DAY 3: PORT FAIRY
DAY 3: PORT FAIRY
Some of the Twelve Apostles
Today we head further west. After Apollo Bay the road turns inland across Cape Otway where we will visit Australia’s oldest lighthouse. We will be driving through century old forests before joining the coast again at what is called the “Shipwreck Coast”. The vicious waves and jagged cliffs are largely responsible for the region’s well deserved name, infamous for causing more than 80 shipwrecks in less than 40 years.
Wind and waves have sculptured innumerable arches and columns from the soft limestone, the most famous of which is the Twelve Apostles. These staggering pillars have been moulded by the restless surf into the giants standing today; however now, only seven remain. We will be stopping here for a good look, and if you would like, a helicopter offers the ultimate view of one of Nature’s gems.
The area is eerily desolate, and has been deliberately kept that way to give an appropriate feeling for the surroundings. If you head south from here, you will hit Antarctica.
Loch Ard gorge is another worthy stop. It was here that the most famous of the shipwrecks took place. The Loch Ard was an English clipper that went down in 1878 with much loss of life, but some survivors made it only to be greeted by the daunting cliffs and huge seas. Standing on the beach is inspirational.
Next we head to our accommodation at Port Fairy. This is a delightful town, the biggest decision when visiting is what to see first. There are museums, historic walks, a fascinating harbour and charming olde worlde cottages. The main street has lots to offer but my favourite, is walking around the numerous fishing boats moored in the Moyne River.
There is lots to see and do, and maybe a nice drink before dinner to discuss what we have seen today.
The cliffs near Port Fairy