23/12/2024
A trip to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne is one of the most iconic journeys in Australia. Here’s a suggested itinerary and sightseeing guide:
Day Trip Itinerary:
Morning: Departure from Melbourne
• Start early (around 7:00 AM) to make the most of your day.
• Head southwest from Melbourne towards Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road (approximately 1.5 hours by car).
Stop 1: Torquay and Bells Beach
• Visit Torquay, known as the surfing capital of Australia.
• Stop by Bells Beach, famous for its powerful surf and annual Rip Curl Pro surfing competition.
Stop 2: Anglesea
• Enjoy a quick stop at Anglesea, a charming coastal town. If time permits, stroll along the beach or visit the golf course, where kangaroos often graze.
Stop 3: Aireys Inlet and Split Point Lighthouse
• Admire the Split Point Lighthouse, offering stunning coastal views. This historic site is a perfect spot for photos.
Stop 4: Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch
• Pause at the Memorial Arch, a tribute to the soldiers who built the Great Ocean Road. It’s a must for photos and to learn about its history.
Stop 5: Lorne
• Explore Lorne, a picturesque seaside town with boutique shops, cafes, and beaches. Consider stopping for morning tea or a light snack.
Stop 6: Apollo Bay
• Continue to Apollo Bay for lunch. This town is a great spot to enjoy fresh seafood and take a short beach walk.
Afternoon: Otway National Park
• Detour into the lush Otway National Park for a rainforest walk. Visit the Maits Rest Rainforest Trail or, if time permits, experience the Otway Fly Treetop Walk.
Stop 7: The Twelve Apostles
• Arrive at the iconic Twelve Apostles, the most famous stop on the Great Ocean Road. Spend time taking in the breathtaking limestone stacks and coastal views.
Stop 8: Loch Ard Gorge
• Just a short drive from the Twelve Apostles, visit Loch Ard Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs and rich shipwreck history.
Stop 9: London Arch (formerly London Bridge)
• View the natural rock formation known as London Arch and learn about its fascinating collapse in 1990.
Evening: Return to Melbourne
• Begin the journey back to Melbourne (approximately 3 hours). Consider stopping in Colac for a quick dinner break.
Tips for the Trip
1. Transport: Hire a car or join an organised day tour from Melbourne.
2. Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Bring a jacket, as coastal weather can change quickly.
3. Photography: Charge your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery.
4. Timing: If you have more time, consider staying overnight in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell to explore at a leisurely pace.
📸 Walking Perspective
