Put These Lorne Waterfalls On Your Travel Agenda

1. Henderson Falls

Framed by ferns, this small waterfall is just 1.5 kilometres from the Sheoak Picnic Area yet doesn’t get nearly as many visitors as some of the other waterfalls in Lorne. What it lacks in scale, it makes up for with access. Stand at the base, close your eyes and soak up the cool, refreshing air coming off the falls.

2. Sheoak Falls

people sitting on the side of Sheoak Falls, Lorne

Sheoak Falls drops down a sheer rock face. (Image: Visit Victoria)

The relatively short 15-minute walk from the car park makes this one a good waterfall option for people with kids who can’t tackle some of the longer, more rugged trails in the area. Not far off the Great Ocean Road, stop at this waterfall to break up your drive or get a blast of nature and fresh air before continuing your road trip. If you’re visiting at dusk, be sure to pay attention as you might just see the signature aura emanating from glow worms known to populate the caves and rocks around here.

3. Erskine Falls

Erskine Falls plunges 30 meters into a lush tree-fern gully. (Image: Visit Victoria)

This 30-metre cascade just 15 minutes out of Lorne is a real crowd-pleaser because you can view the falls without feeling the burn from a massive hike. A short walk from the Erskine Falls carpark, the upper viewing platform will reveal lovely views of the falls and surrounding bushland. Head down the stairs that lead to the lower viewing platform to experience the instant calm that comes from seeing this magical waterfall fringed by greenery at ground level.

If you’re a confident, fit and experienced bushwalker, you can tackle the 7.5-kilometre Erskine River Track which begins at the Erskine Falls car park and finishes at the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park. However, you’ll need to be comfortable with crossing rivers by rock hopping to do this walk thou. Check the river levels before giving it a go as this hike isn’t advisable when the river levels are high.

4 & 5. Kalimna Falls (Upper and Lower)

This enchanting falls is framed by ferns. (Image: Parks Victoria)

A popular Great Otway National Park trail, the Kalimna Falls Walk is a two-for-one waterfall deal with the track revealing top views of both the upper and lower Kalimna Falls in just a few hours of walking. Park at the Sheoak Picnic Area and set off on foot towards the lower Kalimna Falls first. In years gone by, a tramway used by timber workers ran along this path. Instead of being used to move timber logs to Lorne Pier, the path is now the domain of bushwalkers, birdwatchers and nature lovers. You’ll pass ferns gullies, mossy logs and towering gums on the way to the lower falls which cascade over the ledge of a large cave, creating a spectacular effect you’ll definitely want to snap on your phone. Cool off by dipping your toes in the water, then continue by following the signs to the upper Kalimna Falls from the nearest junction. Check out this simple waterfall that is perfectly framed by the forest ferns and canopy, then loop back to the Sheoak Picnic Area where you started.

6. Phantom Falls

a man reaching out for the hand of the woman sitting on a rock backdropped with the Phantom Falls, Lorne

Discover this dramatic waterfall surrounded by forest. (Image: Parks Victoria)

Accessed via a 90-minute return walk from the Allenvale Mill Campground, Phantom Falls is a great waterfall walk to tackle if you’re short on time but still want to carve out a part of your trip to commune with nature. You’ll pass picturesque farmland, a peaceful river and serene bushland on relatively flat terrain before hitting the incline which will challenge your legs and lungs a bit more. Be sure you’re wearing sturdy walking shoes – sandals and unsupportive footwear just won’t cut it here. Once you reach the waterfall you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of a bush-fringed waterfall cascading over a dark rock face into a pool below. Be sure to head down the steep stairs to see it from below too.

Those dreaming of a river escape that’s less rush and more rest will discover the perfect getaway in Echuca Moama.

Best known for summer river holidays, Echuca Moama dishes up extraordinary options for those craving good food, experiences and culture. Discover how best to spend your getaway in this gorgeous river town.

1. Find unique stays in Echuca Moama

Goolwa River Retreat villas — Bathe under the stars at Goolwa River Retreat.

An adventure here starts with the perfect place to stay. Echuca Moama is famous for its luxury houseboats. Be spoilt for choice with amenities like spas, chef’s kitchens and en-suites onboard Murray River Houseboats and Echuca Luxury Houseboats .

For those who prefer to stay on dry land to sleep, there’s no shortage of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. The villas at Goolwa River Retreat offer spectacular views of the Murray Riverfront, cosy evenings by the fire pit. And, a truly unique and luxurious experience: bathing under the stars in an outdoor bathtub.

Families travelling with young kids will appreciate the fully self-contained cabins, which sleep up to six, at NRMA Echuca Holiday Park . Complete with BBQ facilities and a kids’ playground, Echuca Holiday Park is the perfect base for families exploring the Echuca Moama region.

More adventurous guests can experience off-grid serenity at Carriages Water Front Retreat , where they can slumber among the redgums in a lovingly converted vintage train carriage.

If you prefer a more central place to stay, the Mercure Port of Echuca is located just five minutes from the Port of Echuca on foot and offers comfortable rooms, as well as easy access to all the region has to offer.

2. Explore the Murray River

PaddlesteamerS on the Murray River — Jump aboard one of Echuca Moama’s famous paddlesteamers.

A trip to Echuca Moama isn’t complete without seeing the Murray River. Take in views from the water, with Murray River Paddlesteamers and Echuca Paddlesteamers . Or combine sightseeing with lunch at a local winery or brewery on a Wharf to Winery or Port to Plate cruise .

Those who prefer an active holiday can hire a stand-up paddleboard with Echuca SUP to explore the river. Duck under the historic Echuca Moama Bridge and listen out for local wildlife. At the end of your paddleboarding trip, you’ll find a shuttle service to return you to the car park.

Kayaking is another great option if you like to combine seeing the sights with a full-body workout. Hire a kayak from River Country Adventours , or join a river safari for a guided experience.

3. Go hiking and biking in Echuca Moama

two bikers riding on the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail — Peddle along the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail.

On foot or by bike, there are plenty of trails to explore the region. Embark on a guided e-bike tour with Green Pedal (or hire an e-bike and go it alone) to explore the 19-kilometre Waranga Rail Trail . Traverse through beautiful bushland and the scenic Waranga Basin. Bakeries and picnic areas in the historic town of Rushworth provide the perfect place for refreshments.

Day trip to the lookout at Whroo Forest, near the now-abandoned Whroo township, located on historic Balaclava Hill. The Hill was once the site of Victoria’s largest open-cut gold mine and home to a thriving town. Today, the area offers picturesque walking tracks and picnic sites.

4. Taste Echuca Moama’s best dining options

lobster dish on the table at opa in echuca moama — Taste delicious, authentic Greek at Opa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Whether you like a candlelit dinner or a coffee in the sunshine, Echuca Moama is ready to delight your taste buds.

Pop into Opa for authentic Greek fare with views of the town from its upstairs balcony. Enjoy seasonal produce at The Mill , offering everything from global street food and share plates to classic dinner and dessert options inside a historic building.

Discover a local secret at Monkee and Co , a relaxed Asian-fusion restaurant serving up classics like Banh Mi and dumplings.

Start the day with excellent coffee and waterfront views at the family-run Watson St Pavilion .

5. Drink at Echuca Moama’s best bars

two people drinking cockatails at paradise bar in echuca moama — Cheers to neon at Paradise Bar.

Top-notch tipples can be found at Paradise Bar , a new cocktail bar serving up handcrafted cocktails to delight the taste buds in the heart of Echuca. The menu features classics like mojitos, margs, and spritzers. As well as Paradise’s own creations featuring funky ingredients like bubble gum syrup and an Old Fashioned with truffle oil.

Bar Lee at the Echuca Distillery is the place to go to watch the sun go down at the rooftop bar, taste Echuca’s locally made spirits and nibble your way through an exceptional selection of share plates.

For river views, excellent service and a more than extensive wine menu, head to Social Wine Bar . You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere in the riverfront beer garden that sprawls out under an ancient pine tree and a cosy interior perfect for hiding away on a cool evening.

6. Follow local art trails

Jump in the car and follow the Silo Art Trail.

The region’s silos have been transformed into impressive, towering canvases depicting local fauna, Echuca’s historical links to industry and the building of the local railroad. Follow the Silo Art Trail by car, which takes between three and four hours.

Rochester Mural Park is home to an annual lineup of changing murals, while the Rochester Mural Festival showcases established and emerging artists.

7. Dive into local history

Echuca Port Museum and Penny Tourism — See the historic Port of Echuca.

The Echuca Moama region is bursting with history. Among its historical treasures is the Port of Echuca . Interactive displays showcase the port’s importance to historical trade along the river, industrial sites like the Evans Brothers Sawmill and the Port of Echuca railway station with its very own heritage steam train.

The displays pay homage to the site’s significance to the local Yorta Yorta People and their ancestral connection to the land where the Murray, Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers meet.

Explore the port independently or join a guided tour to learn from Echuca’s history buffs.

Learn more and start planning the perfect holiday to Echuca Moama at visitechucamoama.com.au.

6 must-see waterfalls in Lorne

Away from the beach crowds, these Lorne waterfalls fringed by forest-green bushland will make you want to hit the road asap.