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Torquay Australia: Surfing Capital
& Gateway to the Great Ocean Road
Torquay Australia: When you think of surfing in Victoria, you undoubtedly think of Torquay before any other town. This ever popular resort town marks the official beginning of the Great Ocean Road. It is, unsurprisingly, the capital of Surfing in Australia, with Jan Juc Beach right at it's doorstep, and the famous Bells Beach only minutes away. Many well known surf brands have their headquarters based right here, all of which have retail outlets at the huge Surf City Plaza. History
The area was home to the Wathaurong Aborigines prior to white settlement, and was a popular Picnic spot in the 1860s. The town was settled as Spring Creek in 1871, and was renamed Torquay in 1892, after the seaside town in England. Today it is a thriving city of some 10,000 residents, with that number swelling considerably in the Summer months.
The Quick Coastal Getaway
It's close proximity to Geelong and Melbourne make it the first choice for those wanting a weekend coastal getaway without the overly long drive. The Geelong bypass brings Torquay to within an hour of Melbourne's south western suburbs.
Attractions
If you want to soak up the seaside surrounds without leaving town then look no further than the green foreshores and sandy beaches along The Esplanade.
I would recommend a walk starting from Point Danger at the southern end of the esplanade (there's good parking, and you won't get lost). From there head north along Front Beach to Yellow Bluff, then continue around Zeally Bay to Fisherman's Beach. The whole walk is less than 2km, but it's well worth it, especially at dusk on a Summer's night.
(Torquay Australia: A storm approaches from the west. Zeally Bay & Yellow Bluff (with Danger Point in the distance) as seen from Fisherman's Beach)
If you're a surfing enthusiast, then you must visit Surfworld, the worlds largest surfing museum, showcasing the history and spectacle of surfing in Torquay and Australia, with permanent displays and temporary exhibitions of important surfing artefacts and memorabilia, the museum commemorates Australia’s fantastic surfing heritage and rich beach culture.The Surfcoast Walk is a spectacular 35km trail weaving its way along cliff tops, beaches and coastal bushland tracks. It starts at nearby Jan Juc and goes right through to Moggs Creek, just past wonderful Airey's Inlet. Like the Great Ocean Walk, the surfcoast walk is divided in stages; five to be exact, each with it's own access point so anyone from beginners to experienced hikers can enjoy the beautiful natural wonders the trail has to offer. There is many a photographic opportunity along the walk, which is the main thing that attracts me personally to the area. Bring your camera!
Continue Your Journey: Torquay --> Anglesea
Torquay Australia --> Great Ocean Road Homepage
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