Urquhart Bluff and Aireys Inlet

Urquhart Bluff and Aireys Inlet

NB. The following information was current at the time of the event

Distance:  11 Km   |  Duration:  4 Hrs   |  Grade:  Grade 3   |  Rating:    |  Style:  Circuit   |  Map

About the Walk

Overview

This walk offers excellent views of the beaches, the ocean and the Split Point Lighthouse - from along sandy beaches as well as from the clifftops. Some of the walk is part of the Surf Coast Walk, and this section of the walk takes in rock formations, secluded coves and pools, colourful cliffs, and rugged coastal heathland.

The Walk in Detail

Starting on the beach at Urquhart Bluff, head south-west around a couple of headlands (1) (2), traversing rock shelves below bright-coloured clay cliffs as well as enjoying some easier walking along uncrowded beaches. Expect an element of rock scrambling and possibly wet boots! On reaching the far end of Sunnymead Beach (3), take a set of steps up through a gully to join the Surf Coast walking track. Turn left and continue along the clifftops until you meet the many [132] steps leading down to – you guessed it – Step Beach (4). Descend to the beach and explore out towards Eagle Rock.

Return [up the steps this time] to re-join the Surf Coast Walk, eventually reaching Split Point Lighthouse [of Round the Twist and Masterchef fame] (5) and Eagle Rock Lookout. Continue to Loutit Bay Lookout (6) with views of the Painkalac Creek Estuary as well as further south and west towards Eastern View and Lorne. Looping back through Aireys Inlet, re-join the Surf Coast Walk above Step Beach and continue to Sunnymead, descending the stepped track leading down to Sunnymead Beach. After walking about 150 m along the beach, climb another set of steps to your left – ascending through Moonah scrub to the clifftops. Follow the Surf Coast Walk along the clifftops through low heathland and then light forest until you reach a walking track which leads down to Urqhuart Bluff beach carpark – and the cars.

Getting There

The walk starts at Urquhart Bluff Beach carpark: look out for a sharp right-hand turn (signposted “Parking”) off the Great Ocean Road, approximately 750 m after passing the Urquhart Bluff Lookout Parking area. It is a 23 km drive, 30 minutes from the Registration Hall in Lorne.

Walk Precautions

Additional Information

Lorne
Yes
TBA
2019

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