What better to do than explore the pristine beauty of the Otway Ranges on a long weekend getaway.

Nestled along the southern coast of Victoria, Australia, lies a nature lovers and adventure seekers paradise. The Otways is a captivating destination that is jam packed with an array of natural wonders, from lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to rugged coastlines and diverse wildlife. Let us take you on a journey through the Otways, discovering its unique attractions and the many reasons why it is a top attraction for anyone with an appreciation for the great outdoors.

Otways Waterfalls

We have visited the Otways on many occasions, however, we did this with the lens of travelling the Great Ocean Road. What we didn’t appreciate was that The Otway Ranges is it’s own unique destination, filled with adventure, sights and wonder. We started our weekend away by ticking off as many stunning waterfalls as we could fit into one day.

One of the most mesmerising features of The Otways Ranges is its array of waterfalls. Beauchamps Falls, Little Aire Falls and Triplet Falls are just a few examples of these natural cascading spectacles. Thanks to the frequent rainfall in The Otways, these falls are often flowing, ensuring that visitors have a powerful, picturesque destination that excites both hikers and photographers.

The Redwoods, Otways

Californian Redwood Sequoia Sempervirens Trees

Not only does The Otways Ranges provide destination waterfalls, it also offers adventurers an enchanting journey through temperate rainforests. Providing a cool, green oasis in the heart of the region. Here you can wonder through ancient myrtle beech trees, towering tree ferns, and moss-covered forest floors. Walking trails such as the Maids Rest Rainforest Walk offer an up-close and personal experience with unique ecosystems. Almost as if you are taking a step back in time, wondering through eucalyptus, surrounded by the sound of birdcall and bubbling streams. Don’t let these rainforests fool you into thinking they are daytime only destinations, because they offer their own unique experience in the dark, cool night. Here you can find glow worms hiding in amongst the foliage as you carefully wonder along the tracks searching for their iridescent glow in the night.

Far from the eucalypts and moss covered walkways, deep in The Otways Ranges you will find a remarkable stand of the world’s tallest tree species. Growing far from its native soil in California, you will find The Redwoods, towering on the sheltered river flat at the Aire Valley Plantation, these Sequoia Sempervirens Trees were originally planted in 1936 by Victorian foresters for experimental purposes. These trees are thriving, and create a space that is fairy tale quality. Walking amongst these tall, towering giants creates a space where you stop, breathe, see and feel the forest. Taking in the sheer height of these magnificent trees and relaxing in the magic of the forest gives you a reminder of the power of nature and the environment, and how small the human footprint can and should be.

Rugged Coastlines

The famous Great Ocean Road winds its way through this region, offering jaw-dropping views of cliffs, sea stacks, and the Southern Ocean. Here you will find the famous limestone stacks, The Twelve Apostles, an iconic sight. These coastlines can be experienced through the journey taken along the long and winding Great Ocean Road, or by simply stopping and appreciating the beaches and scenes found along the coastal towns. A walk along Apollo Bay’s harbour wall is the perfect place to experience an awe inspiring sunset.

Otway Fly Tree Top Adventures

For those seeking adventure, The Otways Ranges offer ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and even canopy walks. The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures allows visitors to explore the rainforest canopy from elevated walkways and a thrilling zip-line tour. As you take a stroll along the 600 metre-long, 30 metre-high elevated walkways, you experience unrivalled views of the areas unique beauty. This experience allows you to get up close and personal with the regions flora and fauna, providing an exhilarating experience as you sway up high in the rainforest canopy.

Whether you seek the tranquility of the rainforest, the rush of a zip-line adventure, or the timeless beauty of waterfalls and coastline, The Otways Ranges is a natural wonderland that has something for everyone. It invites you to explore, wonder and experience its unique and untouched beauty, making it a destination that you will return to time and time again.