Queenscliff

Perched on the Bellarine Peninsula at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay, Queenscliff is a historic seaside town that feels like a step back in time. With its grand Victorian architecture, working fort, and sweeping coastal views, it’s a favourite weekend escape for Melburnians and a highlight of any Great Ocean Road self-drive itinerary. The town’s wide streets are lined with 19th-century hotels, boutique galleries, and relaxed cafes, while the bay offers calm waters for swimming, sailing, and fishing. Whether you’re arriving by car or on the iconic ferry from Sorrento, Queenscliff’s old-world charm and fresh sea air make an immediate impression.

Highlights & What to See

• Fort Queenscliff – Explore this well-preserved 19th-century fort with guided tours that delve into its military history, underground tunnels, and panoramic views over the Bass Strait.
• Queenscliff Harbour – A modern marina with a boardwalk dotted with seafood restaurants and cafes; watch the fishing boats come in or hop on a dolphin-spotting cruise.
• Historic Buildings – Stroll along Hesse Street to admire grand hotels like the Vue Grand and Ozone, plus the bluestone Queenscliff Railway Station and the distinctive lighthouse.
• Bellarine Railway – Ride a vintage steam train from Queenscliff to Drysdale through farmland and coastal scrub; a nostalgic trip for all ages.
• Point Lonsdale – Just south, this village has a beautiful surf beach, the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, and the notorious Rip – a tidal race that’s dramatic to watch from the cliffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

Queenscliff rewards a relaxed pace. A day trip from Geelong or Melbourne is feasible if you focus on the fort, harbour, and a walk through town, but an overnight stay lets you experience sunset over the bay, dine at a historic pub, and ride the steam train. Two days are ideal for combining Queenscliff with nearby wineries or a day trip to the Great Ocean Road.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Geelong – 30 minutes north, this revitalised city offers waterfront dining, the Geelong Gallery, and the famous bollard sculptures along the foreshore.
• Bellarine Wine Region – Dozens of cellar doors and farm gates around Drysdale and Portarlington, specialising in cool-climate shiraz and pinot noir.
• Great Ocean Road – The iconic coastal drive begins at Torquay, 40 minutes south-west; make Queenscliff your launch point for a multi-day road trip to the Twelve Apostles.
• Phillip Island – A 1.5-hour drive via ferry (Sorrento to Queenscliff) or around the bay; famous for the Penguin Parade, koalas, and the Grand Prix circuit.
• Melbourne – A 1.5-hour drive or scenic train ride from Geelong; combine a Queenscliff stay with a city break for the perfect Victorian holiday.

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