Eucalyptus Trees of the Otway Rainforest

The Otway Ranges flank the winding coastal route of the Great Ocean Road, bringing passers-by a mixture of ancient rainforest scenery and incredible sea views.

When you venture inside the lush treetop canopy, you’re greeted by centuries-old trees that tower over fresh new foliage and an eclectic selection of animal life.

This is arguably some of the best rainforest scenery in the country, and there are plenty of landmarks to soak up the finer parts of the area: choose to take a stroll to Maits Rest, where you can marvel at giant tree ferns, or experience the mesmerising glow worms at Melba Gully.

On the outskirts of the rainforest, you can explore charming towns that overlook the sea. Grab a bite to eat and take a wander around the local shops in Lorne, Apollo Bay, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, or Colac to experience everyday life on the Great Ocean Road.

Inside the forest there is plenty to see and do. Boasting narrow valleys carved thousands of years ago and cascading waterfalls, the landscape throws up fresh surprises around every twist and turn. From Lorne, you can check out ten of the region’s most popular waterfalls, including Triplet Falls, before enjoying the secluded beaches of Cape Otway.

For centuries, the forest has been home to Australia’s best-loved critter – the koala. The giant eucalyptus trees provide the perfect habitat for them and they continue to thrive in the Otway Ranges and beyond.

As well as the famous eucalyptus trees, there are also swathes of giant beech and blackwood trees, creating a stunning ancient backdrop that dates back hundreds and hundreds of years.

You can experience the true beauty of the Eucalyptus trees by taking to the canopies of the rainforest on the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. By doing this, you have the opportunity to explore the longest elevated walk in the world. It sits 30 metres high and takes around an hour to walk the entire loop. Along the way, you’ll get to experience the Otway Rainforest from a completely different perspective, and have a chance to learn more about the famous eucalyptus trees of the forest.

The Otway Rainforest is one of the key highlights of the Great Ocean Road, providing visitors with the chance to step back in time and experience the ancient natural beauty of the area. The resident eucalyptus trees and their koalas are well worth the stop on this stretch of famous road.

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.