EXPLORING RIVER DEEP

Kayak your way to solitude and perfect reflection in a remote natural wonderland. Deep in the far southwest reaches of the Great Ocean Road Region, the Glenelg River (above), snakes it’s gorged way through the Lower Glenelg National Park Kayaking the flat-water river is a soul-journey gift to yourself, whether you opt for a multi-day camp-in experience or a half-day dip-your-toes-in taster.

Stretching 75km through Gunditjmara Country from Dartmoor to its mouth near Nelson, the river unfurls a fabulous natural bush environment alive with native wildlife. Inky dark waters reflect everchanging sky, towering trees and a stunning natural world. You’ll feel immersed, disconnected from life’s troubles, and totally in sync with nature.

Hire a kayak or canoe (or BYO) and paddle downstream from camp to camp. Set your own pace. Float silently along, absorbing every tiny detail – eucalypt aromas, eerie bird calls, koalas perched in gums, secret nooks, layered textures in the limestone cliffs and the hum of the bush. Or challenge yourself physically to paddle hard and slide through the water to reach the next bend or your camp spot for the night.

Throw in a line and catch a fish to pan-sizzle over your evening campfire. (First get yourself a recreational fishing licence online or at local outlets.) Look for the landing points (there are 29 of them) and tiny jetties where you can stop for a mug of hot tea and a wander on the bank. Go in search of rare and threatened spider orchids and keep your eyes peeled for red-necked wallabies, sugar gliders, echidnas and even platypus. Make the 2.5km trek to the ancient Princess Margaret Rose

Cave to ogle stalagmites, stalactites and helictites. Cave tours available.

The eight campsites along the route are well cared for and reserved for canoeists/kayakers only. You’ll find fireplaces, toilet facilities and fresh water. Camping out means you get to hit the water early and enjoy the morning mist and tranquillity at it's glorious best.

And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you reach the sweeping estuary where the landscape transitions and the diversity is more than mindblowing – it’s pure bliss.

CAN-DO CANOEING …

• Hire canoes or kayaks in Dartmoor or Nelson. Your hire operator can set you up with life jackets, paddles and dry bags for your gear. They have maps, itineraries, camp booking info and mountains of local know-how to share. You can also tee-up drop-offs and pick-ups along the route.

• For something special, gather your girl squad (or just your good self) and join Women of Wander for an all-female guided canoe and hiking expedition. The 5-day/4-night tour is suitable for beginners, with a taste of hiking, canoeing, camping and a great mix of shared and solo time.

• Stay safe. Be prepared. Plan according to your ability. Don’t canoe alone. Wear lifejackets. Don’t overload your canoe. Don’t mix alcohol and canoeing. Check conditions in advance. Always, always ask for advice and info in the local area before you head out on the water.