This road trip will allow you the opportunity to step out, stretch your legs and breathe in some of the world’s freshest air while taking in some of Australia’s best vistas. Whether it’s a 5 day jaunt in a National Park or 2 hour stroll through a village or along a windswept beach, you will find a walking experience that suits your needs.

Village Walks

Each of the villages on The Great Southern Touring Route will have a Visitor Information Centre, staffed by resident volunteers who will have information and local knowledge on short strolls in and around their region.

Surf Coast Walk

The Surf Coast Walk connects the coastal towns of Torquay, Anglesea and Aireys Inlet. These coastal tracks allow you to experience this magnificent coastline over an hour, a few days or a week at your own pace. From surf culture at Bells Beach to abundant wildlife or exploring unique landscapes this walk will have you primed for what lays ahead on the Great Ocean Road. 

Great Otway National Park

The Great Otway National Park stretches from Torquay through to Princetown and up through the Otways hinterland towards Colac.

The park features rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rock platforms and windswept heathland. In the north, the park features tall forests, ferny gullies, magnificent waterfalls and tranquil lakes. 

Down south, the rainforest gives way to the ocean in dramatic fashion. Visit the turbulent meeting of the South Ocean and Bass straight at Cape Otway Light Station, or seek out a sheltered beach for a day of sea play.

For more information go to Parks Victoria here. 

Great Ocean Walk

The Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia’s most sought after walks, offering a backstage pass to the famous Great Ocean Road. It is a challenging and diverse walking experience traversing windswept cliffs, pristine beaches and tall-forests. Step on and step off the Great Ocean Walk between Apollo Bay and The Twelve Apostles.

Build your own experience from two, three or four day itineraries or take on the whole eight day adventure including the incredible wildlife along the journey.

Park Trek Walking Holidays offers fully inclusive and guided tours and can tailor the experience to suit your needs, experienced and mature guides will share their passion and knowledge on local history, wildlife and flora and topography. 

Port Campbell National Park (Twelve Apostles)

Port Campbell National Park includes areas from Princetown to Peterborough and its star attraction is the 12 Apostles. This extraordinary and iconic collection of wave-sculpted rock formations are world famous and a must see. There is also much more to explore. Loch Ard Gorge is the site of a famous 19th century shipwreck of the 'Loch Ard', the story of the Loch Ard is told in a sound and light show at Flagstaff Hill in Warrnambool.

Stay overnight at Southern Ocean Villas and also check out, London Bridge, The Arch and The Grotto.  Watch a magnificent sunset over The Twelve Apostles and take some short walks such as the Port Campbell Discover Walk and learn why this hazardous coast became The Shipwreck Coast.

For more information go to Parks Victoria here. 

Grampians Peaks Trail

The Grampians Peaks Trail will provide an intimate and unforgettable walking experience of dramatic peaks, panoramic views and the majesty of an ancient and rugged landscape. The recently opened first section is a 36 km, three day/two night circuit walk from Halls Gap. 

When the 144 km trail is completed it will span the entire spine of the Grampians National Park and stretch over 13 days and 12 nights delivering one of the most unique natural and cultural experiences in Australia. 

Grampians National Park

Rising abruptly from the surrounding Western Plains, the Grampians (Gariwerd) is a series of rugged sandstone mountain ranges and forests full of wildlife. One of Victoria’s most popular holiday destinations the park is a great opportunity to camp, climb, walk and study nature.

An amazing network of walking tracks throughout the park allow you to explore cascading waterfalls, brilliant spring wildflower displays.

Head to Brambuk – The National Park & Cultural Centre in Halls Gap for detailed information on walks in the region. If you are keen for a short walk that will reward you with incredible views climb to the summit of Mount William.  At 1,167 metres, Mount William is the highest point in the Grampians National Park and provides great 360-degree views of mountain ranges and open plains.

From the Mount William car park it takes a moderately fit person approximately 45 mins to walk to the summit. Despite the steep walk the great views make it a must see for anyone wanting to see the entire Grampians from one lookout.

For more panoramic views drive head to Reeds and Boroka Lookouts or for a great pic opportunity walk to the magnificent MacKenzie Falls. The area also has some Aboriginal rock art sites.

Wildlife is everywhere and kangaroos and emus wander the surrounds of Halls Gap, be ready for a pic opportunity.

For more information go to Parks Victoria here.