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.Â
- 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.
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.
Total distance: 17141 m
Max elevation: 70 m
Min elevation: 8 m
Total climbing: 623 m
Total descent: -623 m
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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.
Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here.
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.
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