June 27, 2020
Dog-Friendly Walks on the Great Ocean Road
If you are holidaying in Victoria and visiting some of its most beautiful sights you may be wondering about dog-friendly walks on the Great Ocean Road.
When it comes to beautiful landscapes few places can rival the Twelve Apostles but many people often ask, ‘Where can I walk my dog on the Great Ocean Road?’
Although dogs are not officially allowed at many famous spots on the Great Ocean Road including Gibson Steps or Loch Ard Gorge, there are some dog-friendly walks on the Great Ocean Road where your best mate can join you to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Here are some of them.
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Otway Ranges Walks
If you enjoy the burble of a waterfall, you can take your pooch to Beauchamp Falls and Stevenson Falls.
Waterfalls are said to have health benefits due to the negative ions that are emitted by them, these increase our serotonin levels, which improves our mood.
Beauchamp Falls Walk is located at Aire Valley Road, Beech Forest.
This 20-metre waterfall is worth the walk and dogs can join owners provided they are leashed. Soak up the tranquillity of nature on the three-kilometre path, which is an hour’s walk return, and described as moderate to difficult. This is a free camping area where pets are allowed with conditions. The ground can fit up to 15 sites and has long drop toilets and picnic tables.
Located south-west of Melbourne, this next walk is easier on your legs and can be reached in around a 2.5 hr drive from the CBD.
Stevensons Falls Reserve Walk can be found off the Upper Gellibrand Road, near Barramunga, and has a well-maintained track to the beautiful waterfall. It is 1.5km and takes 1 hour return. You can also free camp here with your pet. The campsites have lots of shade, toilets and close access to Stevensons falls. No Bookings required.
This next walk can be accessed behind Marengo Holiday Park where you can catch scenic water views with your pooch, it’s 3.2km and takes approximately 40 minutes one-way. The Great Ocean Walk is a gravel footpath that runs alongside the Great Ocean Road.
*Please note that dogs are not permitted in the Great Otway National Park, with the exception of Johanna Beach (beach area & the campground), where they must be on a leash at all times
Heading further East
Timboon to Camperdown ‘Coast to Crater’ Rail Trail (Timboon 17km North of Port. Campbell). Dogs are permitted on leashes along the entire 34km rail trail.
The Bay of Martyrs Coastal Walk in Peterborough allows dogs on a leash on one end of the path.
This walking trail begins at the Peterborough Golf Course and follows the path to Halladale Point.
Source: www.visitapollobay.com
Read next: Pet-Friendly Accommodation on the Great Ocean Road