Coastal charm, maritime history and natural wonders on Victoria’s Shipwreck Coast
ABOVE IMAGE: © GREAT OCEAN ROAD TOURISM
The Great Ocean Road technically ends 12 kilometres east of Warrnambool, but don’t let that deter you from visiting the jewel of western Victoria. Built on volcanic plains and shipwreck tales, Warrnambool is a storied city of rugged sea cliffs, golden beaches, migrating whales and maritime history. It’s also a springboard to an archaeological site that predates the Pyramids – and you thought it was just a scenic spot to roll out the awning…
SHIPWRECK TALES
Warnnambool is part of the Shipwreck Coast. Find out why on a visit to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. Warrnambool’s iconic museum tells the story of this notorious stretch of coastline that’s condemned more than 800 ships to a watery grave. Learn about the perilous journeys made by early European settlers and hear the tragic tale of the Loch Ard – wrecked in 1878, killing all but two souls on board. Among the salvaged items on display is the Minton Peacock, an intricate 157-centimetre-tall glazed statue that miraculously survived the wreck.
