OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW
This is your opportunity to walk the walk and unplug on Australia’s most iconic coastal walk over 7 days at a more leisurely pace. Walk the whole linear track from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles along the coast through the Great Otway National Park via mountain ash forest, over gorgeous deserted beaches, finishing at the grandest sea cliffs of all, the 12 Apostles. There is an amazing degree of diversity on this walk, diversity of landscape, fauna and flora. The walk makes it’s way along the coast with the massive swells of the southern ocean on your left and the stunning Otway mountains on your right for much of the way. The koalas, the roos, and the abundant birdlife that make this place their home all add to the joy of walking the Great Ocean Walk.
Highlights:
- Traverse inaccessible pristine beaches and witness the awesome power of the Southern Ocean
- Ample opportunities to spot iconic Australian wildlife in their natural habitat: kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, koalas, black cockatoos, sea eagles, wedge-tailed eagles and even whales and dolphins
- Walk the stunning Twelve Apostles, Castle Cove, Shelly Beach, the Gables, and Wreck Beach, and more
AT A GLANCE
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate
to Challenging PRICE FROM
$ 1640
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 480
per personITINERARY
DAY one
APOLLO BAY TO SHELLY BEACH
The walk starts in Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road in the morning. Leave the tourists behind as you meander along the coast. The track follows the coast before heading inland through the forest; be surprised if you don’t spot at least a couple of koalas around Shelly beach. This is also a great place to spot echidnas, wallabies, seabirds, dolphins, and in-season whales.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Easy to moderate / 7.9 km / 3 -3.5 hrs
DAY two
SHELLY BEACH TO BLANKET BAY
From Shelly Beach campground, you make your down to the beach once again across a delightful stream and then way up through magnificent Mountain Ash forest. The Mountain Ash is the tallest flowering plant in the world and one of the tallest trees on the planet. The walk down to the delightful Blanket Bay is one of the nicest parts of the whole 105 km track, as is Blanket Bay. This is the most ideal place for a swim on the track as it is safely protected from the ocean swells. It also was the port to which supplies were delivered for the Cape Otway lighthouse before the road was put in.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15 km / 4-5 hrs / plus optional 1 hr walk
DAY three
BLANKET BAY TO CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION
From Blanket Bay the track contours through coastal forests and along the cliff tops to Parker Inlet – a picture-postcard setting and definitely one of our favourite places. The track continues through Manna gum forests that are home to large numbers of koalas, eventually emerging at Cape Otway Lightstation. There is a brilliant section that hugs the coast along an elevated track that allows you to take in the ocean views the entire way. The optional side-trip to Crayfish Bay with an opportunity to take a dip if you’re up for it is one of the real highlights of today’s walk. There’s also more time today to make the most of the exploration of the lighthouse and its surroundings.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch, and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate to challenging / 10 km / 2.5- 3.5 hrs / plus optional 1 hr walk
DAY four
CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION TO CASTLE COVE
On to Station Beach and an optional short trek to pretty Rainbow Falls where a spring cascades down to the rocky coastal platforms below. The track then continues through wind-sculpted sand dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits you on the route to Castle Cove.
Accommodation: A Retreat at Castle Cove in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15.5 km / 5 hrs / plus 2 km (50 mins) optional walk
DAY five
CASTLE COVE TO MILANESIA GATE
Today’s section has some of the most spectacular coastal views of the entire track. It’s also a great day for wildflowers with colourful heathlands and numerous grass trees. In the winter months, there are native orchids and masses of pink heath – Victoria’s floral emblem. Another highlight is the long, white, sandy expanse of Johanna Beach.
Accommodation: A Retreat at Castle Cove in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15.2 km / 5 hrs
DAY six
MILANESIA GATE TO THE GABLES
Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches, not many people get to and one of the most special places on the walk. It is only accessible on foot. From here the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway lighthouse. The walk is characterised by high sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests which lead you to Moonlight Head. The last highlight today is the Gables Lookout, perched on one of the highest sea cliffs in mainland Australia. This is a superb spot for whale watching between June and September.
Walking: Moderate to challenging / 15 km / 5 – 6 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Lodge in ensuite rooms
DAY seven
THE GABLES TO 12 APOSTLES
From the Gables, it is another walk through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where you can inspect the remains of two shipwrecks. Next, follow the track through Princetown and finish at the impressive 12 Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing. We will collect you at 4 pm to take you back to either Apollo Bay or Camperdown, depending on how you got to Apollo Bay.
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate / 20.1 km / 6-7 hrs
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Pack free walking at your own pace, with who you want, when you want
- Private vehicle transfers in the company of our friendly knowledgeable Stroll driver who knows the area intimately, plus all luggage transfers
- 6 nights accommodation in rooms with ensuites
- Breakfasts daily, substantial walkers lunches and two-course dinners
- National Park fees
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Stroll’s comprehensive track notes
ACCOMMODATION & DINING
From Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The exclusive use at night of the Lightstation’s environs is a special highlight of your walk. Both accommodations are more than comfortable and all rooms have ensuites.
The Great Ocean Walk Retreat or Chi farm is the next stop where you will stay in a beautiful and remote accommodation a very short walk from the track.
When we stay at remote retreats and guest houses, the meals are prepared by your expert hosts or a local caterer. The days start with a substantial breakfast and end with a 2-course dinner. Each day you’ll be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and the opportunity to enjoy it whilst taking in some of the most breathtaking views in the world. A walker’s lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.
Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
GENERAL INFO
Travel down on the Great Ocean Road to the start of the walk. You will have to arrive by 12:00 midday on your first day to commence the walking. This walk is for people that are wanting to condense the number of nights on the walk and/or are looking for a bit of a challenge.
Each day we move your luggage ahead for you to the next accommodation. All you need to carry is a daypack with what you need for the day. We provide comprehensive walk notes for you. It’s easy to find the way on this track but with our notes, you’ll also receive lots of information to help you better appreciate the flora, fauna, history and geology you’re experiencing along the route.
We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the highlights, staying in different accommodations on the route. This means more variety, less backtracking and time spent in a vehicle and more time to relax at the end of the day. You’ll walk an average of 15 km each day, with some optional side walks for those wanting to extend themselves.
The walking terrain is varied following clifftops, wide forest tracks, rough trails, beach traverses, including Wreck Beach and tracks shaded by the forest canopy. It’s mostly easy-going, flat stretches, with some steady, challenging climbs and long downhill descents. The walk is moderate to challenging with some longer days, these provide a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves.
For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
The trip starts in Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road. You will have to arrive in the morning (by midday at the latest) on your first day. There are various ways to get the start, however, if you are going to use public transport (a train to Geelong and a connecting bus to Apollo Bay) then you will need to arrive the day before. This walk is for people that are either in a rush, perhaps live in Melbourne or want to challenge themselves (or all three).
If you drove to Apollo Bay we will transport you back there, arriving late afternoon. If you arrived by Public transport we will drop you in Camperdown to catch the train back to Spencer St Station in Melbourne CBD.
WEATHER
December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. Book well in advance for January due to the summer school holidays as the Great Ocean Road walk gets very busy. March through May is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking. The winter months (June to August) are cool and sometimes stormy, providing exhilarating walking along the beaches. In winter, the hills are covered with pink heath, Victoria’s floral emblem. September to November are usually cool to warm and this is when most of the colourful wildflowers appear.
See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
Source; BOM
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, or email us at info@stroll.com
MAP
DEPARTURE DATES
- DATESAVAILABILITYPRICESingle OccupancyDetails
- 1 Feb 2023 - 15 Dec 2023AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1640
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 480SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES
- 16 Dec 2023 - 31 Jan 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1675
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 565 - 1 Feb 2024 - 15 Dec 2024AVAILABLEfrom
$ 1675
SINGLE OCCUPANCY$ 495SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES
AT A GLANCE
7 DAYS
Moderate
to Challenging
$ 1640
per person twin/double share
$ 480
per person
TRIP LENGTH
7 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate
to Challenging PRICE FROM
$ 1640
per person twin/double shareSINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 480
per person
Overview
This is your opportunity to walk the walk and unplug on Australia’s most iconic coastal walk over 7 days at a more leisurely pace. Walk the whole linear track from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles along the coast through the Great Otway National Park via mountain ash forest, over gorgeous deserted beaches, finishing at the grandest sea cliffs of all, the 12 Apostles. There is an amazing degree of diversity on this walk, diversity of landscape, fauna and flora. The walk makes it’s way along the coast with the massive swells of the southern ocean on your left and the stunning Otway mountains on your right for much of the way. The koalas, the roos, and the abundant birdlife that make this place their home all add to the joy of walking the Great Ocean Walk.
Highlights:
- Traverse inaccessible pristine beaches and witness the awesome power of the Southern Ocean
- Ample opportunities to spot iconic Australian wildlife in their natural habitat: kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, koalas, black cockatoos, sea eagles, wedge-tailed eagles and even whales and dolphins
- Walk the stunning Twelve Apostles, Castle Cove, Shelly Beach, the Gables, and Wreck Beach, and more
Itinerary
DAY one
APOLLO BAY TO SHELLY BEACH
The walk starts in Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road in the morning. Leave the tourists behind as you meander along the coast. The track follows the coast before heading inland through the forest; be surprised if you don’t spot at least a couple of koalas around Shelly beach. This is also a great place to spot echidnas, wallabies, seabirds, dolphins, and in-season whales.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Easy to moderate / 7.9 km / 3 -3.5 hrs
DAY two
SHELLY BEACH TO BLANKET BAY
From Shelly Beach campground, you make your down to the beach once again across a delightful stream and then way up through magnificent Mountain Ash forest. The Mountain Ash is the tallest flowering plant in the world and one of the tallest trees on the planet. The walk down to the delightful Blanket Bay is one of the nicest parts of the whole 105 km track, as is Blanket Bay. This is the most ideal place for a swim on the track as it is safely protected from the ocean swells. It also was the port to which supplies were delivered for the Cape Otway lighthouse before the road was put in.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15 km / 4-5 hrs / plus optional 1 hr walk
DAY three
BLANKET BAY TO CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION
From Blanket Bay the track contours through coastal forests and along the cliff tops to Parker Inlet – a picture-postcard setting and definitely one of our favourite places. The track continues through Manna gum forests that are home to large numbers of koalas, eventually emerging at Cape Otway Lightstation. There is a brilliant section that hugs the coast along an elevated track that allows you to take in the ocean views the entire way. The optional side-trip to Crayfish Bay with an opportunity to take a dip if you’re up for it is one of the real highlights of today’s walk. There’s also more time today to make the most of the exploration of the lighthouse and its surroundings.
Accommodation: Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch, and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate to challenging / 10 km / 2.5- 3.5 hrs / plus optional 1 hr walk
DAY four
CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION TO CASTLE COVE
On to Station Beach and an optional short trek to pretty Rainbow Falls where a spring cascades down to the rocky coastal platforms below. The track then continues through wind-sculpted sand dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits you on the route to Castle Cove.
Accommodation: A Retreat at Castle Cove in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15.5 km / 5 hrs / plus 2 km (50 mins) optional walk
DAY five
CASTLE COVE TO MILANESIA GATE
Today’s section has some of the most spectacular coastal views of the entire track. It’s also a great day for wildflowers with colourful heathlands and numerous grass trees. In the winter months, there are native orchids and masses of pink heath – Victoria’s floral emblem. Another highlight is the long, white, sandy expanse of Johanna Beach.
Accommodation: A Retreat at Castle Cove in ensuite rooms
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Walking: Moderate / 15.2 km / 5 hrs
DAY six
MILANESIA GATE TO THE GABLES
Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches, not many people get to and one of the most special places on the walk. It is only accessible on foot. From here the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway lighthouse. The walk is characterised by high sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests which lead you to Moonlight Head. The last highlight today is the Gables Lookout, perched on one of the highest sea cliffs in mainland Australia. This is a superb spot for whale watching between June and September.
Walking: Moderate to challenging / 15 km / 5 – 6 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Lodge in ensuite rooms
DAY seven
THE GABLES TO 12 APOSTLES
From the Gables, it is another walk through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where you can inspect the remains of two shipwrecks. Next, follow the track through Princetown and finish at the impressive 12 Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing. We will collect you at 4 pm to take you back to either Apollo Bay or Camperdown, depending on how you got to Apollo Bay.
Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch
Walking: Moderate / 20.1 km / 6-7 hrs
What’s Included
- Pack free walking at your own pace, with who you want, when you want
- Private vehicle transfers in the company of our friendly knowledgeable Stroll driver who knows the area intimately, plus all luggage transfers
- 6 nights accommodation in rooms with ensuites
- Breakfasts daily, substantial walkers lunches and two-course dinners
- National Park fees
- Enjoy worry-free navigation with Stroll’s comprehensive track notes
Accommodation & Dining
From Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The exclusive use at night of the Lightstation’s environs is a special highlight of your walk. Both accommodations are more than comfortable and all rooms have ensuites.
The Great Ocean Walk Retreat or Chi farm is the next stop where you will stay in a beautiful and remote accommodation a very short walk from the track.
When we stay at remote retreats and guest houses, the meals are prepared by your expert hosts or a local caterer. The days start with a substantial breakfast and end with a 2-course dinner. Each day you’ll be provided with a substantial walkers lunch and the opportunity to enjoy it whilst taking in some of the most breathtaking views in the world. A walker’s lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.
Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3
CAPE OTWAY
After walking from Apollo Bay, it is on to Cape Otway where you will stay at the historic Cape Otway Lightstation or Bimbi Park. The Lightstation offers something a little extra, including an opportunity to learn all about the history of the region before and after European settlement. The exclusive use of the Light station’s grounds after the gates close is also a wonderful experience. All food at the Lighstation is provided by an external caterer. If you are accommodated at Bimbi Park you will stay in a very comfortable cabin in a beautiful manna gum woodland setting where you will be very close to native wildlife. The owner Frank is also a chef and he takes great care to provide delicious and nutritious meals for those staying at Bimbi.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
NIGHTS 4, 5 & 6
CASTLE COVE
Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. The properties have sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.
General Info
Travel down on the Great Ocean Road to the start of the walk. You will have to arrive by 12:00 midday on your first day to commence the walking. This walk is for people that are wanting to condense the number of nights on the walk and/or are looking for a bit of a challenge.
Each day we move your luggage ahead for you to the next accommodation. All you need to carry is a daypack with what you need for the day. We provide comprehensive walk notes for you. It’s easy to find the way on this track but with our notes, you’ll also receive lots of information to help you better appreciate the flora, fauna, history and geology you’re experiencing along the route.
We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the highlights, staying in different accommodations on the route. This means more variety, less backtracking and time spent in a vehicle and more time to relax at the end of the day. You’ll walk an average of 15 km each day, with some optional side walks for those wanting to extend themselves.
The walking terrain is varied following clifftops, wide forest tracks, rough trails, beach traverses, including Wreck Beach and tracks shaded by the forest canopy. It’s mostly easy-going, flat stretches, with some steady, challenging climbs and long downhill descents. The walk is moderate to challenging with some longer days, these provide a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves.
For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.
HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY
The trip starts in Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road. You will have to arrive in the morning (by midday at the latest) on your first day. There are various ways to get the start, however, if you are going to use public transport (a train to Geelong and a connecting bus to Apollo Bay) then you will need to arrive the day before. This walk is for people that are either in a rush, perhaps live in Melbourne or want to challenge themselves (or all three).
If you drove to Apollo Bay we will transport you back there, arriving late afternoon. If you arrived by Public transport we will drop you in Camperdown to catch the train back to Spencer St Station in Melbourne CBD.
WEATHER
December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. Book well in advance for January due to the summer school holidays as the Great Ocean Road walk gets very busy. March through May is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking. The winter months (June to August) are cool and sometimes stormy, providing exhilarating walking along the beaches. In winter, the hills are covered with pink heath, Victoria’s floral emblem. September to November are usually cool to warm and this is when most of the colourful wildflowers appear.
See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.
Source; BOM
INSURANCE
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
INFORMATION PACK
For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, or email us at info@stroll.com
ENQUIRE NOW
If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.