Melbourne to Otways Driving Trail
Journey to the stunning Otways and dive into the rich heritage that awaits you. Travelling from Melbourne to the Otways, you'll uncover National Trust-preserved properties and savour contemporary food and wine experiences. Relax in unique accommodations, each with its own story to tell, and connect with incredible tales that will soon be yours to share.
With rugged coastland and beaches to cool temperate rainforests that date back 140 million years, the Otways offer something for everyone to enjoy.
As an add on to this trail, explore the history of the wool industry and why Geelong was once known as the ‘wool centre of the world’. Stop at significant sites from Werribee Park Mansion to the National Wool Museum along your journey to fully understand Geelong’s rich wool history.
Set out on a trip that promises adventure, discovery, and a profound connection with the heart of Victoria. The National Trust’s driving trail is not just a route—it’s a doorway to the extraordinary. Grab your keys, gather your fellow explorers, and let the adventure begin!
Before you start your adventure to the Otways, be sure to check each property’s open times.
Places to Visit
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Werribee Park Mansion
Begin your journey with a visit to Werribee Park Mansion and discover the story of an Australian pastoral empire. Construction of the large basalt and sandstone mansion was completed in 1877 for the Chirnside family who had made their fortune from wool across the Western District in Victoria. -
The Heights Heritage Home & Garden
Prefabricated in Hamburg, Germany, the Heights was erected in 1854 and is the largest dwelling of its kind in Victoria. Explore this unique property which still retains many of its mid-nineteenth century charms. -
Barwon Grange
The only surviving example of the many fashionable river front residences built along the Barwon River during the 1850s and 1860s for the wealthy of Geelong. -
Barwon Park Mansion
Barwon Park is an authentic bluestone mansion and stables set in a sweeping rural landscape. Marvel at the magnificent entrance hall and impressive rooms. -
National Wool Museum
Geelong is a city synonymous with wool – sheep farming began here in 1835. Discover why fleece from Australia’s sheep was at the heart of our economy for nearly 200 years at the National Wool Museum. -
The Redwoods
Right in the middle of the Great Otway National Park, you’ll find a grove of Californian Redwoods planted in 1936. The trees are now more than 60 metres tall and offer a place to stop, unwind and admire the beauty of nature.
Where to Visit
In collaboration with Historic Stays
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Tarnwarncoort
Tarnwarncoort, or ‘Tarndie’ as it’s affectionately known, is a working sheep farm that has been owned and run by seven generations of the Dennis family since the 1840s. The original bluestone homestead dates to 1848 and is recognised by the National Trust as one of Victoria’s oldest surviving homesteads. -
Steam: Train Carriage
Steam: Train Carriage is a unique historic stay with a wonderful past that was built in 1926 at the Newport Railway Workshop in Melbourne. The accommodation has been richly decorated with the late Victorian period and the steampunk movement in mind and is suitable for couples, families and dogs! -
Woolbrook Homestead
Built in 1857, Woolbrook Homestead has been home to five generations of the Morrison family, and is now opening its doors to guests wishing to experience country life at its finest.
Where to Eat
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Sailors Rest
Sailors Rest offers a wide range of menu choices across breakfast, all-day brunch, lunch and dinner options. The restaurant has a long history as a home away from home for sailors, providing them with accommodation, company and entertainment. You can view the heritage-listed electric light-bulb sign originally installed in 1926 – reportedly the oldest remaining electric sign in Victoria. -
The Pavilion
Developed in 1927, the Pavilion served as a community hub for decades. Today, it has been refreshed and offers a range of breakfast and lunch options on their all-day menu. The Pavilion upstairs space, Caledonia Shores, offers unique Asian freestyle dishes, cocktails and a bar 7 nights a week. -
Brae
Led by chef Dan Hunter, Brae is a restaurant and organic farm nestled in a hillside in the Otways hinterland. Experience the environment surrounding Brae with every bite you eat, with unique dishes created to honour the working lands on which the restaurant is located.