For runners, there is a myriad of inspiring runs to enjoy, on road, track and trail. In fact, we reckon that if you’re happy to forgo serious mountain missions, the Surf Coast offers some of the best trails for singletrack connoisseurs. Of course, when you’re done running, the beauty of it is that there’s so much more to explore – waterfall walks, art houses, sensational culinary experiences, wineries, farm gate produce, micro-breweries, and of course plenty of wild beach landscapes to take in plus the Great Ocean Road. So stay the weekend, and explore.
Begin your journey here: visitgreatoceanroad.org.au
Famous for surfing (hello Bells Beach), Torquay is, of course, also our host town, and there’s plenty to do in the days before and after your run. Check out all that Torquay is about from restaurants, cafes and breweries, to shopping, surfing and a bunch of outdoor activities (golf-surf-run weekend anyone?) at iamtorquay.com.au.
Check out a huge range of accommodation options here: Accommodation
Need information on how to get to the Surf Coast. Check here: Visit Surf Coast
For runners in particular, the Surf Coast offers endless options and plenty of events throughout the year. Check them out here: Surf Coast Trails
Download a free map from www.surfcoastwalk.com.au to plan your next training session on the spectacular, easily accessed trails.
To ensure you get the most from your stay on the spectacular Surf Coast, drop into one of the Visitor Information Centres locates in Torquay, Anglesea or Lorne. Open 9am to 5pm 7 days a week (except Christmas day). P 1300 614 219 www.visitsurfcoast.com
GETTING TO THE SURF COAST
By Car
The offical start of the Great Ocean Road is 103km from Melbourne CBD and will take approximately 1hr:17mins to drive.
The step by step directions below should take you there:
Travel from Melbourne city onto the Westgate Freeway
Continue onto Princes Freeway
Continue onto Geelong Ring Road
Follow the signs for Torquay
You can choose to head to the coast or explore the hinterland by continuing on the Princes Highway (A1) or explore the quieter country roads.
By Train
Train services operated by V/Line are available from Melbourne to Geelong or Warrnambool, stopping along the way in many of the major hinterland towns including Winchelsea and Colac.
To reach coastal towns including Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne and Apollo Bay, see connecting bus information under 'By Bus'.
Train times vary and are not available 24/7. Coaches will replace trains on the evening Geelong service, depending on availability.
For train stops and timetables, please visit:
Website: ptv.vic.gov.au
Phone: 1800 800 007
By Ferry
Get to or from the Great Ocean Road aboard Searoad Ferries, the car and passenger ferry service sailing between Queenscliff and Sorrento.
Connecting the Great Ocean Road to the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island, the 40 minute crossing is a great alternative to the 3 hour drive around the bay. Easy drive on/drive off. Ferries depart every hour on the hour from 7am to 6pm daily.
Website: www.searoad.com.au
Phone: +61 3 52574500
By Plane
Avalon Airport
Located just outside of Geelong and only 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD, Avalon Airport is the closest airport to the start of the Great Ocean Road, being only a 35 minute drive from Torquay. It offers easy transport options to Geelong and Torquay as well as plenty of car hire options. Avalon Airport currently supports budget Jetstar flights to and from Sydney, the Gold Coast, Adelaide and Hobart. Website: www.avalonairport.com.au
Phone: +61 3 5227 9100
Toll Free: 1800 AVALON (1800 282 566)
Email: enquiries@avalonairport.com.au
Melbourne Airport
Also known as Tullamarine Airport, Melbourne Airport it is the second busiest airport in Australia and is the major airport servicing the city with both domestic and international flights. Transport services and car hire are available onsite with connection to the city by public and private operators. Airport accommodation is available and basic convenience stores, cafes and restaurants are available most hours.
Website: www.melbourneairport.com.au
Phone: +61 3 9297 1600
Regional services are also available. Sharp Airlines fly into Warrnambool and Portland from Essendon Airport in Melbourne.
