The rugged up and ready bit
This is the bit where the dropping temperature and gathering clouds combine to bring nature’s most dramatic season crashing down in all its symphonic splendour.
Image: Lorne Accommodation, Great Ocean Road
Other states might shut down and wait for the warmer weather, but not us. Because from the storm-tossed coast to cosy seaside villages, off peak means wilder sights and more open space for you to enjoy at leisure.
Beach walks & coastal hikes
The beach in summer is nice, but standing with your face to the wind, watching turbulent spray-capped waves crashing into the shore under a moody sky is a vibe. See the raw power of nature on display along the Cape Schanck boardwalk at the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, or take in views of the rugged coast of Cape Woolamai on Phillip Island.
Image: Cape Woolamai, Phillip Island
Choose your own adventure along the Great Ocean Road, where you can tackle short segments of the Great Ocean Walk, or embark on the epic 110 kilometre journey spanning from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles.
Whale watching
Image: Wildlife Coastal Cruises, Phillip Island
If you travel down Victoria’s southern coastline in winter, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most magnificent sights. The waters in Warrnambool and Portland, on Phillip Island and even in Wilsons Promontory are teeming with humpback whales, southern right whales, blue whales and orcas making their annual migration to give birth to their calves. Spot these majestic creatures from viewing platforms, cliff tops, rocky outcrops and wildlife cruises.
Thundering waterfalls
Whoever said don’t go chasing waterfalls, clearly never ventured into The Otways along the Great Ocean Road. Home to turbulent falls crashing from great heights to gentle cascades flowing into undulating rivers, the waterfalls of The Otways are a sight to behold.
Image: Hopetoun Falls, Great Ocean Road
Choose from Beauchamp, Hopetoun or Stevensons Falls scattered throughout the forest, or venture off the Great Ocean Road’s main drag to Erskine, Henderson or Phantom Falls in Lorne.
Spa retreats
This is the bit where we escape the chill of the outdoors and say a big yes please to a touch of indulgence at one of the many spa and wellness retreats dotted along Victoria’s coast.
Image: Lon Retreat & Spa, Great Ocean Road
First up is Lon Retreat & Spa in Point Lonsdale. Hidden on a hill by the ocean, stay in one of the seven suites that are inspired by the natural surrounds. Curl up by the fire or the make the most of mineral spa and heated indoor pool on-site, while also enjoying private beach access.
Other options include Lux Spa & Wellness in Anglesea, where you can escape the noise of the outside world and treat yourself to a massage, body wrap or infrared sauna, or sink into one of the soothing hot magnesium pools at About Time Bathhouse in Torquay.
Cosy eats
Food, glorious food. Winter is the season for treating your tastebuds to hearty, soul-warming food and brews in moody spaces with warm lighting, fireplaces and seasonal-inspired menus.
Image: St Andrews Beach Distillery, Mornington Peninsula
Get comfy by the fire at St Andrews Beach Brewery and gorge yourself on pizza and burgers washed down with a beer or cider that’s made on-site. Settle in for a feast in the newly renovated bistro and front bar inside the Portarlington Grand Hotel. The wood accents and crackling fire create a warm and welcoming ambience while the hearty pub fare and decadent desserts will warm you from the inside out.
Out on Phillip Island, look out at the chilly coastal waters while seated in comfort at Beach HQ Restaurant & Bar where you can dine on seafood, Gippsland beef or vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options.
