00:03For years it was a blur in the rearview mirror on your way to the Great Ocean Road but if
00:09you're
00:09still skipping Geelong you're missing the most exciting renaissance in Victoria. Stretching
00:14along Corio Bay the spectacular waterfront is packed with public art, swimming spots and some
00:21of the best sunset views in the state but these days the real magic is happening beyond the shoreline.
00:31If you head to Leafy Newtown you'll find Retreat, one of Geelong's most talked about restaurants,
00:37tucked inside a beautifully restored old post office. It's intimate, creative and offers refined
00:45French inspired cuisine that is expertly crafted with wines to match.
00:54You can also make your way to the historic Finesford Paper Mill. Once an industrial site it's been
01:01transformed into a tranquil creative precinct where you can spend an afternoon browsing galleries,
01:07trying your hand at pottery at a two-hour taster workshop at Elizabeth Bell Ceramics and soaking
01:13up the peaceful riverside setting before settling in at the stunning bluestone building that is
01:18Providence Wines.
01:26And if you're making a weekend of it, and you should, check into the new Crown Plaza Geelong.
01:32With its prime waterfront location, sweeping bay views, heated indoor pool and Italian dining
01:41and a 10th floor skyline bar, it's the perfect base for discovering a city that's no longer just a stop
01:48on the way somewhere else.
01:49The
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