There’s so much to do here, you’ll need more than two nights to explore. The first stop here is Allansford Cheese World. Learn about the dairy industry of 1888 to 1990s at the site’s heritage museum, before digging into a ploughman’s lunch from the cafe and topping up with some free cheese tastings, and the world’s best milkshakes (in our opinion). During the Winter months head to Logan’s Beach Whale Nursery. Here, in this protected bay, endangered Southern Right Whales and their calves soak up some vitamin D while splashing about in the shallows, just 100 metres from the shore. It’s one of the only places in the world where you can witness whales this close, as mothers nurse their calves for weeks.
To continue the wildlife adventure head to the breakwater where seals and stingrays can be seen feeding on fish in the water, and if you look to Middle Island, a colony of Fairy Penguins waddle around their minders, the famed Maremma dogs, which live at Flagstaff Hill during winter. You can get a little closer by taking on the ocean bay walk along Thunder Point. Whilst you’re in the area enjoy a stroll along the beach promenade to Granny’s Grave or even further.
Just five kilometres up the road from Logan’s Beach is the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum and Village, a state heritage listed site of cobblestoned streets and 19th century buildings where you can learn about life in the 1800s. Wander through the village and talk to the in-costume characters who will share the stories of shipwrecks, crewmen and artefacts. As night comes, the multi-million-dollar ‘Tales of the Shipwreck Coast’ show will shine a light on the shipwrecks, whaling and Indigenous stories. Visit the on-site Visitor Information Centre for more information.
Turn left at the roundabout when leaving Flagstaff Hill and head toward Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground. Channel your inner child on the 20-hectares and its many activities for kids and adults alike, including playground, boat rides and scenic walks around the lake.
Head into the CBD an visit our wonderful Art Gallery (WAG); For the past 130 years, with more than 2,000 artworks ranging from European Salon and Colonial paintings of the 1800’s and Indigenous artefacts, to the Melbourne Modernists of the 1940’s and contemporary works, the Warrnambool Art Gallery has facilitated rich experiences for audiences both through its collection and through an inspired program of exhibitions and events in and beyond the gallery. Why not check out whats on at the Lighthouse Theatre.The theatre has undergone a multi million dollar redevelopment and attracts many domestic and international acts in various categories such as comedy, ballet, musicals, cabarets and children’s productions.
Warrnambool has a number of specialty shops in the main street including independent artists galleries, boutique shopping, eateries, pubs and nightlife you will be sure to stay entertained yet relaxed on your trip away. The locals enjoy Fresh Markets on Sundays, Friday night markets during the Summer, Fletcher Jones Market and gardens plus much much more.
Scenic day trips are just a short trip away as you venture to Hopkins Falls, a short 10 min drive along with Tower Hill State Game Reserve, Port Fairy, you can even go as far as the Grampians and Halls Gap! Another great day trip is The 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail, this accessible day trip is a must for local produce lovers! Visitors have the chance to experience a number of amazing food and beverage destinations along the spectacular coast and scattered amongst the inland crater country. In the long established farming region of the Shipwreck Coast, producers have been growing fresh local produce and creating culinary delights for many years. On offer are gourmet cheese makers, single malt whisky, rich Timboon Fine Ice Cream, chocolate, fudge, beer, olives and strawberries.
Take our gourmet food trail and visit them on site or look for them on the menus and wine lists of our local dining establishments.
The 12 Apostles Food Artisans work seasonally within their businesses, we advise you to contact them directly regarding their opening times and factory door sale opportunities. Most will be open for visitors during peak holiday periods.
Participating Operators: