Unravelling the Splendour: A Hiker’s 6 Day itinerary for the Great Ocean Walk
Unravelling the Splendour: A Hiker’s 6 Day itinerary for the Great Ocean Walk
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The remarkable Great Ocean Walk is a treasure trove for any adventure enthusiast. Stretching approximately 104 kilometres, this coastal trail offers you a magical journey from Apollo Bay to the iconic 12 Apostles, nestled along the world-renowned Great Ocean Road. The walk is a unique opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Australia’s southern coastline. Below, we’ve broken this hike up into 6 palatable portions.
Embarking on the Great Ocean Road Hike
Your Great Ocean Road hike begins in Apollo Bay, a small seaside town with breathtaking vistas. As you set out, you’ll follow the Great Ocean Road alongside the stunning Marengo bay, before the Great Ocean Walk leaves the road behind as the road heads inland, while the trail follows the coast through spectacular sandstone and Basalt formations, hidden beaches and lush forest landscapes. The world class bush-walking traill only comes into contact with the Great Ocean Rd a few times, highlighting the sense of remoteness and wild nature ahead. There is such a contrast of scenery that you will experience, from the stunning coastline with its rugged cliffs and crashing waves, to the expansive rolling farmland dotted with grazing livestock, and finally, to the dense and enchanting forest where sunlight filters through the canopy, creating a magical ambiance. Each step of your journey will reveal a new and captivating landscape, making your hike along the Great Ocean Walk an unforgettable adventure in natural beauty.
Day One: Apollo Bay to Shelley Hill
If you like wildlife, the walk from Apollo Bay to Shelley Hill offers a breathtaking experience along the stunning coastal landscape of Victoria, Australia. As you begin your journey, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road and Otway National Park region. The trail meanders along picturesque beaches, towering cliffs, and lush greenery, providing panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. Along the way, you might encounter unique wildlife, such as Australian fur seals, koalas, and a variety of bird species. The rhythmic sound of crashing waves and the invigorating sea breeze create a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and relaxation. For the walk to Shelley Hill, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent coastal views, where you can marvel at the awe-inspiring and rugged scenery. This is not a walk to be missed. Many Koalas can be found in the last 10 minutes of the walk if you keep an eye on the stunning gum trees.
Day two: Exploring Shelly Beach to Parker Hill
Embarking on the journey from Shelly Beach to Parker Hill, you’ll enjoy the natural beauty around you. It’s a scenic 3.5-hour walk along the coastline, passing beaches, rocky outcrops, rock pools, grasslands, and bush. You can walk alongside the crashing waves at the Elliot River crossing, then venture into the lush forests of Mountain Ash, where you might see black wallabies or black cockatoos. The walking through the cool temperate rainforest is a highlight of the Great Ocean Walk, and a truly unique ecosystem. At Blanket Bay, one of the few spots along the route where you can take a refreshing swim, you can cool off in its invigorating waters. It is a beautiful spot for a lunch stop! The afternoon walking through the peaceful Messmate forests offers a good chance of spotting Wallabies. Finally, enjoy the beautiful Parker Inlet before the climb to Parker Hill for a panoramic view of the coastline. This walk offers a refreshing escape, recommended for those who want to connect with nature in a memorable experience.
Day Three: Parker Inlet to Castle Cove
There are many highlights on this spectacular day of coastal walking. As you venture along from Parker Hill to Crayfish Bay trail, be prepared to discover hidden paradises, awe-inspiring cliffs, and remarkable rock formations. Witness the breathtaking turquoise waters of Crayfish Bay and catch glimpses of the distant Cape Otway lighthouse emerging on the horizon. After taking in the awe inspiring view down Station Beach towards Johanna Beach, the trail descends into the lush Aire river valley for a rest and Koala spotting, followed by a walk under towering sandstone cliffs to finish. This walk promises stunning coastal vistas, windswept landscapes, and the allure of beautiful waters, beckoning those seeking an unforgettable experience.
Day Four: Castle Cove to Milanesia
Embark on a scenic walk along cliff hills, tracing one of Australia’s finest beaches. Witness the natural beauty of flora and fauna, including mesmerising cliffs, grass trees, and vibrant wildflowers in spring. Keep an eye out for Peregrine Falcons if you’re lucky. Continue onwards to Johanna Beach, where the powerful ocean meets rugged cliffs, showcasing nature’s force. Look out for Eastern Grey Kangaroos as you make your way towards Milanesia Track. This walk captures the captivating beauty of Australia’s coast, perfect for all nature lovers.
Day Five: Milanesia Track to Gables
Begin your journey at the peaceful Milanesia beach, enjoying its serene atmosphere, and unique geological features known as “Cannonballs”. The track will lead you through a mix of farmland, secluded beaches, and striking sea cliffs, providing a thrilling experience with its ups and downs until you reach Ryan’s Den; which provides views up and down the coast. Continuing through coastal forests, interspersed with sections of dramatic sandstone cliff walking, you’ll face a challenging ascent to Moonlight Head, followed by an easy finish through the beautiful Messmate forest that leads to The Gables Lookout. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views from this lookout point.
Day Six: Gables to the pièce de résistance… the iconic 12 Apostles
This offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking to discover the captivating coastal marvels, glimpse at shipwrecks during low tide and encounter a variety of bird species. Venture through Devils Kitchen, where the trail meanders along the untamed coastal cliffs, offering awe-inspiring views and protected by the stunning coastal heath. Continue your journey towards Princetown, where the wetlands provide a haven for a diverse array of bird species. It is an amazing day of hiking on the Shipwreck coast, topped off with the sensational views from the Great Ocean Walk Lookout near Gibsons Steps...
…Descend the cliff face via the Gibson Steps, which provide handrails and manageable tread rises, leading you to the captivating beach below. What an ending to a truly remarkable journey! The 12 Apostles, majestic limestone formations rising proudly from the azure waters, stand as a testament to the incredible power of nature. On the Inspiration Outdoors 7 day Great Ocean Walk tour, we visit the 12 Apostles in the morning at a time when the region is pleasingly serene, by avoiding the afternoon tour bus scene.
Completing all the Best Walks on the Great Ocean Road in comfort
This remarkable coastal journey combines seclusion, dramatic scenery, and natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression on all who embark on it. If you’d like to complete an end to end of the Great Ocean Walk but leave the track each night for a comfy bed and hot shower then check out our 7 Day tours departing Melbourne in Spring and Autumn. You’ll traverse these captivating sections at a comfortable pace, allowing you ample time to take in the sights, breathe in the fresh coastal air, and bask in the tranquil ambiance. Share the journey with like-minded individuals who share your passion for hiking. Our experienced guides will ensure your journey is safe, engaging, and inspirational, providing valuable insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the area. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your sense of adventure, and join us as we journey along some of the most scenic trails in Victoria.
