Warrnambool

The lovely city of Warrnambool is located at one end of the Great Ocean Road, making it a common "last stop" for a number of driving tours. The city can also be accessed comfortably through the railroad that starts from Melbourne, which is a few hours north of the city. Other ways to reach the historic and magnificent city include Princes Highway. Regardless of the path taken to get there, a tourist can find himself with a number of different activities to engage in upon arrival.

The most obvious first destination to see would be Flagstaff Hill. Being the location of a small art gallery and a magnificent view of the Australian coastline, the hill is a perennial favorite for travelers. The hill also houses a memorial show dedicated to the memory of the "Loch Ard" wreck. The committee that operates the destinations and facilities of the hill also have a specially produced light show called "Shipwrecked," that shows the drama and adventure, as well as the risks and dangers, of sailing.

Another famous destination within the city would be the adventure playground within Lake Pertobe. Designed for families that are traveling the city, the playground covers 20 hectares and has facilities such as picnic areas, barbecue pits, courts for a variety of sports and rental boats. The area is a perennial favorite for younger tourists and has a warm, welcoming atmosphere to it.

The city also has a number of excellent nature trails and hiking paths. Several of those paths have a magnificent, clear view of the sun setting over the lake's shoreline. For those who want a closer view of the sunset, it is possible to rent horses and go horseback riding along the paths that surround the lakeside. For the more sporting sort, the city also allows people to go fishing in a variety of places within the vicinity of the lake. Among the most popular fishing spots are at the pier, in the surf, and near the Merri or Hopkins rivers.

The city is also famous for Stingray Bay, which is known for its crystal blue waters and the abundance of stingray species that populate the deeper waters. The bay also has several beautiful rock pools and is within a few miles from the prime fishing spots along the Merri river.

Another excellent stop while touring the city of Warrnambool would be the two large gardens within the city. The first, Warrnambool's Botanic Gardens, features an expansive flower garden, a small lily pond and a winding path within the garden itself. The second is the Fletcher Jones Garden, which has a small waterfall and a wishing well on the grounds.