Looking for some fun runs whilst you are in Apollo Bay to balance out the delicious food the town has to offer? Here are our top 5 runs around the town that will have you exploring the local landscape whilst getting the heart pumping.
1. SUNRISE BEACH RUN
Nothing beats a morning jog with a sunrise over the ocean. The sky full of blissful colours as you hear the ocean at your side. On low tide, start at the Apollo Bay Information Centre and head towards the Wild Dog Creek. On your return, of the 5km morning jog, jump into the ocean for an invigorating start to your day.
2. LOCALS CALF BURNER
Marriners Lookout Road. It is a heart stopper. You can start at the bottom beach carpark, or from your accommodation if you prefer the extra kilometres. But the near 1km steep rise has your calves on fire and your breath challenged. But the expanding view from the top over the Apollo Bay Harbour, township and then straight along the Great Ocean Road will take your breath away further.
3. PARADISE RUN
With the hit tune of ‘Run to Paradise’ in your head, run along the Barham River Road to Paradise Picnic area. A slight incline in the road on the way out means there is the reward of a slight incline heading back on the 14km round trip. Beautiful scenery traversing from farmland into rainforest as you head deeper into the Otway’s breathing in the fresh crisp air.
4. SHELLEY BEACH
Starting at the Apollo Bay Information centre, make your way towards Marengo Holiday Park where you can start your 10km return trail run along the Great Ocean Walk. Heading through grassland, low bush shrubs and along sand and rocks, this one is a fairly flat run that you will stop to take many photos of the ever-changing coastline and native wildlife along your way.
5. GREAT OCEAN WALK
Feel like going the distance? The Great Ocean Walk can provide any length of for your sweaty dreams. Return trip from the Apollo Bay Information Centre to Elliot Ridge 20km. Got extra energy to burn, 44 kilometre run to Blanket Bay marks your turn around point. If you have two vehicles, you can drop your car at Cape Otway Lightstation, running one way from Apollo Bay to your car for 33km. Whichever distance you choose, this track is a truly magnificent winding trail through forest and beach views.
