We love winding our way along the Great Ocean Road, and exploring all of its coastal towns along the way. But, since this part of Victoria is famous around the world, it can get a little crowded. Instead of continuing by the sea, take a turn further inland to explore the wonders of the Otways. This massive national park is packed with waterfalls, forest trails and glimmering glow worms, and at its heart, you’ll find the quiet village of Forrest. Located two hours away from Melbourne, this small town is home to around 250 people, and is a great base for your outdoor adventures.
Forrest in the Otways
You’ll find Forrest deep in the hinterland, just 30 minutes away from Colac in the north, and 40 minutes away from Apollo Bay in the south. Whether you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet in nature, or for a thrilling outdoor adventure, you’ll find it in this idyllic holiday destination.
Mountain bike riders will have plenty to do, with almost 100 kilometres of trails around Forrest. Perfect for riding all year round, you’ll weave your way through wet eucalypt forests and past fern gullies. Split between a northern section and a southern section, there’s lots of different tracks available, catering for riders of all levels. There’s also trails that are suitable for adaptive riders. If you don’t have a mountain bike, there is a hire service in the centre of town. Just be sure to make your booking in advance.
After your ride, quench your thirst with a refreshing drink from Forrest Brewing Company. The beer here is brewed on site, and you can see the process for yourself at the small brewery. If you don’t feel like beer, there’s also local wine, soft drink and coffee available for purchase. Stick around and enjoy a meal, with breakfast options like waffles, or crowd favourites like burgers and fish and chips.
For a classic, home-made pie or a little sweet treat, check out the Forrest General Store.
There’s lots of accommodation to choose from, and if you’re after something quirky, book yourself in for a stay in a restored steam carriage. Feel transported back to the 1920s, with details like velvet curtains and salvaged timber, and slow down with an outdoor bath, a hammock and plenty of reading nooks.
Lake Elizabeth
If you prefer to go hiking instead, why don’t you take a short drive out of town, and walk over to the moody Lake Elizabeth? The trail to the lake is a 1.5km return journey, and takes about an hour to complete. Suitable for all ages, this trail follows the East Barwon River to the lake. Dogs are welcome to come along, as long as they’re on a lead.
Over 50 years ago, the valley was flooded, creating the lake you see today. Within the calm waters, you’ll find plenty of petrified tree trunks. If you’ve got plenty of energy to spare, keep walking along the circuit trail, which loops all around the lake. This 4km track is slightly more challenging, and takes about two hours to complete.
If you’re lucky and quiet, you might see the elusive platypus swimming within its waters. For the best chance of seeing the platypus, aim to arrive at dawn or dusk. When you’re not searching for the platypus, listen out for the cheery songs of local birds, like wrens, robins, satin bowerbirds and more.
Keep the adventure going by going kayaking, canoeing or camping in the area.
More Otway adventures
Less than 15 minutes away from the township, you’ll find Treetops Adventure Yeodene Park. Get up high in the canopy, and challenge yourself on the ropes course with ziplines, swinging bridges and more.
Drive 20 minutes away from Forrest to see the spectacular Stevensons Falls. Not to be confused with the similarly named Steavenson Falls in Marysville, the 3.4km return walk will take you from a picnic area, through a strand of Californian redwood trees and along a river to the base of the falls. Admire the cascading water from the viewing area, then make your way back. As you go, look out for kangaroos and wrens. This track is wheelchair and pram-friendly.
If it’s redwoods you’re after, the Otways are home to a magical redwood forest. First planted in 1936, these giant trees are now over 60 metres tall! These trees are further away than the ones in Stevensons Falls, as they’re about a 50 minute drive away from Forrest. But, you’ll feel utterly enchanted as you amble along these rows of towering trees.