Day 2: No Car Needed

Alright, today we’re recommending a light breakfast so take advantage of the communal facilities to enjoy some toast or fruit and yogurt cause we have a big day planned.

Time to Hit the Pedals

If the weather’s playing nice, wander over to the Port Fairy Information Centre and hire yourself an e-bike.

You’re heading for the Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail—a flat, off-road stretch through the quiet countryside. It’s all rolling farmland and big skies, right up until you hit Tower Hill, which rises out of the landscape like a great sleeping beast.

Volcanic Fun

Tower Hill was once a raging volcano, spewing lava all the way to the sea. What it left behind is a land of rich volcanic soil, dark basalt, and some of the most unique terrain in Victoria.

Today, we’re going to take full advantage of all of it. If you’re up early and feeling keen, cycle all the way to Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve.

There’s a short walking loop around the crater, and you can pop into the visitors centre for a cold drink and a few stories about this strange and beautiful place. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and koalas while you’re there—they’re locals too.

A Well-Earned Wine

Now, by this stage, you’ve well and truly earned yourself a reward. Head back toward Port Fairy and glide into Basalt Wines, tucked just off the trail.

The grapes here are fed by that same ancient lava flow, and their wines have a wild, earthy character you won’t find anywhere else. Book ahead, and then settle in for a long, lazy lunch and a few tastings—no rush, you’ve earned it.

To Wrap Up

From there, it’s a gentle roll back to the guesthouse and a well-earned lie-down. But if you’ve still got a little gas in the tank (or maybe you skipped Tower Hill), consider joining a walking tour with the Port Fairy Historical Society. It’s a charming ramble through heritage buildings, quirky stories, and even a glimpse of our very own Wander Whale in history.

Check in with the team when you return—there might be a Pod Dinner or a movie night on. After a big day and a decadent lunch, there’s nothing better than curling up on the couch, sharing stories, and enjoying the best bits of guesthouse life.

Thanks for spending your time with us – until next time, happy wandering!

– The Wandering Whale Guesthouse

Stay in Comfort in the heart of Port Fairy

Plan Your Next Adventure at The Wandering Whale.

What Our Guests Say

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Thomas profile picture
Thomas
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lovely stay. my girlfriend and I had a good rest in the 2-person bedroom 🥰. Lovely people! The dog is very funny and a bit of a drama queen 😂🐶. edit: really loved the recommendations of the owner of what to do around port fairy. It was really helpful 🥰.
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tracy Windsor profile picture
tracy Windsor
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What a gem this place is. Location is a short walk from the bus stop, Main Street and the river. The place is clean, neat and well presented. Beds are comfortable and bathrooms clean. Definitely worth the stay!
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Emanuel Banakh profile picture
Emanuel Banakh
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Awesome place. Super inviting, great facilities and met some nice people. The room was well decorated and very clean. Highly recommend! Thanks for the great stay!
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Lia Torly profile picture
Lia Torly
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This is my favourite place to stay in the world! The staff are so friendly and helpful, the hostel itself is beautiful inside and out, and the atmosphere is welcoming and cosy. Highly recommend!!!
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Seamus Noonan profile picture
Seamus Noonan
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This place is an absolute gem. The house itself is a period property from the 1800s. It's fascinating to stay in a property with history such as this. Port Fairy itself is very tranquil with enough to do. East beach is idyllic, in that the water doesn't go above 4 feet for most of the bay. Jess and Laurene are phenomenal, both exceptionally friendly and really work hard to make the space clean, welcoming and comfortable.
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Morena Federico Romano profile picture
Morena Federico Romano
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Beautiful old building. Probably the cleanest hostel I've been to in my life. Quirky decorations and great vibes

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For the Sleepyheads

Prefer a slower start? After a delicious breakfast at the Guesthouse, grab a takeaway coffee from Bank St & Co or The Farmer’s Wife café and head out for a gentle stroll down Cox Street. Just turn left from our front door—the Port is right at the end.

From there, wander up to Bank Street, then loop back down Princess Street. It’s a lovely circuit that takes you past charming boutiques, local art galleries, and inviting cafés. Perfect for soaking in the town’s laid-back rhythm.