Great Ocean Walk
Cape Otway Lightstation - The Heart of the Great Ocean Walk
THE Great Ocean Road heads for the hills soon after Apollo Bay but hikers now have the chance to continue their journey along the amazing coastline by joining the world-class Great Ocean Walk.
The 91km trail traverses the rugged coastline taking walkers on an unforgettable journey along breath-taking coastline, atop some of Australia's tallest sea cliffs, splashing through pristine streams, along untouched beaches and into secluded campsites.
The views are amazing, the history of this rugged region is awe-inspiring, and the magic worked by Mother Nature has to be seen to be believed. For the fit and determined bushwalkers there is the opportunity to complete the eight-day seven-night walk which begins in Apollo Bay and ends at Glenample Homestead, adjacent to the iconic limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles.
Cape Otway Lightstation is located at the heart of the Great Ocean Walk. It's a great hopping-off point for people interested in the incredible maritime history and major shipping disasters of this treacherous stretch of coastline. The Lightstation gives walkers a unique historial context to the walk.
Some of the walk is based on the track blazed by Port Phillip District Superintendent Charles Joseph La Trobe in March 1846. After the loss of almost 400 lives when the Cataraqui sank off nearby King Island, La Trobe was charged with surveying Cape Otway for the establishment of a lighthouse.
Walkers also retrace the footsteps of the first Cape Otway lightkeepers and their staff who travelled along the coastline to retrieve life-saving cargo from supply ships.
One of the best features of the walk is you can hop on and off the walk according to what you want to see, or how much time you can spare.
Let us help make your Great Ocean Walk not only unique, but also memorable. Contact Paul Thompson at the Lightstation for information (contact details).
Cape Otway Lightstation offers discounted entry to Great Ocean Walkers registered with Parks Victoria. You are welcome to soak up stories of the site's Aboriginal and European history.
All that beach and hill-walking builds a fearsome appetite and walkers are welcome to enjoy a snack or meal in the Lightstation Café. Staff will also pack meals for those who are keen to get back on track.
Car parking is available at the Lightstation for those who want to undertake a short or half-day hike east or west of the Cape. There is also more secure parking available within the Lightstation grounds (fees apply).
Accommodation is available at the Lightstation. Our friendly staff can arrange transfers, food and guides.
COMING SOON: Cape Otway Lightstation will launch tailor-made guided tours of the Great Ocean Walk. We'll plan a walk to match your schedule, fitness level and interests.
For more information about the Great Ocean Walk itself visit www.greatoceanwalk.com.au.
