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The best Lorne accommodation to add to your travel list

Credit: CMc Conville GOR Authority

Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
Where the bush meets the sea, take your pick of Lorne’s diverse accommodation.

Situated about halfway between Geelong and the Twelve Apostles, Lorne is one of the most popular stops along the Great Ocean Road. Stay anywhere from one night to one week, with your choice of holiday rentals, cottages, hotels or caravan parks. We’ve hand-picked some of our favourite accommodation to make your trip planning easier – so come on, the road is calling.

In short

If you only stay at one accommodation in Lorne, make it Perch Lorne. This smartly designed studio provides the perfect balance of value, location and charm.

Hotels

Lorne Hotel

a woman staying at Lorne Hotel
This iconic hotel is one of the most beloved stays in town.

For an unbeatable location in the centre of town, just a stone’s throw from the main beach, look no further than the Lorne Hotel. Yes, it can be noisy – but for a short stay its convenience is unmatched. Come dinnertime, just head downstairs to the coastal Italian vibes at the trattoria-style Totti’s Lorne (book ahead), or to the sunny beer garden for a classic pint and parma.

There’s also something nostalgic about staying at the home of the annual Pier to Pub ocean swim (yes, this is said pub). The light and bright rooms host up to four guests, including conveniences such as a minibar fridge, kettle, and coffee maker; access is stairs only and parking is included.

Address: 176 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne VIC 3232

La Perouse

La Perouse accommodation with sea views
The balcony opens up to ocean views.

Just a ten-minute walk from Lorne’s main strip, this charming boutique hotel is one for the romantics. The four stylish rooms at La Perouse have been lovingly decorated in a timeless Provincial style that will have you thinking you’ve stepped into the French countryside. It’s the little touches of luxury from owners Sue and Laurel we love, from the pottery and paintings by Australian artists to the Aesop products, linen bathrobes and 100% cotton beach towels (handy if you’ve forgotten to bring your own).

Each room has its own private balcony or verandah (hello ocean views), but our favourite is the downstairs Deluxe Room with its outdoor clawfoot bath… heaven. There’s parking onsite and the warm hospitality includes a standout breakfast, served Parisian style in the kitchen or terrace with ingredients sourced locally and from their own garden.

Address: 26 William St, Lorne VIC 3232

Qdos Treehouses

There’s something soothing about being surrounded by nature – and where better to do it than in a treehouse? Qdos Treehouses is a tranquil eco retreat on the site of an arts venue, home to a gallery, garden and cafe (where you’ll enjoy a daily breakfast, with eggs from their own chooks). The five Japanese-style retreats ooze zen vibes, and we don’t know what we love more: the private sundeck or that there’s no TV. And while the beach feels far, it’s only a few minutes’ drive away.

Address: 35 Allenvale Rd, Lorne VIC 3232

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Airbnbs and holiday homes

Kalimna

the interior of Kalimna Airbnb
Enjoy balmy breezes and uninterrupted ocean views.

 If you’re travelling with a group of friends or family, Kalimna is the 5-bedroom-2.5-bathroom stunner everyone will love (and fit). Spread over three levels, this modern home-away-from-home is primed for memorable moments: think breakfasts on the patio with uninterrupted sea views, walks to the beach, feeding the friendly cockatoos and waking up to the sound of the ocean.

It’s just a short drive to the centre of town, but with a full kitchen, pool table, and main living area that begs you to sit back and soak in the sight of that big blue ocean, we think you may not want to leave. Host Robyn is noted for being an excellent communicator, so if you do decide to venture out, she’ll have recommendations ready for you. Oh, and there’s no wi-fi – but with views like these who needs it.

Address: Provided after booking

Perch Lorne

the hillside accommodation at Perch Lorne
Settle into a relaxing hillside accommodation. (Credit: Perch Lorne)

Once you climb the 25 steps to Perch Lorne, all that’s left to do is relax. The one-bed architectural studio pulls off the balance between sleek and cosy, and its picture window, framing an outlook through the trees to the ocean, has us swooning. Switch between the balcony and snug window seat (our ideal book nook), and for cooler nights, the log fireplace creates a warm and comfy ambience.

As the name suggests, the studio is positioned high on a hill, but it’s within central Lorne, making it easy to explore the local restaurants and cafes; while the modern kitchenette has just enough for lazy breakfasts and nibbles with wine. Wi-fi, on-site parking, a smart lock and electric blinds complete this chic and stress-free stay.

Address: 71 Polwarth Rd, Lorne VIC 3232

Front Row Apartment in Lorne

an outdoor dining space at Front Row Apartment in Lorne
The ocean is a stunning backdrop to your stay.

The bewitching sea views from this Airbnb make its name clear. Whether you’re eating breakfast at the dining table or enjoying drinks on the deck, the ocean will be a constant backdrop to your stay. This spacious two-bedder is bright and airy, with a full kitchen and on-site parking – but you may not need much of either, as the renovated Grand Pacific Hotel is next door. It’s a 20-minute stroll into town, but we think the serenity of the location is part of its charm.

Address: Provided after booking

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Camping and caravan parks

Erskine River Park

Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park from above
The Erskine River Park is one of five distinct, interconnected camping areas within the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park. (Credit: CMc Conville GOR Authority)

This park (part of the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park) boasts a prime location alongside the beautiful Erskine River, and is just a short stroll to the shops and beach. Love fishing? You’ll have access to three fishing platforms plus amenities aplenty, from a camp kitchen and BBQ area to a playground, laundry and shower block (including accessible toilet).

Powered sites sleep six; campfires are restricted to off-peak times, and dogs aren’t allowed. If you’re not the camping or caravanning type, never fear – you can still relish the riverside lifestyle with cabins featuring creature comforts like a kitchenette, ensuite and heating/cooling. We can’t get enough of afternoon drinks on the deck.

Address: 2 Great Ocean Rd, Lorne VIC 3232  

Queens Park

Queens Park, Lorne
Queens Park offers the ideal vantage point for dreamy ocean views. (Credit: Great Ocean Road Parks)

Also part of the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park, Queens Park is tucked into the bushy hillside above the Lorne Pier, offering the ideal vantage point for dreamy sea views. Being built on a hill, the park is terraced with narrow, steep roads, so it’s best suited to tents, camper trailers and small camper vans rather than caravans. It’s a bit of a walk to the updated facilities if you’re in one of the top sites, but when you arrive you’ll find a shiny new camp kitchen, laundry and shower/toilet block, plus a playground and BBQ area (view included, of course).

For even better vistas, head to the nearby Teddy’s Lookout just a half hour hike away. If you’re after a more luxurious camping experience – and romantic – check out the eco safari tent for two. No campfires, charcoal BBQs or dogs allowed; note this park is seasonal, and often closed in winter.

Address: 18 Armytage St, Lorne VIC 3232

Allenvale Mill Campground

This tent-only campground is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in a natural bush setting (and who don’t mind living without life’s luxuries for a little while). There are 20 unpowered sites, non-flush toilets and low tables and seating; fires aren’t allowed, so bring your own fuel stove or gas barbecue.

There’s no direct vehicle access here; the car park is about 230 metres away, and bring a hammer for setup, as the surface can be hard. Once you’ve settled in, however, all that’s left to do is relax. Enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature, look out for wildlife, or explore one of the many walking trails in the area.

Address: Allenvale Rd, Lorne (look for Allenvale Road Carpark in Google Maps)

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Jade Raykovski
Jade Raykovski is a freelance travel writer from Melbourne, Australia whose wanderlust began from immersing herself in the fantasy worlds of her favourite books as a kid. She started off her career as a graphic designer, before making the switch to copywriter, and now – in what you could say is the role she was always destined for – travel writer. Along with Australian Traveller, her bylines include National Geographic, BBC Travel, Escape and NZ Herald. And while she loves writing about home, she'll never pass up the chance to sip a spritz in Italy.
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From coast to bush: these are Gippsland’s best hikes

    Michael Turtle Michael Turtle
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    Video credit: Tourism Australia

    From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

    I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

    For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland, and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

    Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

    The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

    sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

    Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

    a couple on Mount Oberon
    Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit, which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

    a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

    You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk, even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

    the George Bass Coastal Walk
    George Bass Coastal Walk trails for seven kilometres along clifftops. (Image: Visit Victoria/Time Out Australia)

    Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk, usually done over seven days.

    the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland
    Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    The best bush hikes in Gippsland

    the Baw Baw National Park
    The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

    Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

    Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

    Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

    The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

    the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland
    Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

    As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park, along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

    the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park
    Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail, a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

    the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park
    The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

    Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park, known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Staying there

    the WildernessRetreats in The Prom
    Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

    Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

    Eating there

    the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

    Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

    a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.

    Video credit: Tourism Australia