In a region that is best known for the
pristine natural environment, there are loads of ways to get back
to nature or have encounters with wildlife.
Nature puts on an exhilarating show at every
turn on the Great Ocean Road. With sparkling ocean one side
and towering rainforest the other, it is a truly breathtaking
journey.
The natural environment is just as
spectacular in the water, with world class scuba diving sites and
an amazing diversity of marine life right around the
coastline. Swim with the dolphins and seals at Queenscliff,
snorkel at marine sanctuaries throughout the region or dip a toe in
the water at any of the beaches - this is nature at its dramatic
best.
There is plenty of wildlife to be seen in
the region. There are wild koalas throughout the Otways,
particularly around Kennett River and Wye River. Scores of
kangaroos share the Anglesea Golf Course with club toting
players. After dark, glow worms come to life in the
Otways. And the elusive platypus can be seen at dawn or dusk
on Lake Elizabeth.
There are zoos and sanctuaries in the region
too. The Werribee Open Range Zoo takes visitors on an African
safari. Jirrahlinga in Barwon Heads is a wildlife rescue
centre with lots of native animals to view.