There is plenty to see and do during your stay at King Parrot Cottages. Whether you are looking for a relaxing bush escape, a family adventure, or simply time to slow down and reconnect with nature, you’ll find something for everyone right here on our 196-acre property and throughout the beautiful Otway Ranges.
Relax and Play
Our seasonal in-ground saltwater swimming pool is located beside the children’s playground and is the perfect place to cool off on warm days.
The nearby Games Room offers plenty of indoor entertainment, including table tennis, air hockey, foosball, darts and a selection of board games and books. Attached to the Games Room is a small gym featuring a treadmill, smith machine, rowing machine and hand weights, ideal for keeping active when the weather keeps you indoors. (16’s and under must be accompanied by an adult).
Guests are also welcome to try their luck yabby fishing in our dam at certain times of the year. Yabby nets are provided — simply bring some bait and enjoy this favourite family activity. Catch and release only, please.
Bush Walks and Nature Trails
One of the highlights of staying at King Parrot is exploring our private bushwalking tracks. Wander through fern gullies, towering native forest and alongside Aquila Creek as you discover the natural beauty of the Otways.
Aquila Creek Walk
Aquila Creek meanders through the property, beginning near our own private waterfall before flowing through King Parrot campground and joining Pennyroyal Creek.
The rainforest environment surrounding the creek is home to giant tree ferns, towering eucalypts and abundant wildlife. A walking track follows sections of the creek and offer guests the opportunity to experience the peace and beauty of this unique landscape.
Please note that some tracks include creek crossings and uneven terrain. Conditions can vary considerably depending on recent rainfall. Rocks may be slippery and some areas are remote, so sturdy footwear and caution are recommended.
Wildlife at King Parrot
King Parrot Cottages is home to an abundance of native wildlife and birdlife, making it a wonderful destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Birdlife
Colourful rosellas regularly dart through the valley, while resident wedge-tailed eagles can often be seen soaring overhead, particularly on days with easterly winds.
Wrens, kookaburras, king parrots and magpies are commonly spotted around the property, while keen birdwatchers may also see gang-gangs, owls, hawks, honeyeaters and many other native species. The beautiful Superb Fairy-wren is a particular favourite amongst guests.
Native Animals and Reptiles
Kangaroos are a common sight around King Parrot, especially at dawn and dusk, and often gather in larger numbers following rain. Wallabies, echidnas, frogs, skinks and lizards can also be found throughout the property.
As with much of the Otway region, a variety of venomous snakes, including tiger snakes and lowland copperheads, inhabit the area. Guests should remain aware when walking outdoors, particularly during warmer months. Snakes will generally move away if given space, and they should never be approached or disturbed.
Meet Our Farm Animals
Our friendly farm animals are always a highlight, particularly for younger guests.
During your stay you may meet Coco and Gypsy, our miniature donkeys, Spike and Tess our horses, Charlie and Paddington our Highland cows, our watchful alpacas MacPac and BackPack, and our flock of sheep.
Please remember that children should always be supervised around animals, and dogs are not permitted inside animal paddocks.
Picnic Spots
There are many beautiful places around the property to enjoy a picnic while taking in the valley views and fresh country air.
If you’d like to venture further afield, nearby favourites include the Lorne foreshore, Lake Elizabeth and the magnificent California Redwoods.
We have picnic baskets available for guests to borrow. Simply let us know before your arrival and we’ll place one in your cottage.
Explore the Otways and Great Ocean Road
King Parrot Cottages is ideally located for exploring the best of the Otway Ranges and the Great Ocean Road.
We highly recommend a visit to nearby Deans Marsh. Enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch at The Store Deans Marsh, stock up on local produce, or head to Martians Saloon for great food, drinks, vinyl and live music (Thursday to Sunday). This family-friendly local pub has a fantastic atmosphere and is a favourite with both locals and our guests.
Spend the day discovering spectacular waterfalls, ancient rainforest walks, scenic lookouts and charming country towns. Popular nearby attractions include Lorne Live Wire Park, Pennyroyal Raspberry Farm and Gentle Annie Pennyroyal Valley (Seasonal), Lake Elizabeth and the mountain biking trails of Forrest.
Food and wine lovers can also visit local wineries including Heroes Vineyard, Blakes Estate, Gosling Creek and Alt Wines.
The nearby towns of Forrest and Birregurra are well worth a visit, offering excellent cafes, galleries, local produce and welcoming country pubs.
For even more inspiration, visit the Otway Harvest Trail for information on local attractions, markets, dining experiences and seasonal events.
