Warrnambool, Victoria’s largest coastal city is just a breezy 3 hour drive from Melbourne by car. Its allure lies in a rich tapestry of history, natural splendour, cultural vibrancy, and warm hospitality where life plays out with a lively coastal tempo.
Here in Warrnambool, amidst nature’s embrace, embark on a journey of serene indulgence within a vibrant cityscape.
3 hour drive (260km) from Melbourne City (or Tullamarine Airport)
2 hours, 20 minutes (205km) from Avalon Airport
2 hours, 15 minutes (194km) from Mount Gambier Airport
7 hours (615km) from Adelaide City via Riddoch & Princess Highway
Warrnambool is 257 kilometres away from Melbourne CBD and will take approximately 3hrs to drive via the inland route or 5hrs and 30 mins via the Great Ocean Road. From the 12 Apostles – staying on the Great Ocean Road, travel west to the A1 at Allansford, before arriving in Warrnambool (80km or 1 hour 15 minutes).
V-Line Train departs Southern Cross Station, Melbourne to Warrnambool up to 6 times per day – www.vline.com.au/Timetables
V-Line operate from Melbourne to Mt Gambier – www.vline.com.au/Timetables
While our suggested itinerary is perfect for lovebirds cruising in their own wheels, we’re all about flexibility! Whether you’re a bus buddy, a train trekker, or a tour enthusiast, fear not! Please contact the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre via phone, email or in person and our staff will provide you with a range of options to ensure you see all our town and surrounds has to offer.
We want to see you in Warrnambool safely for a wonderful holiday. To reduce driver fatigue and ensure you arrive here safely, here are some important tips:
• Plan your journey ahead of time with breaks, at least one break every two hours.
• Have enough quality sleep before driving, share the driving if you can.
• Avoid driving at times when you would usually be sleeping.
• Don’t travel for more than 8 – 10 hours a day.
• Don’t drink alcohol before your trip – even a small amount can significantly contribute to driver fatigue. Pull over and take a 15-minute powernap if you feel drowsy.
For more information and to view the interactive map, visit tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/pausestop
ARRIVE
Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre
83 Merri Street, Warrnambool | 3 Hour drive from Melbourne (257km)
Begin your adventure at the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre, where the warm embrace of the locals welcomes you like an old friend. Let the locals be your guides, sharing secrets that only those in tune with the rhythms of the ocean and the heartbeat of the land can reveal.
EXPERIENCE
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum & Village
83 Merri Street, Warrnambool | Adult $45.65
Optional: 11:30 am Guided Tour (complimentary with ticket)
Allow the maritime magic of Warrnambool unfold before your eyes at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village. Stroll down the cobblestone streets of the 1800’s maritime village and step into the past as you explore what life was like for the Shipwreck Coast’s first European settlers. This is Victoria’s most active maritime museum with Australia’s most significant shipwreck artefact collection. Marvel at the Loch Ard Peacock, once destined for the spotlight at the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition, now proudly displayed at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum. Crafted by the skilled hands of French sculptor Paul Comolera, this majestic masterpiece defied the odds, washing ashore intact after the tragic Loch Ard shipwreck. Valued at $4 million and listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, it stands as a timeless symbol of maritime history, a beacon of resilience amidst the tumultuous seas.
It’s also home to the stories of hundreds of 19th Century ships, their crewmen and passengers, passed on by the lucky few who survived the journey to start a new life in a foreign land. Flagstaff Hill stands as a testament to the courageous souls who forged new beginnings in distant lands, laying the foundation for the Warrnambool we know today.Once you’ve enjoyed the historical village of over 40 buildings – including a school, fire station, boat builder’s yards and even a blacksmith’s forge, climb the hill which gives this site its name. Here you can scale the lighthouse staircase, inspect the 80-pound cannon and take in some of the best coastal views in Warrnambool.
Sailor’s Secret – Capture a selfie with the mesmerising panorama of Lady Bay and Flagstaff Hill from the Visitor Information Centre balcony – an image to cherish forever!
*Note: This itinerary includes the Day and Night package at Flagstaff Hill, which is recommended to be booked at least two weeks in advance due to sound and light show popularity. However, if the sound and light show does not appeal, regular day tickets can be purchased at the time of visit at the front desk.
LUNCH
151 Lava St, Warrnambool | 3 minutes drive from Flagstaff Hill (1.3km)
Indulge in a classic Warrnambool tradition, a burger at Kermond’s Hamburger’s, an iconic burger and milkshake bar that has stood the test of time since its humble beginnings as a caravan on the Warrnambool foreshore in 1949. Now in its third and fourth generation of family ownership, Kermond’s continues to delight taste buds with its timeless recipes that have remained unchanged over the years. As you join the eager queue of locals and tourists alike, you’ll soon understand why these burgers are a must-try experience in Warrnambool. Plus, rest assured knowing that your ticket allows you re-entry to Flagstaff Hill for more adventures after your delicious lunch break.
RELAX
Worm Bay Road, Warrnambool | 5 Minutes drive from Flagstaff Hill | Adult $32 – $57 depending on session
Duration: Session times vary from 1.5 – 3 hours
Your warm welcome to Warrnambool continues by the geothermal rock pools and sensory caves of The Deep Blue Hot Springs. Feel the week slip away as you step into the restorative mineral salts and feel the natural heat of the earth drawn therapeutic waters. The twilight bathing session will blissfully ease you into holiday mode as you make your way through the steamy open-air sanctuary. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the rainforest pool inspired by the nearby Otway’s, relax in the aromatic lavender mists, indulge the senses in the illuminated colour therapy caves and gaze at the stars in the shallow pools of Reflection Bay.
DINNER
Worm Bay Rd, Warrnambool
The Deep Blue Hotel continue to indulge your senses at the Deep Blue Restaurant serving up seasonal menus that celebrate local produce. Good food in a relaxed, casual dining atmosphere, what a way to finish the day.
STAY
Rejuvenate, replenish, now rest, the sound of the Southern Ocean sends you into the deepest sleep when you stay in one of the 81 spacious deluxe or premium suites at the opulent Deep Blue Hotel. You’ll need it, Warrnambool is waiting to wake you up with its never-ending list of exciting adventures.
BREAKFAST
127 Kepler St, Warrnambool | 6-minute drive from Deep Blue (2.9km)
Rise & Shine adventurers! Begin your day in the heart of Warrnambool, where culinary delights await! Bohemia isn’t just a café, it’s a place where good food, good coffee and frivolous conversation converge. From the tantalising eggs benedict with house-made lemon & herb crumpets to the indulgent hotcakes adorned with raspberry puree and macadamia praline, each dish offers a symphony of flavours that transport you to a world of gastronomic bliss.
EXPLORE
Logan’s Beach Road, Warrnambool | 8-minute drive from Bohemia (4.8km)
Duration: 60 minutes
A surfer’s paradise throughout the year, from May to November Logan’s Beach transforms into a playground for Southern Right Whales. Step into the front row seats of nature’s grand theatre at Logan’s Beach, just a quick 5-minute drive east from town, across the historic timber truss and beam bridge of the Hopkins River. Here, Southern Right Whales steal the show with their breath-taking performances – tail-slapping, frolicking, and waving in the gentle embrace of warm waters when the shores of Lady Bay become a sanctuary for female Southern Right Whales and their new-born calves.
Whale Talk: Follow the Great Ocean Road Whales Facebook page for live updates on whale sightings.
Point Ritchie Road, Warrnambool | 2 Minute drive from Logans Beach (1km)
Duration: 30 Minutes
Just a stone’s throw from Logan’s Beach lies the mouth of the Hopkins River and the rocky headland revered by the Peek Whurrung people as ‘Moyjil’. This sacred site holds the promise of rewriting history, as archaeological findings of shell middens and remnants of ancient fireplaces might date back a staggering 60,000 years. It’s a place of profound connection, inviting visitors to pause, absorb, and breathe in its salty air.
Every year, during the early days of summer, the Hopkins River mouth becomes the stage for one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles: the migration of short-finned eels. These eels undertake an incredible journey to and from their spawning grounds in the Coral Sea, which lie approximately 3000 kilometers away. As they navigate the opening of the river mouth, their migration unfolds as a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world.
Hopkins Falls Road, Wangoom | 15-minute drive from Moyjil (17km’s)
Duration: 90 Minutes
Venture north from Logan’s Beach to discover the awe-inspiring Hopkins Falls, Victoria’s widest cascades spanning an impressive 90m, resembling magnificent curtains of cascading water, a sight that will leave you breathless. Follow the easy path leading to the pools below, where the tranquillity of nature awaits. For a few days each summer baby eels migrate upstream and over the falls in one of the great natural phenomena, so keep your eyes open.
LUNCH
63 Liebig St, Warrnambool | 15 Minute drive from Hopkins Falls (17km)
This vibrant café in the centre of town is celebrated for its diverse and extensive menu that caters to every palate. From the classic comfort of their Fish & Chips, boasting crispy batter and tender fish fillets paired with golden fries, to the exotic allure of risotto, pasta, curries, burgers, and salads, each dish is a celebration of global cuisine. Indulge your sweet tooth with a delectable dessert, including the irresistible Triple Choc Mousse Cake and the heavenly Caramel Supreme Raw Cheesecake – decadent delights will leave you craving more.
EXPLORE
26 Liebig St, Warrnambool | 2 Minute walk from Fishtales (100m)
Duration: 3 hours
Trade the confines of your car for the freedom of the streets as you venture deeper into the heart of Warrnambool’s cultural realm. Your next stop: the Warrnambool Art Gallery, a place where history whispers through the strokes of masterpieces. Here, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring work of Eugene von Guérard, an acclaimed artist known for his detailed landscapes. One of his most famous pieces captures the essence of Tower Hill, a stunning dormant volcano and nature reserve near Warrnambool, brought to life with vibrant colours and intricate brushstrokes. Commissioned over a century ago, von Guérard’s painting transcends time, inviting you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of this iconic landmark.
But the adventure beckons beyond the gallery’s walls, embark on a quest through Warrnambool’s hidden laneways, where every turn reveals a canvas of urban expression. Follow the siren call of street art, guided by the geo located interactive Storytowns App that unveils 13 treasures, each a vibrant tale of the city’s past and present. Discover awe-inspiring murals, sculptures, mosaics, and installations that showcase the creativity of local and international artists. Hear firsthand from the artists themselves as they share the stories and inspiration behind their stunning works. Add a touch of nostalgia to your urban exploration and explore the Warrnambool Heritage Trail, a testament to the city’s rich heritage. Admire the majestic architecture of buildings like the courthouse and town hall, standing as proud reminders of Warrnambool’s storied past.
DINNER
216 Timor St, Warrnambool | 5 minute walk from Warrnambool Art Gallery (200m)
As the sun begins its descent, bid farewell to the vibrant streets and indulge in an epic night out at The Dart & Marlin, located conveniently in the heart of the city. After sunset, this hip joint transforms into a buzzing hub, rocking out with live bands, DJ sets, and a stellar line-up of gourmet stone-baked pizzas complemented by an array of specialty cocktails, boutique wines, and local craft beers. Whether you’re cosying up by the fire, chilling in a private booth, or soaking in the vibes in the vine-covered courtyard, the Dart & Marlin guarantees the ultimate backdrop for your night out in Warrnambool.
BREAKFAST
50 Viaduct Rd, Warrnambool | 5-minute walk from Deep Blue Hotel (500m)
Indulge in a picturesque start to your morning with a leisurely 10-minute stroll south from Deep Blue Hotel, along the esplanade to the Pavilion Café, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the salty breeze of the beach. As you savour your breakfast, be captivated by the sight of racehorses savouring their morning swim with their trainers – graced by legendary champions, including none other than the illustrious 2015 Melbourne Cup winner, Prince of Penzance. As you relish in your breakfast against the backdrop of the glistening Lady Bay and the serene breakwater, allow yourself to be captivated by the echoes of past triumphs and the boundless potential of future champions.
THE WALKING PATHS OF WARRNAMBOOL
Duration: 2 hours
Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Penguin Protector Educational Experience, where the captivating tale of Maremma dogs unfolds amidst the breathtaking coastal vistas of Warrnambool. Delve into their remarkable role in safeguarding the Little Penguins and seabirds, with the added delight of capturing a photo with one of the beloved Maremmas! Your adventure commences at the south side of the Pavilion Café, and includes a brief walk to the picturesque Stingray Bay, where the experience will culminate, offering a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the coastal landscape.
Crossing the Merri River via the footbridge, you’ll enter the gateway to Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. Follow the rocky path along the cliff’s edge, where the salty breeze carries the whispers of tales untold and the echoes of nature’s symphony. To your right, the Merri River, Lady Bay, and the steadfast Breakwater stretch out in a tapestry of hues, while ahead, the South Warrnambool wetlands shimmer in the soft light, a testament to nature’s boundless grace. As you continue along the path, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic view of Middle Island, made famous by the beloved movie “Oddball.” Marvel at the silhouette of the Middle Island Maremma standing guard against foxes, a symbol of conservation and community resilience inspired by true events. Pause to drink in the awe-inspiring vistas that unfold with each turn, the rugged cliffs and azure waters a testament to the raw power and untamed beauty of the natural world.
When the time comes to bid farewell to this coastal wonderland, retrace your steps with a heart full of memories and a spirit reinvigorated by the majesty of nature. For in Warrnambool’s coastal paths, adventure awaits at every turn.
HERE ON A SUNDAY?
As you return to Deep Blue Hotel to pick up your car, elevate your experience with a visit to The Fresh Market Warrnambool in the adjacent. This vibrant showcase is more than just a market, it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Warrnambool’s culinary and creative scene. Here, you can indulge in freshly harvested produce, savour your morning coffee, groove to live tunes, engage with local artisans, participate in workshops, and bask in the beauty of the seaside location.
LUNCH
Great Ocean Road, Allansford | 18 minute drive from Deep Blue Hotel (16km)
Just a short drive from Warrnambool, nestled along the meandering Great Ocean Road, lies a whimsical paradise for cheese lovers and adventure seekers alike. Immerse yourself in the exquisite world of artisanal cheese-making and indulge in a variety of cheese tastings that showcase the rich flavours and heritage of Warrnambool’s esteemed cheese-making legacy. Treat yourself to artisanal treasures like the Pecorino & Raclette Omelette or the Smashed Avocado on Zeally Bay Sourdough, topped off with a decadent White Chocolate and Strawberry Pancake. After your taste buds are satisfied, let the Dairy History Museum whisk you away on a quirky journey through time, filled with vintage tools whispering tales of craftsmanship and interactive displays unravelling the secrets behind Warrnambool’s renowned cheese factory.
EXPLORE
Great Ocean Road, Allansford | 11 minute drive from Cheeseworld (14km)
Duration: 90 Minutes
This place is an unknown gem! Whilst not on most bucket lists, Childers Cove, Murnane’s Beach and Sandy Cove should be near the top of yours. The cruisy 10 minute drive continuing on from Cheeseworld, leads you to 3 beautiful coves with large seas and surf, sandstone stacks reminiscent of the iconic 12 Apostles and colourful sandstone and limestone cliffs, with Childers Cove being the main attraction. A photographer’s playground, walking on these beaches is one of those rare xperiences of solitude mixed with awe at the forces of nature. Not overly popular due to the big surf, stairs and soft sand, you’ll likely only find yourself amongst the company of only a few others, who will also be awed by the cliffs, coves and coloured water.
OPTIONAL – GUIDED TOUR
Embark on an exhilarating journey from the bustling Warrnambool boat ramp adjacent the pavilion café with Mako Ocean Adventures, helmed by the retired fisherman, Matt Pettit. The thrilling boat tour charts a course that includes the Middle Island area, culminating in an exhilarating journey to the picturesque Childers Cove. Along the way, you’ll make six captivating stops, allowing you to soak in the scenery that graces this rugged coastline.
DRINK
185 Koroit Street, Warrnambool | 28-minute drive from Childers Cove (28km)
Duration: 60 Minutes
Celebrate your afternoon with the ultimate chill-out session at ‘the Warrny’, the go-to spot for those seeking a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair. Originally born in 1890 as the Grand Ozone Coffee Palace, this historic gem has transformed into a haven for relaxation and good times. Live music serenades your afternoon as you kick back by the fire or soak up the sun in the heated outdoor area. Sip on craft beers or indulge in local wines while sharing stories and creating unforgettable memories – where each sip, every melody, and all the laughter weave together.
DINNER
216 Timor St, Warrnambool | 5 Minute Walk from Hotel Warrnambool (350m)
As twilight paints the sky with hues of purple and gold, follow the aroma of freshly cooked seafood to the Cally Hotel, where dining transcends into an oceanic adventure. Sink your teeth into the tantalising Salt & Pepper Calamari or the flavourful pasta marinara, featuring fresh fish, prawns, mussels, and calamari tossed in a herb butter sauce. Amidst the twinkling stars and contagious laughter, complement your experience with an extensive wine list tailored to satisfy the most discerning palate.
EXPERIENCE
89 Merri Street, Warrnambool | 3 Minute drive or an 8 minute walk from the Cally Hotel (900m)
Duration: 90 Minutes
Booking: Day & night package ticket continued*
As the sun dips beneath the horizon, the village awakens with tales echoing through the cobblestone streets. Prepare to be captivated by “Tales of the Shipwreck Coast,” a masterpiece of sight and sound illuminating Australia’s maritime saga. From ancient Aboriginal legends to the daring exploits of whalers, each story unfolds like chapters in a gripping novel. Traverse through epochs where the Southern Ocean challenged the resilience of those seeking a new life, and where men wrestled with the mighty leviathans of the deep. The show commences at dusk, a beacon of enlightenment amid the twilight. Weather becomes a mere backdrop to the spectacle, as the Wharf Theatre beckons visitor’s rain, hail or shine. The lantern-lit path becomes a gateway to history, welcoming all who seek its enlightenment.
Wharf Whispers: Wrap yourself in warmth during cooler months as you delve into the open-air theatre’s immersive embrace.
BREAKFAST
Breakfast is just a hop, skip, and a jump away – down the lift and to your left! Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast featuring a full Australian breakfast with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausage, mushrooms, and grilled tomato. For a healthy kick, load up on fresh fruits paired with creamy Greek yogurt and drizzled with honey, or treat yourself to our irresistible selection of pastries and refreshing fruit juices.
EXPERIENCE
Duration: 60 Minutes
The Deep Blue Hotel knows how to help you make the most of your stay. Lie back in the light-flooded Deep Blue Bath House and let the geothermal, naturally warmed waters wash over you – they are sourced directly from 850m below the earth’s surface. The indulgent menu of spa treatments and infrared wellness sauna will then take you to an even deeper state of relaxation, balance and healing.
EXPLORE
725 Princes Highway, Tower Hill | 22 minute drive from Deep Blue Hotel (16km)
Duration: 90 Minutes
Embark on a journey into the heart of Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, an extinct volcano formed over 30,000 years ago, and immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystem that thrives within this ancient landscape. Proudly established as Victoria’s first national park, Tower Hill presents a vibrant mosaic of life within its living tribute to geological heritage. Here, you can encounter adorable koalas, graceful kangaroos, and a symphony of birds gracefully soaring above. Be on the lookout for mischievous emus, renowned for their playful frolics in picnic areas. For those seeking tranquillity, stroll along the serene boardwalk by the lake, perfect for contemplation and birdwatching. Tower Hill is a captivating blend of nature and curiosity, inviting you to experience its ancient rhythms and natural beauty.
Nature’s Whispers: Pick up a delightful treat with Worn Gundidj Tower Hill inspired Bush Tucker wattle seed ice-cream from the IGA supermarket.
LUNCH
106 Koroit Street, Warrnambool | 21 minute drive from Tower Hill (14km)
Your next location is a stunning picnic area, so grab a light lunch from Brown’s Depot Bakery. A family run bakery where everything is made on site, select from a range of pastries, breads, sugary snacks or the quality sandwich bar. Be wary though, you’ll have to fight the locals to the front of the line!
EXPLORE
Fletcher Jones Gardens & Markets
83 Flaxman Street, Warrnambool | 3 minute drive from Browns Depot Bakery (1.6km)
Duration: 2 hours
With your lunch packed, let the journey to Fletcher Jones Gardens & Markets be more than just a drive. For a bit of fun, follow the iconic, towering Silver Ball of Fletcher Jones, a beacon guiding you to your next destination. Designed by Ralph Jones in 1967 as part of the Pleasant Hill factory’s fire protection system, this 40-meter tall water tower stands proudly, painted silver with orange legs. It’s a beloved and distinctive landmark, affectionately known as the Silver Ball.
As you make your way towards Flaxman Street, take in the scenic views and feel the gentle buzz of the city around you. The drive may be short, but it’s filled with the essence of Warrnambool’s vibrant life, from quaint storefronts to the occasional mural that tells a tale of its artistic soul.
The Silver Ball received a much-needed makeover in 2017, its 50th year, and now lights up the Warrnambool skyline permanently, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike. It’s a symbol of home and heritage, as residents fondly recall saying, “We’re nearly home mum” when they saw the ball.
Step into a realm where history dances with the present. Spread your picnic blanket in the lush gardens that once brought smiles to factory workers, and now beckon visitors to relax and bask in their timeless beauty. As you enjoy your lunch, let the nostalgia wash over you, mingling with the excitement of exploring the market stalls brimming with local crafts and vintage finds.
Relish this detour from the hustle and bustle, letting Fletcher Jones Gardens & Markets captivate you with its blend of past and present, promising an afternoon of discovery and delight.
Before you embark on your journey home, why not add a dash of excitement to your return trip? Stop by the Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre and let our knowledgeable team add some zest to your travels back. Whether it’s discovering hidden treasures along the way or finding peaceful rest stops to recharge, we’ve got everything sorted for you.
Remember, the journey is just as thrilling as the destination!
Elevate your experience by charting a course toward one of our events or festivals.
Summer
The Jericho Cup (December)
Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic (January)
Summer by the Sea (December – January)
Summer Carnival (December – January)
Wunta Fiesta (February)
Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycling Classic (February)
Autumn
May Racing Carnival (May)
Winter
Winter Solstice Search Party (June)
Spring
Warrnambool Running Festival (September)
Warrnambool Multicultural Festival (October)
Warrnambool Show (October)
Whale Watching (May – November)
Dirty Warrny (November)
Wreckfest (November)
While our itinerary suggests the Deep Blue Hotel, for those craving the independence of a self-contained, apartment-style haven, set yourself up at Lady Bay Resort, where you can enjoy all the comforts of home. For larger groups yearning for a unique and historic stay, the original Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lodge awaits – this charming three-bedroom heritage cottage features a full kitchen and an outdoor entertainment area, including a cosy fire pit perfect for chilly evenings by the sea. Seeking convenience and modern amenities? Elm Tree Motel offers just that, with its cosy atmosphere and contemporary comforts, all within Warrnambool’s bustling CBD.
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Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Great Ocean Road region the Wadawurrung, Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their unique cultural heritage and the connection to their traditional lands. We commit to building genuine and lasting partnerships that recognise, embrace and support the spirit of reconciliation, working towards self-determination, equity of outcomes and an equal voice for Australia’s first people.
