Many people believe that Autumn is one of the very best times to visit the Great Ocean Road. The roads are usually quieter, making it a breeze to get here, and you’ll manage to avoid some of the tourist crowds (although it can get very busy around Easter).
Not only that but we often get our best weather in Autumn, with glorious, warm sunny days and clear, cool nights. There are often perfect evening conditions for a bit of stargazing from the lodges.
Many of our guests also enjoy the fact that the cooler nights mean they can use our famous fireplace. It’s a fabulous spot to sit and have drinks with your travelling companions.
If you’re wondering what the best things to do in Autumn are, here’s our pick:
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Visit the Twelve Apostles
This is one of Australia’s most iconic sights, and it’s always jaw dropping no matter what time of year. In summer it can often get quite crowded. Visit in Autumn and you’ll have to share your viewing spot with a lot less people.
Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road
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Travel the Otway Harvest Trail
This is an easy-to-follow driving route through the nearby Otway Ranges. The route takes you to all the best places to try out our famous and delicious local food and drink. Along the route you’ll find markets, wineries, breweries, farmgates, restaurants, cafes and even a cookery school.
In Autumn the landscape in this region is usually a beautiful soft golden brown. You should also find it easier to get a table at the popular restaurants at this time of year.
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Attend a Festival or Special Event
During Autumn we have a whole series of exciting events in the region. It all starts with the famous Rip Curl Pro from 12-24 April, where the world’s best surfers will compete over at Bells Beach.
Also in April is the Otways Film Fest, which will take place at some fabulous local venues including the Cape Otway Lightstation, Otway Fly Treetop Adventures and Otway Estate Winery & Brewery. Here’s your chance to watch some great movies under the stars. You can find out more and book your tickets online.
In the first week of May there’s the Warnnambool May Race Carnival. This is a truly exciting horse racing event that usually attracts record breaking crowds and a wonderful atmosphere.
On 20-21 May, there’ll be the Great Ocean Road Running Festival, which we think is one of the world’s most spectacular marathons.
You can find out more about festivals and events on the Great Ocean Road here.
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Go Hiking
Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts will just love this time of year. The weather is usually mild and clear – ideal weather for walking (although obviously we can’t guarantee this!), the waterfalls are spectacular and the colours of the nearby Redwood trees will be glorious.
And while you can do the iconic Great Ocean Walk year round, March and April are possibly the very best months of the year to tackle this incredible journey.
You can find out more about hiking and walking tracks here.
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Enjoy some Hygge
Most people have heard of the Danish art of “hygge”. It is roughly translated as “cosiness”, and it applies to the little things that give you a warm glow and a feeling of contentment. Autumn at Alkina Lodge is filled with hygge!
For a start, there’s nothing better than snuggling up by our famous fireplace with your friends and family, and enjoying a glass of wine together.
Other little moments of hygge at Alkina Lodge might include having our chef Cindy prepare you a gourmet meal. Her delicious food can be followed by an evening sitting round the table with your travelling companions discussing life.
Or getting up early, putting the Nespresso machine on and sitting quietly while you watch the kangaroos hopping around our lodges.
You could also treat yourself to one of our Pamper Hampers which contain champagne, scented candles, bath melts and other little touches of luxury.
Or you could simply watch a fabulous sunset from the comfort of your luxury lodge.
If all this has made you want to visit the Great Ocean Road over the Autumn period, click here to check availability at Alkina Lodge and make a booking – and then prepare to relax and indulge!
