Encircled by national parks and some of Victoria’s most famous natural wonders, this small coastal village offers a quiet retreat near to beaches, wetlands and lush forests.
Princetown is a small township perched on a hilltop bordered by the meandering Gellibrand River, a short distance from the Great Ocean Road and the magnificent Twelve Apostles. Close to coastal Port Campbell and the verdant eucalyptus forests of the Great Otway National Park, Princetown is a great spot to base your trip to some of the region’s most stunning natural attractions.
In Princetown’s small centre, find a welcoming pub that also functions as a general store, post office and hotel. Surrounded by a lush river estuary and wetlands, Princetown is a haven for native fauna, especially birdlife. This region is connected to the Great Ocean Walk via pretty wetland boardwalks. This 104-kilometre (64.6-mile) hiking track follows the coast and leads past historical landmarks and beautiful secluded beaches.
Princetown’s beaches are a few minutes’ walk away from the village, down a riverbank track that leads away from the national park camping area. These beaches have large undercurrents and dangerous reefs, often creating excellent surf breaks for experienced surfers. Use extreme caution if you swim or surf at these beaches, as they are not patrolled by lifeguards.
Don’t miss a trip to see the breathtaking Twelve Apostles when visiting this end of the Great Ocean Road. The stunning offshore limestone stacks are one of the region’s most famous attractions and offer pleasant coastal walks to beautiful lookouts and more natural formations. Located 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) west of Princetown, the Twelve Apostles are also near to the vertical cliffs of the Gibson Steps and the Loch Ard Gorge. Explore verdant temperate rainforest at the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, also located close by.
Princetown is approximately 4-hours’ drive from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road, and just under 3 hours from Torquay. Camp in Princetown’s magnificent National Park camping sites or book a night or two at a cosy seaside cabin. Make the most of the region’s beaches in summer or visit in any season to experience the many faces of native Australian bushland, including springtime wildflowers and winter wattles.
