Peterborough is a coastal township on the Great Ocean Road. Despite being marked on early seafaring maps as a place of great peril, the settlement grew into a busy fishing village throughout the late 19th century. Today it’s a handy gateway to the region’s magnificent coastal attractions. Explore the pretty waterfront hamlet and discover foreshore reserves and awe-inspiring viewpoints that overlook some of the Shipwreck Coast’s most remarkable geological formations.
Spend some time wandering around Peterborough Coastal Reserve, a wide and grassy park that skirts the town’s waterfront. Take in views of the Southern Ocean horizon and the pretty lagoon that marks the town’s eastern border. Stroll across the bridge that passes over the lagoon’s inlet and reach Peterborough Beach. Although it’s sheltered by offshore reefs, this beach regularly has a surf swell. Swim in the gentle waters near the inlet, but be aware lifeguards do not patrol this beach.
Fire up the foreshore barbecue and grill your lunch while the kids play at the adjoining playground. You’ll also find tennis courts and a fantastic nine-hole golf course close by.
To the west of the town, you can embark on the Cliff Top Walk and look out across the Bay of Islands Coastal Park to see rugged limestone crags, rocky coves and wave-battered bluffs. Nearby Halladale Point marks the spot where a ship was wrecked in 1908. Peterborough’s treacherous coast is strewn with shipwrecks dating back to the early 1800s and many place names are linked to maritime misfortune, including Newfield Bay, Antares Rock and Schomberg Reef.
Continuing west, you’ll find the stunning Bay of Martyrs viewpoint. Take photographs of the offshore limestone pillars and the sheltered shores of Worm Bay. Pretty coastal heathlands stretch across the cliff tops and provide habitat for a variety of bush birds.
Peterborough is located approximately 3 hours’ drive west from Melbourne and 40 minutes’ drive east from Warrnambool. The town is easily accessible via the Great Ocean Road. As the gateway to beautiful coastal reserves and viewpoints, Peterborough is a destination on the Great Ocean Road not to be missed.
