Warrnambool: Rich in Maritime Heritage
Located in the south-west of Victoria along the famed Great Ocean Road, Warrnambool is a waterfront town rich in seafaring history.
Here you can explore beautiful beaches, discover historic shipwrecks and encounter abundant marine life in this lovely, laidback destination.
Warrnambool was settled in the 1840s, and by the 1880s rivalled Melbourne as Victoria's busiest port. Discover some of the history with a stroll by the waterfront, a visit to historic Proudfoot's Boathouse and the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village - a museum containing shipwreck memorabilia and a recreation of village life in the 1870s. Be sure to visit the lighthouse and stop for the gorgeous views overlooking Lady Bay. More than 29 historic shipwrecks rest in Lady Bay, a picturesque beach where you can swim, surf or simply relax on the soft, white sands.
Warrnambool is located on a stretch known as shipwreck coast, and the Historic Shipwreck Trail covers 110km between Moonlight Head (near Princetown) and Port Fairy. While the shipwrecks aren't visible from shore, their locations are marked by road signs and information plaques, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the volatile history of the region.
The Warrnambool promenade is a track 5.7km in length, which stretches from the Breakwater to the Southern Right Whale Nursery located at Logans Beach. Walk or hire bicycles and bring your camera to make the most of the wonderful views en route. Don't miss a visit to the whale nursery or book a whale watching tour to discover these incredible creatures first hand.
The Tower Hill Nature Reserve lies within a dormant volcano and features over 300 000 trees, a lake and wetland area. Visitors can engage with a variety of wildlife on interactive walks including koalas, emus, kangaroos, black swans and other native creatures.
Warrnambool is a major retail centre and an ideal place to stock up on supplies or indulge in some retail therapy.
Stroll along Liebig Street or try the Gateway Plaza Shopping complex or the Homemaker Centre. When you've had your shopping fill, pay a visit to any of the local galleries to view exhibitions by local artists.
Warrnambool has an abundance of cafes, bistros and restaurants. Sample the best in local produce and the freshest of seafood.
The café and bar at the Foreshore Pavilion overlooking Lady Bay is a great option for breakfast or lunch with a view.
You can visit the Allansford Cheeseworld adjacent to the Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory and sample the variety of delicious local cheeses, as well as enjoy a milkshake from the café made from the factory's own Sungold milk.
Warrnambool offers a diverse range of accommodation. Choose a laidback caravan, heritage guesthouse, luxury resort or holiday home, and you'll be well set to experience all that this fabulous town has on offer.
