Explore this beautiful old port city at the end of the Great Ocean Road and discover the turbulent history of the ‘Shipwreck Coast’. Just a three-hour direct drive from Melbourne, the spectacular, bucket-list-worthy drive between the two towns along the Great Ocean Road is known as a great place to spot whales.
Warrnambool was established as a port in the 1840s. It grew quickly and prospered thanks to the Victorian gold rush. Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village tells the story of this fascinating place in the form of 40 heritage buildings and vessels spread over 10 hectares. Don’t miss the ‘Shipwrecked!’ light and sound show, which brings to life the notorious Loch Ard wreck of 1878.
Warrnambool is best known for Logan’s Beach, on the east side of the city, which southern right whales use as a nursery in the winter months. Every year, between late May and late September, female whales arrive and give birth to their calves. They can be easily viewed from whale watching platforms – or you can take a cruise.
A less well-known wildlife attraction is Middle Island, a colony of fairy penguins that was almost wiped out by foxes until Maremma sheep dogs were introduced to protect the defenceless birds. You can go on a ‘Meet the Maremmas’ tour either on the island itself or at nearby Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, depending on the time of year.
Warrnambool is also a great base to explore some stunning countryside. The Otways are a paradise of lush rainforest, undiscovered waterfalls – and glow worms – just 90 minutes’ drive to the east. Meanwhile, the mighty and mountainous Grampians are just two hours’ drive north.
