From Monday a free service will run from the entrance to the Twelve Apostles car park to Princetown, allowing visitors to take in the spectacular coastline on the seven-kilometre return walk.

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism general manager Liz Price said the walk from Princetown to the Twelve Apostles was a must-do.

“To be able to leave your car at the Twelve Apostles, catch a bus to Princetown and walk back along our iconic coastline with the sun on your back is a wonderful thing,” she said.

“The morning timing of the service is ideal from an economic perspective, from a visitor perspective and from an industry perspective in terms of bolstering off peak visitation.”

Twelve Apostles Tourism and Business Association (TATBA) executive member Lauren Finlayson said the initiative was prioritised in the 12 Apostles Coast and Hinterland Destination Action Plan.

“As good as this is for visitors in terms of prolonging their stay and boosting our off peak months, we’re also expecting many locals to enjoy the service which is great,” she said.

“It’s exciting to have something new and different to offer. People are always looking for recreational ways to enjoy the Port Campbell National Park and this new service provides an opportunity that most people can achieve and enjoy.”

The bus will depart the Twelve Apostles every weekday (excluding public holidays) during school terms at 7.30am bound for Princetown.

“We’re very lucky that Popes Timboon has an empty coach going past on its way to Princetown where it starts its school run and that Popes have very kindly agreed to stop and provide the pick-up and drop off service at no expense,” Ms Finlayson said.

“Lots of people have been instrumental in making this happen, from Corangamite Shire, to Parks Victoria and Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism. It has come together really well.”

Princetown General Store and Cafe owner Sharyn Bennett said the town’s wetland boardwalk that led to the Great Ocean Walk was a spectacular place to visit, particularly in the morning. 

“There are kangaroos grazing on the river flats and plenty of birdlife which is going to thrill the international visitors,” she said.

No bookings are required for individuals and small groups of up to eight people. Larger groups over eight people should contact the Port Campbell Visitor Information Centre on 5598 2500 or visit the website www.visit12apostles.com.au