If you are looking for a special getaway on the iconic Great Ocean Road, look no further! Cape Otway Lightstation got you covered. You can stay close to Australia’s oldest lighthouse and pretend you’re a lightkeeper for a night.
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Overview
If you’ve been following me on Instagram for a while, you know by now that I absolutely love a good unique stay. And if this one is right on the most beautiful road in Australia – the Great Ocean Road – it’s even better.
Cape Otway Lightstation is a historic and iconic Victorian landmark. It’s known for its stunning coastal views, rich maritime history, and heritage accommodation. The lighthouse, also called the “Beacon of Hope”, built in 1848, is the oldest existing lighthouse on mainland Australia.
If you are looking for a special place to stay on your road trip along one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives., Cape Otway Lightstation is perfect.
Where is Cape Otway Lightstation?
The Great Ocean Road runs along the south-west coast of Victoria, 2 hours from Melbourne. It begins in Torquay and ends in Allansford. At 243km long, it offers tons of activities and places to stop, from pretty coastal towns to incredible waterfalls, forests and national parks.
Nestled amidst rugged coastal beauty, this historic lighthouse offers not only a glimpse into the region’s maritime history of the region but also a unique opportunity to stay in one of the most picturesque settings imaginable. To access Cape Otway Lightstation from the main road, turn left onto Lighthouse Road and reach this must-see stop for all visitors driving through the Great Ocean Road (keep an eye out on this road for adorable local koalas).
If you decide to stay overnight, you’ll have a completely different experience to that of day visitors. You’ll have the opportunity to wander at the grounds of Cape Otway Lightstation after hours and be treated to a magnificent sunset and spectacular ocean views. Imagine yourself sipping a glass of wine on your private balcony as the sun sets over the Southern Ocean, casting a warm glow on the lighthouse. The experience is nothing short of magical!
The surrounding area is also home to abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. You can spot koalas, kangaroos, and various bird species. The lighthouse itself is a historic gem and offers a fascinating glimpse into history.
What’s the space like?
At Cape Otway Lightstation, you have the choice of staying in either the Lightkeeper’s Cottage, Lighthouse Lodge or the Lightstation Studio. The Lightkeeper’s Cottage and Lodge are historic 2-5-bedroom houses that exude charm and history, while the Lightstation Studio offers modern, self-contained accommodation for couples. All options provide awe-inspiring ocean views.
Photos Credit: https://www.lightstation.com/stay/
I stayed in the Lightstation from which I had a breathtaking view of the lighthouse and the ocean.
Beautifully renovated, the studio was the cutest and warmest. The space is comfortably furnished, and you’ll find everything you need for a cozy night. A kitchenette with a small dining table, a couch and a slightly separate bedroom with a HUGE king-size bed and electric heater.
The additional lounge with lighthouse view is the perfect place to enjoy a hot coffee with a view in the morning.
What are the things to do around?
The first thing to do is, of course, to explore this incredible historic site. Cape Otway Lightstation isn’t just a place to sleep, it’s a destination for exploration. Stroll through the lush rainforest on the Lighthouse Keeper’s Walk, visit the Aboriginal Cultural Site, or climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse itself. Whales, dolphins, and seals thrive in the diverse marine ecosystem of Victorian waters and Cape Otway is a prime location for whale watching between May and October.
The Great Ocean Region has much to see and do. You could stay here for days exploring, but here’s a brief list of the must-dos of Great Ocean Road:
- Bells Beach
- Memorial Arch
- Kennet River Koala Walk
- Lorne and the many waterfalls (Erskine Falls, Henderson Falls)
- Redwood Forest
- 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps
- Loch Ard Gorge
- London Bridge
- Bay of Islands
How to book Cape Otway Lightstation?
You can book your stay at Cape Otway Lightstation directly on its website or booking.com.
Price starts from $285 for the Lighthouse Lodge B&B, $330 for the studio and $350 for the Lightkeeper’s Cottage.
Overview verdict
This peaceful stay was superb and the perfect base for my Great Ocean Road adventure. We can all agree that Cape Otway Lightstation is not your typical accommodation but offers a memorable and unique experience in a stunning coastal setting. I think it’s an excellent choice for locals looking to disconnect from Melbourne’s city life, or for travellers looking for a special place to stay while travelling on one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads.
