Our latest adventure took us inland to Apollo Bay then via the Great Ocean Road winding our way through contrasting landscapes ranging from cool rainforests with tree ferns in the Otway National Park, to lush farmland, too tall Eucalypt’s, through Lavers Hill and Port Campbell, with a pit stop at the unmissable 12 Apostles, finally arriving at our destination. Timboon is renowned for its gourmet local produce and 12 apostles food artisans trail featuring factory door sales and tastings.

Modesc Timboon, hosted by the helpful and friendly Anya and Shaun, is a beautifully styled modern getaway in the heart of the picturesque Timboon township. A luxurious base to experience what the region has to offer, 15 mins drive from Port Campbell and the incredible 12 Apostles. Cozy and peaceful with amazing attention to detail featuring chic, polished concrete floors, main living wood fire and outdoor wood fire. Relax on the deck and take in the stunning surrounding bush, Crimson Rosellas, Superb Fairy-wrens and resident Koala with her joey!

First up, our family hit the Rail Trail on our bikes, starting in the centre of town it’s around 5km fairly easy riding through scenic bush via the former railway line to the historic trestle bridge. Imagining the days when it was a fully functional train route. Then, pending your crew’s biking stamina, on to other dramatic crossings before circling back to town and our home for the night. After a few games of Finksa, we relaxed by the outdoor fire with marshmallows and turned in.

The following morning we headed on a short drive past Peterborough to case the spectacular cliff formations at the Bay of Islands, we managed to find an accessible beach to hunt out some shells and ocean tumbled glass before returning to the Fat Cow Food Co. Cafe for a great lunch and continuing on the gourmet theme exploring the iconic Timboon Ice Creamery and Railway Shed Whisky Distillery. Then back to put our feet up at Modesc in front of the fire before a visit to Sow & Piglets (so named after the original title of the 12 Apostles) microbrewery in Port Campbell to enjoy a craft beer and pizza.

We waved goodbye to the Koala’s having one last location to check out on our way home, a treetop walk at The Otway Fly near Lavers Hill. We made it up the elevated spiral tower to take in amazing rainforest canopy views then hit the road refreshed after a great escape.