Warrnambool – along with Port Fairy and Portland – dates back to the early 1800‘s when whalers beached their ships on the wide beaches to repair them. Now a large city, Warrnambool coastal scenery still holds a great attraction for holiday makers. Young at Heart invites you to join us for a relaxing holiday on the stunningly beautiful south coast.
Our home for 5 nights is the 4.5 star Sebel Deep Blue Warrnambool. Relax in Studio Ocean view rooms.
Day 1 (L,D) HOME, WARRNAMBOOL
Following Melbourne metropolitan home/hotel pickups, (passengers from other states arrive day prior) we travel to Anglesea and, following morning tea, enjoy the awe-inspiring Great Ocean Road on our journey to our luncheon destination Apollo Bay. In the afternoon we continue along the Great Ocean Road to Lavers Hill, before heading inland to Chapple Vale, Cobden and Terang. Arriving late afternoon, we settle into our accommodation for five nights, the Sebel Deep Blue Warrnambool, before enjoying welcome drinks and a three course dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D) PORT FAIRY
Today we discover the sights and sounds of Warrnambool on a town tour, followed by a visit to the delightful Botanic Gardens. Travel to Port Fairy, viewing the inactive volcano at Tower Hill Game Reserve along the way. Lunch today in this delightful seaside town. On a guided tour discover the fascinating history of Port Fairy and its links to the sealers and whalers who operated in Bass Strait in the 1800‘s, before returning to Warrnambool later in the afternoon.
Day 3 (B,L,D) TWELVE APOSTLES, PORT CAMPBELL
For millions of years the forces of nature have worn away the coastline in the Port Campbell area resulting in a rugged coastline with many landforms, the most famous being the Twelve Apostles. This morning we journey along this fantastic coastline, visiting Cheeseworld for morning tea. As we continue we view London Arch, Loch Ard Gorge, the famous Apostles and Gibsons Steps. Lunch in Port Campbell before returning early afternoon via Timboon to Warrnambool. Enjoy a walk along Lady Bay, browse amongst the shops, or simply relax at the Sebel Deep Blue, the choice is yours.
Day 4 (B,L,D) PORTLAND, CAPE BRIDGEWATER
This morning we travel to Portland, Victoria’s first settlement. Visit the Botanic Gardens, view the bluestone church of St Stephens built in 1824 and enjoy a ride on the historic Portland Tram. Following lunch we make the short journey west to Cape Bridgewater. Enjoy the beautiful scenic drive along surf beaches, Shelly Beach and Bridgewater Bay. Following dinner, enjoy the spectacular show Shipwrecked at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.
Day 5 (B,L,D) WARRNAMBOOL
Today we visit Flagstaff Hill. This recreated maritime village offers the visitor an interactive journey through Victoria’s early maritime history, including the tragic tale of the Loch Ard shipwreck. Flagstaff Hill combines 1870’s charm and heritage with the most modern of multi-media technology to produce an historic exhibition and show with a difference. Lunch at Flagstaff Hill before visiting the Warrnambool Art Gallery. Built in 1886, the current purpose-built gallery was opened in 1986 as a memorial to Sir Fletcher Jones. Later in the afternoon we view Hopkins Falls, often referred to as a miniature Niagara, whilst enjoying an afternoon cuppa.
Day 6 (B,L) WARRNAMBOOL, HOME
Sadly this morning we must depart for home. A lovely farewell lunch, overlooking Eastern Beach in Geelong, is followed by metropolitan Melbourne home/hotel and airport transfers, completing a most enjoyable short break holiday to beautiful Warrnambool and the stunning Southwest Coast.
