The Aire River Walk down towards the coast offers something special with proper ocean views after a decent bit of walking. This 3km return track follows the river through rainforest pockets before opening up to sweeping views across the valley. On clear days, the Southern Ocean sits on the horizon like a blue line drawn with a ruler.
Starting from Aire Valley Road, it’s roughly 25 minutes from Gellibrand via Beech Forest. The turn-off from the Great Ocean Road is well-marked, then about 5km inland on sealed road. There’s a small gravel pull-off that fits maybe six cars. No facilities, so sort yourself out beforehand.
The track follows the river through classic Otways rainforest with tree ferns overhead, blackwoods and blanket-leaf all around. It’s mostly downhill heading out, nothing steep, just a gentle grade that makes the first half feel easy. About twenty minutes in, the forest thins and valley views start appearing through the trees. The path’s well-formed but gets muddy after rain. Proper walking shoes beat runners here, especially for the return trip when that mud gets slippery.
At about 1.5km, the track opens up properly with cracking views across the Aire Valley – rolling green hills folding into each other all the way to the coast. There’s a rough bush bench at the viewpoint, perfect for catching your breath before tackling the return. Here’s what everyone forgets: that downhill stroll becomes a steady uphill slog on the way back. Nothing extreme, but 1.5km of constant climbing gets the heart pumping. Most people take 50% longer returning than heading out.
Autumn and spring work best in good temperatures and the valley looks spectacular. Summer can be brutal in the open sections, and that uphill return in 35-degree heat isn’t fun. Winter’s muddy but atmospheric, with mist filling the valley on cool mornings. Early morning starts beat the heat and catch the best light across the valley. Plus the lyrebirds are more active, scratching around in the leaf litter making their weird mechanical sounds.
Allow 90 minutes to two hours return. Bring water because that uphill return’s thirsty work. After heavy rain the track can flood, so check conditions first. No dogs, no prams, not wheelchair accessible. Kids from about seven manage fine. Mobile reception vanishes once you leave the main road. The track’s straightforward though and follow the river down, follow it back up. Hard to get lost unless you’re trying. Combines well with Hopetoun Falls (same river system, different section) or continue to Apollo Bay for lunch. For park guests wanting more than a waterfall stroll but not an all-day epic, this one hits the sweet spot. Those valley views feel properly earned.
Otways Tourist Park is nestled in Gellibrand, a short drive from the charming rural townships of Colac and Forrest, Victoria. Otways Tourist Park is a welcoming destination – perfect for those looking to unwind, slow down, and reconnect with nature and loved ones.
Nearby attractions include the world-famous Great Ocean Road, waterfalls, rainforest walks and the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk.
The park is also conveniently located within easy reach of popular destinations like Apollo Bay, Lorne and the Twelve Apostles, making it an ideal base for exploring the spectacular Otway Ranges and Surf Coast region.
