I’d been to Sheoak Falls twice before I finally ventured further up towards Swallow Cave. Don’t ask me why, because I honestly don’t know. I won’t pass up the opportunity again.
Swallow Cave isn’t referred to as a seperate waterfall, because really it’s just the Upper part of Sheoak Falls. On the way to Sheoak Falls, there’s the option to head up a staircase on the left side, instead of walking down to the right.
It’s here that leads to Swallow Cave.
There are quite a few stairs, with sections of flat path in between.
It’s not long before the first viewing platform appears, allowing an amazing view of what I’m calling “Swallow Cave Falls.”
But the journey doesn’t end there. The rocky, tree root infested path continues on.
Although the cliffs in this area can be dangerous, so stick to the paths.
Which shouldn’t be hard, as the track is clearly signposted.
This track can actually continue on to Castle Rock, a rock formation on the way to Won Wondah Falls and Henderson Falls.
Yet another reminder of the danger surrounding the track…
And then the track hits the river. After extremely heavy rainfall, it would be impossible or extremely dangerous to cross.
Luckily when I visited, it wasn’t too high. Plus I was wearing my Hunter Gumboots, though they actually filled with the freezing cold water as I crossed. But I digress.
The river will look similar to this if it is safe to cross. It’s up to your judgement of how fierce the water flow is and your level of confidence.
So I carefully made my way across the river, and trudged up the muddy bank on the other side.
Here, more signs indicated back the way I had come (presumably for hikers who began their journey at either Phantom Falls or Henderson and Won Wondah Falls, a total of 8kms or so).
Then the signs relevant to me – indicating Swallow Cave, only 100 meters away.
The track leads down to another viewing platform, which can be seen from the first viewing platform on the opposite side of the river.
But that wasn’t quite enough for me. I decided to take a risk and venture down the left hand side of the platform to get closer to the falls.
I took extra care. I didn’t take any further risks by going closer to the cliff drop. The falls near Swallow Cave are relatively flat, and I made sure I only stood on dry rock. The wet rock is far too slimy and dangerous. So I don’t recommend this unless you stay far, far away from the sheer drop.
Other than that, it was a beautiful spot to relax and watch the Swallows flit about in the air.
I enjoyed visiting Swallow Cave Falls, because even though they were so close to Sheoak, and by no means hidden, they felt secret. They were special and unique, and involved the perfect amount of adventure to find.
Quick Facts
| Last visit | September 2017 |
| Best Time | June-Sept |
| Start / Finish | Sheoak Carpark, Great Ocean Road |
| Unsealed Roads | No |
| Walking distance | Roughly 1km or less (from carpark) |
| Time | 30mins |
| Difficulty | Moderate (stairs and river crossing involved) |
| Facilities | None |
| Lat & Long | Sheoak Falls: 38.5653° S, 143.9628° E |
| Nearby | Sheoak Falls, Won Wondah Falls, Henderson Falls, Phantom Falls |
| Watercourse | Sheoak Creek |