Detour Worthy: The Hidden Great Ocean Road Gems Worth Discovering

Make the time to take a full day trip, or a short sidestep away from the Great Ocean Road to discover places you haven’t been before, towns that are ready to explore, and secret spots that really are detour worthy.

Here’s 6 Great Ocean Road hidden gems you’ll wish you discovered sooner!

1. Welcoming Forrest

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Otways’, Forrest is a small town with an abundance of nature, thrills, and local culture.

Enjoy one of the many scenic walks or hiking trails, or have a relaxing picnic at the picturesque West Barwon Reservoir.

Get your heart racing on the Forrest Mountain Bike Trails – a top-rated 60-kilometre single track that circles the town.

And if you’re thirsty after your adventure? Share a story as you sample the local brew and seasonal menu at the friendly Forrest Brewing Co.

Where to stay: Forrest is a 35-minute drive from Skenes Creek

2. Magical Laver’s Hill 

Lavers Hill is a charming hilltop village nestled in the Otways, and offers a perfect blend of nature, food, and art.

Experience Madsen's Track Nature Walk with lush ferns, moss-covered trees and a tranquil atmosphere and see the magical glowworms at Melba Gully along the walking trails at night.

At the highest point of the Great Ocean Road sits The Perch restaurant. Here you can dine on local cuisine while enjoying panoramic forest views and beautiful gardens.

For an art hit, seek out the Drift Sculpture, which pays tribute to the region’s maritime heritage, or the vibrant water tower murals featuring native animals and plants.

Where to stay: Laver's Hill is an hour’s drive from Wye River, Skenes Creek, Kennett River, Port Campbell, Princetown, Marengo or Apollo Bay

3. Beautiful Moonlight Head 

With natural beauty and maritime history, Moonlight Head is a hidden treasure worth exploring.

The Gables Lookout offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Great Southern Ocean. An 800-metre return walk through sheoak forest leads to the lookout.

Not enough for you? The wild and beautiful Wreck Beach is accessible via 350 steep steps, but make sure you go at low tide to discover the rusted anchors of two shipwrecks embedded in the reef.

Moonlight Head is also a great vantage point for spotting whales during the migratory season.

Where to stay: Moonlight Head is a 20-minute drive from Princetown

4. Tasty Timboon

Set in the hinterland, Timboon should also be known as ‘Tasty Timboon’ with all the delicious treats found in this foodie haven.

For sweet-tooths, lick your way through the many ice cream flavours at Timboon Fine Ice Cream, or give in to the tempting smooth fudge at Dairylicious Farm Fudge.

Still hungry? Find locally sourced gourmet goodies at the Timboon Providore, pick your own strawberries at Berry World or indulge in award-winning cheeses at Schulz Organic Creamery & Café.

Then, work off those treats with a stroll across the 100-year-old Timboon Trestle Bridge, or cycle the historic Timboon Rail Trail.

Where to stay: Timboon is a 15-minute drive from Port Campbell

5. Delightful Bellbrae

Bellbrae is a delightful mix of natural beauty, local produce, and coastal vibes (well, Bells Beach is just down the road!).

Sip local cool-climate wines in the shady outdoor space, or in front of the crackling wood fire at the relaxed Bellbrae Estate.

If you dream about abundant chocolate tastings, then a visit to the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery is a sweet must-do for you.

Or for more action, saddle up on horseback and ride on trails in the Great Otway National Park with Spring Creek Horse Rides. Giddy-up!

Where to stay: Bellbrae is a 10-minute drive from Torquay or Anglesea

6. Historic Cape Otway 

Get your fill of outdoor adventure, nature, and history at Cape Otway.

Fancy yourself as a Lightkeeper? At Cape Otway Lightstation, the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, you can explore the historic precinct or stay after the gates are closed in the Lightkeeper’s Cottage (you never know what roams the grounds at night!).

History buffs should pay a visit to the Cape Otway Cemetery, where early settlers, lighthouse keepers, and shipwreck victims are laid to rest.

And don’t forget about beautiful Blanket Bay which is ideal for water-based activities. It's also part of the Great Ocean Walk, you'll discover waterfalls, wildlife and a stunning river inlet on the leg to Parker Hill. For a longer walk through towering Mountain Ash trees before you hit the coast, start at Shelley Beach.

Where to stay: Cape Otway is a 30-minute drive from Marengo or Apollo Bay

Make the effort to visit these Great Ocean Road secrets, and they will surely become the highlights of your trip along the Great Ocean Road. 

Make your park your base

With Great Ocean Road Parks from Torquay to Port Campbell, you can choose a base close to the places you want to explore - then take a detour and discover something new.

Book your stay and uncover the secrets for yourself.

*All drive times are approximate.