Walkers Diaries whilst on the 'Great Ocean Walk'
Walk 91 welcome you to share your comments with us, and other walkers, about your 'Great Ocean Walk' hiking holiday.
Your Great Ocean Walk hiking experience:
I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic walking experience. We really enjoyed ourselves and it was a pleasure dealing with everyone along the way. We were very happy
with the accommodation and the shuttle, and of course Walk 91's input in co-ordinating everything. Thanks again, it was an experience I'll never forget.
Sandra Flintoft-Silk Jan 2012
I knew there were walks like this in NZ so I did a google search and liked this trip best -value for money compared to others.
Your itinerary was …great, but if I did it again I would take longer..
Our driver was waiting for us at our destinations….. Our driver picked up some glue for me one day as my shoe came unstuck and someone fixed it for me at the
Eco lodge. We were well fed, had really comfortable and friendly accommodation and treated well by everyone we came in contact with. Everywhere we stayed
we wanted to stay longer.
The whole walk was easy to follow except for one fork in the road…. Spectacular! We had a great time.....Thanks we had a ball.
Bernie Dorfling Jan 2012
We first heard about Walk 91 browsing the internet.
The …’4 day only’… itinerary was good but wish we had more time to really enjoy the walk…and the itinerary was good for the time that we had.
Our accommodation providers were excellent. The actual walk was …pretty tough but overall a good challenge, amazing scenery. Parks could increase
the signage particularly signage to indicate distance.
Our tips for future walkers are..bring more water and less food!
Ami Hii Jan 2012
We heard about Walk 91 on the internet.
The way that our itinerary was planned was good. Walk 91 was very flexible and accommodating both in delivering a package that was in our price range and
also with making last minute changes to the itinerary to suit our needs. Walk 91 was very quick to respond to any questions that I had and pulled together a
fantastic holiday for myself and my friend with only very short notice….(Only a three day walk)…I will be recommending Walk 91 to friends thinking about
hiking the Great Ocean Road.
We stayed in the cabin style accommodation …the beds were very comfortable, the showers were close by and always clean and the staff were very helpful.
It is a great camping site and I would definitely stay there again.
The actual walk was very enjoyable; beautiful scenery; good mix of challenging sections and relaxing stretches where you could really take in the surroundings.
We found it easy to find the meeting spots each day.
Be mindful of the.. hot... weather... It was quite tough completing the walk in the peak of summer.
Don’t try to pack too much into the time you have – our last day was exhausting; walking from 6:30am-12pm before being transferred to
the 12 apostles and then back to Apollo bay before taking the v-line to Geelong, the train to Melbourne CBD, the sky bus to the airport and finally flew home!.....
There was so much more I would have liked to have seen/done on my trip and I wish I had just taken an extra day or two to really enjoy the time that I had on
the Great Ocean Road. I never realized just how much there is to explore and see in the Otways.
The driver that we had on our last day (Alan) was fantastic. He was incredibly friendly, full of lots of energy and enthusiasm about his job and most importantly
got us back to the v-line on time! It was clear how passionate he was about his work, and it was nice to get to spend some time with a real local who had
grown up in the area and who is so obviously in love with his home.
Another great plus was the use of the mobile phone from Walk 91 – it came in very handy to be able to contact our driver, to re-arrange meeting times.
Carla Bassil Jan 2012
We first read about Walk91 on the Internet…and we had no problems with the way the itinerary was planned. The accommodation providers were all very
helpful. Good meals, good packed lunches and good company.
We did not have to use the photographs of meeting spots provided, and the driver was always waiting for us and easy to spot.
The walk was …very scenic and very enjoyable. We were thrilled to see so many echidnas and "wild" koalas and enjoyed the variety of flora and landscapes/
seascapes. We appreciated the board walks on very sandy areas but more extensive use of board walks would more could be done in that regard.
Walking up and down sand hills is hard work……..We did not wear gaiters and were pleased that we didn't. Although we can understand the reason for them.
We took a risk and found long trousers with zip off bottoms to be very satisfactory especially in the warm , humid weather we struck.
We were told that in summer you really need a fly net around your hat. We didn't have a problem with flies. Small gnats were a minor pest.
We only used walking poles on the second last day when they were very welcome on both uphill and down hill stints especially where the track was a bit
slippery. Our tip is …don't feel pressured by the need to be at the pickup spot by a certain time. The driver is generally flexible.
We walked all the way to the 12 Apostles …This was very pleasing for it adds a sense of completion to the trip to walk the entire route.
R & K Joblin Dec 2011
I came across walk 91 through google and internet search for Great Ocean Walk - it was through reading the itinerary and website information
that prompted me to book with Walk 91.
Overall, it was an excellent itinerary and it was the variety of accommodation which attracted me as well as the walk.
The first two days were quite demanding in terms of distance and the hot weather we were lucky enough to have. The meeting spots were easy
to find, the picture photos were most useful. The Great Ocean Walk is a world class walk. It is fantastic to have the opportunity to walk along the
coastline and in the coastal forest with so much wildlife around. The paths vary which is good and the hard climbs are always rewarded
with spectacular coastal views. The newer sections of the walk bringing it closer to the coast and through forest are good and though the
first woodland section is hard going and muddy, it is interesting walking and provides plenty of koala spotting opportunities.
However, I think there should be more signs and information regarding snakes. We passed (and stepped over) quite a number of snakes and
a large part of the walk is through scrub and long grass where snakes are likely to be.... If you are lucky enough to have hot weather always
remember to keep an eye out for snakes.
Great walk, Great food and accommodation and Great views!
Take time out to enjoy the peaceful solitude offered in this amazingly accessible and beautiful location.
Our thanks for a great walk and when we make it down there again we'll call in for some kayaking, Kind regards
Caroline and Gareth Nov 11
I heard about Walk91 through my friend Anthea who booked the trip. The itinerary was excellent and I don't think any areas need to be improved.
Both accommodation providers were excellent - the Eco lodge provided an excellent quality accommodation , meals in a homely setting and at the
cottages the owner went out of her way to ensure we had everything we needed. The drivers provided an excellent service and were very informative.
Future realignment of the milanesia track will improve that section –as I prefer not to walk on the road. The only disappointment was that the very last
section wasn't finished.
My tip is …it is essential to carry walking poles and wear gaitors to protect against snakes and leeches.
A great experience and something all Victorians should do. I .. loved it, it was amazing. Thanks,
Shelley Thompson Nov 2011
We first heard about Walk 91 via Internet search. The itinerary was fine but estimated walk times were too short for us.
The accommodation was excellent ..the walk …well signposted and the photos provided in the info package were very helpful. Parks Victoria
could put in more seats along the way, eg at the Gables Lookout, at major ‘intersections’ and put in more ‘mileage’ signs along the way. Our tip is to make
sure you are physically fit and prepared for the walk – good walking shoes, over pants, gaiters, rain jacket etc – as per the background info. The walk was
hard going at times, but the scenery, bird life, animal life etc that we saw was well worth it! Fantastic!
Jeff and Jane Nov 2011
Undertaking the GOW has been a dream of mine... (I saw the movie 'The Art of Walking'). Hence, it was clear to me that I have to make use of
the opportunity during my one year research stay here at the Australian East Coast. I first tracked Walk 91 in a Lonely Planet travel guide (I think it was the one
about the Australian East Coast), and continued research in internet then.
It was a perfect itinerary for me with, unfortunately, just little free time left. However, performing the whole walk in five days was a fine physical challenge
with appropriate time to enjoy the stunning landscape, and to meet and talk with local people such as the accommodation providers, other walkers or the 'guys'
from the shuttle service. I appreciate the individual organisation. All accommodations were great; each of them was special in a very charming.
It is an outstanding walk with incredible scenery. Please...Parks Victoria…keep this walk as it is, and don't make it a 'mass touristic walking highway' with buses
waiting for hordes of people to be picked up. Furthermore, I acknowledge the collaboration with the Eco Conservation Centre, not only as it was a
marvelous place to stay, but also as the centre's founders, are doing a great and important job in exploring and protecting the still wild environment there.
Keep this spirit!
My ‘tip’ is that walkers respect the unique environment. 'Take nothing than pictures and leave nothing than footprints'.
It was a fantastic adventure, one of the greatest trips that I have undertaken so far (it took me one whole day to reflect it in my personal diary).
I’ll never ever forget it in my life - and would like to conduct it again sometime...
Thanks for the great organisation. It was a joy and pleasure to meet you.
Oliver Neubauer Oct 2011
We first heard about Walk 91 on an internet search "Great Ocean Road Walk". We felt that the way in which the walk was planned was excellent,
and suited our trekking and accommodation needs very well. Our 6 Day Trek accommodation at the Cape Otway Centre for Conservation Ecology,
and other B & Bs was excellent. The 6 Day Walk from Marengo to the 12 Apostles was one of the most scenic and varied Walks we have undertaken.
Although we completed each section in our Track Notes allotted time, we found that the National Parks grading of "hard", "medium" and "easy" was an
accurate description of the various stages. Parks Victoria could improve the walk however, by adding kilometer markers along track sections.
Our tips would be, to help prevent blisters and sore feet, wrap sheep wool fleece around pressure points such as toes. Also, we find that trekking in the cooler
months (our Great Ocean Walk was September 2011) a more pleasant experience than trekking in the heat of summer.
Maurice Neilson Sept 2011
I heard about the walk...from my friend in WA who discovered the booklet “Great Ocean Walk” Park Victoria when he visited Geelong.The walk started
at Apollo Bay, a lovely town in Winter, with a warm welcome from the Motel - who gave an exceptionally friendly welcome on day before the walk, and
on the last evening post walk. We finished at the 12 Apostles with a one night stay over at the Animal Park. Again the lady there was very friendly and hospitable.
(Use of the laundry facilities were most appreciated.)The package was well put together. I think it needs to be stated that for the people who are having
their gear transported daily (for camping), a backpack is essential for some of the longer hauls into the sites. At one stage I was thinking of taking a case
of wheels, this would have been most unsuitable.Our transport man was wonderful, provided the “top ups” if you needed them with great kindness.
The walk was just wonderful. I loved the remoteness of the walk in Winter, when we saw no other walkers who were doing the walk for days, only day trippers
or some who were hiking for two days. Access to the Great Southern Ocean was a rich experience.....Despite the few people on the track the access to the
locator beacon was a great comfort. However, I do think that Victoria National Parks needs to improve the state of their walking paths in some areas,
especially for Winter walkers. Our tips are
- Back packs essential
- Young walkers may not need poles, but in the wet older walkers may find them essential gear
Ann –Marie July 2011
We heard of Walk91 via the Net .The accommodation throughout was excellent: Very good selection. The walk was spectacular.
However, unless Vic Parks is given adequate money to spend on essential maintenance, the integrity of the track will be placed in jeopardy.
Track design and construction showed little importance had been given to adequate track drainage.....(I have taken into account the heavy rainfall
this area has received prior to our arrival.) As Vic Parks are promoting this GOW as an international icon, I would suggest that many aspects need attention.
....This GOW has the potential to become a world icon and the government needs to recognise the immense advantages such recognition will bring to Victoria.
My tip is to...prepare by reading Walk 91 Notes and the notations on the map before they arrive at Apollo Bay. It was a most enjoyable experience.
Eric and Maree April 2011
We found Walk91 whilst researching on the internet. We were very happy with the itinerary. However itineraries with some smaller days walking (less hours)
with the option to spend an extra night or two on the walk would be ideal for some walkers. The Ecolodge was a great experience, great food, great staff...
no changes! The next B&B was amazing.. outstanding hosts..and the location! The photos are a great idea and we found our meeting spots ok. I really enjoyed
the whole experience..I love walking, the views were amazing and the trail easy to follow and well maintained. My husband thought the days were a bit long!
Our tip is to try to take longer and the rest day was a great idea. Great Ocean walk..a wonderful experience! Thanks!
Camillus and Glen April 2011
Walk 91 was recommended by my brother. Not having done any walks before we were led by your expertise and it all worked very well for us.
The only issue for me was that I should have hired walking poles. My husband found a branch that he fashioned into my trusty walking stick which I used till
the last day. The accommodation venues were excellent - really enjoyed both the eco lodge and B&BsWe loved the change in flora from day to day and the
views were magnificent. Found day 3 a bit tough at times in the steep sections but overall handled it quite well. Older walkers should really take walking poles
for the steep ascents and descents. Also some training prior to the walk is important.Overall we were thrilled to have done this walk, really loved every aspec
t of it. We were impressed by the friendliness of our accommodation hosts, and the couriers that ferried us from place to place. They were very knowledgeable
and made us feel very relaxed in our surroundings. I would recommend (and have recommended) Walk 91 to anyone interested in doing the Great Ocean Walk.
Thank you for this wonderful experience. We look forward with excitement to our next walk.
Judy Townson April 2011 ,
I was excited to find the service that carried the packs for us and enabled camping out ..A much more economical option than paying for accommodation
every night. It was also nice to stay in the hiking / tents countryside “zone”. I loved having a proper map , and the waterproof case became essential.
We were overexcited after a very wet day to arrive at the fauna park. Great to wash and dry wet stuff.
Beautiful coastal sections : plenty of wave action .Varied vegetation in different parts . I happen to LOVE beach forests, teatree groves,
fern gullies over mountainside creeks and boardwalks. Pretty campsites . It is wonderful to have the campsite shelters: especially in a rainy climate.
The variety of stone steps and those timber ones climbing up to “ Lothlorien” were charming.
Aero gaurd very handy for spraying against leeches ( if you are unprepared with salt).
Also, I think the nature of the drinking water should be clarified for people. Authorities have to protect themselves I know: but many australians ,
including us, drink untreated water from tanks all the time. Some international campers might have the total drag of carrying loads of water
when they don’t need too. So I guess it would be well worth having the conversation with people. Walk91 was VERY accomodating to our time changes.
One happy walker !
Helen and Dave March 2011
We found Walk 91 and the Great Ocean Walk by …Internet search of guided /unguided walks along great ocean walk.
The itinerary was good and we walked faster than the times allowed. The whole package was great. It was exactly as we expected. The accommodation was terrific – three different experiences and all great in their own individual way.
The walk was fantastic – so many different types of habitats with varied vegetation and wildlife; and great views all the way. We had no problems finding the meeting spots each day.
However some of the track is badly damaged by 4WD traffic. This was only in a few parts but was a downside.
We expected it to be cold but did not expect it to be as hot as it was on 7 March and should have carried more water. Other days we had plenty. Day 3 was the hardest day for us (Cape Otway – Castle Cove).
It was a great experience and well organized. I would recommend the walk and Walk 91.
Thank you,
Warren & Iris Freeman March 2011
We first heard about Walk 91 on the internet.
The itinerary was excellent, and we especially liked the flexibility and fitting in with our time constraints. The drivers were very good at organizing our day once we were on the walk. Also I found Mark very responsive to phone calls etc. problems, although minor did get solved.
We had absolutely no problems… finding the meeting spots each day. The drivers are very helpful and would drive along the track behind us if they could. We only got lost once as we missed the decision point half way along Station Beach …..we solved this by ringing.
The walk is fantastic….The new 4 km section is one of the highlights of the trip and it was better to do it after the hard section so the last day is not too long. It is very manageable and we did it with ease all on the second last day.
Some parts of the walk are not as good e.g. the long haul after Johanna beach was not pleasant but overall it is a wonderful walk with lots of variety and interest. I would do it again.
Parks Victoria could put distance markers every so often. Perhaps some clearer signage about what to do with tissues and toilet paper for people who perhaps don’t read English. There is a lot of inappropriate toileting on the track which is probably due to ‘ignorance’ or a fear of snakes.
Our tips for future walkers would be …MUST stay at Eco Lodge!!!!!
Thanks a million, it was wonderful !
Meredith Martin March 2011
Anne and I want to thank you for the GOW we completed this week. It was sensational (the good weather didn't hurt). More to the point though, the accommodations, pick ups, luggage, everything really went perfectly.
The only suggestion I'd make is that if it were possible to spread the walk out for another day.... that would give us more time to check out the beautiful beaches and features. Maybe we're slow walkers, though no one passed us.
The inland track on day 1... was hard going... .the mud and puddles... but you could mostly walk around them. I guess this was our least favorite part. Our favorites, too numerous to mention them all--- but for me the Aire River bridge, all the beaches, well just about everything else really. The accommodation was perfect---exceeded any hope or expectations we had-- impossible to find fault-- impossible to find a favorite as they were all so different.
We would happily recommend this walk to any prospective clients who have a reasonable degree of fitness, and a pair of good hiking boots!
Thanks again, glad we didn't need the GPS.
Charlie and Anne April 2011
Robyn found you…Walk91 and the Great Ocean Walk… through Google.
We thought that the itinerary was well planned - for various reasons it turned out to be perfect.
No improvements were needed! Seriously, you worked with Robyn to assemble the package, she talked to us during the process and it unfolded essentially as planned - all good.
The B&B exceed superlatives. Lucky we walked all day to work off their breakfasts!
The Great Ocean Walk was very good and will be improved as sections of road are replaced with walking paths as planned. The last day's walk to the twelve apostles along the new alignment is a cracker. Getting it to the twelve apostles will be an improvement though - seeing "end gow" on the back of a post at the info car park was as anticlimactic as being dropped off in the rain in a dead end street at Marengo to start the walk!
The Great Ocean Walk map was good, the signposts were clear, the campsites were fine and the countryside is worth the walk.
You're initial Great Ocean Walk briefing made a lot more sense after we'd finished, because then we knew what you were talking about!
My tip: …My wet weather gear was a folding umbrella - it really was. I took a punt that it might be wet, but not cold or windy, as it was January. When it was raining (which was a lot) it wasn't windy. When it was windy it wasn't raining. The walking track was almost everywhere open enough for an umbrella. Just lucky, but it worked superbly well. In the bright sun on the last day it was a parasol - no sunburn! I'd do it again (if it's winter I'll gear up properly, promise).
Ron and Penny, John and Robyn Jan 2011
We discovered Walk 91 on goggle.
It was a fabulous itinerary and we thoroughly enjoyed each day. The times were good and only once were we late for our pick up. The day we went to the lighthouse and we had spent 2 hours there which made us late .
Nothing could have been done to improve our package, it was all great.
The accommodation was good and we enjoyed the combination of cabin and B&B. (WC5). The B&B owners were really were great hosts and spoiled us with their hospitality. It was lovely to have a great bed. The pub also had fabulous food. Would recommend everyone stay with Lex and Mary, wonderful kind people and a beautiful home.
The meeting spots were well presented in the photos and we had no problems.
The walk was enjoyable and the tide chart was good as we enjoyed walking along the beaches.
Many sections of the track were quite overgrown and the grass was up to my shoulders I am only 5 ft. It would have been good to have these areas slashed as I was wary of snakes. Our tips is that gators are a necessity for the wet areas and leeches.
We both enjoyed the walk very much and have already recommended it and Walk91 to other friends. A great thing to do before the busy Christmas season starts.
Judy and Geoff Dec 2010
Just a quick note from Carolyn and myself to thank you for coming to see us at the Eco Beach YHA the night before we started our very enjoyable hike along the Great Ocean Walk on 27-12 and explaining a few things to us. It was such a great week and we were lucky with the weather no doubt. All of us felt a great sense of accomplishment, having walked the full distance.
I composed a short poem earlier this week which I will show to the Millers and Blunts when we see them later this month. I thought you might be interested to see it, as I do mention you and the drivers who helped us along the way.
Have a great day and best wishes for 2011. Cheers.
Don & Carolyn Warner Dec 2010
Well we really enjoyed the walk and everything went well for us. Accommodation, pick ups , food and support were all great. I guess that as they improve parts of the walk by changing from forestry tracks to just walking tracks it will be better but we enjoyed it the way it was. As you mentioned it would also be good to have the distances marked along the track. I saw the walk on a website when I was researching walks for a holiday. We were very lucky with the weather and that is something that no one can control.
Thanks for a well organised holiday,
Anne and Calan MacLeod Dec 2010
We first heard about Walk91… in Google in combination with GOW website.
The itinerary was very well planned and I was pleased that Walk91 could easily accommodate our additional request to do a short 8km walk at the start of the tour, thus filling the afternoon after having arrived in Apollo Bay. Walking back from Shelly Beach into Marengo and Apollo Bay let us really
appreciate the solitude and scenery of the next three days of walking.
The walking package… was fine and we really appreciated having the Telstra phone with us to re-arrange pickups.
We spent 2 1/2 hours..at the Lighthouse… (including lunch, talking to lighthouse staff and discussing the aboriginal display)) and did not manage to see everything on site!…one of the cultural highlights on the
tour.
The Youth Hostel was wonderful… We loved the atmosphere..of the Guest House… considerate hosts… everything was well prepared. Visiting the pub at Lavern Hill in the evening was an experience in itself.
We loved the food and the atmosphere and would have made more of it if we wouldn't have been so
tired after three days walking
We found it easy to find the meeting spots each day.We enjoyed most of the walk thoroughly, views, scenery and wildlife. The only part we struggled with was the long uphill leg towards Milanesia Gate,
walking across farmland. At the end of a long day walking this was quite challenging - in particular as the
re was no extraordinary scenery to make up for it. Other than predicted, we did not find the leg between Milanesia Gate and Moonlight Head very hard but enjoyed every minute of it, and all the steep parts too.
Our tips for future walkers are…take your time in order to take everything in - its not a walk thats worth rushing through but something that should be enjoyed every second; if in doubt: ask for a later pickup
(as we did on the last day which provided us with a luxurious 45 minute lunch break at Moonlight Head).
It would be nice if you could provide links on your website on other interesting walks that are organized
by locals. Doing parts of the GOW makes me want to do more walking, but in doing so I really would like
to support local communities and businesses.
Katrin - Oct 2010
Thank you for enabling us to do this walk. The whole thing was planned perfectly.
Special thanks to …the drivers.. for the shuttles (they are so very obliging and always cheerful).. our accommodation owners.. for being such great b and b hosts …all the …accommodation hosts… were delightful.
Absolutely nothing could have been done to improve our stay!
We found Walk 91 online. The itinerary was perfect.
The rest day was great – we were taken to the Otway Fly and Triplet Falls and it was fantastic.
It was easy to find the meeting spots each day… the photographs really helped. (Auswalk walkers were jealous of these.) We found it quite a hard walk but it was well maintained and signposted. The walk is spectacular, varied and interesting.
We perhaps could have taken longer each day to admire the amazing flora and fauna.
Julie Tamblyn - Nov 2010
Thank you for your organisation of the walk for us. We all thoroughly enjoyed it. It was not too difficult physically and the scenery was stunning. We were blessed with mostly fine weather, the accommodation and food was great and... our drivers..were very informative and helpful. We will recommend this walk to our friends.
Thank You,
Peter Galligan - Nov 2010
We all just wanted to thank you for the great time that we had walking GOW. Everything was perfect ….
The accommodation was great, the food fabulous and all the people that we met… (our drivers and accommodation owners).. made our trip very special.
Great job guys, very professional, we’d recommend it anyone.
With thanks,
Becky - Nov 2010
We had a brilliant time!! The weather was very kind to us.. such a spectacular trek.. very enjoyable and memorable. Thank you VERY much for the organization.. all were impressed. Accommodation was comfortable and enjoyable every night.. the route was awesome.. the drivers were great blokes.. very lovely and bent over backwards to ensure that we were happy.
Many thanks for your kind efforts!!
Thanks and kindest regards
Deb - Oct 2010
We first heard of Walk 91 through Deb on meetup.com
The itinerary was..very well planned. Impressive. You did a great job of explaining the walk on day 1
. I wish I was more awake!
I'd have liked to spend a bit more time just taking in the scenery and seeing optional parts.
I was more than happy with the accommodation.
It was ...very easy...to find the meeting spots each day. The shuttle bus service was very good. Your drivers... were friendly, knowledgeable and early every time.
The walk was...amazing. Easy track, no issues at all.
However...It would be good if the remaining km's were on the markers, not just arrows.
Some sections are muddy and I guess eventually some board walks over these would be good.
Maybe a slightly wider path in sections for the safety of snakes in the grass could be added?
And obviously, it would be excellent if the walk extended to Loch Ard Gorge etc.
We saw a lot of snakes, so I'd recommend gaiters....I originally thought the emergency beacon was a bit overkill for this walk but after seeing the snakes, maybe not.
Thanks!
Debs group - Oct 2010
We heard of Walk 91, thanks to Deb (on the internet).The itinerary was very good! Walk91 were… very flexible. They were providing much more than expected so that was fantastic! It was easy to find the meeting spots each day.It is nice to have different types of walk everyday : bush, sand, rock, etcGo with a great group and you'll have a great time!
Julie - Oct 2010
We first heard of you through your website. The itinerary… was great. Just the right distance everyday….everything went well. Our accommodation… was excellent, the new cabins are incredible and the staff were super helpful. The B&B was great as a place to stay and …the hosts…were fantastic.
The walk was beautiful, a very rich mixture of scenery and walking.
Steve Martin - Oct 2010
We heard of Walk 91 over the internet.
Our itinerary was pretty good …the accommodation providers all excellent
The actual walk… was really fantastic! The views were amazing.
We understand that improvements are being made (which we saw towards the Apostle end of the walk) ….It would be very helpful to have more explicit distance signage along each leg of the walk as we found it difficult to know how to pace ourselves _ meaning_the exact kilometers to the various points/stages…..
Since your luggage is being transported bring many changes of gear as you will need it due to weather and mud….You will have a great time!
Marie Lister - Oct 2010
We heard about Walk 91 on line.
The itinerary… was great. We appreciated the up to date info re the state of the track and the
appropriate changes made. The alternatives were perfect.
Our accommodation was excellent. The Eco Lodge could not be faulted. Great food and the wildlife talk was great. The B&B was also excellent. All accommodation was better than expected.
The walk was really great - but we were especially lucky with the weather. The drivers were great -
prompt and efficient.
Some of the signage could be more frequent - sometimes wondering if one is still on the right route. A
more impressive final end sign…would be good!
Start promptly so there is time to enjoy the views.
Liz wood - Oct 2010
We have just returned home from our holiday in Victoria. We had a wonderful time doing the Great
Ocean Walk. Thank you for organising the transport for my wife between the accommodations. The drivers... were very helpful.
The Eco Lodge was a lovely place to stay and the staff could not have been nicer to us. The same goes for
the B&B, they could not have done more to ensure that we had a pleasant stay there.
The accommodation at the B&B was really first class. The food at the Farmhouse was very good.
Thanks again and best regards.
Ben and Anna Cordina – Oct 2
We first heard of Walk91 on the Internet.
Nancy our contact at Walk 91 did a wonderful job helping us to plan trip… Well done!...
We all agreed that the walking package was well put together. We found it…easy to find the meeting spots each day.
'The Walk' was..one of the finest scenic walks we have undertaken, abundance of flora and fauna… Impressive views everywhere you looked.
Parks Victoria could provide… more boardwalks to protect the mosses (specially in the really wet areas). We completed the overland track in Tasmania earlier this year and the boardwalks have made a big difference there. A few more signs with distances, like 2kms to go on, would be easy just put them on the GOW signs all ready there.
Our tips for future walkers would be to…be prepared for wet weather, make sure they have a shuttle bus drivers like ours! They are a great asset to the GOW, they were very helpful in so many ways.
Thank you to Mark and Nancy for all the assistance.
Karen, Sept 2010
Hello Mark and the Walk 91 team
We are now back in Maleny after finishing the walk...I have to congratulate you on the superb organisation of our walk. Thank you. We feel very pleased with ourselves having completed a challenging walk which we think is not for the faint-hearted.
We first heard about the walk and your package through a friend.....The itinerary seemed very logical to us – in fact I don't know how it could be improved. The daily distances were manageable.
The accommodation providers were amazing..... Each accommodation was different and that only added to our pleasure.
The hosts made us feel very welcome and looked after any needs superbly with flexibility of transfers and the extras (koala dusk walk at Eco lodge ....and the offer of a nearby glow-worm trip). The meals were marvellous including lunches – we opted to take less than what was offered.
The meeting spots suited us. Our only hitch was the Castle Cove where we arrived about an hour early....As far as Walk 91 is concerned we both agree that you are providing a wonderful package and I would be interested to hear from others how they feel that it could be improved. From the meeting with Mark at the YHA in Apollo Bay to the Apostles it was terrific. We appreciated the photos of the meeting spots – that was essential as without them there might have been confusion.
The shuttle service .... could not be faulted. They both were great. We also appreciated the loan of the walking poles. I would think that they were a must, especially as some of the track was very wet and at times slippery.
As far as Parks are concerned, we believe that the track for the last day from Moonlight to Apostles is still under construction. The old coach road was a bit ho-hum ....I guess that will change when the track is completed. We both thought that the actual signage was adequate and re-assuring but we would like to have had distance markers – that would have made assessing completion times a little easier and also have taken away a lot of guesswork. ....
After having spent 6 days walking in absolutely breathtaking scenery, walking into the Apostles tourist area was deflating. I think you almost need a counsellor to do that. We had just achieved a goal and it seems diminished by having to mix with the day-tripper crowds. Just a big jolt into reality.
So, congratulations from two very happy customers who would recommend you and your package to anyone who shows the slightest interest in walking in the Otways.......A tip for any future walker, go with a sense of humour, open your eyes, ears and nose – take lots of tissues and borrow a walking pole. Many thanks,
John and Pam Marsden Sept 2010
We started thinking about where to spend our holiday time a few months ago. We wanted to do something a little different and after doing some surfing on the internet we found your website. We decided the walk was something we both would like to do. We were not disappointed. There were absolutely no worries for us as Walk 91 had everything arranged for us. All of our accommodations were great. The food was excellent throughout the week, and the fire in the fireplace at the farmhouse was a nice touch. All of our hosts were very friendly and made us feel welcome. We especially enjoyed the glow worm tour in the rain forest.
The walk was an incredible experience. We couldn't wait to get started in the morning. The views along the coast were absolutely stunning. Walks through the forest, the hill country with the paddocks and grazing sheep, the rugged coast overlooking The Great Southern Ocean with waves crashing along the rocky shoreline, we couldn't get enough of it. We even saw a koala at eye level sleeping in a manna gum tree. Our hosts at the conservation center took the time to explain about the plight of koala's in the past and the efforts to reintroduce them into the wild.
We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and the work that Walk 91 did to plan and arrange this adventure for us. The safety talk before we started was helpful, particularly the tide charts and the discussion on the decision points along the route. We also made good use of the walking poles. We were happy when we reach the end point at the Twelve Apostles that we had completed the walk, but saddened that it was over.
Norm & Joan Sept 2010
I wanted to thank you both for the excellent help your company was to me when I first approached you for information regarding the Great Ocean walk. Your information was helpful and all the booking arrangements went according to plan. My walking partner Graham and I appreciated your briefing and advice prior to our leaving the YHA and we thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful walk even though the weather tried to dampen our spirits by raining, hailing and provided us with muddy tracks etc. All of this paled into insignificance as we were rewarded with such wonderful country to walk through and so many spectacular views along the coast. Thank you so much for your assistance and for your encouragement - we did not see any other walkers along the way and felt as though we owned the whole track to ourselves. It was a great walk and one we would be keen to "do" again some day.
Regards and again, many thanks. Elaine Taylor/ Graham Burgess Sept 2010
We enjoyed our walk very much, thanks for your great service and we will recommend you to anyone interested in walking the track.
We first heard of Walk 91 at the Lorne Tourist information centre - they recommended you. Walk 91s planning was…very good, we were given more than 1 option and asked appropriate questions that helped you help us.
We stayed in accommodation and found the service of a very high standard.
We found it easy to find the meeting spots each day…and found the photos were very helpful.
The walk was..gorgeous; the landscape and terrain was beautiful and the track route was laid out to give us lots of variety in terms of scenery and walking challenges.However Parks Victoria could have some distance sign posts occasionally.
We enjoyed our walk very much, thanks for your great service and we will recommend you to anyone interested in walking the track.
Karen Smythe September 2010
Sandy and I completed the walk last Saturday. I am now back at work in Brisbane trying to settle into the work and failing. My head is still back walking along the path. My overall feedback is excellent and thanks for making it so successful. Mark we very much appreciated the visit and chat on the night before the walk.
We kept waiting for the “hard” section on day 5 but it didn’t happen. I guess it is harder than the rest of the walk, but it is also the best part of the walk. ..Some...walkers.. complain about the parts of the walk that are on forestry trails or country roads or across a farm. Well Sandy and I loved the variety.
All the accommodation was great. Again the variety was wonderful. The meals at the Tavern are surprisingly excellent.... The Eco Lodge was an excellent education. A walk thru their property and we found 12 koala’s without trying. So thanks guys.
PS: Please note in the photo the fact that I have a cord wrapped around my left boot toe. At the end of day 3 I noticed to my horror that the sole of my Scapa boot was coming off in a big way. (I should point out that these boots are were my pride and joy) 10 years old and I wanted to keep them. I used my knife to carve a trench thru the sole and used the cord I carried to tie the sole on. I expected the replace the string a couple of times a day. No way, it lasted the rest of the walk no problem.
The boots are now in a Melbourne bin after Sandy prised them from my arms and told me to “just let them go”. J
Baz and Sandra April 2010
We googled the GOW and Walk 91 came up as an option for supported walking of the track. The itinerary was very good – thank you for agreeing to change the original itinerary …
The Wildlife Retreat was fantastic – great hospitality, service and lovely (clean) facility.
We had no problems finding the meeting spots each day– the photos were reassuring!
Day 4 – the hard bit – was the highlight! Birdwatchers should go in spring!
The end was an anti-climax – maybe that ‘s because we weren’t ready to go home and back to work and reality after 5 days of peaceful bliss!!!!
The briefing before we began was appreciated.
The driver was fantastic – he was easy to get along with, he was obliging and happy to help us out, stopped off at the pub for us, brought us fresh food, picked us up on time etc..
I have attached a photo. This is our favourite – taken on the locked gate on the Milanesia Track.
Thanks for rearranging things so efficiently for us. We loved our 5 days and have told all our friends about the walk and your great service!
Marg (and Helen, Jeanette and Penny) April 2010
Steve and I had a fantastic holiday and we thought the whole walk, the organisation with Walk 91, the accommodation, etc were all just great. We heard about Walk 91 from ..friends who had used your services before.
We thought the itinerary.. was great - we enjoyed the flexibility of the package.
Meeting spots and signage …was all pretty good.
We only stayed in one Guesthouse.. and we thought ..the hosts were fantastic. A special treat (and so special as it was very hot) when we had frozen individual juices to bring in our packed lunches the next day. The food was great - the local products and the wonderful cuisine in such a nice environment made us forget of the little and the big hills of the day before and of the little and big hills we knew were there waiting for us the next day !!
The walk was great - we had the best weather ever. I have done lots of walks and treks in Australia and around the world and this one would rate in the best category for the views, the views and the views. You never tire of turning a corner and seeing yet another wonderful beach view. And, if you tire of it, no problem as the walk through bush land and forest is as equally rewarding. We saw 2 koalas at the beginning of the walk - and have photos to prove it and later saw kangaroos.
You have to take your time to enjoy everything. Enjoy and don't rush. You may not come back !! Steve took heaps (and heaps) of photos and you know, that was OK. We took lot of breaks just overlooking the beach and at the lighthouse, we stayed 1.5 hours .You really need to take the time you want - it is not a race. If it was, it would be called the Great Ocean Marathon ....
The driver was excellent - always in a good mood, always ready to help and a very very good ambassador for the area and the walk. Going a bit further was never too much.
Julie Babineau April 2010
We first heard about Walk 91 through friends who recommended your company.
We thought our itinerary was professionally organized and well done.
We were all very satisfied with the package that was provided and thought that the accommodation was very good. We had no problems at all finding the meeting spots each day.
The great ocean walk is a wonderful walk , although Parks Victoria could improve the walk by having a few more markers with distances indicated.
Great walk and well organized! Many thanks.
Marylin Shrapnel group April 2010
We highly recommend this walk to anyone interested in seeing first hand, some of the finest coastal scenery in the country. The walk organisation was first class, accommodation excellent and meals fantastic. Seeing the 12 Apostles at the end of the walk was just an added bonus to us, after an already thoroughly spectacular and enjoyable walk. Well done to the entire Walk 91 Team for making this such an enjoyable experience. And of course, well done to Parks Victoria for making the walk possible with their excellent track and facilities. Of course, the star of the show was the absolutely magnificent natural environment we walked through!
Robert, Debbie and John Booth March 2010
We saw some publicity about the Great Ocean Walk when it first opened but first learned about Walk 91 while doing an internet search of walk tour providers.
We were happy with the arrangements and recognise that pick-up arrangements are constrained by the number of vehicle access points near the Walk. The distance each day was appropriate for the conditions on the Walk and manageable at our level of fitness…
The accommodation was excellent. Having the laminated guides to flora and fauna..provided in the cost of the package.. was great and we referred to the latter frequently. That just shows how much wildlife there was to see on the Walk.
The accommodation was excellent and we were very happy with all the accommodation providers. They all took an interest in us, the breakfasts and lunches were all top class and where evening meals were provided they were great. They were all very flexible in altering their plans to fit in with changes we requested to pick-up or drop-off times.
We found the meeting spots easily each day.The photographs..of meeting points.. were a handy reference to provide confidence that we were at the right spot, but were not vital.
Overall we were very happy. Coastal scenery is the main attraction of the Walk and there was plenty of that with lots of great ocean, beach and cliff scenes. Where the Walk headed away from the coast there were still things to attract our interest….
We would recommend the installation of some progress distance markers along the track to give you some idea of how much further it is to various landmarks or meeting points.We found our GPS useful (when it worked) to give an idea of distance covered but it is not essential.
John & Sue Mc Carthy Feb 2010
Thanks Mark...we did have a very enjoyable time on our walk. It was very
well organised and we found all the hosts very hospitable and very willing
to make us comfortable and certainly fed us very well!! Great accommodation
at the end of the day really "tops" it off. The walk was challenging in
certain areas and especially on the very hot New Eve day, when temps
reached in high 30's. The coastline is very spectacular and beautiful, and
we certainly appreciated the cooling ocean breezes on those steeper ascents
and climbs.
We will certainly refer this walk to other friends. Thank you for your
organisation and assistance.
Milton Carruthers- Feb 2010
We are back in the United States and we want you all to know how thrilled we
were with our Great Ocean Walk and the itinerary that Walk 91 put together
for us.
I heard about walk 91 searching the web. We came to Australia for the
Australian Open Tennis tournament and decided that we would be in the area
for two weeks and went to the tournament for the first week and needed
something to do for the remainder of the trip and found your web site and
the people I contacted were very nice to plan the second half of our trip
for us.I was very pleased with the way our itinerary was planned.
Walk 91 did an excellent job, they provided me with a very nice day pack,
walking sticks, and a GPS system.
They made all arrangements for us to get there from Melbourne and made all
accommodation arrangements and this gave us a chance to just relax and enjoy
ourselves because they took care of all the details….
The accommodation providers were really outstanding …We met two lovely Australian couples whom we ate dinner with and visited with until almost midnight! The food was excellent!! After the third day's walk we were taken to a beautiful B+B that had wonderful views and was very clean and
soothing with an Asian influence in the landscape and décor. There was also
a TV and so we enjoyed watching the Australian open that evening. All of
the accommodations provided excellent breakfasts and lunches to take on our
walks, there was plenty of food! Walk 91 should stick with these
accommodation providers! I do not think there was anything that could be
improved upon in that regard. Also we found our bags each evening at the
providers homes so that was well done.
We did not have any trouble finding the pick up points…The walk itself was fantastic…
The whole of the experience was fantastic and there is so much variety on the walk and
so much beauty. We saw a snake, Australian porcupine, king parrots, and kangaroo on the walk.
I think bringing bandages for blisters is a good suggestion for other
walkers. Also I thank walk 91 for providing the fly nets, I wore mine and
thought it was great, my husband did not think he needed his. The walking
sticks were very helpful.
Everyone involved with the walk was very friendly and helpful and I thank
you for making our trip to Australia most memorable, pleasurable and a trip
of a lifetime! I would highly recommend Walk91!
Rebecca Euwers- Jan 2010
We found you by searching the internet. The itinerary is very well planned
and times allowed are generous and realistic. Our walk package was
good...the accommodation providers were excellent, interesting people. Rooms
very comfortable, good breakfasts and lunches provided. Photos of meeting
spots and some intermediate points are a great idea and worked very well.
It is a wonderful walk full of variety and interest in a lovely part of the
country.
However there was a total absence of signage at the many features of
geological interest to the lay observer. ..(I'm a geologist but did not do
enough swotting before the walk to answer all my friends' questions.)
I carried 2L water in bladder and 1L in flasks and on the warmer days this
was just enough. At the end of day 5 I was quite dehydrated by sand slogging
and step climbing. This does not detract from the walk pleasure but should
be provided for. Likewise there is a lot of reflection off sea and sand and
extra block out is recommended. Carrying a mobile is pretty handy for
liaising with the pickup person. The 1:25,000 scale map is essential for
navigation.
All in all we had a great time and were most impressed. On one thing we
agree and that is that we got value for money based on what we learned from
other walkers on a guided tour with another operator. Nevertheless we
acknowledge small generous acts along the way by the other tour guide.
Thank you, I'll be recommending your walk to my friends.
David McKenzie -Feb2010
I can only reiterate what Dave has said; your organising was spot-on; the accommodation, and hosts, could not be faulted, and pick-up and drop-off each day was punctual. In respect of the latter, the service provided by… your driver… was excellent….Because our walking times tended to be a bit faster than stated in the handouts, mobile phone contact with the driver and the accommodation providers often minimised waiting for pick-up at the end of the day. Reception, although not perfect, was available when we needed it….
Thanks for organising a great walk.
Peter Kallio Feb 2010
I found Walk91 by Internet search.
The walk was stunning! Loved it all except crossing the blowhole by myself!
My driver was excellent...flexible, reliable and informative.
Make sure..if you go to the tavern at Laver's Hill to try the chicken with
pesto and Mediterranean vegetables!
I prefer to walk in a group but enjoyed the personal challenges of walking
alone this time. It was a memorable experience and thanks for helping me
achieve this.
Sue Shaw-Jan 2010
The itinerary was very well planned from start to finish including
organising accommodation prior to commencing the walk. Everyone (guest
houses and transport) was expecting us and things went as planned. Very
well organised! Given the lateness with which we made the booking this was
all the more impressive... inclusion of a fly net in the pack was a nice
touch as was loan of the emergency beacon for duration of the walk. We were
particularly impressed by the service provided by your driver..they were
always there when they said they would be.
All providers were very helpful and personable, making us feel welcome and
providing great service. However clothes washing facilities (laundry
trough) would be useful to wash out and 'air dry' daily walking gear.
Telephone calls to arrange pick up times worked well. Information on areas
with poor telephone reception was also very useful.
The walk was excellent, better than expected. Should be rated as another
one of Victoria's hidden treasures. Far, far superior than a drive down the
Great Ocean Road. It is understood that plans are in place to further
develop the walk with new tracks. Please ensure that information on
development of the GOW is made available.
Key point is to enjoy and take your time, times provided are easily
achievable carrying only a day pack. Only advice reinforces information
provided in the information pack to take plenty of water, make use that you
have fly net handy and use walking poles they are very good for spreading
the load and letting the 'locals' (we did not see any snakes thinking was
that they felt us coming with the tap of the poles and got out of our way)
know you are coming down the track. If you have any questions just ask your
hosts at the accommodation they are more than happy to help in anyway that
they can.
A great walk, have recommended it to all that I meet, who have interest and
ability to do the walk, as well as the excellence of the accommodation for a
few days away.
Peter Guttmann & Benn Buntman -Jan 2010
Thank you for an excellent and professionally organised walk experience.
We heard about Walk 91 on the internet. We were very happy with our walk and it worked well for us.
Our tips for walkers are that they should be prepared for possibly encountering leeches and to be prepared for flies with fly nets!
Get out there and enjoy it! A great walk and superbly organised by Walk 91.
Marjolijn and Emma, December 2009
Thank you for organising the walk for us, we had a very enjoyable holiday that we will remember for years to come.
We came to Melbourne / Yarra Valley for a friend's wedding, her father recommended the GOW and from there I found Walk 91 on the internet (Google). I also spoke to two other operators but chose Walk 91 because of the fast & informative response to my enquiries and questions.
The itinerary you put together for us was a short one comprising of 4 days, the flexibility you offered suited us well.
The walk is varied in both terms of scenery and difficulty, we really enjoyed the variation. We took all the inland options at decision points which in my view made the walk more interesting....we really enjoyed the inland sections; it added further variety and a change of scenery that was not seen elsewhere. ...If clients have time (we didn't) don't do the walk too fast.......and enjoy the scenery ....
Walk 91 offer a fantastic service, they are friendly, helpful and flexible.
A superb experience we will recommend to our friends and family.
Thank you.
Simon Cahill & Lesley Jones, October 2009
I read about Walk 91 in a magazine and and liked what you had to offer.
I thought the itinerary was great. You were really helpful with giving us differentchoices to suit the time frame we wanted to do it in and the distances were challenging enough for our group.We were extremely happy with the way you planned it for us.
The meeting spotswere easy to find using your photos provided.
I thought the walk was one of the best things I have ever done. Fantastic scenery, changing from coastal
to lush green countryside and dense bush. Could not fault it and have been selling it to others!
Our tips are to take plenty water, blister bandaids and walking poles.
A must do walk for anyone who loves the outdoors and a moderate fitness level is all you need.
Thanks for all your help organising our walk and to the driver who was
very friendly and helpful.
Kerrie Vrana and friends - Nov 2009
Kerrie Vrana
We heard about Walk 91 on the internet. We thought that the package was excellent with a good range of choices….good price / good value. The two places we stayed at were great - accommodation and people.
The meeting spots each day…were easy to find. We felt the walk was fantastic - loved the beauty / solitude / challenge.
We felt…Parks Victoria could improve the walk by signposting at roughly every 2kms (can be subtle and tasteful) to give you a better feel of where you are in the walk.
We thought it was a wonderful experience and we wish Walk 91 great success.
Peter and Colette O'Donnell, Oct 2009
Very happy about how it was planned...and ...very happy with the package. The meeting spots were very easy to find. The photos were helpful and gave us a lot of confidence that we were in the right spot.
The walk was wonderful. The only disappointment being the untidy way it finishes on the last day. There should at least be a sign at the final car park saying that the walk was finished.
It is not far from being one of the best walks in the world and I think a little thing like a dedicated finish would leave the walkers with a sense of closure, as any great walk should.
My advice is to take the trip and enjoy the walk. It is a special and wonderful experience.
We recommend... blister Band-Aids ....I had never heard of them but was lucky enough to be given one by another walker and it made a tremendous difference to the quality of my walk. I would advise all walkers to have proper hiking boots. Walking the track revealed many skid marks where some walkers had struggled on wet ground.
Thanks for a great experience and I am sure I will take the track again.
Cliff Barclay, Oct 2009
We first found Walk 91 via an internet search. The length of walking each day was about right, and caused no great difficulties... We enjoyed the walk very much - especially walking on long stretches of beach, where few (or none) other people can be seen.... also, the very different scenery and wildlife.
The accommodation and food was excellent, and the hosts were all very helpful and informative.
Helen Strutt, September 2009
We found out about Walk 91 on the internet after a friends were talking about the walk.... the planned itinerary was very good.
The pictures of the meeting spots each day were very useful. The walk was beautiful, one of the best things we've done in Australia....it would be an improvement if the walk would end right at the 12 Apostles. But we heard that this is planned and some tracks are going to be along the beaches instead of forrest roads, which sound excellent!
Our accommodation providers were all perfect!!! really wonderful hosts, with delicious food and extraordinary service!
We can recommend the 5 day option with luggage transportation service! it's a walk which can be achieved by any average person! try to walk along the beach, but watch out the tide times at shipwreck beach!
We enjoyed our walk every day, beautyful landscape and scenery, koalas, kangoroos, seals, we've seen everything, all sorts of friendly animals. We were lucky with the weather, it rained quite a bit, but not too much. A great experience !
Kerstin March 09
The walk offered great variety, invigorating, stunning views. The accommodation...was perfect. I was so impressed with the accommodation, meals, the staff and their passion for the environment and nature.
Our tip would to be strap your heels and balls of your feet to reduce the chance of blisters, and definately do the seal kayaking tour in Apollo Bay.
Michelle O'Connor - Feb 09
Thank you to Mark and everyone, we enjoyed our walk very much and would throughly recommend it to friends. We enjoyed our 3 nights of accommodation after each day of the walk, and also the lovely meals.
Cherie Olliver - Jan 09
We are home now after a really enjoyable walking experience. Each day brought different challenges as well as magnificent views. Our last day was quite a day, with gusty winds and a couple of hours rain to finish. Of course visibility was reduced. However as it was the dullest part of the Great Ocean Walk we didnt feel cheated. We read of Walk 91 from a Parks Victoria brochure. Your format suited us in that other organised trips were not conducting their walks at a time suitable to us. Your package worked very well for us. We were happy with the planning of the itinerary and the accommodation was excellent. Each of our hosts were exemplary. Food provided for the evening meal, breakfast and for lunch was really excellent - you have chosen them well! Great Ocean Walk meeting spots were readily identifiable. We were pleasantly suprised on most days that we came across them earlier than we had anticipated. The walk itself was challenging and rewarding. The scenery was just great. Overall a great experience.
Rene and Allan McCasker - Mar 08
Thank Sooo much! We had a wonderful time and were very impressed by how smoothly everything went! The local knowledge and networking of everyone who coordinated the trip for us was fantastic! Its such a pleasure to go away with friends and not have to worry about where you'll be sleeping or eating! Such great accommodation and hosts! Much appreciated. Thanks.
Anne Russell - Nov 08
We heard about Walk 91 on the internet.Mark was really helpful organising our transport from Melbourne and Avalon. We thought that the food was sensational, the accommodation was really good, even the YHA.The walk was great - we really enjoyed it.Lots of diversity. Make sure you bring fly nets though. You were all wonderful....I would definately recommend Walk 91 to other walkers.
Robyn Turner - Nov 08
Annie and I would like to thank you for the great holiday - we enjoyed taking the Great Ocean Road. The background material you supplied was terrific and the organisation, including pick ups etc were really seamless. For your side of things, we think you have got a great product and would throughly recommend you to our friends, and in fact we have already done so.
Stephen Flynn - Nov 08
Our itinerary was planned efficiently, with comprehensive information supplied.The walk over 6 days was a good way to do it. Moving accommodation as we did was far better than staying in one place for the whole walk and having long drives each day.The accommodation was excellent....and the hosts very helpful. All the meals and lunches were excellent.
Finding the Great Ocean Walk meeting spots each day were no problem at all...the walking times conservative but that is okay.
We did not see one snake even though it was warm.....others said they saw lots. Our tips for other walkers are 'Enjoy it!', and take plenty of water if it is hot.
I have already recommended Walk 91 to several people.
Robert Hall - Mar 08
The planning of our Great Ocean Walk was excellent with accurate details. The co-ordination worked well with all the various people – collecting, delivering and the accommodation. There were no problems finding the meeting spots - the photographs given clearly showed the meeting places. There were wonderful views from Milanesia Beach to Moonlight Head!!
Thank you for all your help in organising our walk. We really enjoyed the excellent accommodation and hospitality of our hosts.
Audrey and John Palmer – Mar 08
Our Great Ocean Walk was…well organised. The walk was excellent. Five days was a good length for us…….
However Parks Victoria could improve their signposting so walkers know how long each section is. Many thanks! We had a great trip – scenery and accommodation were great. We will be sure to recommend to friends.
Many thanks, Carol and Geoff - Feb 08
The planning of our Great Ocean Walk was good... and daily distances were reasonable. The food at the accommodation… was very good. The scenery was magnificent. A very special walk ...and the snakes were exciting! Thanks Mark – it was a very good experience and one we will remember!
Ron Clancy - Feb 08
The Great Ocean Walk was brilliant!! Beautiful location, amazing scenery and wildlife. Had an excellent time!! Remember insect repellent…the flies!!
Matt Shields - Feb 08
We thoroughly enjoyed our three days on the Great Ocean Walk. We had a bit of everything---rain, cloud and sun! The organisation of the whole hiking trip was incredible-- not one fault at all. The times, meeting places and itinerary was fine. The bus journey was also good. The bus left at the said time both ways and was as comfortable as one would expect it to be. Our hosts and hostesses at the B and Bs were amazing. We arrived the first day dripping wet and Andrew took all our wet gear and put it on his boiler for the night so they were all dry by the next day. We also met interesting people at both B and Bs. Finding the meeting places was very easy with all the maps and pictures you had given us. The walk itself was good, there was a bit of variety each day and we were never bored, we saw lots of porcupines, a couple of groups of Kangaroos, heaps of different birds and even a snake one of the days. The walk on the last day was a lot like NZ bush as well as the up and down nature of it, and having a hot day walking in the shade like that was perfect. We managed to beat the times suggested, but thought that perhaps if there were a few places along the way where one could sit a few minutes and take in a breath taking view it would have been great. Thank you for your expert help and advice.
Jill and Brian Hankin - Jan 08
We had a great time. It was fantastic. A wonderful family holiday.
The itinerary was done well. We were happy about the rest day and suggest that you recommend that to people …We consider ourselves to be pretty fit but were quite tired at the end…
Our favourite place to stay was the conservation centre… where we had the best food…The next B&B…was lovely. The hosts were friendly without being intrusive and the accommodation arrangements suited us perfectly.
The information pack was great. Our tips for walkers:
- Consider building in a rest day;
- Two of us walked in runners which was fine as it was fairly dry and the path is so well established but next time I would bring proper walking boots.
- For kids: make sure their boots have been well worn in. Blisters are probably inevitable no matter how well worn the shoes are so carry proper blister dressings.
- Also for kids: they also need to be "walked in" beforehand: at least a few long walks a week (min. 10km) for at least a month. This is how we prepared our two seven year olds and they did marvellously but we would have had a miserable time with them if they had not put in the hard work beforehand. I do note recommend the walk for children of this age unless they are (i) very enthusiastic; (ii) easily motivated; and (iii) have been properly prepared.
- We saw a number of snakes…. Walkers should carry a good first aid kit that contains a compression bandage…
Thanks for all. We would not have missed it for the world! Kindest regards,
Anne Galleghar - Jan 08
We all agreed that 'the Great Ocean Walk' was an amazing experience and we were so glad that we did it together as a family. It was very difficult at times, but it was worth every blister,bruise, scratch and mozzie bite! It was an excellent adventure, but more of a hike than a walk!
The walk was very senic, with so many beautiful views. We found the best views and walks were from Cape Otway to Ryan's Den.
The Great Ocean Walk campsites were very good, some with excellent privacy. The conditions of the track varied - some easy going, some rough to walk on. It would be good if Parks Victoria could put some signs along the way, so we knew how far we had walked between sections.
We would suggest to walkers to work out how much water you need carefully, as we underestimated how much you need when it is hot! Pack a first aid kit with plenty of band aids for blisters!
Thanks to Mark for all your work in preparation etc. We have recommended you to everyone we have told about our big adventure. Some of our friends are a bit sick of our stories!! It was an experience of a lifetime.
Cathryn Van Tatenhove - Dec 07
We thought the itinery was really well planned. After the first day, we had some idea of how we would manage the longer hike distances and how we went against the trip estimates (hours reqd). Therefore we were well prepared for the more challenging days - and also happy to have a few shorter days in the middle.
Walk 91 offered us the perfect way to complete the Great Ocean Walk. The self-catering cottage was clean and homely with a great outlook and tucked away so that we felt away from it all. The B&B accomodation was like an oasis after a long hike and 2 nights camping out. The hot shower, bathroom, great food, amazing views and friendly hosts was a highlight! We really enjoyed our 2 nights camping too. On both nights we met interesting people and spent time swapping stories.
We were extremely thankful that Mark had mentioned the flies were in abundance, so we came armed with face nets and insect repellant....
The flora & fauna info and maps sent by Walk 91 was a great way to familiarise with the area before we got there.
The camping gear was clean and well packed.... we were able to have a camp fire at Aire River, and... were able to enjoy our chicken curry and rice without using the gas cooker.
We had a 2 man and 3 man tent.Although we had booked and paid to camp in the walk-in camps we chose not to... as it was just myself and my two young daughter (aged 10 and 12), we opted for the public camping area which had several families in tents and vans... but we called in at the walk-in site to admire the view the following day as we embarked on our walk.
The meeting spots were easy to find - especially due to the photos and description supplied by Walk 91. We had very warm weather during our walk and it would have been great to have a meeting place with shelter/shade. We arrived early at most spots...'the driver' did an amazing job each day arriving right on time to meet us. He was friendly and helpful.
The walk itself met all our expectations, amazing views, lots of variety in the surrounding environment, peace and quiet, adventure, excercise, challenges, and at the end, an amazing sense of pride and achievement that we had done it!...We have talked to many people since we returned from the Great Ocean Walk and talk highly of the way Walk 91 organised things for us. We are not seasoned hikers or campers but with your assistance, we were able to really enjoy the experience.
Maree Mullins - Dec 07
Just a note to thank Walk 91 for a great, Great Ocean Walk, hike last week. The weather was
kind, the accommodations excellent, the scenery outstanding and we met some
lovely people. Everything went smoothly and we'll certainly recommend Walk91 to any friends interested in doing the Great Ocean Walk. Cheers.
Mark Hopkins and Maureen Dwyer - Dec 07
We enjoyed the Great Ocean Walk…the itinerary was pretty well thought out ….the distances and pick up/drop off times were well thought out and comfortably achievable.
Overall good communications beforehand and good organisation during the
Great Ocean Walk. All of the meeting spots were pretty clear.
Facilities provided by Parks Victoria at the campsites were very well thought out
with most tent sites private from others and facilities of a high quality.
Had a great driver… he knew the Great Ocean Walk, understood the effects of weather on the walking range and was able to provide sensible advice based on the conditions
Great accommodation… nice locations, excellent food
Our tips for other walkers are to be aware that the signage is not necessary as obvious as it could be. In summer, fly nets are advisable (even if people say they would never use them)
Jeff Bendeich – Dec 07
I really enjoyed the Great Ocean Walk.The distances were appropriate - support and advise given was very helpful.The accommodation was very good, with accommodating ,wonderful hosts. The walk was generally beautiful and 'isolated' enough. The track was well maintained and signposted, although more information boards on history, ecology and aboriginal history would be good.
John Fogarty - Nov 07
Thank you for such a wonderful trip. The itinerary you planned for us was excellent. We were very satisfied with the information pack, and we particularly liked the laminated photographs you gave us. The Great Ocean Walk was beautiful – stunning- and exceeded all our expectations. The accommodation was also well chosen and the hosts were very friendly.
We would recommend this walk for all reasonably fit people.
We managed it in our sixties, and although we were quite tired at the end, we both thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
Margo Rasmuthun - April 2007
Thanks for a great Great Ocean Walk. The weather was nice - not too hot and no rain!
The walk really is stunning and the sea views magnificent. The laminated note you gave us were a great help, as we knew nothing really of Australia's flora and fauna.
Jo Luhman – March 07