Discovering the Wildlife and Walks of Maits Rest

Trek along the walks of Maits Rest and come face to come with some of the region’s greatest wildlife!

Exploring the Great Ocean Road is top of many visitor’s to-do lists while they’re in Australia – and for good reason. This popular coastal route takes in stunning cliff scenery, wild rainforests, and an abundance of natural landmarks.

Set just 15-minutes from the bustling town of Apollo Bay, Maits Rest offers visitors the chance to explore all the natural scenery the area has on offer. The boardwalk unfolds through the rainforest, providing you with a stunning 30-minute walk that takes in ancient trees and colourful plant life. As you wander along the valley floor, you can discover unique scenes, native wildlife, and learn more about the natural history of this part of Australia.

All around you, impressive Myrtle beeches jut upwards, while bouncy moss carpets the floor and gives a surreal atmosphere to the surroundings, not unlike a majestic scene from a fairytale.

Maits Rest is part of the Great Otway National Park, which is a haven of unique birdlife – there are around 43 native species alone that live in the region. It’s not just birds that’ll keep you busy, though, there are larger critters that roam the landscape, including swamp wallabies, koalas, ring-tailed possums, and kangaroos.

Perhaps the best time to visit is when darkness is just about to fall. As the rainforest changes from day to night, you can get out your torch and discover the magical glow worms that light up the majestic scenery.

Things to Do at Maits Rest

There are plenty of ways you can enjoy the stunning scenery of Maits Rest.

• Take a Walk

  The self-guided boardwalk provides the perfect route to explore everything on offer. Hovering just above the valley floor, you can gaze out at sprawling views and keep your eyes peeled for native creatures as you go. The way the boardwalk has been built means it protects the ecosystem, meaning you can discover the region without feeling guilty about leaving your footprint. Take a look at the Park’s walking map to find out which route suits you! Whether you are looking for a long trip, a short stroll, or something in between!

• Wildlife Watching

  The lush valleys and ancient trees provide the perfect habitat for many of Australia’s native creatures, meaning there’s a high chance you’ll be able to spot some of the local residents while you’re exploring. If you’re lucky enough, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the rare yellow-bellied gliders that float from tree to tree – they’re not often see by day, but they can be heard at night. Many of the beech trees within this region are over hundreds of years old, stretching up towards the clouds. They are a significant member of this rainforst, as they are the reason for the cool temperate within the Great Otway National Park.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.