Great Ocean Walking Journey

After breakfast, we begin our walk at the Cape Otway Lightstation, following 10 km of trail through dramatic, windswept landscapes of sand dunes, coastal scrub, and striking calcified cliffs. At the Aire River Lookout, sweeping views open up over the estuary, where the Aire River meets the Southern Ocean and Glenaire Beach. From here, we descend gently to the Aire River Bridge and picnic area. Here, a second guide will meet us — and if you'd prefer a shorter day, you’re welcome to return via the support vehicle.

For those continuing, the walk from Aire River to Castle Cove covers another 6 km through tea-tree forest and open coastal terrain. Expect some ups and downs before arriving at Castle Cove — a spectacular beach nestled between towering cliffs, known for its archaeological significance, where dinosaur fossils have been discovered.

If time allows, we’ll also visit the stunning Maits Rest Rainforest Walk on our return to Cape Otway — an easy 800m loop through cool, shaded temperate rainforest and a welcome contrast to the coastal heat.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Walking distance: 16 km (approx. 5 - 6 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate

Today we take on one of the most remote and exhilarating sections of the Great Ocean Walking Journey. Starting at Milanesia Gate, we descend to the isolated and rugged Milanesia Beach, a secluded stretch rarely visited. Keep an eye out for the lone “beachcomber’s cottage” as we arrive.

From there, the trail climbs dramatically along the clifftops toward Ryan’s Den, offering some of the most spectacular views of the entire track—spanning all the way back to Cape Otway and forward to Cape Volney. It’s the perfect lunch stop, perched above the ocean with breathtaking vistas. After lunch, we continue through wild coastal forests that lead us over Cape Volney and finally to Moonlight Head, named by explorer Matthew Flinders in 1802 during a break in stormy weather.

To round out the day, we may stop in Lavers Hill for a well-earned cup of tea or coffee before returning to our accommodation.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Walking distance: 12 km (approx. 7 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate

Our final walk begins above the wetlands of Princetown, rich in birdlife and peaceful views. We descend into the Gellibrand River Estuary, reconnecting with the Great Ocean Walking Journey on a freshly built section of trail. From here, we enter Port Campbell National Park, heading toward the region’s most iconic landmarks.

As we near the end of the trail, the famous Twelve Apostles come into view — rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. At Gibson’s Beach Car Park, tides permitting, we descend the Gibson’s Steps to view Gog and Magog up close from sea level.

The final kilometer leads to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre, where we enjoy our last lunch of the tour. On our drive back to Melbourne, we’ll stop for a coffee or tea in Winchelsea, returning to the city by around 5:00 pm.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Walking distance: 8.5 km (approx. 3 hours)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate

*Walking times and distances may be adapted to the weather and groups needs based on guides discretion.