Glenaire - Castle Cove Lookout
Castle Cove Lookout is a small roadside lookout on the Great Ocean Road at Glenaire. It offers expansive views across the Southern Ocean and along a rugged coastline of steep cliffs, secluded coves and forested hills.
The exposed cliff faces reveal layers of Early Cretaceous sedimentary rock formed more than 100 million years ago, when Australia remained connected to Antarctica as part of Gondwana. Fossils discovered along this section of coastline have contributed to knowledge of the dinosaurs and other animals that inhabited ancient polar environments.
Castle Cove is also known as a habitat for Peregrine Falcons, which may sometimes be seen soaring around the cliffs. Whales may be visible offshore during their annual migration.
The Great Ocean Walk briefly meets the Great Ocean Road at Castle Cove. Walkers travelling between Aire River and Johanna Beach pass directly through the lookout area.
Lookout Walk:
The lookout is only about 30m from the roadside parking area.
Castle Cove to Johanna Beach Walk:
Castle Cove can be used as a starting point for a longer section of the Great Ocean Walk to Johanna Beach. The track follows the coastline through coastal heathland and forest, with views across the cliffs and Southern Ocean.
The walk finishes with a section along Johanna Beach and may involve crossing the Johanna River. Beach and river conditions vary with tides, rainfall and ocean swell. This is a one-way walk requiring return transport or a vehicle shuffle.
Distance: Approximately 7 km one way
Time: Approximately 2.5 hours one way
Difficulty: Medium
Track: Great Ocean Walk, including uneven bush tracks and a beach section
Start/Finish: Castle Cove Lookout to Johanna Beach
Facilities:
Facilities are limited to:
- Small roadside parking area beside the Great Ocean Road. Slow down before reaching the lookout because the road is winding and parking spaces are limited.
- Lookout platform
- Great Ocean Walk access
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are not permitted because Castle Cove Lookout and the adjoining Great Ocean Walk are within Great Otway National Park. Assistance animals are permitted.
Location
Great Ocean Road, Glenaire 3238 View Map
