Great South West Walk

Stretching 250 kilometres along Victoria's wild Shipwreck Coast, the Great South West Walk is a multi-day hiking trail that weaves through towering dune systems, ancient forests, and dramatic coastal cliffs. This is not just a walk; it's a journey into the raw beauty of Australia's south-west, where the Southern Ocean crashes against limestone bluffs and kangaroos graze on heathlands at dawn. Designed for self-reliant walkers, the trail offers both coastal and inland loops, with well-marked campsites and huts along the way.

Highlights & What to See

• Discovery Bay Coastal Park: Traverse massive sand dunes and volcanic plains, with opportunities to spot emus and wedge-tailed eagles.
• Nelson Coastal Walk: A stunning section through the Glenelg River estuary, where you can paddle a canoe or kayak alongside the trail.
• Lower Glenelg National Park: Explore the spectacular Princess Margaret Rose Cave and the serene river gorge, home to platypuses and black swans.
• Bridgewater Bay: A pristine, horseshoe-shaped bay with turquoise waters and a historic lighthouse — perfect for a rest day.
• Portland: Australia's oldest European settlement, with a rich whaling and maritime history, plus excellent whale-watching from May to October.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers tackle the full loop in 7 to 10 days, averaging 20–30 kilometres per day. If you're short on time, the coastal section between Nelson and Portland can be done as a 3–4 day hike. Allow an extra day to explore Portland's museums and the nearby Cape Nelson lighthouse. The trail is best walked between October and April, when the weather is milder.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Grampians National Park: A 2-hour drive north, offering dramatic sandstone peaks, Aboriginal rock art, and waterfalls.
• Mount Gambier: Just across the border in South Australia, famous for its volcanic crater lakes and sinkholes.
• Coorong National Park: A coastal lagoon system teeming with birdlife, about 3 hours west.
• Great Ocean Road: Connecting to the iconic Twelve Apostles and Otway rainforests, a 4-hour drive east.
• Little Desert National Park: A lesser-known gem with mallee scrub and wildflowers, perfect for a day trip.

Please check official sources for current details.