Warrnambool
Sitting at the south-western end of Australia’s Great Ocean Road region, Warrnambool is a popular destination for visitors to the state of Victoria. The town, 343kms southwest of Melbourne, is surrounded by rural landscapes and green hinterland, making it a prime holiday destination for nature lovers.
With its lovely stretches of coastline, seaside activities such as swimming at the beach, whale watching and diving to explore the area’s shipwrecks are popular among visitors to Warrnambool. The town was once a sealing and whaling port and evidence of its past exists today. Visitors can relive the town’s seafaring past at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum or head to Shipwreck Coast, a recreated pioneer Australian seaport named after the treacherous coast, which has claimed dozens of ships.
Warrnambool is also known as the 'nursery for the southern right whale'. Although the waters were nearly emptied of whales at the height of the port’s prime as a whaling port, 200 years later they are now coming back to calve in the shallow waters near Warrnambool. Visitors can view this unique display of nature from a special platform at Logan's Beach in the winter months.
Warrnambool accommodation options are diverse, with various styles to suit all budgets including apartments, motels, bed and breakfasts, hotels, hostels and caravan parks. The town of Warrnambool itself features beautiful gardens and parks, trails for hiking and biking, volcanoes, fine dining and shopping options. A number of worthwhile events take place in the town including concerts and festivals.
In addition to being a good place to base yourself if you’re exploring the Great Ocean Road, Warrnambool is also close to Grampians National Park, Cape Bridgewater, Coonawarra Wine Region, the Otways, Tower Hill and Naracoorte World Heritage site. Visit the town’s information centre to learn more about Warrnambool’s attractions and tourism in the area.
There are a number of ways to get to Warrnambool, Victoria including train, coach, bus, taxi and car. The nearest major airport to Warrnambool is Melbourne International Airport. If you choose to travel by rental car, which is a great way to explore the area at your leisure, be sure to pick up a Warrnambool map to assist you during your holiday.