Why Port Fairy is about to be the next big thing

It’s a town that’s one of those rare finds – great beaches, a delicious food scene and still super laid-back. That’s why it’s set to boom in 2022.

Port Fairy is one of those rare finds – a town with great beaches that is still super laid-back and underdeveloped, but with enough of a foodie scene that you are guaranteed some seriously great eating.

It’s an excellent spot to base yourself if you’re driving the Great Ocean Road and you’re keen to see the Twelve Apostles. It’s often overlooked for towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, but that would be a mistake. It’s worth the slightly longer drive (it’s about three hours and 20 minutes from Melbourne).

We spent a long weekend there scouting the best restaurants, bars and beaches. Here’s where to go.

Where to eat

I am a foodie, so this section will make up the backbone of this list. Dig in …

Merrijig Inn

This is an absolute standout and is one of the best meals we’ve ever had in regional Victoria. Do yourself a favour and book a meal at the Merrijig Kitchen immediately. Walk through the doors of Victoria’s oldest inn and you’ll immediately feel at home. The staff treat you like family, and the food – my goodness the food. It’s outstanding. They use fresh local ingredients and are super passionate about what they do. (There is also an excellent sommelier who will take you on a wild and tipsy journey if you give him the green light.)

It’s also exceptional value – we had an $80pp set menu when we went.

They also have a cracking beer garden and excellent looking accommodation if you’re looking for lodgings. www.merrijiginn.com

Coffin Sally

This pizzeria/bar has a lovely laid-back vibe for a casual dinner with pals. Their pizzas are top-notch and they have a cocktail and wine list that is super fun to explore.

Conlan’s Wine Store

Sadly this was closed the weekend we went there, but a foodie friend who lives nearby swears this place has some of the best food and tipple in town. www.conlanswinestore.com.au

For a cocktail: Ministry of Ombibulous Studies

Curl up in the dimly lit bar with a standout negroni in the winter months, or watch the world go by at a table out the front in summer. They do a seriously good martini with anchovy stuffed olives. www.ombibulousstudies.com.au

Where to stay

The Oak & Anchor Hotel – which was established in 1857 – has recently had a fresh makeover and the boutique accommodation upstairs is absolutely gorgeous. There are seven light-filled bedroom suites to choose from and each has been decked out with beautiful designer furnishings. And the best thing about staying above a hotel? You can nip down and have a cold ale in the beer garden whenever the urge takes you.

Where to swim

East Beach is popular as it is fairly safe and has long stretches of sand. It has waves that are perfect for people learning to surf. But our favourite is the oddly named Pea Soup – a beautiful sheltered cove with rock pools and calm water perfect for snorkelling.

The Oak & Anchor hotel has seven glorious suites to choose from.

Where to see emus

Because let’s face it, emus rule. Take a short drive to Tower Hill, one of Victoria’s oldest dormant volcanoes, and set off on a little walk. (You’ll probably need it after all that good food.) This area has a rich Indigenous history and you can do a guided tour. Bonus is you’ll most likely see emus chilling in the wild.

How to get there

It’s just over three hours from Melbourne. Our recommendation – if you are into food – is to do a bit of a loop and drive the coastal route in one direction, and come back via the Grampians and eat at the stunning Wickens restaurant at Dunkeld (stay the night at the Royal Mail Hotel), then have Sunday lunch at The Bunyip Hotel in Cavendish (which we have previously raved about).

Simone Mitchell travelled with assistance from Visit Victoria