Orbost

The East Gippsland town of Orbost lies at the heart of Snowy River country, surrounded by national parks, forests and beaches. The tiny Orbost town centre offers opportunities to recharge over country fare at cafes and bakeries. The striking Orbost Exhibition Centre is the town's artistic heart, showcasing local timbers through its construction and exhibitions, as well as the handiworks of local artists. Relocated from the upper Snowy River, the historical Slab Hut is an original 1872 pioneer hut that now houses the Orbost Visitor Information Centre. Take a drive into the Snowy River National Park through tall forests to see the Little River Gorge - Victoria's deepest gorge - and Little River Falls, a 600-metre high waterfall. Visitors can launch a canoe on the Snowy River or cycle around on a self-guided ride. The dramatic coastlines, sheltered bays, and endless golden beaches of Cape Conran Coastal Park are accessible from Orbost. The nearby town of Marlo is a popular place for river and estuary fishing, water-based activities and relaxing on the beach. The Snowy River Estuary Walk commences in Marlo and links to the ocean beach opposite Frenches Narrows. Orbost is around 370 kilometres from Melbourne, or just over four hours by car along the Princes Freeway.