Portland

Portland, located in south-west Victoria, offers visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore rugged landscapes, discover a colourful history, get back to nature, surf some great waves, hoist a sail in a brisk wind, catch a fish, wander historic streets and dine on great local food and wine. Portland became Victoria's first permanent European settlement in 1834. Today it boasts more than 200 beautifully maintained heritage buildings and private residences. Take the Portland self-guided Historic Buildings Walk for a closer look at the city's hundreds of heritage buildings. For an insight into Portland's long seafaring history, visit the Maritime Discovery Centre. Portland's waterfront is alive with activity and see big ships from around the world come in to load up local produce and the local fishing fleet unload its catch. Take a ride on the foreshore cable tram and watch for whales during the winter months. For those who like fishing, Portland is an angler's paradise. From a boat or the beach the range of fish that can be hooked is extensive, including King George whiting, flathead, snapper, tuna and mulloway. While locals may want to keep it quiet, Portland also has some of the best surf this side of Bells Beach. The choice spots are Bridgewater Bay, the Watertower, Blacknose, Crumpets, Yellow Rock, Whites Beach and Murrells. Beginning and ending at the Portland Visitor Information Centre is the 250 kilometre Great South West Walk. Try one section or tackle the entire walk and see stunning forests, river gorges, capes and beaches along the way. Portland is 362 kilometres west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Great Ocean Road, Princes or Henty Highways. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne. Daily air flights are available from Melbourne Airport.