The Southeast - Audley Travel

Koala at Cape Otway Conservation Centre Coastal scenery, Great Ocean Road Oscars, Port FairyGreat Ocean Road near LorneGeneral store, Great Ocean RoadThe Shipwreck CoastBlowholes roar with spouting water and theocean boils around towering rock stacks on thismajestic stretch of coastline along the GreatOcean Road. Known as the Shipwreck Coast, it isthe most spectacular section of the drive and attimes the superb scenery makes it hard toimagine the dramas that have unfolded in thetreacherous waters.At the cavernous Loch Ard Gorge the stunningvista of towering cliffs, sparkling sea and a tinysandy beach is breathtaking. The famous TwelveApostles, set off by a backdrop of dramatic,imposing cliffs, are part of a procession of naturalfeatures that include Pudding Basin Rock, IslandArch, the Blowhole and London Bridge. This coastis best seen when the winds are fierce, whippingthe ocean into a frenzy, playing out the naturalforce that has battered and crafted the landscapeinto shape. Boardwalks and viewing platformsensure easy access to the sweeping views, withbright hues at sunrise and sunset. There are plentyof day tours leaving from Melbourne, but theseoften prove rather long with a good deal ofdriving. Our advice would be to take your timeand spend a night or two in Port Fairy andApollo Bay.Port FairyIn the early 1800s a boat called The Fairy chosethis tiny bay on the mouth of the Moyne Riverto shelter from a storm. Today the town is acharming base from which to explore the famousShipwreck Coast. Heritage buildings line thestreets overlooking the busy harbour, a flourishingarts scene supports the open studios and galleriesscattered about town, and a delightful ‘Art Walk’links them all together. The beauty of thecoastline is at its best on nearby Griffiths Island,home to a colony of mutton birds, and on LadyJulia Percy Island where lava flows have createdan almost flat clifftop. Although seen by many asan overnight stop, Port Fairy is well worth alonger stay.Oscars, Port FairyThe five rooms at this small property arebeautifully appointed and decorated in a Frenchprovincial style, while the gourmet breakfastsserved each morning are a real treat. Oscars has aperfect location on the Moyne River with viewsout over the yachts in the marina. It is just a shortdistance from many of the highlights of the GreatOcean Road, making it an ideal place for a breakin your journey.Walking theGreat Ocean RoadTraversing one of the most remarkablestretches of Australia’s coast on footallows you to enjoy the scenery at aslower pace. We can arrange a walkingtour with vehicle support to transportyour luggage from place to place. Thewalk passes through tall forests andshaded gullies, and past remote beachesand towering cliffs, travelling from ApolloBay to the Twelve Apostles in four days.After four hours walkers take a break,allowing the energetic to continue andthose who prefer a more leisurely paceto catch a lift with the luggage vehicle tothe overnight stop. Accommodation canbe in character bed and breakfasts or indesignated campsites with good foodand wine.www.audleytravel.com/australia l 01993 838 810 l Southeast 25