La Perouse

Near the 12 Apostles limestone formations and the Great Otway National Park, La Perouse is in an area of incredible natural beauty yet is easily accessible thanks to its location on the Great Ocean Road. Lorne is a popular seaside town with a great selection of cafés and restaurants.

Owners Sue and Laurel were inspired when they opened the hotel by their love of France, which is evident in the prints, furniture, books and artefacts which decorate the rooms. You have the choice of a Twin or King room, both of which are similar in style and bring to mind the French Riviera with wooden shutters, wicker chairs and period fireplaces. Both room types feature balconies and ocean views.

An extensive breakfast spread is served every morning, and a hearty lunch can be packed for you to take on walks and excursions (lunch is not served in the restaurant). Lorne has a number of dining options, particularly during the peak tourist season: During the off season, dinner is served in the restaurant because many of Lorne’s restaurants are closed. Fresh, seasonal and local produce is used wherever possible, and you can expect to find Otway prime beef, Barwon lamb and organic chicken on the menu alongside cheeses from local artisans. Afternoon tea is also served between Monday and Thursday.

If you decide to embark on the Surf Coast Walk, the hotel will happily advise you and provide you with maps, transfers to and from the walk’s start point, and a packed lunch. Children are welcome at La Perouse, and rooms 3 and 4 have porta-cots available; inquire while booking.

The coastal area around the Great Ocean Road is renowned for its natural beauty, and there are myriad opportunities for walking and hiking nearby. The spectacular Surf Coast Walk takes in iconic beaches like Bells Beach, coastal bushland and forest and windswept sand dunes; the Lorne to Erskine Falls walk is slightly more challenging and great for getting the heart rate up; or the Blanket Leaf Picnic Ground to Erskine Falls is a more leisurely stroll. Lorne has a vibrant arts scene for a town of its size, and at Qdos Arts creative types of all stripes gather to write, rehearse and perform: there’s a sculpture park, pottery studio, and fine art gallery for you to explore. Surfers will love this area, with great breaks nearby including Cathedral Rock and the Point.