The world’s greatest road trip region is about to become one of the world’s greatest hiking regions with the opening of the 7-day Great Ocean Coastal Trail.
The Great Ocean Road is a once-in-a-lifetime road trip and one of Australia’s biggest drawcards. But an upcoming multi-day hiking trail along the Otway Coast means that there will be another exhilarating way to explore the region’s world-class surf, charming beach towns and dramatic limestone cliffs. Named the Great Ocean Coastal Trail, this major hike is just on the horizon, with the first stage of construction taking place this year. Here’s the lowdown on what we know so far.
Where is it?
When completed, The Great Ocean Coastal Trail will run over 90 kilometres from Fairhaven to Skenes Creek, passing through the towns of Lorne, Wye River and Kennett River. It will be a seven-day, six-night walk that takes in the heathland, amazing beaches and rainforest. The project aims to link the Surf Coast Walk and the Great Ocean Walk, to create an ultra long network of trails. The Great Ocean Coastal Trail will run inland from the Great Ocean Road, so hikers can immerse themselves in the distinctive nature of the region. Forget the whooshing of cars and tune into the crashing of waves, the call of birds and the sounds in the landscape.
What is it?
The trail will follow some of the trade routes and traditional walks of the Eastern Maar Traditional Owners, offering an opportunity to educate the broader community about Gadubanud Country and its history.
The trail was planned in collaboration with the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation. “Along this ‘Otway Coast’, our heritage can be seen in the form of coastal shell middens, stone artefacts and locality names given by our Ancestors … We welcome this plan and the opportunity it provides for a holistic approach to Caring for Country for the benefit of all," the statement reads. Ultimately, the trail offers an alternative to driving, and a way for people to connect more deeply with the Country.
Where to stay?
The trail passes through major towns, with an array of accommodation options already existing, from caravan parks to hotels and BnBs. For hikers with a little bit more of an adventurous streak, you’ll be able to camp along the way at pre-existing campsites, with two more campsites planned for construction.
The country has benefitted from a flurry of new multi-day hikes in the last few months, such as the Southern Headlands Walk on NSW’s South Coast and the Snowies Alpine Walk in Kosciuszko. And the Great Ocean Coastal Trail is yet another boon for hikers.
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