Daylesford

TORQUAY / LORNE

Just under a hundred kilometers southwest of Melbourne, Torquay is well known as one of Australia’s premier surf capital with Bells Beach being
regarded as one of the renowned world class surfing locations.
Indeed, stop at any one of Torquay’s beaches and you can see surfers from six to sixty paddling furiously in the angry surf, constantly searching for
that perfect wave that would allow them to become one with the ocean in a balanced display of calm and control.
Any Asian young adult (and even the not-so-young ones like me!) will be familiar with the surfwear and beachwear brands Rip Curl and Quiksilver.
Both these brands had their humble beginnings in Torquay, and still maintain a significant presence in the town with two humungous outlets. In
fact, the town has an entire shopping complex dedicated to nothing but surfwear and surfing goods. So whip out your credit card, because surf’s up
baby! ☺
With its Mediterranean feel and picture-postcard scenery, Lorne is a treasure of the Great Ocean Road that will have you coming back for more.
Lorne is a coastal town that is a relaxing 45-minute drive from Torquay and is ideal for those who want to combine the idyllic calm of a forest trek
with the rugged beauty of a coastal walk.
Popular with tourists and locals alike, Lorne also has a vibrant cafe and pub culture and is a good place to stop for a caffeine fix. There’s also a
colouful arty side, with galleries and shops around the main street, Mountjoy Parade and a gallery set in the bush just minutes form the centre of
town.
For more information on the Great Southern Touring Route drive, log on to www.visitmelbourne.com
INSIDER TIPS

The sections of the Great Ocean Road that are cut into the cliff can be challenging at times. Ensure that you pay full attention when you’re driving, because it is so easy to get distracted by the breathtaking views. It’s much better to stop at viewing points and fully enjoy the scenery than to try and steal glances while you’re driving. Explore the other surfwear shops in Torquay other than Rip Curl and Quicksilver. While you may not be so familiar with these local brands, they are definitely good value for money and could very well be global brands one day. SIGHTS AND SOUNDS

Bell’s Beach in Torquay is good for viewing surfers in action. There’s nothing quite like watching a good surfer majestically ride the waves . Who knows, you might even be motivated to stay for a few surfing classes? Take to the air in an antique Tiger Moth plane for spectacular views of the Great Ocean Road. Remember that this is a classic plane and you will be exposed to the elements quite a bit, so it’s not for those with a fear of heights or flying! Get a loaf of bread and sit on the beach at Lorne feeding the seabirds. This is amazingly therapeutic as you get to see the different birds up close and notice every aspect of animal behaviour as they compete for the bread – it’s like watching the Discovery channel “live”.
REST & RELAX

BreakFree Erskine on the Beach Resort is Lorne’s only beachfront resort and offers an unbeatable location on the Great Ocean Road. For the active and adventurous, the resort offers tennis, lawn bowls and a putting green. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy in-room massage or simply unwind in your luxuriously appointed room or suite. (wwwerskineonthebeach.com.au) Best Western Lorne Coachman Inn is another good value for money 4 star motel property suitable for staying overnight in Lorne. All rooms come with queen sized beds and a small kitchenette. ( The fully refurbished Cumberland Lorne Resort is directly opposite the beach in the heart of Lorne. Fully self-contained 1 and 2 bedroom apartments each with private spa and balcony. () For more information on Great Southern Touring Route, log onto visitmelbourne.com

Source: http://www.aqmedia.com.sg/live/ocean_to_vines/pdf/03torquay.pdf