surf beach with plenty of space on the balcony for a wine and meal.