Otway Fly Treetop Adventure

Set amongst the beautiful Otways rainforest the Otways Fly Tree Top Adventure  provides a great opportunity to see the rainforest from a different angle.

The walk takes about an hour over its 2 kilometre length and features a thrilling cantilever section where you feel totally above the beautiful forest below. 

Views from the highest point - the 47 metre high tower are also amazing.

You start the walk from the Visitor Centre and Cafe and wander, at your own pace, down hill to the start of the treetop walk. Its then a gradual climb as you wander along the walkway where you'll find interpretive signs that provide interesting information on the range of trees and flora nearby.

A free shuttle service is available making the trip from or to the Visitor Centre easier.

Cost is a very reasonable $25 adults, $15 children, $70 family and $21.50 for seniors.

We include the Tree Top Adventure in our 2 day private tour of the  Great Ocean Road Tour or our 3 day private tour of the Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour.

If you have plenty of time and are ready for adventure you can do the Zipline Tour which takes 3.5 hours and includes flying on a series of cable spans from one platform to another.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands Coastal Park is a narrow strip approx 32 kilometres long and located between Peterborough, at the western end of the Great Ocean Road, and stretches to Warrnambool further west.  

The town of Warrnambool was settled by the Europeans in the 1840s and Port Campbell in the 1870s. With European settlement came the ships that supplied the area and the treacherous coast caused many shipwrecks.

Amongst these the schooner 'Young Australia' in 1877 was driven ashore at Curdies Inlet after receiving damage to its fore-top mast at Cape Nelson during inclement weather. No lives were lost. 

In 1908 the 'Falls of Halladale', a 4 mastered iron barque built in Scotland, was wedged between two reefs at Halladale Point when the captain's judgment was impaired by heavy fog.

The Coastal Park, like nearby Port Campbell National Park, has sheer limestone cliffs and offshore islands. This fascinating coastline developed millions of year's ago when tiny marine animal skeletons built up beneath the sea and formed the soft limestone which was then eroded by the wild seas and winds of the Southern Ocean sculpting the limestone into the shapes we see today. Its a popular area for photography particularly at sunset and far less crowded than the 12 Apostles area.

The wild Southern Ocean also provided a wealth of resources for Kirrae Whurrong people, the traditional owners of the area. Evidence of their habitation of the area over thousands of years such as blackened shells (shell middens), scraping tools and other small artefacts, remain as indicators of a healthy and diverse diet.The Kirrae Whurrong continue to live in this area celebrating their traditional physical and spiritual connections. 

Lookout areas are located at the Bay of Martyrs, the Bay of Islands, Three Mile Beach and Childers Cove.

You can book a 1, 2, 3 or 4  day private tour with Longhorn YOUnique Tours which will include visiting these National Parks 

Torquay - the gateway to the Great Ocean Road

Torquay, originally know as Spring Creek, is a popular seaside town with holiday makers and one of the great surfing beaches found along the Great Ocean Road.  Its popularity stems from its close proximity and ease of access to Melbourne which improved substantially in recent years with the opening of the Geelong Ring Road.

Early morning near the Surf Life Savings Club

The area was originally occupied by the Wathaurong people for more than 40,000 years before white settlement occurred around 1871.  It was bountiful country for the Wathaurong with shellfish, mussels and oysters available all year round on the coastline and the grasslands inland providing significant grazing animals for hunting.

The Europeans modelled the beach front on European beaches with grass park lands and trees lining the beach.

Front beach Torquay

This area remains popular with families today with BBQ's, outdoor showers and toilets all available.

The Joseph Scammell was shipwrecked on the reef at Point Danger in 1891. Everyone was rescued from the ship but much of its cargo was looted by locals. Its anchor lay in the ocean for more than 80 years before being recovered and is now on display in the park at Front Beach.

The  Torquay Surf Life Savings Club opened in 1946 and is considered to be the oldest and largest club in Victoria. These clubs and their dedicated members play an important part in Australian seaside towns patrolling beaches, rescuing people in trouble and forming a social hub for the Community.

Torquay is one of the busiest beaches in Victoria and club members patrol the beach for more than 3,000 hours and perform between 20 and 30 rescues each year.  On weekends in the summer you'll find Nippers (young children) being trained on the beach, its a great sight as it means the next generation of life savers are being formed.

Torquay has grown substantially and now has a number of golf courses and hotels including the newly opened RACV Torquay Resort.   The Resort has accommodation,  a range of restaurants, a day spa and the Torquay Golf Club. 

RACV Torquay Golf Club

Peppers adjacent to the Sands Golf Resort also has a golf course, accommodation, a day spa and restaurant. The Whynham Resort is located at Zeally Bay Beach Torquay and also has a range of facilities.

If camping or caravanning is your holiday of choice these are well catered for at Torquay with Barwon Caravan Park, Torquay Holiday Park and Torquay Caravan Park.

Torquay has a range of restaurants, cafes and shops including a large and popular range of surf clothing outlets at Surf City Plaza. 

1 day Great Ocean Road Tour

2 day Great Ocean Road Tour

3 day Great Ocean Road Tour

3 day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour

4 day Melbourne to Adelaide Tour

Coonawarra Wine Region

The Coonawarra region is located about 375 kilometres south west of Adelaide close to the Victorian border.

It is renowned for producing world class red wines especially Cabernet Sauvignon and its secret is the magical marriage of rich red terra rossa soil, limestone, pure underground water and a long cool ripening season for the grapes.

Its a great wine area to visit as the wineries are all located close together basically along a 21 kilometre stretch of the main road.

29 wineries make up the region with 25 having cellar door sales. Whilst this is an area famous for its red wines a number of the wineries also produce white varieties  Patrick of Coonawarra also produces Applelation a very tasty apple cider.

Patrick of Coonawarra

 Hollick Wines

Where to eat

Hollick Wines is the only winery with a restaurant and 5  serve coffee and food.  Upstairs at Hollick is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner on Saturday.

Pipers of Penola is an award winning restaurant located in the town of Penola on the southern end of the Coonawarra. Open Tuesday's to Saturday this restaurant is great if you enjoy a formal dinner and quality food.

Pipers of Penola

If you prefer a more relaxed feel  Fodder's changing menu includes wood fired pizza and other meals all using local and fresh produce. Open for lunch and dinner Thursday to Sunday Fodder is located in Coonawarra.

Fodder

Penola Station is another option serving modern international food. This restaurant is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner in the summer and closed Tuesday during winter. 

Where to stay

There is a range of accommodation in Coonawarra or nearby in Penola and Mount Gambier which is about 30 minutes south. Our choices include:

Coonawarra Country Cottages  all tastefully decorated and furnished these 3 lovely cottages provide comfortable and charming self catering accommodation and 2 have the benefit of large gardens.

Must @ Coonawarra  with stylish and fresh apartments with modern appliances this property is located in Penola a short drive to the Coonwarra wineries.

Highbank Winery Accommodation  has a choice of accommodation including 2 romantic guest retreats - the Cottage and the Villa both have picturesque views of the vines.  

The Barn is located a short distance from Mount Gambier and set in beautiful gardens with an award winning steakhouse. With their award winning Steakhouse and a range of suites spread throughout the gardens its our  first choice when we're touring the area.  

The Barn

Other attractions

The Coonawarra Region is also close to a number of other tourist attractions including:

The Blue Lake Mount Gambier  is located in a volcanic crater. The colour of the water changes from grey to a vivid blue in November each year changing back to grey after March. Its a beautiful scenic spot and a great illustration of how fascinating nature can be.  Nearby are a number of other lakes called the crater lakes.

Blue Lake

Umpherston Sinkhole /Sunken Garden is located in the heart of Mount Gambier. Once a cave the sinkhole was created when the top of a chamber collapsed downwards. The topsoil on the floor of the cave creates a perfect environment for a sunken garden.

Umpherston Sinkhole

The Cave Gardens are a State Heritage Area and also located in the city of Mount Gambier. You can walk down into the caves and view the gardens from a suspended viewing platform. Each night there is a sound and light show which tells of Indigenous Dreamtime stories.

Cave Gardens

Bool Lagoon  is located a short distance to the north of Coonawarra and is visited by up to 150 species of birds many migrating from the Northern Hemisphere. UNESCO have designated the wetlands as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. 

Bool Lagoon

Heading further north towards Adelaide are the Naracoote Caves. Palaeontologists have been studying the fossils and bones found in the caves for over 30 years and now Naracoote Caves are recognised as one of the world's most important fossil sites. 

There are more than 26 caves in the National Park with a number are open to the public and others maintained for continuing scientific research.  Check tour times and pricing

Naracoote Caves

Wonambi Fossil Centre  

If you don't like to go underground The Wonambi Fossil Centre provides an opportunity to step back in time and discover what Naracoorte was like over 200,000 years ago. The Fossil Centre is a walk-through diorama with life-sized models of extinct animals in their ancient habitats.

Wonambi Fossil Centre

Why not come explore this area with us on a 3 day or 4 day private tour from Melbourne to Adelaide tour 

Phillip Island Nature Parks

Phillip Island Nature Parks was established to conserve the natural beauty and historic and archaeological history of Phillip Island. 

The Park is part of the UNESCO Western Port Biosphere Reserve with wetlands, woodlands, wildlife sanctuaries and coastal areas. The area is rich in bird life with significant populations of little penguins, shearwaters and hooded plovers and wildlife including koalas, swamp wallabies and Australian fur seals.

Swamp Wallaby

The Park Service manages a number of tourism attractions including the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, the Nobbies and Churchill Island Heritage Farms.  The profits generated are used to invest in conservation, research, ecotourism, environmental and education initiatives within the Nature Parks. 

The most cost effective and best way to enjoy the range of activities of the Nature Park is to purchase a 3 Parks Pass as it allows you to attend the Penguin Parade, visit the Koala Conservation Centre and learn about Victoria's early farming history on Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Penguin Parade

Most people are drawn to Phillip Island to see the iconic Penguin Parade where you can watch the little penguins make their way across the beach heading towards their nesting areas after spending their day hunting in the ocean.

This is a fascinating experience as you watch and wait in anticipation of the sun setting and the little penguins arriving. It often feels like they will never come and then it seems that a sole little penguin emerges from the sea. Maybe this is a scout as shortly others follow. Sometimes they stop and some will scurry back as if they are too frightened to leave the ocean but slowly crowds of them appear and wander into their nesting areas.

At one stage you could sit on the beach in the evening and the penguins would wander past quite close to you.  It was an amazing experience, but as crowds grew the need to protect the penguins and their habitat meant viewing platforms and walkways were constructed. 

Today there are a range of experiences that you can purchase including having a Park Ranger guide you to a private area to view the penguins on the beach (Ultimate Experience) or enjoying the penguins in the comfort of a Sky Box (VIP Experience) where you'll also have fantastic views across the beach and help the Ranger count the penguins as they return for the night. Another option is the Research Tour where a Ranger shows you how researchers collect data and you'll see the weigh bridge where penguins that cross are weighed. You'll also visit the Sky Box before seeing the Penguin Parade from front row seats at the Penguins Plus viewing area.

You can download a free Penguins App which provides interesting insights into the penguins, statistics on their return from the ocean, pictures and a game. 

Koala Conservation Centre

At the  Koala Conservation Centre you can wander along an elevated boardwalk and see these amazing furry mammals in their natural habitat. You can get fairly close and sometimes you may be lucky if one climbs down the trees and settles very close (like the one in this picture). 

You may also see  koalas with a joey (its baby) clinging to its mother. Rangers wander the board walks during the day providing you with an opportunity to ask questions about the koalas and their habitat.

The Visitor Centre is interactive and you can learn all about the koala and purchase gifts from the gift shop.

The Nobbies 

The Nobbies Centre showcases Australian fur seals and the marine life of the Southern Oceans.  From the centre and board walks you can look across to Seal Rocks; a breeding ground for over 20,000 Australian Fur Seals.  

There are binoculars set at strategic points where you can get a closer view across to the Rocks. 

If you want to see the Seals up close its a good idea to organise a boat tour of Seal Rocks from a range of operators. 

Entry to the Nobbies is free and there is a large cafe. information centre and gift shop.

Churchill Island Heritage Farm

Churchill Island Heritage Farm provides insights into what life was like living on a farm in the early 1900’s.  The 57 heactare Island was originally inhabited by the Bunurong people with the first European inhabitants finding remains of canoes and fires.

European settlement started when Lieutenant James Grant sailed the Lady Nelson to the island in 1801. He planted seeds he'd been provided, felled trees and built a hut making this the first European agricultral pursuit in Victoria.

The farmhouse has been beautifully restored and furnished with antiques. There are also a range of interesting outbuildings that give the impression that you’ve travelled back through time. 

You can see a range of farm animals and experience some of the farm activities like shearing, whip cracking and wagon rides.

There are also beautiful views across to the mainland. For more information see our blog on Churchill Island Heritage Farm

1 day private tour of Phillip Island

Adelaide for free

With a population of 1 million people Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia. The Adelaide HIlls, outback South Australia and wine regions are within easy reach.

Free Transport

A free city loop bus known as Route 99C is available and runs every day. Check timetables as times change depending on the day of the week.

There are also 2 free trams - the City Tram runs between South Terrace and the Entertainment Centre and the Jetty Road Glenelg tram runs between Brighton Road and Moseley Square.

South Australia Museum

The South Australian Museum has a range of permanent displays showcasing South Australia's natural and cultural heritage. These include Ancient Egypt, Aboriginal Australia, Ediacara Fossils, Megafauna, Minerals and Meteorites, Opal Fossils, Mawson, Pacific Cultures, South Australia Biodiversity, Whales and Dolphins and World Mammals. 

There are also changing exhibits which may require payment of entry fees.

The Museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (opening at 12 noon on ANZAC Day). Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Migration Museum

The Migration Museum provides insights into the stories of the diverse range of individual and communities that make up the people of South Australia.

There are a number of defined collections. The migration stories collection includes textiles and documents and the Museum also houses the State Weapons Collection and the Historical Relics Collection.  

Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends and public holidays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Botanical Gardens of Adelaide

These 16 hectare gardens are located in the heart of the city and feature a stunning collection of Australia natives, exotics and ornamental plants.

The Gardens feature the SA Water Mediterranean Garden with 3 elements that tell the story of Mediterranean plants, an International Rose Garden with its range of colours and beautiful scents.  

The Santos Museum of Economic Botany; the last purpose built colonial museum which features high ceilings and ornate Victorian detail and displaying touring and permanent collections. The Amazon Waterlily Pavilion; a glass palace for the Victoria Amazonica waterlily, the Australian Native Garden showcasing the use of Australian natives and the elegant curves of the Bicentennial Conservatory and much more.

Ducks, swans, pigeons and other wildlife can be found in the Gardens. Friends of the Botanical Gardens provide a free guided walking tour which leaves from Schomburgk Pavilion at 10.30 daily except for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Admission is free and opening times vary so check the website for more information.

Rose Gardens Walking Trail

With over 5 million roses under cultivation in South Australia and a rose named after the City of Adelaide roses are special to the city. There are rose gardens scattered across the city and a rose garden walking trail has been developed to explore their beauty. Spring is the best time to visit.

Himeji Garden

These Japanese inspired gardens celebrate Adelaide's sister city Himeji in Japan. The gardens were established in 1985 and  are a popular destination for quiet reflection or just to wander and explore their tranquillity and beauty.

River Torrens Linear Park Trail

You can cycle, walk or jog this trail which runs right through the city centre. The trail passes the Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide Convention Centre and the Adelaide Zoo.

Adelaide Town Hall

Join a free tour of the Adelaide Town Hall which was hailed as the "largest municipal building south of the Equator" in 1866 when it opened. Tours are conducted  on Mondays at 10.30 a.m.

Art Gallery of SA

The Art Gallery of SA has a huge collection of Australian, European, North American and Asian works of art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, textiles, ceramics, photographs, metalwork, jewellery and furniture.

Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except for Christmas Day. Entry is free except for special exhibitions.

Public Art

There is a range of public art throughout the city. A few that quirked my interest...

14 Pieces

Is a black granite sculpture located at the front of the South Australian Museum. The 14 pieces have been designed in an egg shape evoking the fossilised bones of a marine reptile displayed in the Museum.

A Day Out

4 bronze pigs in various poses are located in Rundle Mall. The pigs were named Truffles, Oliver, Horatio and Augusta after a public poll.

Girl on a Slide

A bronze sculpture, aptly name, is another quaint piece located in Rundle Mall.

Lie of the Land

Made from Kanmantoo Slate and consisting of 25 sculptural stone structures this interesting piece is located on Sir Donald Bradman Drive.

Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute

If you're interested in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture you should visit Tandanya where you can  experience contemporary and traditional  art, culture, history and heritage. The centre has a gallery and various displays and exhibitions. 

Open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Entry into the Gallery is free a $5 (adult) and $3 (children) entry applies to the cultural performance held at 12 noon Tuesday to Sunday.

Adelaide Festival

The Adelaide Festival which runs from late February to mid March has a number of free events listed for 2014. Check out their website for more information if you're visiting during that time. 

National Wine Centre

The National Wine Centre located on the edge of the Botanical Gardens showcases the Australian wine industry. With its eye-catching architecture, wine discovery journey and cellar door tastings. Its worth a visit.

The Centre is open  Monay to Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.

Parliament House 

Visit Parliament House and see where the decisions of South Australia's Government are made. Entry to the public gallery in both the House of Assembly and Legislative Council is free and open to visitors when Parliament is sitting.

West Terrace Cemetery

This historic Cemetery dates back to European settlement and its endless rows of 19th century marble and slate headstones mark the graves of leading political, religious social and business people.