Anglesea

From limestone cliffs and white beaches to abundant flora, native wildlife and coastal trails, Anglesea is a celebration of life by the water. Located at the eastern end of Victoria's famous Great Ocean Road, the town is a favourite holiday destination for families and outdoor lovers. Anglesea's main beach is a wide sandy expanse beside the Anglesea River and is perfect for swimming, surfing or just relaxing. Parents can paddle safely with the kids in the protected waters at nearby Point Roadknight beach. Sign up for surfing, sailing or windsurfing lessons, which are available on the beach.

Combine nature and exercise with a memorable game of golf alongside relaxing kangaroos in the natural bush setting of Anglesea Golf Club. The Anglesea Riverbank buzzes on Sunday mornings with locals and visitors flocking to the weekend market. A stroll or cycle along the boardwalk leads to serene riverside picnic areas, or you can paddle your way around the channels by boat. Kids can run free in the adventure playground at Coogorah Park.

Discover the Mosaic Walk, a 2.5-kilometre stroll through Anglesea taking in six mosaic art pieces, which can be followed up with a visit to local workshops and galleries. Choose a section and explore the 44-kilometre Surf Coast Walk in either direction, along the coast or inland up beside the Anglesea River. The cliff-top tracks around Split Point Lighthouse overlook views of rocky reefs, rock pools and sheltered coves.

Avid long-distance runners will enjoy testing their stamina on the new Surf Coast Century course, a 100-kilometre running trail that takes in wild beaches, towering cliffs and remote wilderness. There is excellent mountain biking around Anglesea, especially the four cross track at Anglesea Bike Park and into the Great Otway National Park on tracks around Eumeralla. Anglesea is approximately 115 kilometres from Melbourne, or about and hour and 25 minutes by car along the M1.