The Surfcoast region is within half an hour of the centre of Geelong and is one of Australia’s best getaways. Some of the world’s most magnificent beaches, a full calendar of events, great attractions and plenty of things to see, do and experience it’s no wonder it is so popular year round.
To pull out just a few highlights is difficult but here we go.
Anglesea offers a treat for visitors especially those from overseas. Where else can you have a round of golf amongst a huge herd of Kangaroos? This magnificent course has dozens of grey kangaroos sunning themselves on the greens or taking shade under the native trees.
Golf lovers will also love Barwon Heads, the township is known for two of the finest courses in the Country, The Barwon Heads Golf Club and 13th Beach. The Barwon Heads club dates back to early last century and features magnificent fillings and fixtures including a luxurious billiard room, lounges and traditional charm. The course is carved into the natural sand dunes of the site. 13th Beach is one of the newer courses opening in 2004 to great acclaim. The course includes clubhouse, condominiums and residential properties, with the course being rates as one of Australia’s top 20 courses and designed by Sir Nick Faldo and Tony Cashmore.
For the surfing mad, Torquay is the place for you. Visit the huge Surf Coast Plaza not only are there dozens of surf shops including quite a few direct from factory stores offering incredible discounts, the plaza is also home to the Surfworld Museum. This museum is a interactive and fun exhibition of everything surfing, from the history and development of the sport to the impact the sport has had on our national culture and identity.
The magnificent White Queen or Split Point lighthouse at Airey’s Inlet is another unique experience. There are guided tours at certain times during the year which not only explain the life and times of this iconic structure but offer incredible 360 degree views of the coast and township.
Further down the coast, The Lorne Pub is one of Lorne’s institutions, not only is it the finishing place for the annual Pier to Pub swim it is a integral part of the lifestyle and makeup of the township. There is nothing better than enjoying ice cold refreshment from the huge deck overlooking the township and bay on a warm summer’s day. Lorne is also home to Erskine Falls, which is found in the hills behind the township. The falls feature a 30 metre drop which makes them the largest drop in the Otways. The falls are easily reached with good walking tracks and plenty of informative information on hand.
The Surfcoast offers some of magnificent wines, names like St Regis, Bellbrae Estate, Freehans Road Vineyard and Minya are a few of the names enjoyed on tables all around this country. The fresh sea breezes, and special soils and temperate climate make this region so suitable for wine.