Cumberland River flows into the ocean 7 kms south west of Lorne, Victoria's most popular coastal town. In this area, we have the 'wiggly bit' of the Great Ocean Road, where the mountains meet the sea. The road to Apollo Bay (3/4 hour west) winds its way up, down and around the cliff face rewarding the traveller with the most spectacular sea, beach, rock pool and mountain views. There are many viewing areas from which to enjoy to scenery along the way.
The mountain's craggy cliffs and the river as a backdrop, are overlooked by the spectacular 'Castle Rock' and 'Langdale Pike' lookouts. Cumberland River also allows you to explore the many walking tracks in and around the Great Otway National Parks and a short way up the popular trout stream and narrow cliff-walled river gorge are Jebbs pools and Cumberland Falls. Other walks take you to Sheoak River, Kalimna Falls and Erskine Falls to name a few.
The river's popular 'swimming hole' is a great place to relax on a hot summer's day or wander your way along the river to its mouth at the surf beach. There are rocks to fish from, beach fishing, surfing and swimming, but it is the open ocean, so you do need to be careful of rips and incoming tides.
At night, nearby Lorne affords wonderful dining at its many restaurants and hotels where you can watch the sun go down on the beach or take a stroll along the pier and watch the locals fishing for their tea.
