Otways

About the Otways

The Great Otway National Park stretches between the coast and the Princes Highway. A cool temperate rainforest, the Otways experiences the highest rainfall in Victoria and the lush green farmland around the national park is home to many artisan food producers. 

The Otway Harvest Trail is a food and fibre group representing many producers in the area. Colac is the servicing hub to most of the Otways. 

There are hundreds of waterfalls throughout the Great Otway National Park with the most spectacular accessible to visitors. Much of the attraction is within the national park and managed by Parks Victoria although some significant commercial attractions such as the Cape Otway Lightstation and the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures are in The Otways. 

There is a wide variety of accommodation and food experiences, especially in township such as Johanna, Forrest and Birregurra. The Great Ocean Walk traverses the coastline West of Apollo Bay and Forrest in home to a popular Mountain Bike trail network and a growing mountain biking community.  The Otway Coast Hamlets represents the small townships of Wye River, Separation Creek, Kennett River and Wongarra that are located on the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay. 

The Otways Brand

The Otways are a story of magic and adventure. Where breathtaking nature becomes an indulgence that nourishes the mind and soul.  

We’re a place built on big nature. Where the world’s tallest trees meet the Southern Ocean’s wildest swells. Where shy koalas peer between lush green leaves and fertile soil provides a rich bounty ready for harvest. All who visit fall under its spell.

Strategic Priorities

• Build a strong collaborative approach to support industry development, capability and connectivity

• Advocate and support improvements to enabling and public infrastructure to enhance visitor experience

• Embrace and manage our pristine environment

• Grow the product offering in the Otways, enhancing the visitor experience and supporting a more sustainable visitor economy

• Ensure the Otways destination, products and experiences are marketed to grow awareness in existing and new audiences

Otways Destination Action Plan 2025-2030