Port Campbell

Towards the western end of the Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell lies nestled among some of Victoria's most spectacular coastal scenery, including Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles. Sheltered by cliffs and Norfolk pines, the town has the atmosphere of a safe haven on the edge of wild nature. Use the village of Port Campbell as a base for seeing the Twelve Apostles, the dramatic rock stacks that have made the coastline famous. A scenic flight offers once-in-a-lifetime bird's-eye views of the Twelve Apostles, while a boat tour around them is the best way to appreciate their immense size. While you’re there, take time out to explore the other stunning coastal features including Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps and the Bay of Islands. Summertime around Port Campbell is most often spent on or in the water. Local creeks and the harbour offer excellent fishing, while Two Mile Bay is revered by surfers as one of the best big-wave breaks in Australia. Dive charters travel to large canyons and gorges on the sea floor, and boat tours cruise to the stacks, caves and arches in the area.

Port Campbell itself is a colourful and lively seaside village, home to restaurants and cafés with views of the beach, bakeries selling homemade goodies and vibrant shops and galleries.

Sip, sample and savour the region's bounty along the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail, including local cheeses, wines, chocolate and whiskey. Alternatively, make your way north of the coast on the Kanawinka Geotrail and explore the lush green farmland peppered with volcanic lakes and craters. Port Campbell is 230 kilometres south-west of Melbourne or about three hours by car along the M1 and A1.