Here’s seven amazing destinations on the Great Ocean Road that will charm you, welcome you and leave you in awe.
The Great Ocean Road is Australia’s iconic road trip. Touring the scenic stretch of coastline is not to be missed on a visit to Melbourne. Just a short drive from the city you can discover the surf culture and rolling waves in Torquay. Then from there the open road lies ahead of you waiting to be explored.
Expect incredible views around every turn, and don’t forget to plan some stops to soak it all in. Here’s our pick of eight amazing destination that are worth a visit on your tour of the Australia’s Great Ocean Road
Aireys Inlet
Do you remember watching the 90’s TV show ‘Round the Twist’? The one with the catchy tune – “have you ever…” Most of the episode of this show were filmed in the small town of Aireys Inlet. However the tiny coastal hamlet is now probably best known for its lighthouse at Split Point Lighthouse – the main feature on the TV show. Therefore, these days the lighthouse is a tourist attraction that overlooks the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, Great Ocean Road and the beaches below.
Lorne
Lorne is a charming coastal town that attracts many holiday-makers from Melbourne. It’s a great place to stop and stretch your legs, and grab a coffee and snack for the drive. There are many cafes and restaurants to choose from for lunch or a snack. In addition, the main beach is right in the middle of town, with a wide stretch of sand and rocky headland. Plus, you can stroll along the coastal walkway all the way to the Lorne Pier for some excellent views of town, the coast and the Great Ocean Road.
Kennett River
Kennett River is where you can spot some cute koalas cuddled up in the eucalyptus trees. It is the best place on the Great Ocean road to witness these marsupials in the wild. Koalas spend a lot of time sleeping, therefore it’s not uncommon to see them curled up asleep in the branches. Their poor diet and slow digestive system don’t give them a lot of energy, so they spend most of their day sleeping. Take a walk along the dirt road to see koalas and native birds in the trees overhead.
Apollo Bay
The rolling green hills and quiet beaches of Apollo Bay will welcome you as you drive into town. This quiet, relaxed town is a popular place to stop and get something to eat. There are plenty of options including freshly caught seafood at the marina. IT’s also a great palace to take a stroll along the beach as you’ll find some days you can have it all to yourself.
Great Otway National Park
The Great Otway National Park consists of 103,000 hectares of rainforests, beaches, waterfalls and heathlands. It’s an integral part of the Great Ocean Road landscape – along with the famous coastline. Take a walk though the trees on a rainforest trail and you’ll be able to admire the lush rainforest trees and towering eucalyptus trees overhead.
The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles rock formations are the most iconic site on the Great Ocean Road. The picturesque coastline is marked with the tall limestone structures. Carved by the wind, waves and rain over many centuries, they are an impressive reminder of the power of nature. The limestone stacks are truly breath-taking and planning your visit for sunset adds a new dimension to the experience. Only eight of the twelve are still left standing, so see them whilst you still can.
Loch Ard Gorge
This picturesque gorge is named after the Loch Ard sailing ship that ran aground by in June 1878. The ship was nearing the end of a three-month voyage from England to Melbourne when it crashed into Mutton Bird Island at the entrance to the gorge. Of the 54 people on board, only two survived. The two young survivors named Tom and Eva have an incredible story that add more depth to your visit to Loch Ard Gorge.
Want to visit the Great Ocean Road?
Come and explore the Great Ocean Road – it’s one of the must-see destinations near Melbourne. Enjoy a 12 Apostles tour, visit picturesque cities and townships along this world-famous coastline, and soak up the history of sites like the Loch Ard Gorge. There’s much more to the Great Ocean Road than just the photo opportunities, come and see for yourself!
Tour Highlights:
- Spend the day touring the Great Ocean Road
- Stop for morning tea on the beach at Victoria’s Surf Coast
- View the spectacular Twelve Apostles in the Port Campbell National Park
- Explore the Loch Ard Gorge, which is the site of the Loch Ard shipwreck
- See koalas in the wild at the Kennett River township
- Visit the charming coastal township of Apollo Bay for lunch
- Walk through the rainforest and towering mountain ash trees in the Great Otway National Park
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Great Ocean Road?
The Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay which is just over one hours drive form Melbourne. The road stretches for just over 250km all the way to the seaside town of Peterborough.
How were the Twelve Apostles formed?
This stretch of Australia’s coastline has limestone and sandstone cliffs. Over many thousands of year the cliffs were eroded by the wind and waves. They continue to be eroded today in the same way. With constant force from the waves crashing against the cliffs, over many years, caves were formed. But over time these caves may have collapsed, leaving the entrance to the cave standing – an archway. When eventually the top of the arch fell, what was left were large pillars of rock – which are what can be seen today.
Written by: Leah Furey – Digital Content Coordinator @gowest.com.au
