Best Lorne Accommodation Options On The Great Ocean Road

Find out where to stay on the Great Ocean Road with our guide to the best Lorne accommodation.

Great Ocean Road’s classic holiday hotspot of Lorne is perennially popular with visitors from near and far for good reason. With the ability to enjoy both forest walks and beach swims, and a thriving food scene offering everything from coastal Italian fare to top-notch burgers, Lorne ticks all the boxes required for a carefree beach break.

Whether you stay in a tiny home in the forest, a beachside luxury holiday home or an amenities-packed resort, there’s no shortage of Lorne accommodation options to choose from.

Hotels

1. La Perouse Lorne

Best for: Couples and solo travellers who appreciate the finer things in life.

the view from the bedroom at La Perouse Lorne — Wake up next to breathtaking views.

A touch of European refinement on the Great Ocean Road, this four-room, boutique hotel truly is a home away from home. In your room, you’ll find everything you need for a splendid stay, including Aesop bath products, a Smart TV, a Smeg minibar, a drinks trolley, cotton beach towels and a Dyson hairdryer to dry your hair after a day at the beach. The library, garden and terrace (where a Parisian-style breakfast is served in the morning) are lovely communal spaces to relax and chat with other guests or your friendly hosts Sue and Laurel.

Address: 26 William St, Lorne.

2. Lorne Hotel

Best for: Beachgoers, foodies and travellers who value convenience.

the front facade of Lorne Hotel — This iconic hotel offers one of the most beloved stays in town.

Lorne Hotel has been a local landmark for 145 years and counting. Stay in one of this hotel’s contemporary rooms and you’ll enjoy the convenience of being right across the road from the beach. You’ll also have direct access to the bistro and beer garden for summer ales in the sun.

Address: 176 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne.

3. Qdos Treehouses

Best for: Art-loving couples and solo travellers seeking a quiet break in nature.

If an eco-art retreat sounds right up your alley, then the Qdos Treehouses are for you. The five, Japanese-inspired treehouses designed to suit couples are fringed by eucalypts which offer privacy and peace. Here you are free to immerse yourself in nature away from the trappings of city life. Spend your time wandering the sculpture garden, visit the gallery space and enjoy a nourishing breakfast of eggs from the owner’s chooks and kitchen garden greens in the gallery cafe. Bliss!

Address: 35 Allenvale Road, Lorne.

Airbnbs and holiday homes

4. Vista 180

Best for: A luxe group getaway your loved ones will remember for years to come.

the interior of Vista 180 accommodation in Lorne with windows that open up to sea views — The accommodation comes with a balcony that opens up to sea views.

Dubbed as ‘a place to make memories’ Vista 180’s blockbuster panoramic ocean views will certainly linger in your mind. This premium holiday home located just 100 metres from Shelly Beach is worth saving up for. With space for up to 11 guests, this is a luxe getaway spot perfect to celebrate a big birthday, anniversary or special weekend with friends. By day, use the open-plan, entertainer’s kitchen to whip up a seafood lunch to enjoy on the deck in the sun and by night retreat indoors to drink cocktails and chat by the fireplace. Like a fine wine, this is a property worth savouring.

Address: Armytage Street, Lorne

5. Lorne World

Best for: Budget-conscious solo travellers and couples.

Located a short walk from Lorne Beach, Lorne World’s compact studios are packed with personality. Each room is a colourful homage to a different far-flung destination from Santorini to Malibu, with each room having everything you need for a great stay including a television, kitchenette and espresso machine. If you’re after a well-priced beach break with a bit of flair, pack your bags for Lorne World.

Address: 3 Bay Street, Lorne.

6. Seaview House

Best for: Group getaways and celebration stays

the lounge area inside the Seaview House, Lorne — The accommodation is designed for surfers and beach lovers alike.

With five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a spacious deck, an outdoor shower, a firepit, a games room and a basketball ring, Seaview House is an entertainer’s delight. Perfect for a multigenerational holiday, group getaway or weekend to celebrate a milestone, this incredible luxury pad in South Lorne is worth splurging on.

Address: 106 Smith Street, Lorne.

7. The Charred House

Best for: Architecture and design lovers.

the exterior of The Charred House in Lorne — Its architecture blends well with nature.

This striking holiday home is an awesome spot for an indulgent beach break with your family or friends. A five-minute walk from the beach and central Lorne’s cafes and restaurants, the Charred House is in a prized position, although you’ll probably want to maximise your time at the property itself, such is its beauty. Kick back in the lounge room by the log fire with a glass of red in hand, bliss out in the oversized bath or read a paperback out on the deck in the sunshine. A stay at the Charred House encourages slow pursuits.

Address: Richardson Boulevard, Lorne

8. Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats

Best for: Wildlife-loving families, couples and groups.

the beds inside Lorne Bush House Cottages & Eco Retreats — Settle into a private bush retreat.

Just 4-minutes’ drive from central Lorne, this private bush retreat is a wholesome spot to enjoy a break in nature. Choose from a cottage, bush house or glamping tent kitted out with private ensuite, Smart TV and a deck with your own barbecue to cook a feast on by night. There’s plenty of colourful birdlife (and other native wildlife) in these parts, so be sure to spend some time at this property appreciating the wonders of nature.

Address: 1860 Deans Marsh-Lorne Rd, Lorne.

9. Qii House

Best for: A DIY wellness weekend.

the living space interior of Qii House, Lorne — Retreat into this rustic and chic accommodation.

Built in the 1970s by Melbourne architect Edgard Pirrotta, this offbeat ecolodge just 18 minutes from Lorne is an ideal space to host a DIY retreat with friends. With a teahouse, bathhouse area and Japanese-style gardens, you have all the ingredients for a wellness weekend with friends in the forest. Travelling solo or with your partner? Book one of the tiny houses to spend a glorious day or two immersed in nature – the outdoor hot tub, hammock and fireplace make it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

Address: 630 Benwerrin-mt Sabine Rd, Benwerrin.

Resorts

10. Cumberland Lorne Resort

Best for: Active travellers of all ages.

the bedroom at Cumberland Lorne Resort — Bed down at Cumberland Lorne Resort.

With an indoor heated swimming pool, spa, sauna, tennis courts, squash court and games room, Cumberland Lorne Resort has amenities galore. Room configurations span from one-bedroom apartments to a three-bedroom penthouse, so there’s a space to suit everyone here, including people who use wheelchairs. While the amenities are great, you’re also just across the road from Lorne Beach for morning swims in the surf and afternoon walks in the balmy breeze.

Address: 150 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne.

11. Mantra Lorne

Best for: Families, groups and couples who love active breaks.

a living room with windows looking out to the sea at Mantra Lorne — Soak up the sea views from the living room.

12 acres of landscaped gardens, tennis courts, croquet lawns, steam rooms, an indoor heated mineral pool, a gym and an 18-hole putting green make Mantra Lorne an incredible spot to stay if you love getting stuck into activities on your break. When you’re not making the most of the amenities, kick back in the Larder for breakfast or dinner or order from the in-room dining menu to enjoy dinner in the comfort of your room or apartment.

Address: Mountjoy Parade, Lorne.

Camping Grounds

12. Allenvale Campground

Best for: Nature-loving, experienced campers who are cool with using non-flushing toilets.

Fancy a few, budget-friendly nights off the grid surrounded by nature? Visit the Parks Victoria website to book a campsite at the Allenvale Campground . For just over $15 a night, you’ll be able to sleep in a serene spot right near the banks of the St George River.

Connecting with nature is easy when it’s right outside your tent. Wake up in the morning to birdsong, unzip your tent, and then spend your day walking the trails of the Great Otway National Park. At dusk, keep your eyes firmly fixed on the river for the resident platypus that emerges to feed just before the sun sets.

Since this campsite is in the Great Otway National Park, you’ll need to leave your pets at home and bring your own supply of drinking water and a fuel stove or gas barbecue for cooking (since no fires can be started any time of the year). Since this campground only offers unpowered campsites for tents (no vans, tiny homes or RVs allowed) this private, peaceful spot is ideal for quiet campers who enjoy the simple things in life.

Address: Off Allenvale Road, Lorne

Caravan Parks

13. Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers and people travelling with pets.

an eco safari tent at Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park — The eco safari tent is equipped with modern comforts.

Whether you’re staying in a cabin or eco safari tent, or are rolling your own RV into one of the dog-friendly powered sites, Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park is a great base camp for adventures in Lorne and beyond. What is actually five parks (Erskine River, Kia Ora, Ocean Road, Top Bank and Queens Park) in one, the spacious caravan park is a family favourite. Enjoy lunch at a picnic table along the river, use the communal barbecue to cook up a feast, let the kids go wild on the pirate ship-themed playground or walk down to the beach for a fun day in the surf. Whatever you do, this is a beach break spot that won’t break the bank.

Address: 2 Great Ocean Rd, Lorne.

Discover the best things to do in Lorne.

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.