14 Canberra walks for when you can’t get enough of nature

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If you’re looking to lift your spirits, and your heart rate, here are 14 of Canberra’s best walks, the most wondrous wanderings for a bespoke weekend in the exhilarating ACT outdoors.

Is Canberra just one big national park? Local photographer Damian Breach certainly thought so, and it’ll sure seem that way once you traipse around the best walks in Canberra. Not only is Canberra the seat of power in Australia, but it’s also the bush capital with a typical Australian outback that encompasses all the iconic wildlife and sights that’ll leave you breathless (even more so than the walks themselves).

The city is known for its satisfyingly light traffic so you can leave the city behind in just minutes, or stick close to the iconic Lake Burley Griffin and tackle the many walks around the artificial lake.

Whatever you choose, you’re guaranteed to find some great hiking trails in and around Canberra. We’ve rounded up 14 of our favourite nature walks for your next Canberra visit.

Canberra’s Epic Centenary Trail

1. Canberra Centenary Trail

The mighty Centenary Trail is the ultimate Canberra walk, offering the most comprehensive coverage of our nation’s capital by brushing the NSW border and passing several landscapes before dipping into the Murrumbidgee to the south.

biking along the Canberra Centenary Trail
The Canberra Centenary Trail is a haven for cyclists. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

You’ll pass the Parliament House, various nooks and crannies perfect for picnics in Canberra, and a whole heap of wilderness. Not only is the accessible point-to-point trail a great way to see the entire city in one fell swoop, but the walk is also enriching considering it’s 154 kilometres long.

You’ll need to tackle this epic Canberra walk over multiple days to conquer the entire Centenary Trail. However, most people will break it up into shorter walks, with three main marked trails that we’ve also rounded up on this list of Canberra’s best walks.

cyclists navigating the Canberra Centenary Trail
Navigate the trail on two wheels. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 154-kilometres one-way
Time: Multi-day hike
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The trail is designed to be accessible to both walkers and cyclists so most of it is smooth and well-maintained except for the slight challenge of Murrumbidgee Discovery Track.
Tips: You’ll be sharing these trails with cyclists so always be conscious of others and keep to the left.
Must-see sights: Enjoy the steady climb up parts of Black Mountain and look out for both Mount Ainslie and Mount Majura.

2. Murrumbidgee Discovery Track

You’ll find the Murrumbidgee Discovery Track at the southern end of the Canberra Centenary Trail, starting at the end of Kamblah Pool Road near Gleneagles. The well-signposted walking trail is one of the best walks in Canberra for enthusiasts, taking keen hikers through rolling fields and diverse bushland from Point Hut Crossing to Casuarina Sands.

Murrumbidgee Discovery Track in Canberra
The Murrumbidgee Discovery Track is one of the ACT’s most epic trails. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Mountain bikers love this section of the trail given its proximity to Stromlo Forest Park. But there’s enough space for everyone on the 26-kilometre trail. It should take you just under seven hours to complete the trail, which can be accessed at either end. However do allow for longer as there are plenty of sights along the way, as well as places to stop for a picnic or swim.

bikers cycling at Stromlo Forest Park
The track offers bikers easy access to Stromlo Forest Park. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 26.2-kilometres one-way
Time: 7 hours
Difficulty: Grade 3
Terrain: There’s an elevation gain of 663 metres so some hiking experience is preferable.
Tips: Bring your swimmers and take a dip at Kambah Pool or just start the trail here for a shorter option. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.
Must-see sights: The trail is popular for bird watchers so keep your eye out for wildlife while also admiring the beauty of Casuarina Sands and Pine Island.

3. One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill is the friendliest and most manageable section of the Canberra Centenary Trail. It should take just over two hours to complete, although the terrain can be moderately challenging so make sure to work in plenty of rest stops along the way.

Start near Hall, Australian Capital Territory at the crossroads of Hall and Hoskin streets. Leave the pups at home – dogs aren’t permitted – and enjoy the gentle incline as you pass the hidden One Tree Lookout (great for city views) and spy the impressive Brindabella mountain range in the distance.

bikers admiring the view at One Tree Hill, Canberra
One Tree Hill is a much-loved cycling route. (Image: Damian Breach for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 8.4-kilometres one-way
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: There’s an elevation gain of 237 metres but the trail is well-marked and very gentle.
Tips: Stop by One Tree Lookout and admire a view of Canberra that many visitors don’t get to see.
Must-see sights: Again, One Tree Lookout is essential but you’ll also need to keep an eye out for wildlife – the trail is popular for birdwatching – and take some time to appreciate the Brindabella mountain range.

4. National Arboretum Loop

The easiest section of the Canberra Centenary Trail starts at Forest Drive in Weston Creek. The 11.1-kilometre loop rings around Canberra’s iconic National Arboretum, taking just under three hours to complete.

the National Arboretum Loop in Canberra
Go for a peaceful stroll around the 250-acre National Arboretum. (Image: VisitCanberra)

You’ll be sharing this Canberra walk with birdwatchers, hikers and mountain bikers, but many paths break off around the stunning tourist attraction so it’s easy to find peace.

the National Arboretum in Canberra
The landscape is filled with rare and endangered trees from around Australia. (Image: VisitCanberra)

A popular sub-path is the 1.1-kilometre Himalayan Cedars Walk: a pastoral stroll that’ll take you far away from any hint of city life.

Distance: 11.1-kilometre loop
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Gentle, smooth terrain with an elevation gain of 221 metres
Tips: This is the only section of the Centenary Trail where dogs are allowed, but do make sure they are on a leash.
Must-see sights: The 250-acre National Arboretum is staggering with 44,000 rare and endangered trees just north of Lake Burley Griffin.

Best Walks Around Lake Burley Griffin

5. Lake Burley Griffin Loop

Carve out just over four hours of your day and tackle the pristine Lake Burley Griffin Loop. This 19.8-kilometre loop trail is approachable, leisurely and dog-friendly (as long as your fur friend is on a leash).

the Lake Burley Griffin at sunset
Enjoy a sunset walk around Lake Burley Griffin. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Conquer this loop and you’ll have taken in the entirety of Canberra’s incredible artificial lake, which has been a definitive feature of our nation’s capital since 1963.

sunset landscape at Lake Burley Griffin
Lake Burley Griffin flows in from the Molonglo River. (Image: VisitCanberra)

The mostly flat trail is very popular for birding, hiking and road biking so be aware that you’ll be sharing the path with plenty of others at all hours of the day.

Distance: 19.8 kilometres
Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Gentle, smooth terrain with an elevation gain of 259 metres
Tips: Break off the trail when you reach Black Mountain Peninsula and reward yourself with a treat at the Italianate Cafe Sosta with incredible views of the lake.
Must-see sights: Lake Burley Griffin, of course. You’ll also spot great views of Government House and the immaculate Bejing Garden and Lennox Gardens.

6. The Central Basin

The Central Basin loops between Commonwealth Bridge and Kings Avenue Bridge, offering an easy 5-kilometre walk through serene public spaces with the lake a constant presence.

Start from the National Capital Exhibition and power through the many attractions, historic cottages and natural beauty along the way.

people stopping by the National Gallery of Australia
The trail leads to the National Gallery of Australia. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Take a side trip at Reconciliation Place along pathways leading to the National Gallery of Australia or just admire the beautiful Australians of the Year Walk, made up of various plaques and seats commemorating the most impactful minds in Australian history.

Distance: 5 kilometres
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: A very straightforward section of the Lake Burley Griffin Loop.
Tips: Take some time to explore the many historic cottages you’ll pass along the way.
Must-see sights: Lake Burley Griffin and the great Australians of the Year Walk.

7. Jerrabomberra Wetlands Walk

Head on over to Fyshwick and begin this easy 3.2-kilometre loop. The Jerrabomberra Wetlands has several paths breaking off in all directions but stay the course and do the entire loop. It’s rewarding, moderately challenging and offers some of the best sights in Canberra.

You’ll only need around 40 minutes to complete this popular trail, which attracts all sorts of visitors from birdwatchers and hikers to keen mountain bikers.

The trail, cloistered away on Lake Burley Griffin’s eastern shore, feels like a world away from Canberra but is only a 10-minute drive from some of the city’s most popular spots.

a woman walking along Grevillea Park
Grevillea Park offers views over the lake to Jerrabomberra Wetlands. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 3.2 kilometres
Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: There are some narrow spots to look out for but with an elevation gain of 33 metres, this is a very easy walk.
Tips: Keep your eyes peeled for over 200 different bird species all chiming in to give your exercise a little soundtrack.
Must-see sights: Kellys Swamp is where you’ll spy most of the birdlife along with frogs, eastern long-neck tortoises and Black Angus cows.

8. Weston Park

The peaceful Weston Park is located on the south side of Canberra, offering 40 hectares of pristine parklands with many family-friendly features like a water playground and wading pool. Set up shop for the day at the picnic tables and end your leisurely stroll from a barbecue.

kangaroos in Weston Park
Spot kangaroos grazing and hanging out. (Image: VisitCanberra)

That’s what most people do in Weston Park, which is why you’ll typically find mostly families taking the easy 45-minute stroll around the edges of the park. You’re only looking at around four kilometres, with the best route from Weston Road car park to West Yarralumula Peninsula.

an aerial view of Weston Park in Canberra
The Weston Park offers 40 hectares of pristine parklands. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 4 kilometres
Time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: This is a very flat, easy park stroll right alongside the river.
Tips: Take a detour to the fabulous Yarralumla Nursery with plenty of plant species.
Must-see sights: Take some time to see the sights of Orawa Bay and East Yarralulma Peninsula before doubling back to Karrajoing Point.

Mountain Hikes in Canberra

9. Mount Ainslie Summit Trail

Also known as the Kokoda Track, the Mt Ainslie Summit Trail starts immediately behind the Australian War Memorial near Campbell, taking you through Remembrance Park to a moderately challenging 4.5-kilometre loop that should take about 1.5 hours to complete.

people walking upwards Mount Ainslie Summit Trail
The short but steep walk will afford you spectacular views across Canberra. (Image: VisitCanberra)

It’s one of the most popular Canberra walks so be prepared to share the path with many others, as well as on-leash dogs who are more than welcome on the well-maintained trail.

a woman admiring the view from Mount Ainslie Summit Trail
Breathtaking views await at the summit of Mount Ainslie. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)

The path can get quite steep as it rises above the Australian War Memorial, winding through a shrubby woodland of scribbly gums. A score of birdsong will follow you all the way up and around, while plenty of other wildlife (maybe even a politician or two) will pop out occasionally.

Distance: 4.5 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The path can get very steep as you approach the summit but it is very well-maintained and not too challenging.
Tips: Bring your camera because this path offers some of the best views in Canberra.
Must-see sights: Follow the signs for a beautiful memorial to Indigenous soldiers and admire all the plaques commemorating the Kokoda Track. Don’t forget the gorgeous view over the Parliamentary Triangle further up the path.

10. Black Mountain Summit Loop 

Look west of the more famous Mount Ainslie and you’ll spot the equally impressive Black Mountain. The nature reserve at the base of this mountain is flecked with many well-maintained trails like the one-hour Forest Track with plenty of moss, ferns and lichens.

Tackle the entire 4.7-kilometre loop for an unforgettable experience, rewarding your 1.5-hour investment with sublime views, abundant wildlife and life-affirming rainforest ambience.

the Black Mountain Tower in Canberra
Take in the beauty of Black Mountain Tower from Mt Painter Canberra. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 4.7 kilometres
Time: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: The path is very steep as you approach Telstra Tower but well-maintained and very safe.
Tips: Here’s another chance to snap some of the best photos in Canberra.
Must-see sights: The iconic Telstra Tower stands tall on the summit of Black Mountain, giving you a massive waypoint so you’ll never get lost.

11. Australian National Botanic Gardens Main Path Walk

The Australian National Botanic Gardens loop may be the easiest walk in Canberra. It only takes around 20 minutes to complete the 1.3-kilometre loop, which is always kept in top shape and is a great walking trail for families.

The loop begins from the main parking area of the garden, which is where the Black Mountain Summit Loop also starts.

Australian National Botanic Gardens Walk
Walk through the beautiful Rainforest Gully. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Most people tackle both in the same day, with this one offering a more flat loop taking you through the beautiful Rainforest Gully with ancient conifers and other beautiful plant species.

Distance: 1.3 kilometres
Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 1
Terrain: The flat path is very family-friendly and is one of the only wheelchair-accessible walks in Canberra.
Tips: Play a game and try to count the number of plant species you’ll find. You’ll lose count but it’s a fun way to pass the time.
Must-see sights: The Rainforest Gully is one of the most beautiful areas in Canberra.

Best walks just outside of Canberra 

12.  Gibraltar Peak trail

Head to Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve near Tuggeranong to find the popular Gibraltar Peak Trail. You’ll take around 2.5 hours to complete this majestic 8-kilometre out-and-back trail, which is open year-round and is always very well-maintained and very safe.

hikers tackling the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve trail up the Gibraltar Peak
Tackle the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve trail towards the scenic Gibraltar Peak. (Image: Richard Poulton for VisitCanberra)

Make your way up to Gibraltar Peak where you’ll find incredible house-sized boulders, spiky grass trees and barely babbling creeks along the way. Reward yourself with jaw-dropping views once you reach those phallic boulders. It’s one of the best bush walks Canberra has to offer.

phallic boulders at Gibraltar Peak, Canberra
You’ll find incredible house-sized boulders along the walk. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Distance: 8 kilometres
Time: 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: Although the trail can be steep and narrow in some parts, it is well-maintained and signposted so you should have no issues.
Tips: Keep an eye out for the many wildlife that call this reserve’s 14 protected habitats home.
Must-see sights: If you’re stealthy enough, you’ll have some of the best wildlife encounters in Canberra.

13. Mount Tennent Trail

Buried in the heart of Namadgi National Park, Mount Tennent Trail is one of Canberra’s hardest walking trails and a hard-won accomplishment that’ll justify a delicious prize at any one of Canberra’s best restaurants.

an aerial view of a woman bushwalking at Namadgi National Park
The walk will showcase the best of the 160,000-hectare Namadgi National Park. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

Running 13.7 kilometres, the out-and-back trail sits near the suburb of Tharwa and takes just over five hours to complete. It’s a great way to see the best of the 160,000-hectare Namadgi National Park, which tears across the border of Kosciuszko and takes up almost half of the state’s land area.

a female hiker standing on top of Namadgi National Park
The views from the Namadgi National Park will make the climb worth it. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

There are a variety of short and long hikes in the park, but the Mount Tennent Trail is easily the most popular, offering somewhat of a greatest hits – gorgeous alpine meadows, snow gum forests and Indigenous rock art sites.

a woman walking at Namadgi National Park
Mount Tennent Trail is nestled in Namadgi National Park. (Image: We Are Explorers for VisitCanberra)

Distance: 13.7 kilometres
Time: 5 hours
Difficulty: Grade 4
Terrain: The trail can get very steep and narrow with a great variety of landscapes to pass through.
Tips: The Indigenous rock art sites were some of the first to be discovered in the Australian Capital Territory.
Must-See Sights: There is not only an abundance of Canberra wildlife to see, but this trail will give you everything you want from Australian bushland and more. Take in the sights and treat yourself with rest afterwards.

14. Booroomba Rocks trail

You’ll find Booroomba Rocks in Namadji National Park, earning its reputation as one of Canberra’s most picturesque walks with great views of the Brindabella Range.

Scramble through tall forests and admire the granite cliffs as you track the easy 2.5-kilometre trail which snakes off from Booroomba Rocks car park. One thing to note is that the trail is very weather-dependent so don’t take the risk if there’s heavy cloud cover as you’ll miss all the magic.

Distance: 2.5 kilometres
Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Grade 2
Terrain: While the trail can be narrow, as long as the weather is fine then you’re in for a leisurely walk.
Tips: Again, pay close attention to the weather as a lack of visibility really covers the trail’s best bits.
Must-see sights: The inspiring Brindabella Range will guide you along the trail so you’ll never get lost.

Discover the best things to do in Canberra.

Chris Singh
Chris Singh is an arts, travel and food journalist with 17 years of experience in digital media and 4 years of experience in SEO writing. He is the former travel editor of premium men's lifestyle title Boss Hunting and currently balances his role as Deputy Editor-At-Large of the AU review with freelance travel writing gigs at Australian Traveller, Luxury Escapes, Cruise & Travel and Sydney Travel Guide. Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences (Sociology and Psychology) from the University of Sydney and once worked as a line dancer for steakhouse chain Lone Star (no, seriously). He's always got his finger on the pulse for good live music and delicious new restaurants, has a particular love of historic hotels and is starting to see the restorative value of the ever-present wellness industry. Although he is a born-and-bred Sydneysider, his favourite Australian cities are Hobart and Adelaide. Internationally, he can never get enough of big cities like Tokyo, New York and Chicago. If you're looking for him, he's either at a concert, on a plane or behind a laptop.
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Taking the route less travelled along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road has captured the hearts of Australians with its astounding scenery since 1932, but going off-course can enrich your experience with untouched nature, foodie delights and charming towns. 

It’s a chilly 16 degrees. My husband pulls on a steamer and jogs – as all seasoned surfers do – into the water. We’re at Bells Beach , the legendary break on Victoria’s Surf Coast that’s home to the Rip Curl Pro, the world’s longest-running event in competitive surfing. Each year, over the Easter long weekend, up to 40,000 people descend on the region for the event. Today, though, we have the beach almost to ourselves, and the less-than-favourable temperature doesn’t deter my husband from surfing this famous break.  

Bells Beach
Bells Beach is known for its epic surf break and is at the start of the Great Ocean Road. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Torquay to Anglesea and Aireys Inlet 

Split Point Lighthouse
The red dome of Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The nearby surf town of Torquay marks the starting point for the Great Ocean Road . Unfolding our map, which we have marked out with a highlighted route for our children to follow, we set off for lesser-known Anglesea, a chilled-out town 20 minutes south of here. Its wide, sandy beach is a gentler swimming option for our young family. Groms can learn to surf here with Go Ride a Wave, which also runs stand-up paddle boarding on the Anglesea River.  

Split point lookout
The lighthouse overlooks the Shipwreck Coast. (Image: Tourism Australia)

After a couple of nights in Anglesea, we hit the road again, first stopping at Aireys Inlet. Here we stretch our legs at Split Point Lighthouse, which was made famous by the 1990s television series Round the Twist, before driving under the Memorial Arch that welcomes us, officially, to the Great Ocean Road.  

This 243-kilometre coastal road was built by returned First World War servicemen and serves as a permanent memorial to those who fought and died during the war. Carved into rock using hand tools and horse-drawn carts, it was a huge engineering feat and provided much-needed access to isolated coastal communities. 

Lorne to Birregurra 

Lorne is a delightful beachside stop for lunch and browsing boutique stores. It’s also the gateway to Great Otway National Park , which comprises a varied landscape of old-growth forests, cool-temperate rainforests, heathy woodlands and rugged coast. With the highest rainfall in Victoria, the region is home to many waterfalls – 10 of which are within 10 kilometres of Lorne.  

Turning slightly off the main drag, we wind along a gum-shaded road to Erskine Falls. Here, our son leads the way through the hyper-green rainforest and down 200-plus stairs to the cascade that drops 30 metres into a lush fern gully. We hop over large boulders to get closer to the falls, enjoying the entire place to ourselves; it’s worth the return climb.  

From Sheoak Falls Picnic Area, there are walking trails to Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls, Won Wondah Falls and Kalimna Falls, some of which follow an old timber tramway from forest-logging days, which only came to an end in 2008.  

Erskine Falls
Erskine Falls is one of many falls within a day trip of Lorne. (Image: Visit Victoria)

You can follow your appetite north to the town of Birregurra, which is part of the Otway Harvest Trail that connects farm gates, markets, wineries, breweries and distilleries. It’s home to three-hatted modern Australian restaurant Brae , helmed by celebrated chef Dan Hunter, set among native gardens and an organic farm, and Otways Distillery, which produces small-batch spirits using local produce and botanicals.  

Brae restaurant
Brae is a three-hatted restaurant in Birregurra. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Apollo Bay to The Otways 

Back on track, the cliff-hugging stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay is breathtaking. At Teddys Lookout, we overlook the winding road ahead and St George River spilling into the ocean. We spend languid days in Apollo Bay, a buzzy seaside town that boasts a three-kilometre-long, crescent-shaped beach with a backdrop of rolling green hills. One evening, as the sun sets, we take the steep 10-minute walk to Marriners Lookout, which affords panoramic views of the ocean, hinterland and town.  

A 15-minute drive along the road, Maits Rest is a lush rainforest gully that has been protected since the early 20th century. Wandering along the 800-metre boardwalk, we inspect the delicate moss-covered forest floor and the gnarled roots of 300-year-old myrtle beech trees, then crane our necks to see their canopies, some 50 metres above us. It’s therapy in nature.  

Cape Otway to the Twelve Apostles 

Twelve Apostles
One of the famous Twelve Apostles, limestone sea stacks that rise from the Southern Ocean. (Image: Ben Savage)

The southernmost tip of Cape Otway is a delightful detour, home to the 1848-built Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia. We climb the narrow winding staircase to the gallery deck, explore the keepers’ quarters and telegraph station, and enjoy a coffee and some ‘famous’ scones at the charming onsite cafe.    

It’s a pinch-me moment to finally see the Twelve Apostles in person. This unmistakable cluster of limestone stacks rising abruptly from the sea were never 12, however. When coined this in the 1890s as a marketing ploy, there were only nine; today, only seven remain after two collapsed in 2005 and 2009. We admire these Aussie icons from the viewing platform, in awe of Mother Nature’s ever-evolving artwork.  

The Grotto
The Grotto is another natural attraction within Port Campbell National Park. (Image: Carmen Zammit)

Edging the wild Southern Ocean, this part of the coast – dubbed Shipwreck Coast – is made up of many sea-carved natural wonders including London Bridge, The Grotto and Gibson Steps. After exploring the lookout trails of Loch Ard Gorge/Poombeeyt Kontapool – its English name taken from the site of the 1878 shipwreck – we nestle into the sandy beach encircled by towering sandstone cliffs, as our children splash about on the water’s edge, and soak it all in.  

Port Campbell to Timboon 

Timboon Fine Ice Cream
Timboon Fine Ice Cream is part of a regional foodie trail. (Image: C McConville)

Just north of Port Campbell National Park, the region of Timboon is part of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, filled with purveyors of delicious foodstuffs such as Timboon Fine Ice Cream , Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and Apostle Whey Cheese. As an antidote to the indulgence, the 20-kilometre Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail is a self-guided ride or walk between Port Campbell and Timboon through tall forests, over historic bridges and past sparkling lakes and farmland with grazing cattle.  

Warrnambool to Port Fairy 

Warrnambool building
A 19th-century building in Warrnambool. (Image: Peter Foster)

In Warrnambool, a town rich in maritime history, we take the four-kilometre Thunder Point Walk that traces the coast. The kids squeal when an echidna shuffles out from beneath the wooden boardwalk, and we stop to admire a seal lazing on a rock at the port.  

Further along, the streets of quaint fishing village Port Fairy are lined with 19th-century cottages, old stone churches and Norfolk pines. Follow the historic walking trail to see some of the 60-plus National Trust buildings. Port Fairy is also home to Port Fairy Folk Festival (6-9 March), one of the country’s longest-running music and cultural festivals. You could time your road trip with the event for a fittingly celebratory end to any journey.  

The Great Ocean Road can easily be done in three days, but we’ve spent a week on the road. The highlighted line on our now creased and well-worn map doesn’t follow the famous route precisely. It has sprouted branches in many directions, leading us to untouched rainforest and charming rural towns filled with culinary delights, and where we experienced some of our most memorable moments on the Great Ocean Road.    

A traveller’s checklist 

Staying there

Oak & Anchor
The Oak & Anchor in Port Fairy.

The Monty is a highly anticipated, newly refurbished motel with a chic Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic set across the road from the Anglesea River. Basalt Winery in Port Fairy grows cool-climate wines such as pinot noir and Riesling in rich volcanic soil. Stay among the vines in its tiny home, complete with a kitchen, lounge area and outdoor firepit. 

The Oak & Anchor Hotel has been a Port Fairy institution since 1857. Cosy up by the bar in winter or bask in the sunshine of the Lawn Bar in summer. The rooms are beautifully boutique with considered details, such as luxe baths for sinking into post-road trip. 

Eating there

The Coast in Anglesea is a modern Australian restaurant focused on local ingredients. Grand Pacific Hotel has been a local landmark in Lorne since 1879 and recently underwent a restoration. It serves a mix of traditional pub and Italian fare alongside ocean views.  

Graze is a cosy 40-seat dining room in Apollo Bay with a modern Australian menu complemented by regional wines. Apollo Bay Distillery offers tasting flights, a gin blending masterclass and serves woodfired pizzas.