Cruising on the Great Ocean Road

Quick answer: Cruising on the Great Ocean Road is best done over at least three days, starting in Geelong and taking in the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, the Great Ocean Walk and historic Portland. Get your car checked before you go, as much of the drive is on the open road.

If ever there was a country made for road trips, it’s Australia. Driving around the sixth biggest country in the world, you are likely to encounter natural wonders, breathtaking landscapes and bustling cities. Of all the amazing road trip routes in Australia, the most important is surely the Great Ocean Road, which connects the towns and cities along the Victorian coastline in the south-east. If you’re thinking of exploring it, here are the places that should definitely make it onto your itinerary.

Before you leave on your Great Ocean Road trip

This stretch of coast is excellent for road trips, since you can adapt the duration and route to your own needs and wishes. We recommend splitting it into at least three days, to have sufficient time to explore and enjoy Victoria at its best.

While there are plenty of towns along the way, you will still mostly be driving on the open road. Have your car thoroughly checked by a mechanic so you aren’t left stranded on the side of the road somewhere. Of course, you can never foresee every possible scenario, so bear in mind that you can always call a mobile mechanic to your rescue if you need one.

• Allow at least three days for the trip.
• Get your car serviced before you set off.
• Know how to get help on the road if something goes wrong.

Man-made stops along the way

Geelong

Geelong, the second biggest city in Victoria, is an ideal starting point for your journey. While you’re there, sample the local wines and craft beers, take a dip in the shimmering waters of Corio Bay and drink in the fascinating Gold Rush history visible in the buildings of the historical centre.

Budj Bim

If you have the time, stop to see Budj Bim, the Aboriginal heritage site of the Gunditjmara people. There you will find the world’s oldest aquaculture structure, which dates back an astounding 6,000 years or so.

Portland

Finally, don’t forget Portland, the oldest European town in Victoria. Take a ride on the tourist tram, visit the Maritime Museum and catch a glimpse of the fascinating creatures that live on these shores: seals, whales and koalas.

Natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road

If there’s one thing the coast of Victoria has in spades, it’s dramatic scenery. The views all along the way are postcard-worthy, and the expanse of the ocean against the coastal cliffs and rock formations will take your breath away.

The most famous attraction is surely the Twelve Apostles, imposing limestone stacks jutting out of the waves (despite the name, there are fewer than twelve). Just a few minutes’ drive away you will find Loch Ard Gorge, a notorious but stunning shipwreck site. Also in Port Campbell National Park you can see the Grotto, a popular sinkhole, and London Arch, a natural arch formed by erosion.

• Twelve Apostles: limestone stacks rising from the sea
• Loch Ard Gorge: a famous shipwreck site
• The Grotto: a popular sinkhole
• London Arch: a natural arch formed by erosion

For hiking enthusiasts: the Great Ocean Walk

Those who want more than a quick leg-stretch should definitely explore the Great Ocean Walk. With a length of 104 km, its treasures can hardly be uncovered during a short stop. The trail covers the stretch between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles and passes through the Otway National Park.

Don’t miss the fascinating Cape Otway Lightstation and the Shipwreck Coast, the scene of many shipwrecks in the 19th century, when Bass Strait became an important part of the trade route from Europe.

The history of the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is an attraction in and of itself. Construction began in 1919, carried out by soldiers returning from World War I, and the road was dedicated as a memorial to Australian soldiers who fell in the Great War. It is now on Australia’s National Heritage List and is one of the top sights in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need for the Great Ocean Road?

We recommend at least three days, so you have enough time to explore the towns, viewpoints and walks along the way.

Where should I start a Great Ocean Road trip?

Geelong, the second biggest city in Victoria, makes an ideal starting point.

How long is the Great Ocean Walk?

The Great Ocean Walk is 104 km long and runs between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles, through the Otway National Park.

Conclusion

From Gold Rush history and ancient Aboriginal heritage to limestone stacks and shipwreck coves, cruising on the Great Ocean Road packs a lot into one drive. Take your time, prepare your car well and enjoy one of Australia’s greatest road trips.

Author Bio

Roxana is a Sydney based travel enthusiast with a passion for writing. She loves fashion and has an eye for anything visually appealing and aesthetical. She is all about the healthy lifestyle, loves to run with her husband and dogs and has fun cooking exotic meals for her family. You can find her articles on HighStyleLife.

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