OVERNIGHT HIKES

Backpacking is the perfect way to get the kids outdoors, enjoying all that nature has to offer. JESSICA PYERS shares some overnight hikes that’ll help families soak up the glorious summer sun.

Victoria

Shadowing the Great Ocean Road around Victoria’s south-west coast, the Great Ocean Walk puts hikers at the hands of nature, winding through secluded beaches, windswept cliffs and coastal woodland. While the whole 104-kilometre route from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles is far too challenging for first-timers, families can choose from a selection of moderate overnight itineraries. The Shelly Beach to Cape Otway adventure will have the family throwing down their backpacks upon their arrival to the hike-in campsite at Blanket Bay. With no added stress of setting up camp, hikers can immediately relax to ocean views and rejuvenate for the next day’s hike. Difficulty: Moderate