Port Fairy

Discover history in every corner of this charming old fishing village on Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Port Fairy's wide streets are lined by nineteenth century cottages, great Norfolk pines, old stone churches, boarding houses and inns. Many fine examples of the architecture of the 1800s remain intact, and more than 50 buildings are classified by the National Trust. Follow one of the town's historic walking trails and discover charming, fully restored white washed cottages built by whalers and seamen beside Georgian-style merchants' homes and grand public buildings. The world-famous Port Fairy Folk Festival takes over the town over the Labour Day weekend each March, drawing thousands of people from all parts of the globe. At the local port, one of the busiest fishing ports in Victoria, fishermen unload their catch of crayfish and abalone at the dockside, cruising boats and racing yachts dock and anglers try their luck. From the wharf you can head out to sea on a guided fishing trip or a whale watching tour in winter. Another option is to sit back and enjoy a four-hour cruise to Lady Julia Percy Island, home to one of the largest seal colonies in southern Australia. It is estimated that there are four different breeds and between 15,000 and 20,000 seals on the small island. There's also a range of boutique, antique, art and craft shops to peruse, local artists to see at work and museums to explore. Or you can relax and enjoy the fine food and wine on offer at one of the many great pubs, cafés and restaurants in town. Port Fairy is 290 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Princes Highway, or take the scenic route via the Great Ocean Road. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.