Why you should visit the Great Ocean Road – one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Australia – in 2023!
This road amazes visitors with its stunning coastal landscapes, picturesque towns, and rich history. If you are planning a visit to Melbourne in 2023, the Great Ocean Road is the perfect destination to include. It’s a must-do for anyone looking for a unique and memorable holiday experience.
Here are some reasons why we think you should visit the Great Ocean Road in 2023.
Discover Natural Beauty when you Visit the Great Ocean Road
The natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road is simply breathtaking. This 243-kilometre stretch of road runs along the south-eastern coast of Australia and offers stunning views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and lush rainforests. The most famous attractions along the road are the Twelve Apostles, a group of limestone stacks that rise out of the ocean. But that’s not all you can see – here’s a few sites we include on our tour:
Twelve Apostles
The most famous attractions on the Great Ocean Road are the 12 Apostles rock formations. These limestone stacks along Australia’s southern coastline are the absolute highlight of any visit to the Great Ocean Road. But these rock formations need to be seen to be believed – they rise out of the Southern Ocean – up to 45 metres tall. The Apostles were once part of the coastal cliffs, however the wind and waves carved the cliffs into caves, then arches and eventually tall columns.
Loch Ard Gorge
Loch Ard Gorge is a secluded beach surrounded by tall limestone cliffs. It is a beautiful beach but also the site of the Loch Ard Disaster. The Loch Ard ship set sail from the UK in 1878 and reached Bass Strait after a three month journey. The ship had trouble navigating the rough waters, and it wrecked on rocks adjacent to the gorge. Of the 54 people on board the Loch Ard, only two survived the shipwreck. The story of the Loch Ard adds a whole new layer to your experience when visiting the gorge today.
Memorial Arch
The Great Ocean Road is dedicated to the Australian’s that lost their lives in the first world war. The iconic Memorial Arch was built to acknowledge the 3000 servicemen that worked on the road from 1919 to 1932. The construction of the road was a project that provided many jobs for returned servicemen after the war. These days the Memorial Arch can be viewed from a designated area beside the road. View the information boards and plaques detailing the construction of the Great Ocean Road and commemorating the 50th and 75th anniversaries of the road opening.
Koalas
On the Great Ocean Road you can see koalas in their natural habitat. Either in the eucalyptus forests of the Kennett River township or the Otway Ranges. Both areas are part of the Great Otway National Park. These iconic Australian animals can be found in the eucalyptus trees. But their diet consists of solely eucalyptus leaves and as such they can be found close to their food source.
Rich History
Another reason to visit the Great Ocean Road in 2023 is for the rich cultural and historical significance. The road was a remarkable engineering feat – by soldiers who had returned from WW1. After the construction between 1919 and 1932 it was dedicated as a memorial to their sacrifice and that of other soldiers. On tour you can take a stroll alongside the Memorial Arch and learn about the history of the road and the soldiers who built it.
Seaside Towns
The Great Ocean Road is also known for its charming towns and villages. Visitors can stop in towns like Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell, where they can enjoy local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and learn about the history of the area. Visitors can also take a stroll along the beach or take a guided tour of the towns and villages.
In conclusion, the Great Ocean Road is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable holiday experience in 2023. Here’s how you can visit the Great Ocean Road with Go West Tours.
Great Ocean Road Day Tour
- Spend the day touring the Great Ocean Road, with incredible views around every turn
- Enjoy morning tea on the picturesque beaches of Victoria’s Surf Coast
- Visit the Memorial Arch to learn about the history and construction of the Great Ocean Road
- See koalas in their natural habitat in the eucalyptus forests of Kennett River
- Visit the charming coastal township of Apollo Bay for a lunch break
- Discover eucalyptus trees and lush ferns in the Otway Rainforest at Maits Rest Walk
- Visit the famous Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park
- Time permitting, walk down the staircase carved into the cliffs at Gibson Steps
- Visit the incredible beach at Loch Ard Gorge, the site of the Loch Ard shipwreck
Great Ocean Road Sunset Tour
- Depart Melbourne later in the day to tour the famous Great Ocean Road
- Discover incredible views around every bend
- Visit the Memorial Arch to learn about the construction of the Great Ocean Road
- See wild koalas in the eucalyptus forests of the Kennett River township
- Enjoy a lunch break in one of the Great Ocean Road’s scenic coastal towns
- Drive through the Great Otway National Park
- Marvel at the natural beauty of Loch Ard Gorge and hear the famous tale of shipwreck survival
- Visit the famous 12 Apostles at dusk to watch the sunset
- So what are you waiting for? Come and join us to explore the Great Ocean Road!
Written by: Leah Furey – Digital Content Coordinator @gowest.com.au
