Torquay is the undisputable surfing capital of Victoria. An ideal destination for any lover of beaches and surfing, Torquay is located only 95 Kilometres south-west of the State’s capital, Melbourne. This makes it a popular tourist destination for holiday goers every year, Australia wide.
Torquay is the official start of the Great Ocean Road and can be accessed by travelling by car along the Surf Coast Highway. This spectacular journey marks only the beginning of what is to come. Nestled in a bush setting, Torquay is also home to several world famous beaches, some of which host world-wide surfing events.
The beaches are undoubtedly the talking point of Torquay. There are several protected family beaches, ideal for a fun and safe day with the kids at the beach. They are easily accessible by car and close to local shops and cafes. However the most famous beaches in the Torquay region would have to be Jan Juc and Bells Beach. Jan Juc is a somewhat wild beach, with fantastic surfing opportunities. Bells Beach also has big swells, and is highly recommended for only the most experienced surfers. Bells Beach is also the home of the Rip Curl Pro Surf and Music Festival, which is held annually at Easter. This event draws in pro surfers from across the world, making the beach one of the most famous and talked about beaches, internationally.
You can also discover the beaches by attempting the Surf Coast Walk, a 35 kilometre stretch, beginning at Jan Juc and ending at Moggs Creek, which is past Anglesea. The coastal views of this walk are spectacular and walking amongst the thick forest with the native birds and kangaroos, is a truly unique experience. The stretch can also be driven, by following the Great Ocean Road all the way to Anglesea. The drive allows you to relax in the comfort of the car, while taking in the breathtaking views and scenic characteristics of the famous stretch.
Returning back to the centre of Torquay, you can explore the seaside potteries, galleries and craft shops while gaining an understanding of the local way of life. Torquay is also a base to several of Australia’s biggest surf brand names. This can be explored by visiting the Surfworld Museum, which is Australia’s largest surfing museum. The museum has interesting displays and exhibits and allows visitors to learn more about the popular water sport. Surfworld also offers surfing lessons, for adults, kids or anyone keen to have a go.
For a more laid back take on Torquay, visit the Southern Rose. These stunning rose gardens are positioned on 8 acres of impressive grounds, encompassing a courtyard, arbours, gazebos and a bird aviary. There is also a restaurant to grab a bite, and soak up the beautiful colour and scents.
A short drive up the road is Bellbrae Carriages, a museum of early Australian horse-drawn carriages. See how the early Australian settlers used to get around and gain an appreciation of modern travel.
For a fun day out with the kids, visit Tiger Moth World and Adventure Park. This theme park revolves around the 1930′s, with a large focus on the Tiger Moth Biplane. The park includes a museum, mini-golf, a flying fox, paddleboats and a volcano maze, among many other fun activities. For the more daring, the park offers scenic flights along the coast to the 12 Apostles, as well as sky diving adventures. For the young to the young at heart, the park is sure to offer something fun for all.
For food and wine lovers out there, Torquay is sure to please. Home to several local wineries, including Minya Winery and Mount Duneed Winery, the quality of the red, white and fortified wines, is world class. Torquay is also home to several fantastic restaurants, popular places include the Bellbrae Harvest and the Great Ocean Rose. These restaurants allow you to enjoy not only fantastic food, but also to soak up the atmosphere and fresh sea air.
When it comes to places to stay in Torquay, the best bet is the Torquay Caravan Park. The park is set on a picturesque landscape of gardens and is within walking distance to most beaches, shops and restaurants. Sit back and relax in your choice of accommodation, ranging from campervan, camping and caravan sites, to quality cabins with impeccable facilities.
Torquay marks the start of an extraordinary drive. The sights and scenes of this seaside town make it a welcoming and fresh place to visit and a great place to embark on the Great Ocean Road. The beaches truly make the visit an enjoyable one and the local history makes it an interesting and pleasurable place to be. Torquay is most definitely worth the visit and is a great escape for the entire family.
Christine Barton is a Content Writer for Discovery Car Rental Melbourne, Australia’s travel focused online car rental company. She frequently writes information about Car Rental Melbourne and travel information relating to Australia.
