Great Ocean Road

Stretching 243 kilometres along Victoria's rugged south-west coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of Australia's most spectacular coastal drives. Carved by returned soldiers after World War I, this winding road offers dramatic ocean views, ancient rainforests, and world-famous rock formations. It's a journey that combines natural grandeur with poignant history, perfect for a multi-day self-drive adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Twelve Apostles – The iconic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are best seen at sunrise or sunset when the light paints them gold.
• Loch Ard Gorge – A serene cove with a story of shipwreck and survival; walk down to the beach and explore the surrounding cliffs.
• Great Otway National Park – Detour inland for towering eucalypts, ferny gullies and the chance to see wild koalas in the treetops.
• Gibson Steps – Descend 86 steps to a wild beach for an up-close view of the Apostles from sea level.
• Bells Beach – Australia’s surf mecca, home to the Rip Curl Pro; even if you don’t surf, watching the waves is mesmerising.
• Port Campbell National Park – A compact park packed with viewpoints like London Bridge and The Grotto, all within a short drive.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend two to three days driving the full length from Torquay to Warrnambool, with an overnight stop in Port Campbell or Apollo Bay. If you’re short on time, a day trip from Melbourne can hit the Apostles and a few lookouts, but you’ll miss the rainforest walks and coastal villages. For a relaxed pace, take three days: day one from Torquay to Apollo Bay, day two exploring the Otways and Apostles, and day three meandering to Warrnambool.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Torquay – The official start, with surf beaches and the Australian National Surfing Museum.
• Apollo Bay – A charming seaside town with great seafood and access to the Otway rainforest.
• Port Fairy – A historic fishing village with well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a lively Sunday market.
• Grampians National Park – About two hours north of Warrnambool, offering dramatic sandstone peaks, Aboriginal rock art, and wildflowers.
• Melbourne – The natural gateway, where you can pick up a hire car and stock up on supplies before heading south-west.

Please check official sources for current details.