The Great Ocean Walk is a long distance walk between Apollo Bay and the iconic Twelve Apostles.
The spectacular 3 day journey weaves its way through national parks and along the coast with nature truly unfolding at every step. The walk requires a medium level of fitness.
At a glance:
Day 1 – Cape Otway to Aire River
Walking time: 4 hours, approx. 10km (6.2 miles)
Day 2 – Aire River to Johanna
Walking time: 5 hours, approx. 13km (8 miles)
Day 3 – Johanna to Milanesia
Walking time: 2 hours, approx. 4.5km (2.7 miles)
Walking time: 4 hours, approx. 10km (6.2 miles)
Begin your day with a discovery tour at Cape Otway Lightstation. Enjoy a cup of coffee before heading off through sand dunes, coastal scrub and cliff tops in this remote coastal region. Choose the beach route to the colourful Rainbow Falls or the cliff top walk leading to the breathtaking Escarpment Lookout. Further along the beach follow the grassy track to the banks of the Aire River and then continue along the 4WD sand track until reaching the bridge near the Aire River Day Visitor Area. Enjoy the rest of the day before your pick-up arrangements or set up the tent for an overnight camp at the Aire River West Camp Grounds.
Today’s walk follows the river and then climbs upwards to cliff tops which offer gorgeous views of the Aire River mouth. The walk at times meanders away from the cliffs and into scrub. At Castle Cove look out for peregrine falcons who nest in the cliffs. If time permits, walk along this beach and find some hidden lagoons at low tide and enjoy awesome views over the Southern Ocean. Before reaching Johanna, cross a small river. Simply take the boots off and wade across but keep an eye on the ocean for high waves. At Johanna, stay at the campsites or in one of the lovely cottages in the valley.
Walking time: 2 hours, approx. 4.5km (2.7 miles)
From Johanna carpark, follow the Great Ocean Walk track through the scrub until reaching the top of the hill for 180 degree ocean views. This is a fantastic spot for a picnic. See how the Johanna River has carved its way through the farm lands – just beautiful. There is also a permanent mob of kangaroos that live here. Continue along the Old Coach Road through high forests and turn into Hiders Access, a gravel road, all the way to Milanesia Beach. Enjoy a swim in this small paradise before the shuttle picks you up.
Alternatively, add a few more days to the journey and walk all the way to the 12 Apostles.
