A site approved for a 58-key eco-lodge on one of Australia’s most popular tourist routes has been put to market.
The listing of the 48.5ha site 6km from the 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road in southern Victoria comes as interest in the region continues to grow.
The Princetown site at 79 Old Coach Road, 228km south-west of Melbourne, carries approval for the eco-lodge designed by GHD Woodhead.
CBRE Hotels is managing the sale via an expressions-of-interest campaign due to end on December 4.
“The Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles are Victoria’s most popular destinations for domestic and international visitors. This development would be the first of its kind in the area, offering world-class tourist accommodation allowing visitors can extend their stay in the area,” CBRE’s Scott Callow said.
The state this year revealed the $126-million Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment Plan, which is expected to prompt public and private investment in the region.
The approved development also includes a 300-seat eco-activity centre and three food and beverage outlets.
According to online planning portal BCI, plans for the $9-million resort comprise 14 two-bedroom cabins and six three-bedroom cabins alongside facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a day spa and conference facilities.
The approved design also incorporates 253 carparking spaces and extensive amenities including a reception area, function rooms, staff accommodation and multiple dining venues.
The restaurant precinct would feature a 150-seat restaurant, a 150-seat cafe and outdoor dining areas.
Walking and cycling trails, wildlife viewing areas, and a panoramic lookout structure are also part of the plans.
According to the development application, the site includes natural wetlands and access to the Gellibrand River, with ocean beaches within walking distance.
“This eco-tourism development has been designed to minimise environmental impact and appeal to the eco-conscious traveller. The site is well-sheltered from the prevailing ocean winds allowing visitors to enjoy a range of activities including the Gellibrand River, wetlands, walking tracks and natural flora and fauna in any weather conditions,” Callow said.
The site’s development approval addresses a recognised accommodation shortage in the region, with current visitors often returning to Melbourne or travelling to Warrnambool for overnight stays.
“We are about 1000 beds short in our offering,” City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said.
This need has been amplified by increased domestic tourism post-Covid and upcoming events including the 2026 Commonwealth Games, driving development activity in the area.
The region’s development potential was highlighted by the sale of the DA-approved 12 Apostles Hot Springs and Resort site to Sheargold. The $200-million project would deliver 150 eco-pods and thermal bathing facilities.
Interest in projects for the Great Ocean Road in southern Victoria are on the rise. The region is undergoing significant transformation through the $502-million Geelong City Deal, with $490 million provided by federal and Victorian governments.
A key component is the $108-million Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment project, which includes a new visitor experience centre designed by Grimshaw Architects.
The project incorporates a $23-million Private Sector Business Enablement Fund, financing infrastructure for private sector investment including several eco-tourism developments.
The broader Shipwreck Coast Masterplan, covering 28km through Port Campbell National Park and surrounding areas, is expected to create more than 3500 jobs and generate an additional $254 million in annual spending.
The plan encompasses 72 projects and initiatives aimed at attracting tourism investment.
