The Great Ocean Road is known for its dramatic cliffs, sprawling beaches, and the famous Twelve Apostles. But beyond the coast, there’s a secret in store hidden among dense forests, beautiful walking tracks and tumbling waterfalls. For those who love to mix their adventures with the outdoors, these trails provide just as memorable experiences as seeing that ocean view.
When you book the best great ocean road tour package you will not only experience these iconic attractions, but you’ll also discover rainforest walks, secluded waterfalls, and secret picnic spots. With well-planned hidden waterfalls on your great ocean road tour package, you will explore secret waterfalls that most tourists never get to see.
Erskine Falls — The Signature Waterfall of Lorne
Located just 15 minutes past Lorne, Erskine Falls is one of the area’s most popular spots. The 30m drop on to a fern-filled valley is part of the moody charm for visitors.
- There is also an upper lookout for a quick and easy look at the falls.
- The lower trail (steeper, but there’s no way to be so close) rewards hikers with an up-close view from the base.
For an added adventure, combine the falls with the Erskine River Walk, a scenic creek-side walk where lesser falls and leafy greenery flank the path.
Hopetoun Falls — Rainforest Stunner
Hopetoun Falls Nestled in the Great Otway National Park, Hopetoun Falls is not to be missed. A 300m- long walk leads you to a lookout, a steep 1-km plunge takes you to the bottom of this stunning 30-metre waterfall.
Enclosed by tall ferns and mossy trees, it is frequently cited as one of Victoria’s prettiest falls. The tranquil rainforest backdrop offers great photo opportunities, while offering a relaxing place to take it all in.
Triplet Falls — A Forest Like No Other
Also concealed within the Otways, Triplet Falls incorporates three separate cascading layers to differentiate it from other falls in the area. A loop hike for a couple of hours takes you through ancient rainforest and past the relics of old sawmilling machinery, adding an element of history to your hike.
Triplet Falls is also stunning after heavy rain with water gushing through the falls, providing a rewarding stop for nature lovers.
Beauchamp Falls – A Secret Reward
For the more adventurous, Beauchamp Falls has a 3km return walk that takes you through thick forest. The walk climbs up to a remarkable 20 metre waterfall with untouched creek-side wilderness on all sides.
Less crowded than other locations, Beauchamp Falls is a great place if you want to be alone in nature. The trail can be tough, but the peace of the falls definitely makes it worth it.
Why Waterfall Adventures? Why Go on a Private Tour About It?
Group tours of the ocean road visit some of the most popular lookouts, but Great Ocean road private tours from Melbourne allow for more flexibility and depth. Of course, with a private guide, you can visit “off the beaten track” into secret forest hideaways, and even get VIP access to stunning waterfall experiences on our great ocean road tours.
With an exclusive access to scenic waterfalls on great ocean road private tours, you can stick around for photos, savour a packed picnic lunch, or challenge yourself with longer hikes at your own pace. It’s the best way to see and feel a part of the region’s natural wonders.
What to Do on the Hike for a Safety and Enjoyable Hike
- Bring sturdy shoes as paths can sometimes be steep or slippery.
- Bring water and snacks for energy on longer walks.
- Before you leave, take a look at the weather.
- Ride with a guide for inside tips on unknown trails and the prime times to catch the view.
Final Thoughts
The Great Ocean Road is more than just a scenic drive along the coast — it also accesses lush green forests, winding rivers and incredible waterfalls. Erskine Falls is the first stop that adds another layer of beauty to your journey all the way up to the challenging climb at Beauchamp Falls.
Make sure to visit these falls and trails when creating your Great Ocean road tour package. But choose a private experience, and you will have boundless freedom and flexibility to find the region’s most tranquil natural hideaways. These are the hidden gems that will guarantee you come home with memories of not just a coastline, but the wild, untamed heart of Victoria.
