The next time you’re driving along the Great Ocean Road, take a break and stretch your legs on the Kennett River Koala Walk. This peaceful area is home to a large population of koalas, and is one of the few places in Victoria where you can reliably see them in their natural habitat. The nature walk is about two and a half hours away from Melbourne, and is located between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
Kennett River Koala Walk
Your journey begins at the mouth of Kennett River. Park your car at the Kafe Koala General Store, and look out for a dirt road between the cafe and RV Park. This track, known as Grey River Road, stretches for 15 kilometres, but you don’t have to walk along the whole path. You’ll still likely to find plenty of koalas within easy walking distance, just note that the closer to the car park you are, the more crowded it will be.
Amble along the path and look up as you go. You’ll find koalas perched in the eucalyptus trees above, snoozing away or chewing on leaves. Aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chance of seeing the koalas.
You might also see other native wildlife, such as king parrots, kookaburras, cockatoos and wallabies. Just remember to keep a respectful distance, and don’t touch or feed the animals.
After your walk, grab a coffee and a bite to eat from Kafe Koala.
If you’re keen to look out for more koalas, drive about an hour away towards Cape Otway Lightstation. As you travel along Lighthouse Road, look out for more of these adorably fuzzy marsupials.
For more wildlife in the area, venture further into the Great Otway National Park in search of glow worms after dark.