A guide to wellness on the Great Ocean Road

For hiking enthusiasts, the Great Ocean Walk is a bucket-list adventure that’s nothing short of unforgettable. Spanning 100km from Apollo Bay to the iconic Twelve Apostles, this trail takes you through some of the most beautiful sections of the Great Ocean Road. Picture yourself wandering along secluded beaches, scaling rugged cliffs and stepping into ancient forests alive with the whispers of nature. Whether you’re up for the full eight-days or prefer to explore shorter, more accessible sections, this trail delivers jaw-dropping views and an immersive connection to incredible landscapes.

While the Great Ocean Walk is arguably the best hike in Victoria, the trails around Lorne or Port Campbell National Park are also highly rewarding. Here you will enjoy paths through fern gullies, woodlands and dramatic coastal scenery. The Great Otway National Park is another haven for tranquility seekers, with its towering ferns, cascading waterfalls and serene gullies. Pause at Erskine Falls, where the sound of rushing water provides the perfect backdrop for mindfulness.

For a different kind of rejuvenation, try forest bathing (or shinrin-yoku), a practice of immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of the forest to reduce stress and enhance emotional wellbeing.

The Great Ocean Road offers a delicious blend of local produce and wholesome dining. In Camperdown, WellNest Health Food Store is a must for organic produce, health-conscious snacks and wellness products. In Warrnambool, The Fresh Market buzzes with seasonal produce, artisan breads and handmade condiments – ideal for stocking up on picnic supplies. Nearby in Port Fairy, Jos Pantry champions sustainability with its fresh produce and take-home meals, perfect for a nourishing dinner after a day of adventure.

For a meal with a view, head to The Perch at Lavers Hill, where fresh, seasonal dishes are paired with the serene beauty of the Otways. And for a truly unforgettable culinary experience, book a table at Brae in Birregurra. This world-renowned restaurant offers a degustation menu crafted from local ingredients, much of it grown on-site.

At Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park, stay in what have to be the cutest little glamping pods in Victoria. A great base for families with its own giant jumping pillow and playground, you can walk to the beach and cook your own meals in the newly renovated camp kitchen. Qii House, near Erskine Falls, is an eco-friendly rainforest retreat where tranquillity reigns supreme. Perfect for those seeking a serene escape, its peaceful surroundings provide a sanctuary for recharging.

For a more structured wellness experience, the Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea offers accommodation alongside retreat packages. Their two-night Replenish Retreat includes yoga, sound healing, guided walks and deliciously relaxing spa treatments. For hot springs enthusiasts, staying at the Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs in Warrnambool ensures unlimited access to its thermal waters.

Getting to the Great Ocean Road is part of the adventure, setting the tone for the breathtaking journey ahead. Starting in Torquay, just over an hour’s drive southwest of Melbourne, the iconic route stretches along Victoria’s rugged coastline, weaving through lush rainforests, pristine beaches and charming towns. While it’s possible to begin your trip with a train or bus ride to Geelong or Warrnambool, hiring or driving your own car is undoubtedly the best way to experience everything this extraordinary region has to offer.