OVERVIEW

The Great South West track has got to be Victoria's best-kept secret – a 250km continuous loop of untouched environment, from dramatic isolated coast with massive limestone cliffs and pristine beaches, to meandering rivers and remote bushland teeming with wildlife. Aboriginal heritage sites, the mighty Southern Ocean and freshwater lakes make this one of the most varied walks in Australia.

The first stage of this walk is the Cobboboonee Forest containing the headwaters of the Surry and Fitzroy Rivers. Next is the picturesque Glenelg River, which carves its way through a spectacular limestone gorge. Onto the pristine sandy beaches, rocky outcrops and freshwater lakes of Discovery Bay Coastal Park. The grand finale is the Three Capes and Bays section where the track hugs the clifftop all the way.

The full Great South West Walk option is a real challenge. There's also the choice of the Great South West Walk Highlights, a challenge in itself, but in a more manageable 8 days.

Highlights

  • Cobboboonee Forest with its abundance of wildlife
  • Picturesque Glenelg River section with plentiful opportunities to take a dip
  • The stunning sandy beach of Discovery Bay
  • Sparkling and inviting large freshwater lakes
  • Tackling Mt Richmond with its colony of koalas
  • The Three Capes section and a wonderful seal colony
  • Excellent clifftop hiking to Cape Nelson Lighthouse

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
13 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Chance to ride out on longer walks greater than 12km. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.  C

PRICE FROM
$ 3495

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 745

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 11
  • Day 12
  • Day 13

DAY 1
PORTLAND WALK ALONG THE FORESHORE

Start in Portland any time after 2 pm. There is no walking scheduled for today, but you can easily enjoy exploring the old buildings, walking along the beach or visiting the excellent Maritime Discovery Centre.

Walking: Optional

Meals: None

Accommodation: Lorelei B&B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
PORTLAND TO SURRY RIVER GORAE RD

The 250km circuit commences in Portland at the Portland Lighthouse and coastal cliffs before heading inland across farmland then into the bush.

Note: As accommodation is limited on this remote track, you will be picked up at the end of the day’s walking and transferred back to your stay for the night. The following morning you will be returned to where you finished walking the day before.

Walking: Moderate / 25.7km / 6-7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
SURRY RIVER GORAE RD TO PIPE CLAY RD

A bush day today in the recently proclaimed Cobboboonee National Park. Wildlife abounds, with kangaroos hopping across the track, echidnas digging for ants, goannas climbing trees and numerous parrots flocking about.

Walking: Moderate / 25.3km / 6–7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 4
PIPE CLAY RD TO MOLESIDE

Another day through the Cobboboonee National Park is highlighted by the Inkpot and pretty Moleside Creek. You’ll be met here at the end of the day and taken on to new accommodation at Nelson.

Walking: Moderate / 23.8km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 5
MOLESIDE TO SAPLING CREEK

Today you’ll begin the picturesque Glenelg River section, hiking from Moleside Creek to Sapling Creek. The track is close to the river most of the way giving rise to delightful opportunities to take a swim.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 27.6km / 6.5–7 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 6
SAPLING CREEK TO NELSON ON THE GLENELG RIVER

A real highlight today is when you progress through the Glenelg River Gorge and continue to follow the river all the way into the settlement of Nelson. The character of the river changes dramatically as it makes its way through the gorge. The river then widens as it nears the coast and you’ll start to see boat sheds that have been converted into waterfront holiday houses.

Walking: Moderate / 24.4km / 5.5–6.5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 7
DISCOVERY NATIONAL PARK NELSON TO LAKE MONIBEONG

Spend the morning following the sandy beach of Discovery Bay, before heading inland, parallel to the coast, to emerge at a huge freshwater lake in the afternoon.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 21.7km / 6–7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 8
LAKE MONIBEONG TO SWAN LAKE

Spend some of the day at the beach and hike from Lake Monibeong to Swan Lake, another large freshwater lake. These lakes are a delightful place for a refreshing dip at the end of the day.

Walking: Moderate / 17km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 9
SWAN LAKE TO BRIDGEWATER LAKES

After the morning on the beach, you’ll leave the sand behind and tackle the only hill on this walk, Mount Richmond. The summit area has magnificent wildflower displays and a colony of koalas. For the afternoon, the track heads inland parallel to the coast, to emerge at Bridgewater lakes.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 26.2km / 6.5–7.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 10
THREE CAPES SECTION FROM BRIDGEWATER LAKES TO BRIDGEWATER

Begin the Three Capes Section of the track. Highlights include the Blowholes, the Petrified Forest and a seal colony. The track hugs the cliff the entire way with ample photo opportunities. Walk right up to your accommodation at Bridgewater Bay.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 17.7km / 4.5–5.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation:Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 11
BRIDGEWATER BAY TO CAPE NELSON LIGHTHOUSE

From Bridgewater Bay, the route continues via the beach, then a clifftop track to Cape Nelson Lighthouse. The cliffs here are higher than anywhere else in Victoria which makes for excellent hiking. There’s a cafe here to reward yourself at the end of the hike.

Walking: Moderate / 18.3km / 4.5–5.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite roomss

DAY 12
CAPE NELSON LIGHTHOUSE TO PORTLAND

Continue from Cape Nelson all the way into Portland. Highlights include Yellow Rock, Cape Sir William Grant, a colony of endangered Australasian gannets and the Portland Battery. Then it’s back to the B&B in Portland where you can boast about your achievements.

Walking: Moderate / 23km / 5.5­–6.5 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 13
PORTLAND AND END OF WALK

We finish after breakfast. Why not give yourself time and follow the coast back to Melbourne. Port Fairy is a gorgeous little hamlet perched right by a river. There’s also the Great Ocean Road to explore.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 13 day pack free walking holiday
  • Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • 12 nights’ accommodation with ensuites (except at Nelson)
  • Cooked breakfasts except at Seaview where we have a continental breakfast, substantial Walkers Lunches every walking day and 6 two-course dinners
  • National Park admission
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

This hike has you supported all the way. We have you walk in and out of remote towns and stay at small bed and breakfasts and lodges. Your hosts have been with us in some cases for decades. They love accommodating and feeding our walkers. All of the rooms have ensuites except at Nelson. Nelson Lodge was an old police station with real character, and you will most likely have the place to yourself. The views from your room at Bridgewater make you feel like you never left the track.

The Bridgewater cafe or a local restaurant prepares the food in Bridgwater Bay.

Each day whilst you’re walking, you’ll be provided with a substantial Walkers Lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A Walkers Lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2, 3 & 12

  • NIGHTS 4, 5, 6 & 7

  • NIGHTS 8, 9, 10 & 11

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

TERRAIN

SAND TERRAIN

To prepare for walking on sand you will need specialised training owing to the soft and yielding nature of this type of terrain. It has a distinct impact on the body, especially the calf muscles as you get older. Sand moves when we walk and can lead to the overextension of the calf muscles resulting in discomfort and aches over prolonged periods.

To avoid this you should target exercises for lower body strength such as lunges, squats, and calf raises. Incorporate barefoot walks on soft surfaces such as grass to improve balance and foot muscle strength. Practice walking on the beach or sand dunes if you can to acclimatise to the unique demands of a sandy terrain.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat and hard terrain, you should focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

GENERAL INFO

This trip starts and finishes in Portland, which is a 5-hour drive from Melbourne, or a 6-hour drive from Adelaide. If you prefer, there are regional airports located at Warrnambool, VIC and Mt. Gambier, SA that service’s Portland by onwards coach travel from far afield of either Melbourne or Adelaide. Alternatively, the public transport offers a combination of trains and coaches from Melbourne or Adelaide also. Contact us for more details.

We have rated this walk as moderate as some days are quite long. Full-day walks average about 22km, 5 to 7.5 hours walking each day. The walking is mostly flat over reasonably well-walked paths, bush tracks and some sandy sections. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to rack up some long distances.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

This walk can be done any time of the year except for the winter months of June, July and August. September to April is the ultimate time of the year for walking. Sea breezes usually keep the temperatures comfortable in summer, although there can be a period of quite hot weather, especially during February.

Warning about tide times – we may have to be a little flexible with your start date to make sure that walking on the beach at high tide is avoided.

This walking holiday includes some sections of beach walking, so you need to take into account the tide times when choosing a starting date. To check tide charts, go to the Bureau of Meteorology and select your location as Portland. We can assist you if you need help understanding the charts.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3495

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $745

    13 day itinerary

  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Mar 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $785

    13 day itinerary

  • 1 Apr 2025 - 31 Mar 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $3845

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $815

    13 day itinerary

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

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  1. Pauline W

    5 July, 2022 at 2:32 PM
    5

    Auswalk did a great job of planning our trip, will definitely use them again.

  2. Geoff P

    5 July, 2022 at 12:57 PM
    5

    Excellently organised by Auswalks. Friendly accommodation, reliable transfers and good food. All the hosts were friendly and contribute to an enjoyable event.

  3. Lisa D

    5 July, 2022 at 12:57 PM
    5

    Once again, Ian and I had the most wonderful experience, walking the entirety of the Great South-West Walk, magnificently supported by Auswalk. The hospitality of each of our bnb hosts, yummy meals, prompt pickups and drop-offs, complementing our exploration of this amazing corner of Victoria. This was the 6th time we have completed the GSWW with Auswalk. We can’t wait for the 7th!!!

  4. Jules & Margaret

    1 July, 2022 at 12:08 PM
    4

    It was a fantastic walk. The hosts were very helpful and did all they could to make our stay and walk successful. Overall it was very well organised. The variation in environments was remarkable; although the walking was demanding at times we felt a real sense of achievement. We would recommend it to those who prefer a long and challenging walk.

  5. Mark & Kerry F

    1 July, 2022 at 12:43 PM
    5

    We have just finally experienced the pleasure of completing the Great South West Walk. Auswalk provided us with an amazing adventure supported by great B&B hosts and reliable transfers. The quality and location of the B&B’s was first class.

  6. Alicia S

    1 July, 2022 at 12:47 PM
    5

    We can’t say enough about the attention to detail that Auswalk provided when we were planning our walk. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and were happy to individualise our walk for us. Our accommodation at Lorelei in Portland, Nelson Cottage and Seaview Lodge in Bridgewater Bay were so comfortable and relaxing. Our hosts Roger, Paul and Jo and Cheeky Dennis were outstanding. Even though they have lots to do, they gave us their time and were only too happy to give us information about the area. Our lunches were enjoyable. Thanks Jo for the snakes to get us up the beach. The GSWW is a walkers walk through many varied environments.

  7. Julie M

    11 November, 2020 at 12:01 PM
    4

    The country we went through on the GSWW was so diverse ranging from close woodland to epic coastline with river and limestone cliffs in the middle. The organisation was brilliant- all so easy, good to excellent accommodation, varied, flexible and easy. I liked the background notes about flora, fauna and local history.

  8. Carol

    11 November, 2020 at 12:01 PM
    5

    It was wonderful to complete the entire walk to experience such diversity of landscape. We were blessed with wonderful weather and it was warm enough to swim in the Glenelg River and freshwater lakes. A true surprise was the amount of wildlife on the track: wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, emus, koalas, snakes! (we came across 9), and even a fox! And that is not to mention all the birds. The seal colony and gannet rookery were highlights too. The accommodation was wonderful. It was nice to be able to stay in each place for a few nights to experience the locality a little more and get to know the kind hosts. Fabulous! We rate the GSWW 11 out of 10!!

  9. Kath J

    23 December, 2017 at 5:34 AM
    5

    We recently completed the Great South West Walk self guided trek facilitated by auswalk and what wonderful walking holiday it was! I can’t imagine a better introduction to the beauty and wonders Australia has to offer. We trekked though the forest, along a limestone gorge with the Glenelg River flowing peacefully below followed by a dramatic coastline complete with sandy beaches and rocky outcrops continuously pounded by and incredibly blue ocean. And that was just the scenery. First time sightings of kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, emus, a countless variety of new birds and snakes added to the down-under experience. As fabulous as all that was, I have to say each BnB also holds a special memory of outstanding welcomes and accommodations. Also, a huge thank you to the team at auswalk for their complete and accurate descriptions of trail conditions and times.It took the worry out of the day and left us to enjoy.
    What a wonderful country! I am already planning my next trip for 2019.

  10. Aussie A

    7 July, 2017 at 6:01 AM
    5

    A well organised walk. Accommodation and meals were excellent and the flexibility of the hosts and taxis enabled us to adapt our days to suit our needs. We would book with Auswalk again.

  11. Gat16

    25 April, 2017 at 8:13 AM
    5

    I was a member of a group that did sections of the Great South West Walk on a self-guided basis, customised by Auswalk to the group’s requirements. All the details and logistics were handled by Auswalk, and everything worked like clockwork. The notes were good and the maps provided by Auswalk were outstanding.
    Both of the places we stayed at were obviously familiar with dealing with Auswalk and all the arrangements, including the drop-offs and pick-ups went without a hitch. On the two longest days, the arrangements provided options for drop-offs allowing some shortening of the days concerned, which the B&B hosts (who provided the transport) were happy to work with.
    The arrangements included some self-catering and the B&B proprietors were very helpful in assisting with this aspects.

  12. Keith B

    19 January, 2016 at 8:33 PM
    4

    We have just completed 11 days of walking with 12 nights accomodation self guided with Auswalk. The organisation worked perfectly for us. The walk notes worked well as we had no problem finding our way and at no time felt more information was necessary. The accomodation and food provided was the best availlable in the locations we stayed and our hosts couldn’t have been more welcoming or helpful. The couple of evening meals we had to organise ourselves in one of the small villages we stayed were difficult because of the limited options in the village. However this is no fault of Auswalks and we understand they are doing everything they can to make alternative arrangements. The walking is generally relatively easy without any significant steep climbs or descents however there are some long distances with some days over 25km. We found it was possible to reduce the length of some of these days without feeling we had missed anything significant. The walking was varied with a mix of forest, river valley including some gorge, long sandy beaches and cliff top capes. Wildlife encountered included several emus, wallabies, echidnas and koalas, fortunately only one snake.We were lucky enough to have perfect walking weather for our first 10 days but did suffer on the last day with temperatures in the high 30s. This was soon forgotten after a couple of cold beers at our final destination. Many thanks to the whole team at Auswalks.

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Overview

OVERVIEW

The Great South West track has got to be Victoria's best-kept secret – a 250km continuous loop of untouched environment, from dramatic isolated coast with massive limestone cliffs and pristine beaches, to meandering rivers and remote bushland teeming with wildlife. Aboriginal heritage sites, the mighty Southern Ocean and freshwater lakes make this one of the most varied walks in Australia.

The first stage of this walk is the Cobboboonee Forest containing the headwaters of the Surry and Fitzroy Rivers. Next is the picturesque Glenelg River, which carves its way through a spectacular limestone gorge. Onto the pristine sandy beaches, rocky outcrops and freshwater lakes of Discovery Bay Coastal Park. The grand finale is the Three Capes and Bays section where the track hugs the clifftop all the way.

The full Great South West Walk option is a real challenge. There's also the choice of the Great South West Walk Highlights, a challenge in itself, but in a more manageable 8 days.

Highlights

  • Cobboboonee Forest with its abundance of wildlife
  • Picturesque Glenelg River section with plentiful opportunities to take a dip
  • The stunning sandy beach of Discovery Bay
  • Sparkling and inviting large freshwater lakes
  • Tackling Mt Richmond with its colony of koalas
  • The Three Capes section and a wonderful seal colony
  • Excellent clifftop hiking to Cape Nelson Lighthouse

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
13 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Chance to ride out on longer walks greater than 12km. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.  C

PRICE FROM
$ 3495

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 745

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8
  • Day 9
  • Day 10
  • Day 11
  • Day 12
  • Day 13

DAY 1
PORTLAND WALK ALONG THE FORESHORE

Start in Portland any time after 2 pm. There is no walking scheduled for today, but you can easily enjoy exploring the old buildings, walking along the beach or visiting the excellent Maritime Discovery Centre.

Walking: Optional

Meals: None

Accommodation: Lorelei B&B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
PORTLAND TO SURRY RIVER GORAE RD

The 250km circuit commences in Portland at the Portland Lighthouse and coastal cliffs before heading inland across farmland then into the bush.

Note: As accommodation is limited on this remote track, you will be picked up at the end of the day’s walking and transferred back to your stay for the night. The following morning you will be returned to where you finished walking the day before.

Walking: Moderate / 25.7km / 6-7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
SURRY RIVER GORAE RD TO PIPE CLAY RD

A bush day today in the recently proclaimed Cobboboonee National Park. Wildlife abounds, with kangaroos hopping across the track, echidnas digging for ants, goannas climbing trees and numerous parrots flocking about.

Walking: Moderate / 25.3km / 6–7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 4
PIPE CLAY RD TO MOLESIDE

Another day through the Cobboboonee National Park is highlighted by the Inkpot and pretty Moleside Creek. You’ll be met here at the end of the day and taken on to new accommodation at Nelson.

Walking: Moderate / 23.8km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 5
MOLESIDE TO SAPLING CREEK

Today you’ll begin the picturesque Glenelg River section, hiking from Moleside Creek to Sapling Creek. The track is close to the river most of the way giving rise to delightful opportunities to take a swim.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 27.6km / 6.5–7 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 6
SAPLING CREEK TO NELSON ON THE GLENELG RIVER

A real highlight today is when you progress through the Glenelg River Gorge and continue to follow the river all the way into the settlement of Nelson. The character of the river changes dramatically as it makes its way through the gorge. The river then widens as it nears the coast and you’ll start to see boat sheds that have been converted into waterfront holiday houses.

Walking: Moderate / 24.4km / 5.5–6.5 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Cooked breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 7
DISCOVERY NATIONAL PARK NELSON TO LAKE MONIBEONG

Spend the morning following the sandy beach of Discovery Bay, before heading inland, parallel to the coast, to emerge at a huge freshwater lake in the afternoon.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 21.7km / 6–7 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Nelson Cottage B&B

DAY 8
LAKE MONIBEONG TO SWAN LAKE

Spend some of the day at the beach and hike from Lake Monibeong to Swan Lake, another large freshwater lake. These lakes are a delightful place for a refreshing dip at the end of the day.

Walking: Moderate / 17km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 9
SWAN LAKE TO BRIDGEWATER LAKES

After the morning on the beach, you’ll leave the sand behind and tackle the only hill on this walk, Mount Richmond. The summit area has magnificent wildflower displays and a colony of koalas. For the afternoon, the track heads inland parallel to the coast, to emerge at Bridgewater lakes.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 26.2km / 6.5–7.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 10
THREE CAPES SECTION FROM BRIDGEWATER LAKES TO BRIDGEWATER

Begin the Three Capes Section of the track. Highlights include the Blowholes, the Petrified Forest and a seal colony. The track hugs the cliff the entire way with ample photo opportunities. Walk right up to your accommodation at Bridgewater Bay.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 17.7km / 4.5–5.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation:Bridgwater Bay in ensuite rooms

DAY 11
BRIDGEWATER BAY TO CAPE NELSON LIGHTHOUSE

From Bridgewater Bay, the route continues via the beach, then a clifftop track to Cape Nelson Lighthouse. The cliffs here are higher than anywhere else in Victoria which makes for excellent hiking. There’s a cafe here to reward yourself at the end of the hike.

Walking: Moderate / 18.3km / 4.5–5.5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Bridgwater Bay in ensuite roomss

DAY 12
CAPE NELSON LIGHTHOUSE TO PORTLAND

Continue from Cape Nelson all the way into Portland. Highlights include Yellow Rock, Cape Sir William Grant, a colony of endangered Australasian gannets and the Portland Battery. Then it’s back to the B&B in Portland where you can boast about your achievements.

Walking: Moderate / 23km / 5.5­–6.5 hrs

Meals: Cooked breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Lorelei B& B Portland in ensuite rooms

DAY 13
PORTLAND AND END OF WALK

We finish after breakfast. Why not give yourself time and follow the coast back to Melbourne. Port Fairy is a gorgeous little hamlet perched right by a river. There’s also the Great Ocean Road to explore.

Meals: Cooked breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 13 day pack free walking holiday
  • Vehicle transfers and luggage transport
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • 12 nights’ accommodation with ensuites (except at Nelson)
  • Cooked breakfasts except at Seaview where we have a continental breakfast, substantial Walkers Lunches every walking day and 6 two-course dinners
  • National Park admission
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

This hike has you supported all the way. We have you walk in and out of remote towns and stay at small bed and breakfasts and lodges. Your hosts have been with us in some cases for decades. They love accommodating and feeding our walkers. All of the rooms have ensuites except at Nelson. Nelson Lodge was an old police station with real character, and you will most likely have the place to yourself. The views from your room at Bridgewater make you feel like you never left the track.

The Bridgewater cafe or a local restaurant prepares the food in Bridgwater Bay.

Each day whilst you’re walking, you’ll be provided with a substantial Walkers Lunch and get to eat it at a fabulous location on the track. A Walkers Lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2, 3 & 12

  • NIGHTS 4, 5, 6 & 7

  • NIGHTS 8, 9, 10 & 11

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

TERRAIN

SAND TERRAIN

To prepare for walking on sand you will need specialised training owing to the soft and yielding nature of this type of terrain. It has a distinct impact on the body, especially the calf muscles as you get older. Sand moves when we walk and can lead to the overextension of the calf muscles resulting in discomfort and aches over prolonged periods.

To avoid this you should target exercises for lower body strength such as lunges, squats, and calf raises. Incorporate barefoot walks on soft surfaces such as grass to improve balance and foot muscle strength. Practice walking on the beach or sand dunes if you can to acclimatise to the unique demands of a sandy terrain.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat and hard terrain, you should focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

This trip starts and finishes in Portland, which is a 5-hour drive from Melbourne, or a 6-hour drive from Adelaide. If you prefer, there are regional airports located at Warrnambool, VIC and Mt. Gambier, SA that service’s Portland by onwards coach travel from far afield of either Melbourne or Adelaide. Alternatively, the public transport offers a combination of trains and coaches from Melbourne or Adelaide also. Contact us for more details.

We have rated this walk as moderate as some days are quite long. Full-day walks average about 22km, 5 to 7.5 hours walking each day. The walking is mostly flat over reasonably well-walked paths, bush tracks and some sandy sections. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to rack up some long distances.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

This walk can be done any time of the year except for the winter months of June, July and August. September to April is the ultimate time of the year for walking. Sea breezes usually keep the temperatures comfortable in summer, although there can be a period of quite hot weather, especially during February.

Warning about tide times – we may have to be a little flexible with your start date to make sure that walking on the beach at high tide is avoided.

This walking holiday includes some sections of beach walking, so you need to take into account the tide times when choosing a starting date. To check tide charts, go to the Bureau of Meteorology and select your location as Portland. We can assist you if you need help understanding the charts.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2023 - 31 Mar 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3495

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $745
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Mar 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3695

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $785
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 31 Mar 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $3845

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $815
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. Pauline W

    5 July, 2022 at 2:32 PM
    5

    Auswalk did a great job of planning our trip, will definitely use them again.

  2. Geoff P

    5 July, 2022 at 12:57 PM
    5

    Excellently organised by Auswalks. Friendly accommodation, reliable transfers and good food. All the hosts were friendly and contribute to an enjoyable event.

  3. Lisa D

    5 July, 2022 at 12:57 PM
    5

    Once again, Ian and I had the most wonderful experience, walking the entirety of the Great South-West Walk, magnificently supported by Auswalk. The hospitality of each of our bnb hosts, yummy meals, prompt pickups and drop-offs, complementing our exploration of this amazing corner of Victoria. This was the 6th time we have completed the GSWW with Auswalk. We can’t wait for the 7th!!!

  4. Jules & Margaret

    1 July, 2022 at 12:08 PM
    4

    It was a fantastic walk. The hosts were very helpful and did all they could to make our stay and walk successful. Overall it was very well organised. The variation in environments was remarkable; although the walking was demanding at times we felt a real sense of achievement. We would recommend it to those who prefer a long and challenging walk.

  5. Mark & Kerry F

    1 July, 2022 at 12:43 PM
    5

    We have just finally experienced the pleasure of completing the Great South West Walk. Auswalk provided us with an amazing adventure supported by great B&B hosts and reliable transfers. The quality and location of the B&B’s was first class.

  6. Alicia S

    1 July, 2022 at 12:47 PM
    5

    We can’t say enough about the attention to detail that Auswalk provided when we were planning our walk. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and were happy to individualise our walk for us. Our accommodation at Lorelei in Portland, Nelson Cottage and Seaview Lodge in Bridgewater Bay were so comfortable and relaxing. Our hosts Roger, Paul and Jo and Cheeky Dennis were outstanding. Even though they have lots to do, they gave us their time and were only too happy to give us information about the area. Our lunches were enjoyable. Thanks Jo for the snakes to get us up the beach. The GSWW is a walkers walk through many varied environments.

  7. Julie M

    11 November, 2020 at 12:01 PM
    4

    The country we went through on the GSWW was so diverse ranging from close woodland to epic coastline with river and limestone cliffs in the middle. The organisation was brilliant- all so easy, good to excellent accommodation, varied, flexible and easy. I liked the background notes about flora, fauna and local history.

  8. Carol

    11 November, 2020 at 12:01 PM
    5

    It was wonderful to complete the entire walk to experience such diversity of landscape. We were blessed with wonderful weather and it was warm enough to swim in the Glenelg River and freshwater lakes. A true surprise was the amount of wildlife on the track: wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, emus, koalas, snakes! (we came across 9), and even a fox! And that is not to mention all the birds. The seal colony and gannet rookery were highlights too. The accommodation was wonderful. It was nice to be able to stay in each place for a few nights to experience the locality a little more and get to know the kind hosts. Fabulous! We rate the GSWW 11 out of 10!!

  9. Kath J

    23 December, 2017 at 5:34 AM
    5

    We recently completed the Great South West Walk self guided trek facilitated by auswalk and what wonderful walking holiday it was! I can’t imagine a better introduction to the beauty and wonders Australia has to offer. We trekked though the forest, along a limestone gorge with the Glenelg River flowing peacefully below followed by a dramatic coastline complete with sandy beaches and rocky outcrops continuously pounded by and incredibly blue ocean. And that was just the scenery. First time sightings of kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, emus, a countless variety of new birds and snakes added to the down-under experience. As fabulous as all that was, I have to say each BnB also holds a special memory of outstanding welcomes and accommodations. Also, a huge thank you to the team at auswalk for their complete and accurate descriptions of trail conditions and times.It took the worry out of the day and left us to enjoy.
    What a wonderful country! I am already planning my next trip for 2019.

  10. Aussie A

    7 July, 2017 at 6:01 AM
    5

    A well organised walk. Accommodation and meals were excellent and the flexibility of the hosts and taxis enabled us to adapt our days to suit our needs. We would book with Auswalk again.

  11. Gat16

    25 April, 2017 at 8:13 AM
    5

    I was a member of a group that did sections of the Great South West Walk on a self-guided basis, customised by Auswalk to the group’s requirements. All the details and logistics were handled by Auswalk, and everything worked like clockwork. The notes were good and the maps provided by Auswalk were outstanding.
    Both of the places we stayed at were obviously familiar with dealing with Auswalk and all the arrangements, including the drop-offs and pick-ups went without a hitch. On the two longest days, the arrangements provided options for drop-offs allowing some shortening of the days concerned, which the B&B hosts (who provided the transport) were happy to work with.
    The arrangements included some self-catering and the B&B proprietors were very helpful in assisting with this aspects.

  12. Keith B

    19 January, 2016 at 8:33 PM
    4

    We have just completed 11 days of walking with 12 nights accomodation self guided with Auswalk. The organisation worked perfectly for us. The walk notes worked well as we had no problem finding our way and at no time felt more information was necessary. The accomodation and food provided was the best availlable in the locations we stayed and our hosts couldn’t have been more welcoming or helpful. The couple of evening meals we had to organise ourselves in one of the small villages we stayed were difficult because of the limited options in the village. However this is no fault of Auswalks and we understand they are doing everything they can to make alternative arrangements. The walking is generally relatively easy without any significant steep climbs or descents however there are some long distances with some days over 25km. We found it was possible to reduce the length of some of these days without feeling we had missed anything significant. The walking was varied with a mix of forest, river valley including some gorge, long sandy beaches and cliff top capes. Wildlife encountered included several emus, wallabies, echidnas and koalas, fortunately only one snake.We were lucky enough to have perfect walking weather for our first 10 days but did suffer on the last day with temperatures in the high 30s. This was soon forgotten after a couple of cold beers at our final destination. Many thanks to the whole team at Auswalks.

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