The Southeast - Audley Travel

The Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean RoadThe Great Ocean RoadOne of the world’s most scenic driving routes, theGreat Ocean Road takes you from Melbournealong a stretch of Australia’s most rugged anddramatic coastline. The route passes throughfriendly seaside towns including Lorne, Apollo Bayand Port Fairy, past famous surfing beaches andthrough dense forest backed by the OtwayRanges. One of our favourite reasons for takingthe drive is to see the incredible natural rockformations carved out by the elements, includingthe famous Twelve Apostles, a series ofmagnificent rock stacks that rise up from theSouthern Ocean. This drive is also well-suited totravelling by motorhome.Apollo BayThis small fishing village was named after a localschooner and despite the town’s fame as a restingplace for many shipwrecks, it remains popularwith fishermen. Set in the foothills of the OtwayRanges there is a remarkable contrast betweenthe craggy coastline here and the breathtakingforest wilderness just inland. A stroll will uncoversome excellent cafés and restaurants, but makesure you continue to Mariners Lookout for astunning view back over the bay with its longsandy beach.Captain’s at the Bay,Apollo BayThis welcoming, contemporary bed and breakfastis within a stroll of the superb restaurants oftranquil Apollo Bay. Whether you are in one ofthe Terrace, Cottage or Loft rooms, the elegantdécor is warm and inviting. A sumptuousAustralian breakfast is served in the lounge and thedining room is a great place to relax with its hugeopen fire and local maritime history on display.Apollo Bay Guesthouse,Apollo BayLocated close to the water’s edge, Apollo BayGuesthouse is a French-influenced residence full ofcharacter and charm. This elegant retreat featurestwo en suite rooms in the main house that bothhave French doors to the sun deck overlookingthe ocean and river. There is also a two-bedroomcottage next to the main house which is equippedfor self-catering, ideal for couples travellingtogether or those with children. All of the roomsare furnished with exquisite antiques.Cape OtwayConservation CentreSet in extensive grounds and backing onto theOtway National Park, this ecotourism venturecombines research, education and wildliferehabilitation with a fantastic ecolodge and offersvisitors a unique opportunity to learn aboutCaptain’s at the Bay, Apollo Baylocal wildlife. Your hosts are an enthusiasticyoung couple who share their passion for thelocal area and its inhabitants and offer guidedwalks on a number of carefully designed pathsthat cover the property. Home to one of thelargest populations of koalas in all of Victoria, theaward-winning centre attracts naturalists from allover the world who come to see the abundanceof wildlife in the area. The conservation centrealso cares for injured or orphaned wildlife, so youare likely to see baby kangaroos and koalas atclose quarters as they are carefully nursed back tofull health. There are five en suite guest bedrooms,each with stunning views over the surroundingcountryside. The large communal area, completewith a fireplace, comfortable lounges and a largedining area, is a good spot to catch up after aday’s walking.24