Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Torquay is a Victorian coastal town and surfing mecca that draws visitors from around the globe.
While easily accessed on a day trip from the city, there is so much to see and do that you’ll find yourself wanting to stay overnight, or even all week! Here are five reasons to consider Torquay for your next holiday, long weekend or mid-week escape.
Surf’s up
There’s really no overstating this, Torquay has world-class surf and is viewed by many as the spiritual home of surfing in Australia. Bells Beach hosted its first surf competition in 1962 and is home to the annual RipCurl Pro. But it’s not the only beach worth surfing, paddle out from any of the beaches along this stretch of coast and you’ll catch some awesome waves. If you prefer to watch, head out along the 44-km Surf Coast Walk, which boasts incredible viewpoints to see surfers in action on the waves.
Australian National Surfing Museum
An absolute must-do for all surf lovers, is a visit to the world’s largest surfing museum. Learn about Australia’s surfing history, enjoy interactive exhibits, visit the Surfing Hall of Fame, watch amazing archive footage and browse endless surfing memorabilia and an amazing collection of more than 150 surfboards.
Bellarine Railway Steam Train Ride
Step back to the golden age of travel and enjoy a heritage steam train ride at the nearby Bellarine Railway. With special events scheduled throughout the year, this is an activity the whole family will enjoy. The regular “Day out with Thomas” weekends will have the little ones squealing with joy as they see their favourite book and cartoon characters come to life.
Gateway to the Great Ocean Road
Torquay marks the official start point of the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road. Head southwest along this stunning coastal drive and be prepared to stop often as every viewpoint offers breathtaking vistas.
Point Danger Marine Sanctuary
The offshore area between Torquay’s front and back beaches features a small limestone reef that offers great snorkelling at low tide. From starfish to eagle rays, the reef is teeming with sea life, and home to no less than 96 species of sea slugs. These minute creatures come in an almost infinite variety of shapes and colours and are far more beautiful and graceful than their name suggests.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next getaway at Ingenia Holidays Torquay.
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