Otways Tourist Park Review
by Leanne on July 14, 2010
in Accommodation, Victoria
A little while ago we had a free weekend and were searching for somewhere close to home to spend a few nights. We’re blessed with the Great Ocean Road and Bellarine Peninsula right on our doorstep, but were looking for something different from our usual getaways. And so, we happened upon the Otways Tourist Park.
Large grassy drive through sites. Image: Otways Tourist Park
This gem of a park is located about 15 minutes south of Colac, which itself is around 2 hours south west of Melbourne. As the name implies the park is in the Otway Ranges. It nestles into the foothills on the northern side in the little township of Gellibrand.
A more perfect park for a quiet getaway would be hard to find. The camping sites are large and grassy, and there are a number of cabins to choose from. It’s rated as a 4 star park by the AAAT and dogs are allowed (call first).
The amenities are clean and functional. There’s a pool and a small playground. The Old Beechy Rail trail runs right by. The park is large and quiet; perfect for kids to tear around the place on their bikes or playing chasey. Camp fires, glow sticks and spotlighting at night all ensured the kids not only had a great time, but slept long and soundly. Ah, the joy of a sleep in!
Gellibrand River is only around 15 minutes from some of the most popular Great Otway National Park attractions, such as the Otway Fly and Triplet Falls.
Of the many people we met there, the majority were repeat visitors. It seems that groups of friends find the Otway Tourist Park a perfect weekend getaway too and try to get there at least once a year.
Gellibrand is a very small town consisting of the tourist park, a general store, a pub and a few houses. But don’t be deceived. The general store and pub are both very busy and well worth a visit. We enjoyed a lovely dinner at the typically country pub one night – friendly service, huge meal and plenty of laughs.
The Otways Tourist Park is a now permanently on our list of quick getaways.
What: Otway Tourist Park
Where: 25 Main Road, Gellibrand
Cost: Ranges from $25/night for an unpowered site off peak to $150/night for villa units peak
More Info: www.otwaystouristpark.com
Happy travels,
It’s so weird. Just because it’s a holyday. fourscore percentage of the population seems to disapeare. pole common person on the streets of leuven