Alkina Lodge is set on over 100 acres of pristine native bush, and is becoming very popular with guests who are seeking native wildlife experiences.

There are many opportunities to see wildlife on the Great Ocean Road. These are some of the best wildlife experiences in the region, all of which are easily accessible from Alkina Lodge.

1.     Watch Kangaroos, Wallabies and Native Birds from the comfort of Alkina Lodge
You won't have to travel far during your stay with us to see kangaroos and wallabies, as these uniquely Australian marsupials often visit our lodge in the morning and evenings. If you're really lucky, you might even spot a joey in a pouch!

Meanwhile, bird lovers will enjoy seeing the large variety of native birdlife around Alkina Lodge.  Regular visitors include kookaburras, king parrots, rosellas, black cockatoos, currawongs and blue fairy wrens.

2.     Whale Watching
Every year between June and October, the Southern Right Whales begin their migration passing us on the Great Ocean Road. Luckily for us many of them pass quite close to shore, giving us plenty of chances to see them. There are several good viewing spots near Alkina Lodge where you can sit and watch these magnificent creatures.

3.     See Koala Bears at Kennet River
There aren't many people who don't want the chance to see these incredibly cute, fluffy-eared creatures, and one of the best places in Australia to see them in the wild is at a small settlement near Lorne, called Kennett River. Drive along Grey River Road, and you're pretty much guaranteed to see koalas sitting in the gum trees.

4.     Search For Echidnas at Port Campbell National Park

Just 15 minutes drive away is Port Campbell National Park,  home to famous icons such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge – and also home to a number of echidnas. If you look carefully you might see them on the edge of the road or pathways as they search for insects to eat.

5.     The Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park

This fabulous park is just 10 minutes drive from Alkina Lodge. If you want to see a huge range of native Australian wildlife all in one place, this is the perfect option for you! As well as the chance for close encounters with dingoes, you'll also see kangaroos, wallabies, emus, wombats and wild birds.

6.     Scuba Diving

As marine wildlife experiences go, you can't get much better than this! Options for scuba diving on the Great Ocean Road include the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park or the Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary. You might find yourself swimming through brightly coloured sponge, exploring old shipwrecks, or looking at delights such as zebra fish, fur seals, sea spiders and lobsters.

7.     Watch Little Penguins at the Twelve Apostles

If you head to the main viewing platform for either London Bridge or the Twelve Apostles at dusk, you'll get the double delight of not only seeing these natural Australian icons at sunset (one of the most beautiful times of day to see them), but you'll also get the chance to see the Little Penguins. They often come out of the sea and onto the beach just after sunset. You might need to be patient, but these little cuties are so worth it!

8.     Glow Worms at Melba Gully
Just a short drive from Alkina Lodge is Melba Gully. Visit at night and you'll see the pretty glowing lights of the glow worms that live here. These tiny creatures live along the walking trails so they're very easy to see. Bring your torch, but don't shine it directly at the glow worms as this makes them “switch off” their lights.

“We think the Great Ocean Road should be at the top of every list of the world's greatest wildlife destinations. There are so many opportunities to get up close and personal with Australia's native wildlife here, both at Alkina Lodge and also out and about in the nearby area.”

-        Michael Minshall, Owner at Alkina Lodge

For more information regarding this release or for image requests please contact Sue Minshall, Owner, Alkina Lodge at sue@alkinalodge.com.au