5 things to do in Lorne
Lorne, the picturesque first port of call on Victoria’s world-famous Great Ocean Road, has long been a favourite with Melbourne holidaymakers and weekenders. With a stunning coastline, lush forests and laid-back beach vibes, this seaside resort town is a place you’ll want to linger, longer. Check out these five things to do in Lorne.
Great Ocean Road
Often with travel it’s more about the journey than the destination, and Lorne is no exception. The drive along Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road, skirting rugged cliff tops, windswept beaches and verdant gullies, is one you won’t soon forget. The 241-kilometre route from Torquay to Allansford, is one of Australia’s greatest coastal drives. Take your time and explore the haunting site of the Loch Ard Gorge shipwreck, admire the magnificent 12 Apostles, and stretch your legs in the rainforests of the Otways.
Erskine Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park is Erskine Falls, just 10 kilometres’ drive from the centre of Lorne. From the car park it’s a short walk to a viewing platform, where you can peer out over the 30-metre-high cascades. For a more energetic experience, descend some 240 steps into a tree-fern gully at the base of the falls and feel the mist sweep across your skin. Pack a picnic and breathe in the fresh mountain air – there’s lots of it.
Helicopter flight
Seeing the 12 Apostles from the cliff top on the Great Ocean Road is cool. Seeing them from the air is cooler. Get a bird’s-eye view of these Instagram-worthy landmarks during an adrenaline-fuelled scenic helicopter flight. Your heart will be pounding with the force of the thrashing ocean below as the chopper hovers high over the eight remaining limestone stacks, London Bridge and Loch Ard Gorge. The best way to truly appreciate the beauty and scale of this dramatic coastline is by air.
Lorne Sea Baths
The Lorne Sea Baths occupy prime position on the foreshore and provide year round relaxation, thrills and spills in a most idyllic setting. The kids can burn off some energy bouncing on the in-ground trampolines, try their hand at mini golf and get their adrenaline pumping on the bumper boats, while the adults can enjoy the health and fitness facilities, including the hydrobaths and steam and salt therapy rooms. The 33-metre outdoor pool is a winner with the whole family, especially in summer.
Teddy’s Lookout
For sweeping vistas of the Great Ocean Road, hinterland and coastline, drive to the end of George Street and follow the short walkway to the viewing platform of Teddy’s Lookout. Rarely are you so greatly rewarded for so little effort – the lookout affords magnificent views out across the coast, where the St George River empties into a small cove. Turn away from the ocean (if you can) and enjoy views from the lower platform across verdant peaks where the river spills through vast rivers and gorges. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for resident wallabies and koalas.