Port Fairy

Experience history on every corner of this charming fishing village at the Western end of Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Join in the festivities at the world-renowned annual music festival, engage with the vibrant local arts scene, and get up close to native animals in the wild. Walk down Port Fairy's wide streets that are lined by nineteenth century cottages, Norfolk pines, and old stone churches, boarding houses and inns. Wander the historic walking trails, taking in more than 50 buildings that are now classified by the National Trust. The town leaps into the twenty-first century over the March Labour Day weekend when the Port Fairy Folk Festival gets taken over by musicians and performers from around Australia and the world. Get swept up in the music and see folk, country, blues and popular performers at one of Australia's largest music festivals. At the local port, one of the busiest fishing ports in Victoria, fishermen unload their catch at the dockside, while cruising boats and racing yachts dock and anglers try their luck. From the wharf you can head out on a guided fishing trip, join a whale watching tour in winter, or take a cruise out to the seal colony on Lady Julia Percy Island, one of the largest seal colonies in southern Australia. Port Fairy is a town in love with the arts. Peruse the wide range of boutiques, antique shops, and art and craft outlets showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Relax and enjoy the burgeoning fine food and wine scene at renowned local restaurants and while away days in quaint cafes. Port Fairy is 290 kilometres west of Melbourne, or around three-and-a-half hours by car via the Princes Highway. You can also take the scenic route via the Great Ocean Road.