Great Ocean Road Tourist Information
Great Ocean Road Tourist Information
Port Fairy
Time seems irrelevant in beautiful Port Fairy. The charming old homes and buildings from last century, the gentle ripples on the Moyne River and the breezes through the stately Norfolk Island pines all remind you that here is a special place.
The safe anchorage at the mouth of the river was first discovered by Captain William Wishart in his small boat The Fairy, during the late 1820s. Whalers and sealers settled along the river banks soon afterwards. They hunted Australian fur seals and the Souther Right Whales which were almost to the point of extinction by the mid-1840s. The town was known at Belfast from 1843 to 1887 and during those glory days many of its magnificent historic buildings that still stand today were erected. Several are now delightful bed and breakfasts or restaurants.
Dining out is one of Port Fairy's pleasures and ranges from delightful tearooms and great pub meals to smart cafes and romantic restaurants. Follow the historic walks map that will take you through tree-lined streets, watch fishermen unloading their catches of abalone or crayfish, see yachts glide over Port Fairy bay or fly a kit off south beach.
Festivals are part of Port Fairy's culture. The most famous is the Folk Music Festival held every March since 1976. It attracts thousands of people from Australia and overseas. The Spring Music Festival each October attracts classical music; jazz and theatre lovers. Rhapsody in June takes the middle road with something for everyone.
There are so many things to enjoy in Port Fairy including the historic walks trail which features more than 50 National Trust properties; the Port Fairy Historical Museum; arts, crafts and an antique trail; a sailing trip to visit the seal colony on Lady Julia Percy Island; a coastal cruise as well as bowls, golf, tennis, surfing, diving and snorkelling. Port Fairy - for the complete holiday experience.
