Unique Places to Stay on the Great Ocean Road

Q: Are there eco-friendly or nature-based stays available?

Yes. Properties like Desa Retreat Ecovillas in Torquay, Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats, and Tall Trees Eco Retreat near Apollo Bay offer eco-conscious accommodation surrounded by nature, with features like off-grid designs, wildlife spotting, and yoga retreats.

Q: Can I find pet-friendly accommodation on the Great Ocean Road?

Some properties welcome pets by arrangement, such as The Source in the Otways and Johanna River Farm and Cottages. Always confirm pet policies with the host before booking.

Q: Which places are closest to major attractions like the 12 Apostles?

If you want quick access to the 12 Apostles, Daysy Hill Country Cottages near Port Campbell is a top choice. Staying here means you’re only a short drive from the iconic rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and other Shipwreck Coast highlights.

The Great Ocean Road is one of Victoria’s most popular tourist routes. You may take a short weekend excursion to the southwest coast, which offers a breathtaking shoreline and lots of sights and activities along the route. Numerous towns are available for you to stay in on your journey, such as Apollo Bay and Lorne. Wherever you explore, there are plenty of places to stay on the Great Ocean Road.

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road?

Stretching along Victoria’s south-west coast for 243 kilometers, the Great Ocean Road connects Torquay and Allansford. The route passes through some of the most beautiful coastlines in the country, with many popular resort towns to stop and explore. If you’re planning a weekend on the Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne, knowing which coastal town to stay in is not always easy. It can be tricky.

Popular resort towns to stay in along the Great Ocean Road include Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell. They are a great starting point for exploring the best sights of the Great Ocean Road and offer the trendiest cafes and boutiques.

However, it’s also worth staying away from these popular towns and finding a secluded spot elsewhere. Johanna Beach, Skens Creek, and Otways are remote locations offering a quieter exploration alternative.

Enjoy unique accommodation experiences

On some holidays, you only need a place to return to in the evening and relax. But there are also trips where the stay is the experience, and the fun is exploring your luxury accommodation. Think picturesque cottages with stunning views, stays on working farms, and charming cottages. Consider the following for those seeking a perfect getaway without needing a TV, schedule, or specific purpose. All you have to do in these properties is sit back and enjoy the beautiful views.

Desa Retreat Ecovillas, Torquay

These eco-friendly seafront villas are an excellent choice for a unique stay in Torquay. Desa Retreat is ideal for a stylish and relaxing holiday. It is located in Jan Juk, close to Torquay town centre, and a short walk from Bells Beach.

The one-bedroom villas are self-contained and feature a living room, dining area, kitchenette, and large bedrooms with king-size beds. There is also access to a beautiful garden with a fireplace and outdoor hot shower.

If you wish to add more activities to your special stay on the Great Ocean Road, the owners also provide yoga retreats at their studio.

Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats

This stunning property provides two fantastic lodging options and is only three minutes from Lorne’s Great Ocean Road. For families and groups, there are self-contained lodges with fully equipped kitchens, spacious living and dining areas, two bedrooms, and outdoor patios with barbecues.

Another option is a safari-style glamping tent, which offers a very comfortable way to spend a night outdoors. The tents even have a basic kitchenette and en-suite bathroom, which is nothing like camping. Additionally, in the late afternoon, you may enjoy a leisurely relaxing on the balcony and observe the fauna. Kangaroos and a variety of birds can be seen on the property.

Chianti Cottages, Torquay

Another unique holiday option outside Torquay is Chianti Cottages, just 10 minutes from Jen Juk Beach. It offers a rustic cottage, and a separate holiday home with a kitchen, living room, and bedroom. Exposed brick walls and an open floor plan make this place very comfortable for a weekend family getaway, with a wood-burning fireplace if the temperature drops.

The establishment also offers a cute little studio decorated in bright colors and with a small veranda. Whichever you choose, you can enjoy the pretty garden and al fresco dining area when the sun is shining.

Great Ocean Road Cottages Lorne

These beautiful cottages near Lorne offer a comfortable weekend getaway. The two-story cottages are nestled in the trees outside Lorne, close to beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls.

Every seafront villa has contemporary furnishings and amenities and is tastefully designed. You’ll find a kitchen, living and dining area, and two bedrooms in an open space, perfect for a romantic getaway or traveling with friends. This is the ideal location for Lorne on the Great Ocean Road.

The Source, Otways, Tunbridge Wells

The Source is a stunning hotel located in the Otway rainforest. It is the perfect choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the coast. The hotel offers two accommodation options: a three-bedroom manor house, ideal for large groups and families, and a two-bedroom cottage for a romantic getaway.

With lots of outside space in the garden and a charming outdoor terrace where you can have breakfast in the sun, both are great locations to stay on the Great Ocean Road. They also have hiking trails that start directly from the hotel, perfect for a morning stroll.

With a dining space and kitchen amenities, both choices are self-contained. Pets are allowed by prior arrangement with the owner.

Otway Haven, Tyne and Wear

As the name suggests, Otway Haven is an exclusive retreat in the Otway Rainforest. It is located just north of Apollo Bay in Tanybreen and offers two-bedroom cottages in a beautiful estate setting.

The cottages are carefully designed, creating a homey ambiance that you will not want to leave at the end of the weekend. The living room has a wood-burning stove when it’s chilly, and you can enjoy the outdoor terrace when the weather is more excellent.

If you want to stay near the beautiful Otway Falls on the Great Ocean Road, this accommodation has fantastic recommendations from previous visitors, so you can’t go wrong.

Glenaire Cottages

Glenaire Cottages offers a range of luxury two-bedroom cottages on the Great Ocean Road. With cozy interiors and all the amenities you need for a comfortable self-catering stay, they are a great place to spend a holiday with friends.

The balconies of the contemporary cottages provide views of the sea, and they are situated in stunning natural settings. Most guests describe this place as one of the most peaceful.

Spring House, Apollo Bay

Spring House is a stunning one-bedroom relaxing holiday property. Located near the town of Apollo Bay with stunning ocean views, you can rent the whole house for two people and enjoy your accommodation.

The house is decorated in a simple, modern style, with large windows from which you can admire the garden and the sweeping views. It features an open floor layout and is fully equipped with a kitchen and dining space.

The house also has a large garden with a beautiful terrace for relaxing in nice weather. If you want to spend a memorable weekend away, this is a wonderful option in Apollo Bay.

Tall Trees Eco Retreat, Apollo Bay

If you want to delve deep into the forest after a day at the beach, this eco-friendly property is the perfect option for a getaway near Apollo Bay. Located just 11 km from the city, this property offers a house and a two-bedroom cottage.

Both options are fully equipped with a kitchen, dining area, seating area, and a balcony from where you can enjoy the sounds of the forest. The atmosphere is very rustic and homely, and plenty of wildlife can be admired during your stay.

Most people rave about this accommodation’s secluded atmosphere and relaxing nature, especially for a romantic weekend away.

Cape Otway Homestead, Hordern Vale

This delightful guest house enjoys an exceptional location. Surrounded by nature and with great views from the living room and small terrace, it’s easy to relax.

The one-room lodge is self-contained, with a kitchen, dining room, and living room warmed by a cozy wood-burning fireplace. Most people admire the view, the comfortable living room, and the bed. It’s right off the Great Ocean Road, near Cape Otway. This is the perfect place to stay and explore some of the lesser-visited parts of the famous route.

Johanna River Farm and Cottages

These cottages offer a unique accommodation option near Johanna Beach on the Great Ocean Road, located on a working farm. The self-contained cottages offer views of the popular surfing beach and surrounding farmland.

The cottages are decorated in a rustic style with a cozy wood-burning fireplace and a balcony overlooking the grounds. The farm has a lot of animals, and if you let the owners know ahead of time, you are even welcome to bring your pet.

Daysy Hill Country Cottages, Port Campbell

Daysy Hill Country Cottages offers a wide range of cottages on 55 acres near Port Campbell. Each house is self-contained and has a kitchen, dining area, seating area, and a small patio.

Guests receive rave reviews for the cleanliness, comfort, and rural feel, although it is close enough to town. The backyard has a lovely pond and plenty of space for walking. You can also light a bonfire and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

FAQ

What towns are best for staying along the Great Ocean Road?

Popular resort towns like Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell are great bases with plenty of cafés, boutiques, and nearby attractions. If you prefer quieter stays, consider Johanna Beach, Skene’s Creek, or the Otways for a more secluded experience.

Are there eco-friendly or nature-based stays available?

Yes. Properties like Desa Retreat Ecovillas in Torquay, Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats, and Tall Trees Eco Retreat near Apollo Bay offer eco-conscious accommodation surrounded by nature, with features like off-grid designs, wildlife spotting, and yoga retreats.

Can I find pet-friendly accommodation on the Great Ocean Road?

Some properties welcome pets by arrangement, such as The Source in the Otways and Johanna River Farm and Cottages. Always confirm pet policies with the host before booking.

Are there unique accommodation options besides standard hotels?

Absolutely. You’ll find safari-style glamping tents, rustic farm cottages, coastal homesteads, and even retreats deep in the rainforest. Many have wood-burning fireplaces, ocean-view balconies, or private gardens to make the stay part of the adventure.

Which places are closest to major attractions like the 12 Apostles?

If you want quick access to the 12 Apostles, Daysy Hill Country Cottages near Port Campbell is a top choice. Staying here means you’re only a short drive from the iconic rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and other Shipwreck Coast highlights.