Experience The Australian Outdoors in Geelong

Geelong is the 2nd largest city in the state of Victoria

, Australia. It lies on the Barwon River and the beautiful Corio Bay and is about 47 miles from the state's capital, Melbourne. It has become a hub for tourists, both local and international. Accommodation is plentiful, shopping facilities are excellent and there is lots to see and do.

The first non-aboriginal inhabitants were a group of European settlers led by Lieutenant John Murray. This was in 1802. Thirty-five years later, Governor Richard Burke gave the town its present name, derived from 'Jillong' - an aboriginal word. With the rampant gold rush of the 1850s, the town's prosperity burgeoned and many ornate buildings sprung up. It was not, however, given city status until 1910.

One of the most popular visiting sites is the Great Ocean Road. After the end of World War I, returning Australian soldiers built it in remembrance of their fellow comrades who were killed. This iconic landmark was opened on 26 November 1932 by Lieutenant Governor, Sir William Irvine. This is definitely a must-see attraction.

There are numerous restaurants in and around the city, all of which use fresh local produce. Seafood comes straight from the ocean, while vegetables and other ingredients are grown inland. Get a quick take-away and head off to Corio Bay to see an unbelievable sunset, or enjoy some good Aussie pub grub. Alternatively, relax in a fine-dining establishment and savor 5-star cuisine with a bottle of good Australian wine.

On the subject of wine, many of Australia's award winning wines come from the nearby Bellarine Peninsula. The cool, temperate climate provides ideal conditions for wine-farming. There are many estates which you can visit, either by joining a tour group or going it alone. Visitors are welcome to drop by at any time to taste wines at the various cellars. Make sure you take a bottle, or two, home.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are fabulous beaches, nature reserves and lots of other options. Geelong has many child-oriented facilities therefore it makes the ideal destination for a family holiday. There are gardens and parks, a zoo, beach fun, 3-D dinosaur movies, and much more.

If you enjoy walking, there are some lovely trails at the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road. Walk through one of the national parks and admire tumbling waterfalls and luscious bush lands that have an abundance of natural fauna and flora. If you want a more energetic challenge, walk the full stretch of Great Ocean Road.

Geelong is home to the Adventure Park, an aquatic theme park that offers adrenalin-rushing rides for all age-groups. The Six Lane Aqua is the latest addition and has proved to be a great hit with adults and older kids. Challenge your friends and see who can get to the bottom of the slide first. You will be propelled by water that spews onto the slide at an amazing 90 liters a second, enabling you to travel as fast as 40 kilometers an hour! Toddlers can have a ball at the Tiny Tots Splashzone.

Experience The Australian Outdoors in Geelong

By: Sidney Morgan

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