Loch Ard Gorge, Shipwreck and Geology walk

Loch Ard Gorge, Shipwreck and Geology walk created by Sean Mathews

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Summary

Spectacular, stunning, breathtaking, amazing, fascinating, you will hear all these superlatives as you take this walk around the ragged cliff edged coastal site of the loss of the clipper Loch Ard.

Description

This is a fascinating walk and a must-do for anyone travelling the Great Ocean Road.

Experience the dreadful setting of the wrecking of the tall ship the Loch Ard.

As you walk the scene, imagine the fear of two young solitary survivors finding each other after washing into this tiny, isolated gorge with its cliff walled beach.

Interesting interpretive signs telling the story are placed at relevant points as you walk. The accompanying geological information puts the story into its hard physical context.

Prams and pushers can be easily managed on the walking tracks, but beach access is via winding steps.

The Loch Ard cemetery can be reached by walking to the other side of the Loch Ard Gorge heading east along the roadside. Look for the sign at the beginning of the track on your left. Take care, Loch Ard Gorge can see many tourist vehicles on site.

The Loch Ard Living on the Edge walking track begins at another car park on site further east. It is a longer walk, but highly recommended.

There is a V/Line bus stop on the Great Ocean Road at the turn off to the Loch Ard Gorge car parks.

Pets are not allowed in the Port Campbell National Park.

Note: aside from parking space and the excellent walking, lookouts and informative signage infrastructure there are no other amenities on site. The nearest public toilets are at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.

Take care around cliff edges and overhangs. There are many and the limestone is constantly cracking and eroding due to exposure to the harsh elements that constantly batter this rugged southern coastline.

Also nearby:
Try these other great local walks
Loch Ard Gorge cliff edge walk
Port Campbell Discovery walk.
Gibson Steps and Beach walk
The Twelve Apostles walk
Clifftop walk, Peterborough

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Points of Interest

1. Loch Ard beach

As you walk out to the first lookout you pass a view of Loch Ard beach, as pretty a little beach as you will find. Suddenly you can't wait to get down there.

2. Island Arch Lookout

The interpretive signage is of great interest and the lookout platforms provide secure clifftop views in an otherwise very unstable location.

3. Island Arch views

This coast really does take your breath away.

4. View from the steps

Just to reinforce the beauty of the place.

5. The steps

There is only one way to get to the beach, via a fairly easy drop of steps.

6. Down on the beach

For those unaware, the limestone stalactite caves within the gorges are an absolute delight.

7. A miraculous sliver

To have survived a shipwreck on this coast and then be washed up through this crack in the cliffs is an incredible story.

8. Directional signs

Signage is clear and well located throughout the walk. The Loch Ard Shipwreck and Geology walking tracks are either sealed or well maintained compacted gravel.

9. Coastal vegetation

There were flowers in winter, there will be more in spring. So much to enjoy!

10. Tom and Eva Lookout

Spend some time awaiting the next visitor after you at one of the lookouts. Most people will take great pleasure in sharing reactions with you.

11. View from the Tom and Eva Lookout

Simply stunning.

12. The Razorback and beyond

This long, thin, sharp edged island has been sculpted by water and weather into a fascinating mix of layers and contorted rock art. There are more highly individual and amazing shapes beyond as well.

13. Singing honey-eater

There are a few locally indigenous birds to look for. Amongst them is the Singing Honey-eater.

14. Scale of a cliff

Unless you actually visit it is difficult to get an impression of the sheer scale and majesty of the land come seascape by which you find yourself surrounded.