My perfect holiday consists of fabulous dining, a spot of shopping, cultural exploration and plenty of spa pampering. However I have quickly come to discover the same can’t be said for my significant other. His perfect holiday consists of one thing. Surf. This has lead to lengthy and painful discussions about future holiday destinations, which have more often than not, seen me defeated.
We’ve had to learn to compromise and hence I have become an expert at finding alternative things to do while the better half is out chasing barrels. There are few places in Australia that draw surfers in like beautiful Torquay on Victoria’s rugged Surf Coast, which holds the unofficial title of Australia’s surf capital.
Quintessentially Australian, this is where the pummeling Tasman Sea crashes onto sandy cliffs and beaches, creating some of the country’s best breaks, including Bells Beach and Winkipop and the lesser-known Thirteenth Beach. For family-friendly beaches, there’s Cosy Corner, Jan Juc and the main beach of Torquay. Thankfully for me, this little slice of surfing heaven offers plenty of excitement on dry land too. Here are my top picks to make the most of this pretty seaside town.
1. If you want to get the adrenalin pumping, but you’re not keen on surfing, take to the sky instead. At Tiger Moth World, aviation enthusiasts can step back in time and experience daring aerobatic stunts in an iconic Tiger Moth aircraft while enjoying incredible views over Victoria’s coastline. With Torquay marking the start of the famous Great Ocean Road, why not take in this stunning stretch on one of Tiger Moth World’s relaxing scenic flights, which includes a look at the world-famous 12 Apostles rock formations?
2. Whether you do it all on foot or just a section by bike, the Surf Coast Walk is a must-do while staying in the area. Starting at Point Impossible, five kilometres north-east of Torquay, the walk meanders past rugged beaches, fragrant eucalypt bushland, coastal cliffs and village cafes and shops, including Anglesea and Aireys Inlet. Go steady and take a whole week, or complete your desired section in just a few hours. However you explore the Surf Coast Walk, be sure to take your camera, because the views are second to none.
3. While I’m not keen on surfing, I do love a spot of shopping and Torquay’s Surf City Plaza ticks all the boxes. With Torquay being the birthplace of brands including Quicksilver and Rip Curl, it’s no surprise to see a flood of surf stores based at the Plaza. All the major outlets are open seven days a week and it’s the perfect place to pick up a new bikini, even if it will be used exclusively for lying by the pool rather than surfing. While you’re there, drop in at the Surfworld Museum to learn about this town’s fascinating love affair with surf.
4. Plan a day trip and head to the beautiful Geelong wine region. The family-run wineries are more than happy to throw open their doors to visitors, to share their exceptional hand-crafted wines. These cellar doors lie in some of the most picturesque scenery in Australia, and each sub-region produces wine with distinct characteristics.
5. The only thing left now is some pampering and my absolute favourite spa destination in Torquay is at Wyndham Resort Torquay, perfectly positioned opposite Zeally Bay Beach. The spa’s product range, which is superb, focuses on natural therapies and remedies which leave you with that enviable holiday glow. The therapists are experts who customise treatments especially for you. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings at Wyndham Resort Torquay even longer by staying the night in one of their modern, stylish apartments. To book, or for more information, visit Wyndham Resort Torquay.
The Wyndham Wrap 
stayed at Wyndham Torquay it had the best of everything the restaurant was perfect food and service thankyou S.J