Holiday houses in Warrnambool

Standing at the entrance to Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Warrnambool blends a mix of rugged coastline, nature reserves, beaches, and history. You can stroll or cycle along one of the many scenic trails in the area, including the Foreshore Promenade, which showcases the dramatic rocky coastline along the Southern Ocean. A heritage trail in the city centre takes you to historical buildings such as the old courthouse, post office, and the T&G building with its gleaming white tower. Warrnambool has a modern feel, with its abundance of colourful murals and sculptures — the biggest cluster of which is found where Timor Street meets Liebig Street.

The city is also home to a lush botanic garden, which boasts a wide variety of plants and a lily pond, and Lake Pertobe Adventure Park is a peaceful spot for a picnic before taking a paddle boat onto the water. Lady Bay is the place to go for a dip in the sea or to try different water sports by the breakwater, while surfers favor the swells in Logan Bay.

Warrnambool attracts the highest number of visitors during the summer months, when temperatures reach pleasant highs. This is the time of year when people come to make the most of the sandy beaches and the excellent local surfing. In winter, the weather is cooler and rainier, making it a nice time to discover the walking trails, and nearby nature reserves, including the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, and natural wonders such as the Hopkins Falls. Between June and September, many head to the Logan Beach Whale Watching Platform in the city, as this is the best time to see the whales as they pass this area. Major events during the year include the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic in January and the Warrnambool Show in October, an agricultural event that has been running since 1854.

Flagstaff Hill

Located in the south of the city, this living heritage village is popular for those looking to explore the maritime history of the area. The many buildings, ships, and lighthouses show you what life was like in the 19th century, and you can discover the history of the shipwrecks in the area and learn why the area is known as Shipwreck Coast.

Warrnambool Art Gallery

One of the oldest art galleries in Australia, the Warrnambool Art Gallery dates back to the end of the 19th century. Browse the rich collection of artworks, which number more than 5,000 and date from the 1800s to the present day. Special exhibitions are also held throughout the year.

The Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is an impressive 32-kilometre stretch of coastline starting at Warrnambool. Choose one of the coast-hugging walking trails that lead to stellar views of the famous limestone stacks rising out of the water. Birders drop by to spot a variety of native species, including the black-faced cormorant. And if you’re lucky you might stumble upon a rare orchid.