If you have been looking for the perfect weekend getaway, filled with picturesque landscapes, bucket list destinations, outdoor adventures and delicious local food, then Port Campbell is the one for you.
Situated less than 3 hours’ drive from bustling Melbourne, and only 2 hours from Torquay, there is no better way to spend a weekend away.
With the bags packed and accommodation booked, we began our adventure with a relaxing drive via the rolling farmland of western Victoria, to be greeted by a stunning view of the Hinterland and Port Campbell beach.
After arriving in the town of Port Campbell, we checked in to the beautiful Port O Call, situated within walking distance of Port Campbells’ most iconic restaurants, cafes, bush walks and coastal views.
It was now time to be picked up for our first activity, a self-guided bike ride led by Ride With Us, through the surrounding Hinterland, discovering the Timboon to Camperdown Rail Trail. A truly magnificent experience, we were driven to our starting destination in Timboon, provided with a map, delicious picnic hamper, water and bikes, and off we went. Crossing Cobden bridge, we rode to a picturesque picnic spot to enjoy our delicious hamper, before making our way back to Timboon.
Arriving back in Port Campbell with time to spare, what better way to spend a stunning autumn evening than with a refreshing drink and a trip to the iconic 12 Apostles. Just a short walk from our accommodation, we made our way down to Sow and Piglets Brewery. A wonderful destination to enjoy locally brewed beer and a delicious meal, it was the perfect way to unwind after an outdoor adventure.
With only a few hours to spare before sunset, we then hit the road and enjoyed a scenic drive down to the 12 Apostles. We stopped along the way to visit a few other must-see destinations including Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge, to finally be blessed with a magnificent sunset from the 12 Apostles viewing platform.
Bucket list destination, tick!
Having thought that our first day of adventures could not be topped, the next day certainly proved us wrong.
Waking up to the chitter chatter of Port Campbell’s native birdlife, and the sound of crashing waves, we decided to rise early and head west along the Great Ocean Road to Bay of Islands Coastal Park.
Top tip, by visiting these incredible destinations at sunrise, you are blessed with empty platforms and golden light!
While exploring this area, we had an array of activities to choose from, including a morning coffee stop in Peterborough, must grab picture at London Bridge, and my personal favourite, a winding walk down to The Grotto, a truly magical destination filled with history and fairytale feel.
Before heading home, we decided to make the most of the sunshine and make a visit to Princetown. A quintessential coastal town, home to the beautiful Gellibrand river and a range of beautiful walks.
Arriving back in town, ready for a relaxing afternoon, we made the most of our accommodation’s central location and decided to explore the local town. Taking in the beautiful surroundings, we visited the local surf store, Port Campbell Lolly Shop and ended the afternoon with a hot tea and good book, outside our room at The Port O Call.
Another must visit sunset destination is right at the end of the street, Port Campbell Beach.
First, we enjoyed a truly delicious meal at 12 Rocks Beach Bar Cafe which is situated just a stone’s throw away from the beach and is blessed with magnificent ocean views. We ended the night with a sunset stroll along the beach, past Port Campbell Jetty to the sunset lookout, as surfers made the most of the rolling waves bathed by a full moon.
Our final day in Port Campbell dawned and we were lucky enough to wake up to a fiery red sunrise, as we took the short walk down to Port Campbell Suspension Bridge, and up the forest filled Discovery Walk. Welcomed by panoramic views of Port Campbell at the top, this was an incredible way to start our morning and conclude our amazing trip.
After a truly memorable weekend away, we ended our visit with a sumptuous coffee and locally sourced breakfast at Grass Roots Deli, before checking out of The Port O Call and making our way home.
We will definitely be back for another adventure very soon.
Thank you for having us Port Campbell.
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
