Residents of the greater Geelong and Ocean Grove area undoubtedly have one of the most beautiful parts of the state at their fingertips. However, as regional Victoria is coming out of lockdown and spring approaches, read on to find some stunning walking tracks just outside your doorstep.
Sheoak Falls
This relatively steep 20-30 minute walk can be found just out of Lorne on the Great Ocean Road. The 15 metre-high falls run down a steep cliff face into a rock pool below, which is swimmer-friendly. Park your car at Sheoak Falls Carpark for the relaxed 600m walk to the falls, or begin your trek at Sheoak Falls Picnic Area and enjoy the 3.6km walk in the beautiful scenery. Just a bit further down the track you’ll find Swallow Cave, where you can spot swallows nesting in the springtime and glow worms in the evenings.
Erskine Falls
A short drive in the other direction from Lorne is Erskine Falls, perhaps one of the area’s most popular waterfall walks. The waterfall itself is an impressive 30 metres high, with gorgeous lush greenery decorating the track throughout. After making the several-hundred metre walk to the falls, take in the view at the top platform. You can also challenge yourself to visit the lower viewing area via the large set of steps that will leave you out of breath.
Marriners Lookout
This is quite a simple 10 minute walk, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in the quality of the view. A short drive out of Apollo Bay’s town centre, soaring views over the beach and town below will take your breath away. You can also walk from the town for an extended version along the beach or the Great Ocean Road, totalling about 3km before you reach the actual walk. Though the road to the walk may be slightly difficult to find, it is a great place to watch the sunset and maybe even spot some hang gliders. Marriner’s Lookout is on private land, so make sure you are respectful and close the gate behind you as requested.
Triplet Falls
An iconic walking track nestled in the Great Otway National Park, this boardwalk trek will impress you with the ancient trees lining the way. A moderate difficulty 2km loop track, it should take around an hour for you to complete the walk, but much longer if you stop to take in the stunning scenery. Suitable for kids, the Triplet Falls Walk also has a few historical relics hidden away amongst the greenery. You can find remnants of a timber mill that began operating in 1909 on the loop back to the carpark, with parts of an old steam boiler overgrown by nature. About an hour’s drive from the 12 Apostles or Apollo Bay, there is plenty to see along the way to Triplet Falls. Make a day out of it and enjoy the beautiful inland scenery as you drive.
For more information and walking tracks, visit www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au.
