Road Trip Along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most iconic drives, stretching 243 kilometers along Victoria's rugged southwestern coast. This spectacular journey takes you through diverse landscapes from dramatic ocean cliffs and pristine beaches to lush rainforests and charming coastal towns.

History of the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road holds a special place in Australian history. It was built between 1919 and 1932 by returned soldiers from World War I, serving as both a war memorial and a much-needed infrastructure project to connect isolated coastal communities. It remains the world's largest war memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the war.

This engineering marvel hugs treacherous cliff edges and follows the contours of Victoria's coastline, creating what is now considered one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. The road was built entirely by hand, using picks, shovels, wheelbarrows, and explosives, making it an incredible feat of human perseverance and determination.

Planning Your Great Ocean Road Trip

While the Great Ocean Road could technically be driven in a single day, we strongly recommend taking at least 2-3 days to truly appreciate its beauty and attractions. The ideal trip allows you to take your time, stop at viewpoints, explore beaches, and enjoy the coastal towns along the way.

When to Visit

The Great Ocean Road is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:

• Summer (December-February): Busiest season with warm weather perfect for beaches, but expect crowds and higher accommodation prices.
• Autumn (March-May): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful changing foliage in the rainforests.
• Winter (June-August): Cooler weather with the possibility of dramatic storms and excellent whale watching opportunities.
• Spring (September-November): Wildflowers bloom, weather becomes milder, and tourist numbers are still moderate.

Getting There and Transportation

The Great Ocean Road begins in Torquay, approximately 100 kilometers from Melbourne. Most travelers start their journey from Melbourne, where you can rent a car or join a guided tour. While organized tours are available, having your own vehicle provides the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop whenever a stunning vista catches your eye.

For the best experience, we recommend driving the route from east to west (starting at Torquay), which puts you on the ocean side of the road for the best views and easier access to lookout points.

Top Attractions Along the Great Ocean Road

1. Bells Beach

Just outside Torquay, Bells Beach is an iconic surfing destination that hosts the world's longest-running surfing competition, the Rip Curl Pro. Even if you're not a surfer, the beach offers magnificent views of dramatic cliffs and powerful waves that attract top surfers from around the world.

2. Split Point Lighthouse

Located in Aireys Inlet, this distinctive white lighthouse (affectionately known as the "White Queen") has been guiding ships along the treacherous coastline since 1891. Take a guided tour to climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

3. Lorne

This charming seaside town is the perfect place to stop for lunch or spend the night. With its beautiful beach, collection of cafes and restaurants, and artistic atmosphere, Lorne offers a laid-back coastal vibe. Don't miss nearby Erskine Falls, a 30-meter waterfall set in lush rainforest just a short drive from town.

4. Apollo Bay

Nestled between rolling hills and the Southern Ocean, Apollo Bay serves as an excellent base for exploring the region. The town offers various accommodation options and fresh seafood restaurants. Nearby, you can explore the ancient ferns and towering trees of the Otway National Park or take a treetop walk at the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures.

5. The Twelve Apostles

Perhaps the most famous landmark along the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Formed by erosion over millions of years, these magnificent formations are best viewed at sunrise or sunset when the changing light creates a spectacular display of colors. Despite the name, there were only ever nine stacks, and due to continued erosion, only seven remain standing today.

For an unforgettable perspective, consider taking a helicopter tour over the Apostles and coastline, or visit the Gibson Steps to descend to the beach for a view of the stacks from below (tide permitting).

6. Loch Ard Gorge

Just minutes from the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge tells the dramatic story of a shipwreck and the only two survivors who washed ashore in this protected inlet. The gorge features golden cliffs, a pristine beach, and multiple walking tracks that explain the geology and maritime history of the area.

7. London Bridge

Once a double-span natural arch connected to the mainland, part of this formation dramatically collapsed in 1990, leaving two tourists temporarily stranded on the newly created island. Now renamed "London Arch," it remains an impressive limestone formation and a powerful example of the coastline's ongoing erosion.

8. Bay of Islands

Often overlooked in favor of the Twelve Apostles, the Bay of Islands offers equally breathtaking views with fewer crowds. This series of limestone stacks scattered across a turquoise bay creates a photographer's paradise, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon.

Wildlife Encounters

The Great Ocean Road region is home to diverse wildlife both on land and in the sea. Keep your eyes open for:

• Koalas in the eucalyptus trees near Kennett River and Cape Otway
• Kangaroos grazing in fields at dawn and dusk
• Southern right whales and blue whales from May to October
• Diverse birdlife including kookaburras, rosellas, and sea eagles
• Echidnas and wallabies in the Otway National Park

Accommodation Options

The Great Ocean Road offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

• Luxury: Boutique hotels in Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, private villas with ocean views
• Mid-range: B&Bs, motels, and self-contained apartments in coastal towns
• Budget: Caravan parks, hostels, and campgrounds along the route
• Unique stays: Lighthouse cottages, treehouse accommodations, and farm stays

During peak season (December-February and holiday periods), we strongly recommend booking accommodation well in advance as the popular towns fill up quickly.

Local Cuisine and Dining

The Great Ocean Road region is known for its excellent local produce and seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to:

• Try fresh crayfish, abalone, and other seafood in Apollo Bay and Port Campbell
• Visit boutique cheese factories and dairy farms in the hinterland
• Sample local wines from the Otway hinterland vineyards
• Enjoy craft beer at microbreweries in coastal towns
• Pick your own berries at farms in season (November-April)

Tips for an Unforgettable Great Ocean Road Experience

• Drive slowly and carefully – the winding road requires attention, and there's often wildlife near the roadside
• Download offline maps before your trip as mobile reception can be patchy in some areas
• Pack layers, even in summer, as the coastal weather can change rapidly
• Bring good walking shoes for exploring the many trails along the route
• Allow extra time for unexpected discoveries and photo stops
• Consider visiting major attractions like the Twelve Apostles early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Check tide times if you plan to visit beaches and coastal features like the Gibson Steps

Beyond the Road: Extended Itineraries

If you have more time, consider extending your Great Ocean Road adventure:

• Grampians National Park: Add 2-3 days to explore this magnificent mountain range with its Aboriginal rock art, wildlife, and hiking trails, located inland from the western end of the Great Ocean Road.
• Mornington Peninsula: Before starting the Great Ocean Road, spend a day or two exploring this peninsula's wineries, hot springs, and beaches.
• Phillip Island: Famous for its penguin parade, this island makes a wonderful addition to your coastal adventure.

Conclusion

The Great Ocean Road is more than just a scenic drive—it's a journey through some of Australia's most spectacular landscapes and a deep dive into the country's natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're marveling at the Twelve Apostles, spotting koalas in the wild, surfing at iconic beaches, or sampling local cuisine in charming coastal towns, this legendary route offers memories that will last a lifetime.

At Boistzo Travel, we can help you plan the perfect Great Ocean Road itinerary tailored to your interests, timeframe, and budget. Contact our specialists to start planning your Australian coastal adventure today!