tommo81 wrote:I was told I can't start at Aire River as the road to the bridge comes in from the western side. This means starting at Johanna Beach and only having two nights on the walk, rather than three nights if I start at Apollo Bay.
Hi there tommo, I did a section of the walk a month ago over 3 nights / 4 days.
I left my car at Princetown rec. reserve ($5 a night and in front of the caretakers house. seems fairly safe)
I got a taxi ride (!!) with Timboon taxis (0438 407 777) from Prince town to Castle Cove Lookout (Glenaire). I had a lovely 1/2 day walk of about 7 km from there to Johanna campsite in howling winds and driving rain... a real highlight which was a great start compared to being dropped at Johanna and wandering the few hundred meters to the campsite.
From there, up the old coach road was just a little ordinary once away from the coast for 5 or so km, but Milenesia beach and onwards to Ryans den is jaw dropping. Great rocks on the cliffs at the beach and some beautiful cliff top walking.
From Ryans Den to Devils Kitchen is lovely, especially moonlight valley and the bit after moonlight head (just past the ugly farm with the beautiful view... you'll know when you see it)
Devils kitchen campsite is beaut especially if you get the spot right up the end with your own personal seat and balcony to see the setting sun from.
If you have time when walking out to Princetown make sure to visit the beach (forgotten its name). It is grouse.
A lot of the track is pretty exposed so if the forecast is for driving wind and drizzle it may be best to head inland but otherwise it is magnificent.
Cheers, Jim