Aussie Camino
A 10-day pilgrimage following the footsteps of Mary Mackillop.
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A Spiritual Journey
The Aussie Camino offers a serene and enriching pilgrimage for those on a quest for spiritual growth and personal reflection. While the trail invites walkers to follow in the footsteps of Mary MacKillop, many participants find profound personal development, regardless of their religious backgrounds.
Book NowThe Tour
Embark on a transformative ten-day journey from Portland to Penola, where you will connect deeply with both yourself and fellow pilgrims while exploring breathtaking landscapes.
This carefully planned trek will introduce you to coastal marvels, bushlands teeming with wildlife, striking blue lakes, and fertile farmlands.
Tour inclusions
Leave the stress of planning behind as your guide navigates you through the stunning landscapes. All accommodation and luggage transfers are managed seamlessly for your convenience. This package also includes all breakfasts, eight lunches, two dinners, and a winery tasting experience.
Book NowWhat to expect
Group support
We start and finish the day as a group, ensuring no one is left behind. The atmosphere is supportive and friendly, with members encouraging each other. If some walk faster, we remind them to stop at turns so everyone stays together. It’s perfectly fine to move at a slower pace or take breaks—our focus is on mutual support and enjoying the walk together.
Cultural encounters
On the trek, pilgrims can anticipate a diverse array of wildlife encounters. Look for seals on the shore, kangaroos grazing, and the chance to spot an echidna or a koala nestled in trees. Elusive snakes might glide by, while blue-tongue lizards bask in the sun. As you hike, cows, bulls, and sheep will also add to the vibrant wildlife experience.
A peaceful path
The route follows the Great South West Walk (GSWW), a 250-kilometre track established in 1981. It passes through beautiful national parks like Lower Glenelg, Cobboboonee, Discovery Bay Coastal, Mount Richmond, and Cape Nelson State Park. The journey includes farm tracks, goat trails, minor roads, and abandoned railway lines, providing a peaceful experience.
Photo Gallery
FAQs
Is the Camino suitable for my age?
The Aussie Camino is open to everyone, with participants often aged 50 to 80. A support bus meets us daily for lunch around 10 kilometers in, so you don’t have to carry heavy loads or worry about falling behind. Just bring a day pack with water, wet weather gear, a basic first aid kit, and snacks. The bus offers a comfortable space to relax, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience.
What training do you need for the Camino?
Preparing for the Camino should be manageable, and preparation is essential. Start by walking 5 km three times a week for the first few weeks, then increase to five days a week by week five. Aim to build up to walking 10 to 15 km each day. Practice on various surfaces, including sand, as the terrain varies. Remember, you’ll need to walk every day for seven days, so building endurance is crucial!
Will I have to carry everything myself?
Absolutely NOT! We have a support bus that carries our luggage and provides lunch daily. You only need a small day pack with 1 litre of water, which can be refilled when we meet the bus, along with wet weather gear and a small personal first aid kit.
What happens if I don’t think I can finish the trek?
Our support bus is available for you every day! If you wake up one morning and don’t feel like walking, you can remain on the bus and rejoin the group at lunchtime. You may also choose to stay on the bus if you’d prefer to take the day off. Sometimes, our pilgrims begin the walk and then use the bus for the afternoon; it is entirely up to you. Our bus meets us approximately every 10 km, allowing you to organise your day as you wish.
