Some of the best finds in West Vic happen in towns you might otherwise drive through. The Brolga has put together a list of smaller towns in the patch worth a detour for your next weekend stay.

Forrest

Forrest is a popular destination for mountain bike trails and nature walks, with Lake Elizabeth, the West Barwon Reservoir and Stevensons Falls all within a short distance. The small Otways town between Apollo Bay and Colac has cafes, a brewery and a pub.

Nelson

Right on the South Australian border about an hour from Portland, Nelson sits where the Glenelg River meets the ocean at Discovery Bay. Hire a canoe or take a cruise up the river’s limestone gorge, cast a line or walk a section of the Great Ocean Walk.

Kennett River

A smaller township nestled between Apollo Bay and Lorne, Kennett River is a hub for fishing, wildlife, beach walks and exploring nearby rivers and waterfalls. Spend an evening taking a walk along the Grey River Picnic Area to spot glow worms. 

Dunkeld

Sitting at the southern end of the Grampians National Park, Dunkeld is a bushland township with mountains on its doorstep. Walk up Mount Sturgeon or the Piccaninny for views over the ranges, then grab dinner at the Royal Mail Hotel, which has both fine dining and casual bistro offerings.

Peterborough 

A short drive from Port Campbell and the Twelve Apostles, Peterborough is a seaside village offering beach walks, a golf course, pub and cafes. It acts as a convenient base for exploring the Great Ocean Road.

Koroit

Koroit is a farming town with a strong Irish history close to Warrnambool and Port Fairy. Explore cafes, restaurants or the local brewery, walk or bike through the Koroit Heritage Trail or go for a drive to the Tower Hill reserve to look for emus and koalas.

Timboon

Situated in the hinterland behind the Twelve Apostles, Timboon is the starting point of the 12 Apostles Food Artisans Trail, featuring stops for cheese, ice cream and whiskey. The Camperdown-Timboon Rail Trail is a scenic walk or ride past the Curdies River Trestle Bridge through farmland and forest.