NATURE’S MAGIC

A wonderful world of adventure awaits in the Otways. Come rediscover yourself where rainforests meet oceans, where sky touches earth and where wildlife thrives.

Hug centuries-old trees and feel their energy enliven you. Bathe in the cool-air lushness, and marvel at how plentiful rainfall has shaped everything in the landscape – from tall-timber Mountain Ash to tumbling waterfalls, rushing streams and misty lakes.

In 1951, a landslip dammed the Barwon River East branch, forming Lake Elizabeth, hidden deep in the Otways to the east of the township of Forrest. This magical place is other-worldly. Tranquil and still, with ghost trees and a haunting bush soundtrack. You can’t help but reconnect with nature here, whether you sit silently and absorb, or wander one of the walking tracks looping the lake. There are literally dozens of waterfalls in the Otways. Some you can hear tumbling from the carpark. Others make you lace up your walking shoes and work for the reward. Trek to Phantom Falls on the St George River 2km from Lorne. Or take the 1-hour loop walk to spectacular Triplet Falls near Beech Forest. Enjoy easy access to the first lookout at Erskine Falls near Lorne, with an optional steep climb down for a level-up view from a beautiful fern gully.

CRUSHING ON CRITTERS …

• Linger at Lake Elizabeth (below) around dusk and you might spy an elusive platypus, the rare duck-billed monotreme. Or take a canoe tour to get out on the water and amplify your chances of a sighting.

• Join a conservationist guide to eco-tour Wildlife Wonders and get up close with wildlife living freely in a stunning bushland environment overlooking the ocean. Learn about the ecology of the Otways and latest conservation research projects

• Take a night walk in the forest to see dazzling glow worms create a magical ‘fairylight’ spectacle. Find them at Great River Picnic Reserve, Melba Gully and Maits Rest, or on some of the waterfall walks and trails around Lorne.

• Visit Cape Otway Lightstation for a chance to spy magnificent whales in their natural habitat. Each year, 25 whale species migrate past including Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales and Orcas.

• Look for sleepy koalas perched high in gum trees at Cape Otway, Kennett River, Wye River and Lorne. You might get lucky and spot one of these furry marsupials on the move.