Fern & Gum

Explore the Otways - Action Packed Forrest

Caroline Shelbourne
Can you spot a platypus? You might when you explore the stunning Lake Elizabeth, just out of Forrest.

Can you spot a platypus? You might when you explore the stunning Lake Elizabeth, just out of Forrest.

We’re lucky enough to explore the Otways on a daily basis. Whether we’re driving to pick up and drop off kids, enjoy time at the beach, a horseback ride through our farm’s surrounding bushlands, or of course, now also collecting hamper ingredients or delivering a gift! We thought we’d share with you some of our favourite places to visit across the Otways.

First up the thriving township of Forrest. Just 15 mins from Deans Marsh and 30 mins from the Great Ocean Road, Forrest is an action-packed town that is going from strength to strength. With a strong community spirit which seems to know no bounds, there is lots to taste and experience in Forrest.

From mountain biking, hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife watching, beer, food, wine and pure relaxation – the list seems endless. Whether you’re after activities and adventure or peace and quiet, Forrest can provide it. Our families favourite things to do in Forrest are:

  • Hit the bike tracks - perfect for all ages and abilities - and if you go in spring the forest you ride through are bursting with yellow wattle - a truly gorgeous sight!

  • Visit Platypi Chocolate for a delicious chocolate treat on the most serene balcony, overlooking a canopy of gums & in the comfiest chairs! (So many of our hampers include Platypi chocolate - check out some of the options in our sweet treat hampers)

  • Walk to Lake Elizabeth - we guarantee you’ll be blown away by this hidden gem. You may even spot a platypus!

  • Enjoy fish & chips at The Forrest Brewing Company - we’re stuck on fish and chips but they have a huge range of great food, a fabulous fireplace... and of course their own great beer!! (Check our the Man of the Manna Hamper to try it for yourself)

  • And last but definitely not least, you can’t go past the Forrest General Store which offers all your tourist information and even more importantly incredible food and gifts from regional artists and artisans - Plus it is the only place you can currently get the delicious Otways Distillery Gin - coming to our hampers soon!

Plus there are also lots of accommodation options to make spending the weekend or a week easy.

Immersed in the lush and picturesque foliage that depicts Victoria’s beautiful Otway Ranges., Forrest is definitely a town we think you should put on your list for exploring!

Find out more about Forrest