2025 Cape Otway Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Australia’s Great Ocean Road remains a bucket-list drive, with its cliffs, rainforests, and iconic Twelve Apostles. But if you last cruised it in the 1980s, you’ll notice some bittersweet changes. Here’s what’s *not quite the same* today: ### 1. **The Solitude of the Open Road 🛣️** In the ’80s, this route felt like a hidden gem. Fewer tourists meant empty lookout points and quiet beaches. Today, summer brings bumper-to-bumper traffic 🚙💨, crowded parking lots, and selfie sticks at every turn. The magic of having waves or rainforests *all to yourself*? Rare now. ### 2. **Raw, Unmanaged Landscapes 🌿** Decades of erosion and tourism have reshaped the coast. The Twelve Apostles had nine limestone stacks in the ’80s; today, there are eight (one collapsed in 2005). Fences and boardwalks now protect fragile sites like Loch Ard Gorge, replacing the free-roaming access of the past. ### 3. **Quirky, Local Pit Stops 🎪** Gone are many family-run diners and rustic guesthouses. Quaint towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay now buzz with branded coffee chains 🏪, sleek vacation rentals, and souvenir shops hawking mass-produced koala keychains. The road’s original charm—think roadside fruit stands and hand-painted “Crayfish for Sale” signs—has faded. ### 4. **The Thrill of the Unknown 🗺️** Before GPS and Instagram, travelers relied on paper maps and local tips. Discovering hidden coves or waterfalls felt like a personal victory. Now, every secret spot is geotagged 📍, and TikTok influencers swarm “underrated” gems like the Grotto or Mait’s Rest. ### 5. **Wildlife Encounters (Without the Crowds) 🐨** Kangaroos and koalas once appeared unexpectedly along the route. Today, wildlife reserves and guided tours offer controlled experiences (for good reason—habitat protection!). But the joy of spotting a snoozing koala *without* a dozen cameras clicking? Rare. ### 6. **Affordable Adventure 💸** In the ’80s, petrol, fish-and-chips, and motels were cheap. Now, parking at major sites costs up to $15/hour, and coastal Airbnb prices rival Sydney’s. Even the iconic Apollo Bay scallop pie 🥧 has doubled in price! ### 7. **The “End of the Earth” Vibe 🌍** Cell service was nonexistent here in the ’80s, adding to the road’s remote allure. Today, 4G coverage and constant connectivity mean fewer “off-the-grid” moments. ### **How to Reclaim the ’80s Vibe** 🌟 - **Go Off-Season:** Visit in autumn/winter for misty cliffs and empty trails. - **Ditch the Itinerary:** Skip the Apostles at sunrise; explore lesser-known stops like Blanket Bay or Cape Otway Lightstation. - **Support Local:** Eat at pubs with chalkboard menus, not flashy bistros. **The Bottom Line** 🚗💨 While the Great Ocean Road is still stunning, it’s lost some of its wild, untamed soul. Yet, with a little effort, you can still find echoes of its ’80s spirit—just don’t expect to have them all to you

[Great Ocean Roadin Melbourne Day 2] The fastest, most extensive and shortest 3-day tour of Melbourne 3 days spent living like a local, not limited to the free tram area or famous places D2 ☕️Coffee time at crispy cream donuts $6. All day long Great Ocean Road Tour by GO WEST 🌊Torquay Front Beach 🌏Great Otway National Park 🌏Loch And Gorge 🌊Gibson Steps 🌊Twelve Apostols Above all, each scenic spot has traces of gold mining remaining in the strata. The setting sun and the rising moon are greeted at the same time. Lunch, browsing and shopping at popular retirement destinations such as resort towns Lorne beach and Apollo bay, which are visited for a break, are sure to entertain visitors. #Overseas travel strategy #Australia

#australiatrip Stretching from the rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road to lush inland forests, Great Otway National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to stunning waterfalls like Hopetoun and Erskine Falls, where water cascades through ancient ferns and moss-covered rocks. Towering eucalyptus trees provide a habitat for koalas, often spotted dozing in the branches. The park’s coastal section boasts dramatic cliffs, windswept beaches, and the famous Cape Otway Lightstation, offering breathtaking ocean views. The Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is a magical experience, taking visitors through a cool, green world of ancient myrtle beeches and thick ferns. Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, or simply taking in the incredible scenery, Great Otway National Park is an unforgettable stop on an #AustraliaTrip. It perfectly blends ocean, forest, and wildlife, making it one of Victoria’s most diverse and beautiful destinations.

A winter trip to Australia is both warm and delightful! Here's a four-day travel guide to help you explore Australia without any hiccups. Save it now! -------- Australia, a land where history and nature intertwine. 🏰Ancient cultural heritage bears witness to the passage of time, while magnificent beaches🏖️ and the Great Barrier Reef showcase the charm of nature. Come and experience the unique local customs!🌺 -------- 📅Itinerary: Day 1: Arrival and Free Time Arrive in Australia and enjoy free time after checking into your hotel. Day 2: Brighton Beach - Dandenong Ranges - Puffing Billy Railway - Nobbies Centre - Phillip Island Today, we'll start with a stroll along beautiful Brighton Beach, followed by a visit to the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. Afterward, we'll take a ride on the historic Puffing Billy Railway for a unique travel experience. In the afternoon, we'll explore the Nobbies Centre and finally head to Phillip Island to commune with nature. Day 3: Split Point Lighthouse - Eastern View Memorial Arch - Lorne Beach - Great Otway National Park - Twelve Apostles - Loch Ard Gorge On the third day, we'll visit the magnificent Split Point Lighthouse and feel the sea breeze on our faces. Next, we'll visit the solemn Eastern View Memorial Arch to commemorate history. In the afternoon, we'll arrive at the scenic Lorne Beach and enjoy the leisurely seaside atmosphere. Afterward, we'll enter the Great Otway National Park to explore the mysteries of nature. Later, we'll visit the famous Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge to marvel at the wonders of nature. Day 4: Free Time - Airport Transfer On the last day, you can arrange your own itinerary and enjoy the beauty of Australia. After a pleasant journey, we will transfer you to the airport and look forward to seeing you again. -------- 🧳 Travel Preparations: 📞 Remember to get a local SIM card for easy communication and to avoid getting lost. 🔌 Don't forget to bring a plug adapter, as Australian outlets may be different from those in your country. 📜 Be sure to bring all necessary documents, including your passport and Australian visa, which are essential for entry. 👕 The weather in Australia in February is pleasant. Bring some light summer clothes and sunscreen. 🔋 Chargers and power banks are great travel companions, ensuring your phone is always fully charged for a worry-free trip. 💊 You can also bring some common medications, just in case, for a healthy and carefree trip. -------- Australia awaits you to explore more unknown beauty. Let travel be a wonderful journey of self-discovery!

If you want to see Australia's sea and nature, you must come to this 240-kilometer-long Great Ocean Road! 🌳 This is one of the most popular self-driving routes in the world. The beautiful scenery along the way has attracted countless tourists to come and explore. 🌊 📍Maits Rest Maits Rest is a beautiful rainforest walk suitable for nature lovers. 🌳There are magnificent trees and fresh air here. The trail is not long, suitable for the whole family to walk together🪵 📍 Great Otway National Park Great Otway National Park has spectacular waterfalls, lush rainforests and beautiful coastlines🌊, suitable for hiking, camping and watching animals. 📍 Twelve Apostles One of the most famous attractions is the Twelve Apostles. 🗿These huge limestone columns stand on the coast, forming a spectacular natural landscape. 🌊 Along the way, you can also see lush rainforests, tranquil beaches and charming towns. There are many outdoor activities here, such as hiking, surfing and whale watching. It's super fun! 🎀 📍Great Ocean Road, Melbourne Great Ocean Road, Melbourne For more travel and food information around the world, please follow @bunnys2peach_travel 🌷 #GlobalTravel

#australiatrip Great Otway National Park is a diverse natural wonder located along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. The park features lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls like Erskine Falls, and rugged coastlines with stunning views. Visitors can explore the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse, hike scenic trails, or spot native wildlife such as koalas and glowworms. The park’s diverse landscapes make it ideal for camping, birdwatching, and photography. Great Otway’s mix of coastal beauty and dense forest provides an immersive experience, making it a must-visit for those traveling along one of Australia’s most scenic drives.

The Great Otway National Park offers not only stunning rainforests and waterfalls but also a chance to meet Australia’s iconic wildlife. Spotting a koala resting high in the eucalyptus trees is an unforgettable experience. Take a slow walk through the park, breathe in the fresh forest air, and enjoy this unique connection with nature. #GreatOtway #Wildlife #Koala #TravelAustralia

#newzealandtrip Great Otway National Park is a diverse natural haven, combining lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and cascading waterfalls. Located along the Great Ocean Road, it offers a mix of outdoor adventures, from hiking through fern gullies to spotting koalas in the wild. Highlights include the iconic Twelve Apostles, Erskine Falls, and Cape Otway Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy serene rainforest walks or dramatic cliffside views, with abundant wildlife and vibrant flora adding to the charm. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, Great Otway is a must-visit destination showcasing Victoria’s natural beauty and ecological diversity.

Explore Australia in winter with a 5-day tour! This guide will help you make the most of your trip. Don't miss out! -------- 🛤️Itinerary: Day 1: After arriving at the airport, enjoy a pick-up service and head to your hotel. After checking in, you can explore the surrounding area at your leisure. Day 2: Brighton Beach > Dandenong Ranges > Puffing Billy Railway > Nobbies Centre > Phillip Island Travel through the picturesque Brighton Beach, visit the natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges, take a ride on the vintage Puffing Billy Railway, visit the Nobbies Centre, and finally head to Phillip Island to experience the island's charm. Day 3: Split Point Lighthouse > Lorne Beach > Great Otway National Park > Twelve Apostles > Loch Ard Gorge Start at the spectacular Split Point Lighthouse, stroll to Lorne Beach to enjoy the seaside, then explore the wonders of Great Otway National Park, visit the famous Twelve Apostles, and finally arrive at Loch Ard Gorge to experience the wonders of nature. Day 4: Werribee Mansion > Sovereign Hill > Sovereign Hill Visit the historic Werribee Mansion, then head to Sovereign Hill to experience the charm of the gold mining town. In the evening, you can choose to visit Sovereign Hill again to experience the night scene. Day 5: After breakfast at the hotel, you will have plenty of time to explore the city or relax. In the afternoon, we will provide an airport transfer service to ensure your trip ends smoothly. -------- **Notes**: 1. Time difference alert🕰️! Australia is 2-3 hours ahead of Beijing time, so remember to adjust your schedule. 2. Currency exchange tips💵: The Australian dollar exchange rate fluctuates a lot, so it's best to check and prepare in advance. 3. Australian food🍽️! Don't miss the seafood and steak, and there are all kinds of cafes waiting for you to explore. 4. Sunscreen is a must🧴! The sun in Australia is strong, so apply sunscreen before going out. 5. Respect local customs🙌, keep quiet in public places, and enjoy a harmonious journey. -------- Australia is a magical country worth exploring. We look forward to your next exciting trip!🌟

Visiting Otway National Park was an unforgettable experience that left me in awe of its natural beauty. The park’s diversity in landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines, created a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Each corner of the park offered something new, making it impossible not to fall in love with its charm. One of the highlights was exploring the towering trees of the ancient rainforest. Walking along the well-maintained trails, I felt enveloped by the serene atmosphere created by the ferns and moss-covered trees. The soothing sounds of trickling streams and birdsong added to the magical ambiance. The Otway Fly Treetop Walk provided a unique perspective of the forest, allowing me to appreciate its grandeur from above. Another standout moment was visiting the breathtaking waterfalls, particularly Erskine Falls. The sight of water cascading into a tranquil pool surrounded by greenery was mesmerizing. It felt like stepping into a postcard-perfect scene. The short hike to the falls was manageable yet rewarding, offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The coastline at Cape Otway was equally impressive. The dramatic cliffs meeting the turquoise ocean created a picture-perfect vista. I also had the chance to visit the iconic Cape Otway Lightstation, which added a sense of history to the natural surroundings. What truly elevated the experience was spotting wildlife, from koalas dozing in the eucalyptus trees to vibrant parrots darting through the forest. It reinforced the park’s reputation as a haven for nature lovers. Otway National Park isn’t just a place to see; it’s a place to feel and experience. Its blend of tranquility and adventure left me with memories I’ll cherish for years. I can’t wait to return and uncover even more of its wonders.

Great Otway National Park in Victoria, Australia, is home to magnificent waterfalls and unique redwoods, full of natural grandeur and mystery. I first arrived at the famous waterfall area, walking along the trail with the sound of flowing water in my ears. As I turned a corner, a spectacular waterfall appeared before my eyes, with water cascading down from a height, forming a beautiful water curtain. The sunlight refracted through the mist, creating a rainbow of colors, making me stop in my tracks, mesmerized by the scene. Standing by the waterfall, I felt the refreshing mist on my face, as if all my worries were washed away. Then, I continued along the trail and arrived at the redwood forest. The redwood trees here towered into the sky, with thick trunks and lush leaves, as if I had entered a dreamlike world. Hiking under these majestic trees made me feel the great power of nature. These redwoods are unique in Australia, and walking in such an environment brought me immense peace and awe. This experience in Great Otway National Park made me cherish the beauty of nature even more. Hiking under the spectacular waterfalls and majestic redwoods became a spiritual cleansing, leaving me reluctant to leave.

Explore the wonders of Australia on a 5-day tour! With an amazing itinerary, you'll experience the unique charm of Australia. Join us and feel the magic! / Australia, a land where history and nature intertwine. 🏞️ From the majestic Great Barrier Reef to the elegance of the Sydney Opera House, every corner exudes the unique charm of this land. 🌅 Explore Australia and experience its unique regional charm! / 🌟 Itinerary: DAY 1: Arrival at the airport -> Free time After checking into the hotel, enjoy some free time! Relax and enjoy your first day. DAY 2: Brighton Beach -> Dandenong Ranges -> Puffing Billy Steam Train -> Nobbies Centre -> Phillip Island Visit the beach and mountains, ride a vintage steam train, and finally head to Phillip Island to discover the little penguins. DAY 3: Split Point Lighthouse -> Lorne Beach -> Great Otway National Park -> Twelve Apostles -> Loch Ard Gorge A coastal journey to admire the stunning coastal scenery and explore the natural wonders of the national park. DAY 4: Werribee Mansion -> Sovereign Hill -> Sovereign Hill Experience the tranquility of the mansion and revisit the gold mining history and culture of Sovereign Hill. DAY 5: Free time -> Airport transfer Enjoy your last day in Australia, then head to the airport to end your journey. / **Notes**: 1. November in Australia is warm and perfect for travel, but the north enters the rainy season, so bring rain gear 🌦️. 2. The time difference with China is 2-3 hours, so adjust your schedule to avoid jet lag ⏰. 3. The airport is easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi to the city center 🚆🚌🚕. 4. Respect local culture and etiquette, and have a pleasant journey 🌍! 5. Wild animals are cute, but be safe, keep your distance, and don't feed or touch them 🐨🦘. 6. Don't forget sun protection and heat prevention. High SPF sunscreen and a hat are essential 🧢🧴. / Australia is waiting for you to explore! Don't miss the beauty of this land, and let your journey be full of surprises and emotions! 🌈✨

4-day trip to Australia, all the highlights are here! Beautiful scenery, amazing experiences, don't miss out! Come and explore the unique charm of Australia with us! / Australia, with its unique history and beautiful scenery! 🌏 From the sails of the Sydney Opera House to the waves of the Gold Coast 🌊, to the mysterious Great Barrier Reef, every place is mesmerizing. The local culture is also unique and definitely worth a visit! / 🛫 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive at the airport -> Free time Arrive on the first day, arrange for airport pick-up and free time, adjust to the time difference, and explore the surroundings. Day 2: Brighton Beach -> Dandenong Ranges -> Puffing Billy Steam Train -> Nobbies Centre -> Phillip Island Cross the beach and mountains, take a vintage steam train, visit the city center, and stay overnight on Phillip Island to enjoy a journey of nature and culture. Day 3: Split Point Lighthouse -> Lorne Beach -> Great Otway National Park -> Twelve Apostles -> Loch Ard Gorge Explore the lighthouse, stroll along the beach, cross the national park, admire the spectacular rocks and gorges, and experience the wonders of nature. Day 4: Free time -> Airport transfer Free time on the last day to enjoy the end of the trip, then arrange for airport transfer to end the wonderful trip. / Travel tips: 🎁 Specialty prices: Australian specialties are diverse, and prices vary greatly by region and store, so it's recommended to compare prices before buying. 📌 Visa information: You need to apply for a visa in advance to go to Australia to ensure a smooth trip and avoid disappointment! ✈️ Airport transportation: Australian airports are well-connected, with taxis, buses, and subways, so you can travel without worry. 🌞 Sun protection: The sun is strong in Australia, so sunscreen is a must, and don't forget your hat and sunglasses! 💡 Voltage reminder: Australia uses 230V voltage, so remember to bring a converter, so you don't have to worry about charging! / Come to Australia and enjoy the beautiful scenery and unique culture! Don't hesitate, start your dream trip now, Trip.com is waiting for you!

#0yentravelautumn I took a bus tour to Maits Rest Rainforest Walk in Melbourne. This leisurely walk through the lush rainforest was a wonderful experience that soothed my soul, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. The overgrown trees, moss-covered ground and tree roots create a mystical atmosphere, and you can feel the power of nature. The path is well-maintained, so it's easy to walk and can be enjoyed casually. It was a wonderful time to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and refresh myself in nature.

#Capeotway looking back during the year of 1848, where lighthouse deemed important … well maintained building, nice experience.

Very surprising I could see a kangaroo in a jungle but not on a road.

The Great Otway National Park is an ecologically rich reserve with a wealth of natural attractions. There are rainforests, shrubs, waterfalls, and lookouts waiting for you to explore on foot. This time we followed the local itinerary, so we couldn't stay too long. The tour guide took us on the simplest trail, which is also the most popular and can be completed in 30 minutes. It is called Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. The name Maits Rest comes from Maitland Bryant, the earliest forester in this area. During the First World War, he would patrol back and forth between Apollo Bay and Horden Vale, and often stopped in this rainforest to rest. Later generations called this place "Maits Rest". The must-photograph spot here is the big tree hole. You might as well hide in this big tree hole to take photos as a souvenir. #familytravel #melbourne

#Australia must-visit check-in spots Cape Otway Lightstation is located on Australia's famous Great Ocean Road. It is the oldest lighthouse on the Australian continent. Standing on the top of the 90-meter-high tower, you can overlook the wild Southern Ocean. The Lightstation also has a pleasant cafe and is open every day. Accompanied by delicious coffee and sweet homemade scones, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The cafe is located in the original Assistant Lighthouse Keeper's cottage, directly in front of the lighthouse.

With the gradual opening up of oversea travel, I have been planning to travel to Australia. The Great Ocean Road is at the top of my self-driving travel wish list. When I arrived here and explored the depths of the Otways, I finally understood why the locals love to immerse themselves in "forest bathing". The steep Altwein Mountains are covered by towering rainforests, with waterfalls cascading down, adding a touch of agility to this jungle paradise. At the end of the forest is the coast, where ✨hikers can freely switch between viewing modes. Ultraviolet is spread throughout the hiking trails, and it is also very suitable for leisurely family walks to enjoy the scenery along the way. In addition, Otway is also a habitat for wild animals such as kangaroos, koalas, emus, and birds. You may want to sign up for the popular Wildlife Wonders tour, where 🎄professional guides will take us to places where wild animals often appear, and along the way, they will also provide some animal science knowledge. This is a journey full of healing and rewards. 🍀 Hiking tips: 1. When entering nature, please pay attention to protecting the local environment and maintain a friendly distance from wildlife. 🍃 2. Don't carry heavy loads while hiking. If conditions permit, it is recommended to wear professional hiking clothes and shoes. 3. For novice hikers, it is recommended to sign up for related hiking tours to enjoy the scenery and hiking at the same time, which is worry-free and safe. 🌵

The Cape Otway Lightstation is Australia's old and representative lighthouse. It was built in 1848 and is still in use until now. The lighthouse is built on a 80-meter-high seaside cliff facing the intersection of the Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean. At the earliest, the criminals from the United Kingdom and the thousands of immigrants from Europe and the Americas spent several months traveling across the ocean to Australia. The Cape Otway was the first they saw. A piece of land, because there was no lighthouse, it caused hundreds of people to die. Later, after several proposals, the lighthouse was built. It is famous because there is a giant lead crystal worth 5 million yuan from the United Kingdom. Lens, there is a telegraph station during the Second World War, a lighthouse man's hut to find the story of the lighthouse keeper and the telegrapher, and you can watch the whales on the lighthouse and get close to the koala in the forest. There are also many artifacts, such as the red-haired Eric anchor, lighthouse and beacon, signal flagpole, weather station, radar lookout and more.

The Great Otway National Park is a rare toll attraction on the Great Ocean Road, with an adult ticket of 19.5 knives. If you don't buy a ticket, you can't see the lighthouse. However, there is a one-time charge at the entrance. There is no extra charge when you enter the park. The entrance is the ticket office and gift shop. There are Chinese materials to take, and the map map is very love. After entering the door, I saw a shipwreck wreck with a CAPE OTWAY.

Cape Otway Lightstation is the southernmost tip of the Great Ocean Road and the oldest lighthouse in Australia's hinterland. The lighthouse needs to be purchased, not cheap, but the interior is actually quite big, except for the lighthouse at the end, as well as cafes and museums for rest. The lighthouse still has guards waiting for it every day, and you can see it when you climb the top of the tower. He will give you a free explanation. What's more interesting is that accommodation is also available here. You can stay in the small house of the lighthouse guardian for one night. When the tourists are scattered, you can enjoy the entire park and enjoy the beautiful sunset.