The hinterland of Apollo Bay holds some of the most spectacular scenery in the state. You'll really know you're in the heart of the Great Otway National Park when you're driving along some of the roads just inland from Apollo Bay. Tall, magnificent eucalypts tower above an endless stream of truly spectacular tree ferns. You are in the midst of a temperate rainforest. Barramunga sits high atop Victoria's Otway Ranges and is endowed with some of the most majestic views the Otways can produce. It's here that you'll be able to experience some real Otway's hinterland magic. Towering gum trees, Otways forest, dense fern gullies and of course Lake Elizabeth where you can get up close and personal to that almost mythical creature - the platypus. The township of Forrest is just down the road. Forrest is a charming, country bush town with a very diverse and eclectic group of residents. Located in the heart of the Otway National Park, Forrest was once a thriving saw-milling town but is now much more tranquil. A great base to see what the Otway's hinterland has to offer. Platypus tours start from here and you can get a very good meal at the Forrest Country Guesthouse.

Top of the Otways is located in Barramunga, just outside the township of Forrest, in the heart of the Otway Ranges. On this 31 acre organic property you will find fruit orchards, gardens, 3 ponds, rainforest, sheep, chickens, ducks, geese and pet goats. Very affordable family / group accommodation in your choice of an Indonesian style lodge or perhaps a country cottage.     more info

Ti Tree Cottages are situated in the charming country town of Forrest deep in the heart of the Otway National Park. The cottages are ideal for families or couples and can accommodate up to 6 people in each cottage with two bedrooms downstairs and loft bedroom. Just minutes from Lake Elizabeth where you can paddle with the platypus.    more info