Hike at a Glance

Quick overview: Discover the striking beauty of Victoria's Bass Coast on the 17km George Bass Coastal Walk, a moderate-grade return trail starting and ending at Punchbowl Rd car park in Anderson, just 133km from Melbourne. Revel in the diverse scenery of rugged coastline, woodland gullies and tucked-away coves, while keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including kangaroos and whales (May-November). This cliff-top walk offers panoramic ocean views, pristine beaches, and the lush green hills of Anderson, making it a must for any outdoor enthusiast.

Length:

17km

Duration:

5 hrs

Grade:

Style:

Return

Max elevation: 70m

Min elevation: 8m

Total Ascent: 623m

Start: Punchbowl Rd car park, Anderson

End: Punchbowl Rd car park, Anderson

Bass Coast

Victoria

Nearby town: Anderson

From state capital: 133km

Latitude: -38.53609836

Longitude: 145.4070031642914

Overview

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Hike overview

The popular George Bass Coastal Walk is a cliff-top trail that stretches from the outskirts of San Remo at Punchbowl Road, to the Bass Highway (just opposite the hall at Peppermint Road) in Kilcunda.

This is typically a one way hike but I have written this one up as a return day hike to avoid the car shuffle.

Discover the unique beauty of the Bass Coast with this dramatic cliff top walk, offering sweeping views of the wild ocean. Few walks offer such breathtaking and diverse scenery, from rugged coastline, woodland gullies, tucked-away coves, to the almost iridescent green hills spotted with happy cows. Dare to look down and find pristine beaches, nestled cosily between the rocky outcrops.

The walk dips through coastal gullies and takes in a secluded beach, climbing again high above the sea. Keep an eye out for whales making their annual pilgrimage (May - November). You might be in luck and get a glimpse of a local kangaroo mob feeding in knee-high grass.

This hike can also be completed as a 7km one way hike where you can finish up at Kilcunda for lunch at the pub or one of the town's inviting cafes.

From Kilcunda, the walk links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail so if you've got the energy reserves, you can continue on to the centre of Wonthaggi. I have written this hike up as the George Bass Coast Walk and Rail Trail.
The Anderson to San Remo Shared Pathway allows you to extend the walk so you can start from San Remo.

Trail features

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
George Bass Coastal Walk (17km)

Total distance: 17141 m
Max elevation: 70 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 623 m
Total descent: -623 m

Getting there

Getting to the trailhead: Bass Coast.

The walk is situated 100 kilometres south east of Melbourne between San Remo and Kilcunda. The walk commences at the southern end of the Punchbowl Road, off the Phillip Island Tourist Road. Visitors may also start the walk from the Bass Highway in Kilcunda.

Get there with Google Maps

Closest towns to this walk: Cape Paterson, Corinella, Cowes, Grantville, Inverloch, Leongatha, San Remo, Wonthaggi

Access conditions

2WD Access
Bitumen Road

About the region

Bass Coast is home to a thriving arts community. The beauty of its natural environment, and the close proximity to Melbourne, attracts the creative spirit. Discover all that our region has to offer below, from cultural venues to public art, opportunities for artists and becoming involved.

Similar walks nearby

Looking for more walks in or near Bass Coast? Try these trails with a similar difficulty grade.

Track grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Explore safe

Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.

Packing checklists

What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.

Let someone know

Before heading out, take a moment to fill out your trip intentions form. It’s a quick way to share your hike details with family or friends. If something goes wrong, they can notify emergency services, ensuring a faster response and peace of mind. Stay safe and enjoy your adventure

Reviews
George Bass Coastal Walk (17km)

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Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.

Acknowledgement of Country

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

Curated by: Darren Edwards | Trail Hiking Australia

Last modified:

February 25, 2025

Hike at a Glance

Hike overview

Trail features

Gallery

Walk map and GPX file
George Bass Coastal Walk (17km)