Colac is a hidden gem in the Great Ocean Road region, the gateway to many of Victoria’s best natural attractions, seaside towns and landscapes. Near Port Campbell and Port Campbell National Park, Colac has rainforests, cliffs and everything in between, making it the perfect base to explore Bells Beach, Kennett River and Cape Otway. This town is surrounded by ancient rainforests, famous surf beaches and rugged coastlines with endless opportunities to hike and drive.
Story Through Time
Colac’s history is tied up with the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara people, the original custodians of this land. The town was an important stopping point for travellers on the inland route, with shillings for wagons helping early explorers and settlers. Today, the Colac Otway Shire Council is working to preserve this cultural heritage, including local artefacts, stories and landmarks. History lovers can follow heritage trails throughout the area where Colac’s colonial past is still visible in beautiful buildings and historic structures that tell its story.
Art & Culture
Colac has a thriving art and culture scene that celebrates the region’s creative spirit. With galleries, exhibitions and public art installations, the town celebrates its artistic heritage and reconciliation, equity of outcomes and lasting partnerships with local Indigenous communities. The influence of the Eastern Maar and Gunditjmara is evident in many of Colac’s cultural events, where traditional art, dance and storytelling are on show. Upcoming events in the Apostles Coast & Hinterland also reflect this cultural richness, often featuring native wildlife themes, heritage elements, and local craftsmanship.
Ancient Rainforests
The ancient rainforests around Colac are a nature lover’s paradise. With giant eucalyptus trees, lush ferns and walking trails, these forests, including Beech Forest and Cape Otway, offer peaceful walking. Follow ancient rainforest trails through dense canopies full of flora and native wildlife. The Otway Ranges also have trails to rock formations and coastal views, Johanna Beach with its sandy beach and ocean views and Blanket Bay, where wildlife spotting is a popular activity.
Natural Attractions
Colac offers a diverse array of natural landscapes, from lush green hills and rugged cliffs to coastal villages and stunning waterfalls. Key attractions include the iconic limestone cliffs of the Bay of Islands, the striking limestone stacks along the Apostles Coast, and panoramic views of the Southern Ocean. With the Great Otway National Park just a short distance away, Colac serves as the perfect base for exploring coastal routes, ancient forests, and scenic walking trails that offer breathtaking vistas. For those seeking peace and solitude, the tranquil redwood forest and inland gems like Lake Elizabeth, where you might spot the elusive platypus, make Colac one of the best Great Ocean Road tours to experience.
Your Weekend Guide
A weekend in Colac has it all, from relaxation at the Colac Botanic Gardens to adventure on the Heritage Trail. Start with a walk around Lake Colac, where you can enjoy views and picnic spots. Head to nearby waterfalls like Triplet Falls and Hopetoun Falls, both easy to get to and famous for their big drops. For beach lovers, Port Fairy and Wye River are close enough for day trips and have beach culture and small-town charm. Finish the weekend with a visit to a local bakery or a round of golf at the Colac Golf Club, with great views.
Waterfalls
The Otways around Colac have some of Victoria’s most beautiful waterfalls, Beauchamp Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Triplet Falls, each surrounded by rainforest and ancient trees. These falls are a great place for a nature walk and a refreshing escape into nature’s wilderness. A short drive will also get you to Erskine Falls near Lorne, perfect for photography with cliff top views and big drops.
Walking and Hiking
Colac is a walker heaven with trails to suit all fitness levels. The Beechy Rail Trail is an easy stroll through the forests, while the more challenging trails in the Otways, like the one to Lake Elizabeth, will get you up close and personal with a platypus. Walking tracks along the cliffs offer ocean views, especially at Eastern View and Skenes Creek, and trails near rugged landmarks like Cape Bridgewater will give you 360-degree views and native flora.
Taste the Local Flavours
Colac’s food scene is a foodie’s delight with farm-to-table cafes, artisanal ice creameries and local wines. Local eateries use fresh produce from Colac Otway’s rich soil, and you can enjoy everything from fine wines to hearty bakery treats. For a true taste of the region, visit Colac’s Ice Creamery or the local farmers’ markets, where you can find fresh produce and handmade goods that reflect Colac’s agricultural heritage.
Fresh Water Lake
Lake Colac is Victoria’s largest natural fresh water lake and the hub of outdoor activity. Surrounded by the Colac Botanic Gardens this beautiful lake is perfect for kayaking and fishing and a peaceful spot for birdwatching. In summer the shores of the lake are a popular spot for picnics and relaxation. With views across its vast surface Lake Colac is a must see when in Colac.
Discover Dormant Volcanoes
Just a short drive from Colac are the dormant volcanoes of Mt. Leura and Mt. Sugarloaf with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. These ancient volcanoes are a remnant of Victoria’s volcanic past and stand out as unique features in the green hills of the Colac region. Exploring these dormant volcanoes will give you an insight into the region’s geology and a new perspective on Colac’s natural beauty.
A Visit to Botanic Gardens
A peaceful haven in the middle of town with manicured lawns, rare trees and flowerbeds that bloom all year round. Designed in the 19th century this heritage listed site is a favourite with locals and visitors. From the lake views to the curated plant collections the Botanic Gardens are the perfect place to while away an afternoon. Also family friendly with playgrounds and open spaces to relax or picnic.
FAQ
What are the must-see natural attractions around Colac?
Lake Colac, Beauchamp Falls, Otway Ranges and the Bay of Islands coastal cliffs are some of the top natural attractions around Colac. Nearby national parks offer views of the Southern Ocean, ancient rainforests and waterfalls.
Are there family-friendly activities in Colac?
Yes, Colac has plenty of family friendly activities. Families can picnic at Lake Colac, visit the Colac Botanic Gardens or take an easy walk through the surrounding ancient rainforests.
When should I visit Colac’s natural attractions?
Spring and autumn are the best time to visit Colac when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Summer is perfect for water activities at Lake Colac and winter is quiet and peaceful around the town’s trails and gardens.
What are the popular walking and hiking trails near Colac?
The Beechy Rail Trail and the Heritage Trail are the popular walks in Colac. Nearby in the Otways the Lake Elizabeth trail is a scenic walk with native wildlife and the coastal tracks at Skenes Creek and Kennett River are a favourite among visitors.
Is Colac a good spot to base yourself for the Great Ocean Road?
Colac is centrally located so it’s the perfect base for day trips to the Great Ocean Road attractions such as the Port Campbell National Park limestone cliffs, Port Fairy beaches and the Otways ancient rainforest trails.
