If you are seeking a truly authentic lifestyle, close to the coast and nature, then we encourage you to explore The Otways with us. We love where we live and the diverse number of small townships in our region. From our community hub in Apollo Bay to the beautiful coastal hamlets of Johanna, Marengo, Skenes Creek, Kennett River and all the way to Wye River. Moving inland, there are the hinterland towns of Forrest, Hordern Vale, Aire River, to name but a few, all offering their own vibrancy, character, and unique beauty.
Our job is simply to assist you in finding your ideal property.
With vast areas of this coastline designated National Park, you will find pristine beaches, beautiful forests, mountains, waterfalls and the famous Great Ocean Road interweaving between picturesque towns and valleys. The rules around property development have ensured that communities along this spectacular stretch of coastline retain all of their charm for both residents and visitors. It’s no surprise that there’s always a demand for residential property on the Great Ocean Road.
Wide Open Spaces
A year-round temperate climate creates the perfect back drop for a life in the outdoors. It may be a casual walk across one of the many unspoiled beaches. Perhaps you enjoy surfing or swimming. There are numerous trails ideal for a hike or bike through lush forests or hills. Or maybe take a delicious picnic to one of the spectacular waterfalls within the National Park. Nature in all her majesty is waiting on your doorstep.
For a more structured workout, why not enjoy golf, tennis, cricket, outdoor bowls, sailing or fishing. Sign up for one of the many fun runs or join the internationally renowned Great Ocean Road Marathon that takes place annually with its finish line in Apollo Bay.
Young families will be delighted with the many safe open spaces and playgrounds, just perfect for their little ones. The local football team, the Hawks, will be delighted to recruit some new talent too!
All year round, there’s a vibrancy to life in the Otways. From the buzz of high-season, when the towns are busy with a tide of visitors, to the quieter months when the tourist tide recedes and each township and valley recharges and regenerates for the season ahead.
Flora and Fauna
At over 1,000 sq km, The Great Otway National Park, 160km southwest of Melbourne, is home to thousands of species of flora, fauna and marine life. From Koalas to King Parrots, from rare flowers to a myriad of fungi – there is so much to see and experience in the hinterland of the National Park.
The stunning beaches that form part of the National Park, allow visitors to do some whale watching. The recovering populations of Southern Right and Humpback Whales along with Bottlenose dolphins, are just some of the wonderful marine species to be observed just off the coast. If you are lucky enough to have an Apollo Bay property with sea views you can sit back and watch the seasons reveal their many facets. Any of the homes for sale along the Great Ocean Road, offer easy access to the very best of natural beauty in this spectacular corner of Australia.
Life with Flavour
The distance from food producer to plate is an exceptionally short journey along in the Otways. Local farmers cultivate a wide variety of fruits and vegetables along with pasture-grazed meats. If seafood is your favourite, you’ll be delighted to know that the Great Ocean Road’s Apollo Bay is a working harbour. Delicious fresh catches of southern rock lobster, tuna, snapper, shark and flathead are brought ashore and available direct to consumers.
So much of the wonderful local produce can be bought at the many farmers’ markets, up and down the coast. Why not call to the Foreshore in Apollo Bay each Saturday and enjoy browsing the many food stalls along with pretty jewellery, ceramic and art stalls – all selling creations by local artists.
In celebration of all this delicious goodness, why not explore the renowned Otway Harvest Trail. Dipping in and out of wineries, distilleries, breweries and cideries, you can enjoy sampling some of the loveliest beverages to accompany everything from blueberries, shitake mushrooms, organic meats and truffle oil. A feast for the senses!
Dining and Socialising
There are some great pubs and restaurants that form the focal point for residents and visitors to this corner of the Great Ocean Road. Overlooking the coast the renowned Wye Beach Hotel provides the perfect setting to enjoy a drink or meal and nearby Wye General and Koala Kafe are popular breakfast and lunch spots in the east of the Shire. The Bayleaf Cafe, Brew House, Chris’s of Beacon Point, La Bimba are just a few options in Apollo Bay. There are numerous cafes serving great coffee and lunches. Why not enjoy a great fish and chips at the Harbour Fishing Co-Op where the views across the Bay are unrivaled. Nestled in the hills in the picturesque township of Forrest both the General Store and the Brewery are popular with locals and hungry visitors who need to refuel and refresh with a rewarding ale after challenging the mountain bike trails.
Mind, Body, Spirit
From yoga classes to massage to a variety of holistic treatments, there are many Wellbeing Specialists who offer a range of classes, treatments and therapies all year round. The quality of life in Apollo Bay and the surrounding townships has attracted therapists who are drawn to the stress-free spirit of life on these shores.
With an absence of noise and light pollution, you can enjoy leisurely hours on the deck of your home along the Great Ocean Road or in your garden taking in the tranquil sounds of nature by day while basking under a canopy of stars each night.
Art, Music and Culture
There’s a vibrant community of musicians, writers and artists who have found the ideal conditions and space for inspiration to flourish among the Otways. It’s the ideal place to expand your creative talents.
Festivals that celebrate each season bring together the communities across the region. Concerts, bonfires on the beaches, exhibitions and performances unite everyone in a celebration of life.
Connectivity
Internet and Wifi speeds are strong throughout the area making working from home a reality.
Avalon Airport – 2 hours by car – has direct domestic flights to Sydney and Queensland with many international destinations also on offer.
The nearby large towns of Colac and Geelong are less than 2 hours by car with Melbourne only 2.5 hour drive away.
Public transport is provided by V-Line - offering daily buses to Geelong with a connecting train to Melbourne.
Age Profile of Communities
One of the most attractive aspects of life in Apollo Bay and surrounding Otways is the wide demographic of our communities. From young couples to families, to retired individuals, we are a welcoming and integrated society.
Healthcare
There are many healthcare professionals working in the area. The Otway Health Hospital located in Apollo Bay means there is a well-established primary care service right on your doorstep.
Schools
Apollo Bay P-12 School is a progressive and much-admired school. The teaching faculty has created a curriculum that not just focuses on academic excellence but includes gardening and surfing as part of its offering to students.
Churches
Apollo Bay has a Catholic, Anglican and Uniting Church. Services are offered each Sunday. At Christmas time the community come together for an ecumenical mass. The acoustics in the churches also make them popular venues for musicians and local performances.
Retail
Most of your retail needs are met at the outlets in Apollo Bay. Many of the smaller townships such as Wye River, Forrest and Lavers Hill have small General Store. Colac or Geelong, less than 2 hours away, can provide anything else.
Environmental Initiatives
The local residents understand the value of maintaining their environment. New initiatives are always being introduced that help improve actions around recycling and sustainability.
Conclusion
If you are looking to buy a home in Apollo Bay or any of its surrounding townships, then Goodlife is poised to guide you in your search. There’s a whole world of beauty waiting for you here. Let us unlock for you the best of the Great Ocean Road. Call or email today.