Beyond the Great Ocean Road, hidden away on the untamed coastline of Western Victoria is the charming town of Portland. The sort of place where you’ll feel an immediate sense of relaxation upon arrival. Don’t be fooled though - this laid-back coastal town is anything but boring.Just a stone’s throw from the South Australian border, Portland is home to a beautifully preserved historical town centre, an irresistible food scene and a rich maritime history that is deeply ingrained in the town’s story.
The region offers an abundance of stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventures and some truly special wildlife encounters - so what are you waiting for? It’s time to jump in your Hertz rental car and spend some time exploring one of Victoria’s hidden coastal gems.
Discover Victoria’s oldest town
Just a 10-minute drive from the airport, you’ll arrive in Portland town centre. Not your average seaside town, Portland is Victoria’s oldest settlement, dating all the way back to 1834. There is a certain old world charm about this town that is just begging to be explored - simply spending some time ambling around the historical town centre is an enjoyable part of any Portland visit. You’ll discover a scattering of 19th century heritage buildings on a self-guided historical building walk. Within the city, the bustling commercial hub along Percy Street is home to a variety of boutique shops and cafes, where you’ll be able to get your coffee and brunch fix. Meet some of the friendly locals at The Lido Larder, a gorgeous and top-rated coffee spot right in the heart of town. Just across the road, don’t miss the Maritime Discovery Centre where you’ll gain insight into Portland’s long and rich maritime and seafaring history - something incredibly unique to this region.
An absolute must-do in Portland is the iconic cable tramway, which you can catch from right out the front of the Maritime Discovery Centre. This one hour tram ride will not only transport you through town, but take you on a journey back in time as you rattle your way through Portland in restored 19th century carriages. The hop-on, hop-off journey will take you along the bustling working waterfront, passing by other major attractions in town including the Powerhouse Museum, Portland Art Centre, Botanic Gardens and Tramway museum, making the best way to see the highlights of the area. After spending a day soaking up the ambience and history of the town, head to Clock by the Bay, a gorgeous restaurant located inside the town’s original century post office. With a seasonal menu highlighting local seafood, mouthwatering steaks and modern Australian classics, Clock by the Bay is the sort of place that delivers on all the ingredients for a perfect evening - delightful dining, great wine and breathtaking ocean views. If you're enjoying a tipple or two, be sure to nominate a designated driver.
The beauty of the untamed South West
For a unique stay while you’re in Portland, it doesn’t get much better than Cape Nelson Lighthouse Cottages. Just a 10-minute drive from town in your Hertz rental car, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more secluded accommodation than this. Situated right on the rugged cliffs of Cape Nelson, five original and historical buildings have been beautifully and meticulously restored into luxurious self-contained cottages. Right outside your doorstep, Cape Nelson State Park is criss-crossed with walking tracks through picturesque coastal heath, with the heritage-listed and oh-so photogenic Lighthouse at its southernmost point.
The coastline surrounding Portland is home to some of Australia’s best marine wildlife spotting, making any coastal road trip a truly special experience. All the best spotting locations are easily accessible in your Hertz rental car, including Cape Bridgewater, Blacknose Point and Point Danger. In the winter months, you’ll be able to spot Southern Right whales migrating through the cold waters of the Southern Ocean, and in summer, blue whales come right into the harbour to feast. Head to Cape Bridgewater to see one of Australia’s largest fur seal colonies, or head to Point Danger for some excellent seabird watching. Whichever way you look, you’ll be surrounded by the wild and untamed natural beauty of Victoria’s pristine South West Coast.
The Portland area is the ideal destination for nature-lovers, with a plethora of walking tracks, scenic drives, national parks and coastal wonders. The small and charming town centre maintains its old-world vibe, taking you back in time and making you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you’ll likely find yourself swept up in a unique experience in this beautiful part of the country. A place that will leave you wanting to stay a little longer, and explore a little more.
