When it comes to coastal or regional travel, leisure, and culinary experiences, it is hard to beat Foster or Forster. Just one letter separates these regional gems – the one without the first ‘r’ based in Victoria, the latter in NSW – but both offer experiences ideal for over-50s. These towns are great destinations for short breaks or long weekends, making them desirable hotspots. But which one is better for over-50s? We’ll let you decide.
Foster, Victoria
Foster sits at the gateway to Gippsland’s spectacular natural beauties such as Shallow Inlet, Corner Inlet, Sandy Point and Waratah Bay, and is 30 minutes from Wilsons Promontory National Park. Perched on exquisite hills, this charming country town is a treasure for over-50s. Here are just some of the activities and experiences you’ll find.
Fab food finds and unique ciders
Ando’s Bakery is a favourite bakery for locals, with breakfast and lunch options, and a wide range of breads and sweet treats to tempt. The Kitchen Table offers fresh food cooked in-house and locally sourced where possible, including a ‘heart food’ menu featuring coffee, cakes and slices, wraps, focaccias and house-baked treats.
The family owned and run Gurneys Cidery offers a unique cider tasting experience. It’s based on 70 acres of farmland with an orchard of 7000 heritage cider apple trees. While you’re there, try a locally sourced cheese and meat/vegan share platter while you sip small-batch craft ciders, which can be also enjoyed by glass, bottle, tasting paddle or to take away. Ask about the underground tour – you won’t be disappointed!
Visit the Foster Museum
There is something quite captivating about learning history through the lens of a local community. Dive into Foster’s rich heritage at the Foster Museum. Step back in time exploring the wide range of exhibits, including farming equipment, historical photographs and more. Foster museum serves as the ultimate window into the yesteryears, allowing you to explore the past at your own pace.
Wander around Wilsons Promontory National Park
Outdoor enthusiasts, gear up! Wilsons Promontory, fondly known as ‘The Prom’, showcases dramatic granite peaks and breathtaking coastline. Providing a haven for native wildlife, this spot is ideal for immersing yourself in nature. With a network of tracks ranging from easy to more ‘breathtaking’ (as in, require heavier breathing ie: more strenuous), you can choose an easy walk or a more vigorous hike, both may include commanding views of the ocean and forests.
Farm gate tours
Looking for local produce? The Foster Farm Gate Tour is a fantastic opportunity to source local and organically produced fruit, cheese, and craft beers. It’s the best place to fuel up for those up for your culinary adventure across Foster and the surrounding area.
Head to Agnes Falls
A 20-minute drive from Foster is where you’ll find the highest single-span falls in Victoria. Seeing Agnes Falls cascading over rocks and cliffs is a must-do experience while you’re in the area. The serene picnic area is the perfect place for a cheeky bread and cheese platter picnic while you relax and appreciate the tranquillity.
Visit Cape Liptrap Lighthouse
Who doesn’t love a lighthouse? Rich in history and boasting stunning views, the Cape Liptrap Lighthouse is a short drive from Foster and stands guard over the treacherous entrance to Bass Strait. Seeing this amazing landmark and hearing its tales will impart a sense of wonder at the mariners of old.
Foster Golf Course
Often described as one of Victoria’s most scenic golf courses, the Foster Golf Course caters perfectly to lovers of the sport – especially to a demographic increasingly appreciating golf’s health benefits. With reasonable green fees and awe-inspiring views, it offers recreational respite for enthusiasts of balls, clubs and tees.
The Victorian town of Foster has something for everyone. From history, spectacular views, fine dining experiences, to breathtaking landscapes – this town has it all. It invites you to blend leisure with activity, rustic charm with sophistication, to explore, experience and feel rejuvenated. But wait, there’s more, head to www.visitmelbourne.com for places to stay and more activities in the region.
Forster, NSW
If you’re craving serenity, epicurean delights, and fun activities that don’t place too much of a physical demand, then Foster in NSW can be a haven for over-50 travellers.
Wallis Lake
Serene, calm, and a great spot to unwind, the peaceful shorelines of Wallis Lake are a short drive from the centre of the town. Here, you’ll see soaring birds and jumping fish, and tranquil days of reflection and relaxation.
Enjoy seafood? Source the freshest oysters and prawns from Wallis Lake’s local fishermen’s cooperative. They pride themselves on sustainable fishing practices and can tell you a great deal about the evolution of the area’s oyster farmers throughout history. Bonus points for enjoying fish and chips seasonally served straight from their trawler.
Travel is an ideal time to slow down a bit and absorb life’s little joys. What better place to do that than in unique oyster farming cottages? Stay in comfortable holiday homes overlooking Wallis Lake where oysters are farmed. You can even try your hand at harvesting your own feed.
Coffee, food and coastal fare
Seafood is the order of the day in Forster. You can buy fresh fillets at Red Spot Jetty, or if you want it cooked, check out the locally caught selections at Beach Street Seafoods, voted Best Fish and Chips in NSW in 2018.
Popular spots for sit-down meals include Beach Bums Cafe; Si Senorita for Mexican-inspired fare; Italian cuisine is well represented by Bella Bellissimo, The Sicilian Restaurant and Cafe Toscano and, if you’re down for some Asian food, try Limlong Thai or the Gold Medal Restaurant.
Keen for a caffeine kick? Try Little Street Roasters, Tartt Café, Wingman Espresso, Thirty Three Degrees and Red Spot Boatshed. Let’s Get Baked gets good reviews for cakes and sweet treats. And for a cheeky libation in the afternoon (or whenever – you’re on holiday!), head to Forster’s first brewery – the Coastal Brewing Company, or to the Wharf Street Distillery.
Foster Farmers Market
An experience that syncs with the pulse of culture, colour, and gastronomy of Forster. Fresh fruits, homemade delicacies, pastel-coloured baked goodies, and lively weather all contribute to a remarkable experience you will take home. It’s well worth timing any trip in tune with this beloved, monthly event.
Horsin’ around
Horseabout Tours provide gentle and adaptable horses for calm rides or lessons. You can channel your inner cowboy for a two and three hour bush ride, or enjoy a nice ride along white sandy beaches to spot dolphins. You could even book an overnight adventure ride with meals and accommodation included. Or set aside some time for a picnic ride, moonlight ride, sunset or sunrise ride.
Great Lakes Paddocks
Wineries feel luxurious and inviting, without demanding more than sipping on to your favourite spirit. Great Lakes Paddocks is a warm, family owned winery nestled between the green hills. See live music from local acts, witness winemaking, enjoy tastings and bring home some incredible memories along with a bottle (or two) of your favourite wines.
Beaches and walks aplenty
There are plenty of places to spend hours walking along beaches, through bushland or to the tops of peaks for unbeatable views of the NSW coast. Look for the signs: Booti Booti National Park, Bennetts Head Lookout, Whoota Whoota Lookout, Burgess Beach, and Seven Mile Beach or, if you’re keen to get wet, take a leisurely swim at The Tanks or One Mile Beach.
Forster is a force when it comes to diverse travel experiences. From relaxing beaches, a solid local seafood scene and cafés aplenty, through to maritime history, boutique galleries and lake and ocean cruises, there’s more to Forster than we can list here. To find out more, head to www.visitnsw.com and see all this coastal spot has to offer.
So, pack those bags and gear up for new experiences in these fascinating Aussie hotspots. After all, life isn’t about being a bystander!
Which town tickles your travel fancy? Have you been to either of these places? Do you have some tips you can share with our members?
Also read: What to do in Mildura – Victoria’s very own oasis
