31 Jul 2021
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Just a quick turn and a world away from the Great Ocean Road
Wetland Paradise
The Gellibrand River makes a virtual island of the hilltop village of Princetown as it meanders through the valley, just a quick turn and a world away from the Great Ocean Road.
The township borders both the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks and is connected to the Great Ocean Walk via a picturesque wetland boardwalk. Princetown offers fishing opportunities in the estuary and on the ocean beaches. Look for large mobs of kangaroos on the river flats before 9am and after 5pm when they are generally more active. Please be mindful and keep your distance from nesting hooded plovers during the summer months
Great Ocean Walk Princetown to 12 Apostles
Enjoy the slow unveil of one of the world's most spectacular coastlines on a walk that weaves in and out of coastal heathland to reveal bold headland views and clifftop boardwalks. Kangaroos are regular grazers in nearby paddocks and birds of prey often use the updraft from the cliffline to hunt.
To begin your journey cross the wetland boardwalk below the town viewing platform looking for the signed entrance to the Great Ocean Walk just to the south of the bridge across the Gellibrand River
Runners World
Princetown is a hub for some spectacular coastal trail runs.
Check out these short videos and find out why the 12 Apostles Coast and Hinterland is the trail running capital of the Great Ocean Road.
Whether you are after lung bursting single track loops or a quiet country road for a stroll we can guarantee fresh air and scenery that will keep you coming back for more.
Around town
What to see & do
Gibson Steps
COVID 19 - Visitors must carry a mask when visiting.
Prepare to be dwarfed by the magnitude of the cliff-line and offshore stacks. The sheer scale of natural sculpting evident at this site is humbling. In local vernacular, Gog and Magog are the names given to the two offshore stacks that may be viewed from both the viewing platform and (tide and sea permitting) from beach level. These are not considered part of the 12 Apostles.
12 Apostles
COVID 19 - Visitors must carry a mask when visiting
These incredible rock formations are a sight to behold. The Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles offer a pilgrimage for visitors the world over and a visit to the famous monuments is an experience never to forget.
Paddling lakes, rivers, estuaries
For recreational paddlers, the volcanic lakes and estuaries generally provide more protected and predictable waters with plenty of opportunities to explore.
Fishing local Estuaries
Estuarine species to be targeted include bream, mullet, trevally, estuary perch, mulloway and short finned eel. The upper layers of water not far upstream of the mouth will occasionally yield brown trout.
Hit The Road Tours
Hit The Road Tours is a passionate small groups tour operator who creates remarkable moments and unforgettable experiences.
Twelve Apostles Marine National Park
The iconic golden cliffs and crumbling pillars of the Twelve Apostles can be found seven kilometres east of Port Campbell.
Recommended accommodation
Clifton Beach Lodge
Nestled in the sandstone foothills of Clifton Beach, Clifton Beach Lodge is a secluded country property offering panoramic views of the Gellibrand River Estuary.
Kangaroobie
Kangaroobie is an award winning group accommodation venue situated on the Great Ocean Road. Catering for groups of up to 190, and providing a range of interesting, exciting and educational activities.
Pebble Point
Pebble Point is an exclusive bush retreat nestled behind the cliff tops and rock formations of the world famous Twelve Apostles.
The 13th Apostle Backpackers
The 13th Apostle Backpackers is situated just five-minutes drive from the world famous 12 Apostles, so is your perfect home-away-from-home to explore the Great Ocean Road.
Winter Getaway with By Moonlight & Anchors Port Campbell
Experience the Otways & 12 Apostles with a Winter Getaway at By Moonlight & Anchors Port Campbell.
Southern Anchorage Retreat
Southern Anchorage Retreat is indulgence in the Otways, just a short 20 minute drive to the iconic Twelve Apostles.
Nearby restaurants
Kangaroobie Meats
Grass-fed beef, grown on a spectacular farm with views of the 12 Apostles. Sounds great? Try Kangaroobie Meats beef locally at Grassroots, Forage on the Foreshore, REAL and Fat Cow.
Otways Bistro Gellibrand
Situated within Otways Tourist Park, Gellibrand, The Otways Bistro is renowned for its generous servings at a reasonable price, they are here for locals and guests.
Otway Blueberries
Otway Blueberries are farm fresh, pesticide-free blueberries which are picked daily on the six-hectare farm (from December to March).
Walk Run Ride
Princetown - Devils Kitchen - Great Ocean Walk loop 16km
Check out this short video showing vertical profile, route map and stunning pictures of this iconic coastal run.
Princetown - Moonlight Head GOR Return 33.2km
Check out this short video and get ready for a quick morning leg burner. This ride takes in the first part of the classic hill ride to Lavers Hill and offers quick descents and a heap of downhill and uphill s-bends to clear the head and fill the lungs.
Gellibrand River Ride 40km
Choose your own adventure along the Gellibrand River Valley. Check out the video and stay tuned for longer videos along the quiet road network of Old Ocean, Upper Burrupa and Lower Gellibrand Roads.
Active Adventure
Click through for more walking, running and cycling options.
