Grand surf and scenery

Port Phillip Bay curves south like a massive horseshoe towards Bass Strait, the body of water separating Australias mainland from Tasmania, its island state. Melbourne stands at the top of the horseshoe, while the Bellarine Peninsula occupies the south-western tip.

Biggest city on the Bellarine Peninsula is the historic bayside port of Geelong, Victorias second-biggest city, known for its elegant Art Gallery and excellent National Wool Museum. More than 200 of its buildings are listed as historically important.

From Geelong, you can head out on the Great Ocean Road, one of the worlds most dramatic and inspiring coastal drives. It takes in the lush Ottway rainforest, the windswept seascapes of the Shipwreck Coast, the Twelve Apostles rock formations near Port Campbell and some of Australias finest grazing lands. In winter, southern right whales can be seen from a viewing platform on Logans Beach, Warrnambool, as they migrate here to give birth.

Queenscliff, on Swan Bay at the bottom edge of the Bellarine Peninsula, faces the narrow entrance to Port Phillip Bay. It started as a pilot station in 1838, then became a fishing village. The Queenscliff Maritime Centre and Museum gives an idea of how it was in the old days. Each Sunday, a steam engine chuffs 20 kilometres to Drysdale a great experience! Torquay at the Bellarine Peninsulas southern base is one of Australias top surfing spots, with Bells Beach revered for its awesome waves. Check out Torquays surfing museum.