The Great Ocean Road in Australia is a legendary route that every road tripper should have on their bucket list. Spanning over 240 kilometres (150 miles) along Victoria's south-eastern coast, this iconic drive offers handsome views of the Southern Ocean, lush rainforests, and dramatic limestone cliffs. In this article, we'll take you on a virtual road trip along the Great Ocean Road, highlighting some of the best stops, scenic drives, and practical car rental advice to help you plan your unforgettable adventure.
Start Your Journey: Melbourne to Torquay
Before you hit the road, you'll need to pick up your rental car in Melbourne. We recommend using one of our recommended rental companies to ensure a smooth start to your trip. Once you've got your vehicle, head south on the M1 towards Geelong, and then take the B100 to Torquay, the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road. The drive from Melbourne to Torquay takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the number of coffee stops you make along the way.
Torquay: Surf Capital of Australia
Torquay is a vibrant coastal town famous for its surf culture and beautiful beaches. Check out Torquay Surf Life Saving Club (open daily from 9 am to 5 pm) for some local history and striking ocean views. If you're a surfing enthusiast, don't miss the chance to visit the Surfworld Museum (open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, adults AUD16, children AUD10), where you can learn about Australia's surfing legends and the evolution of surfing gear.
Explore the Great Ocean Road: Torquay to Lorne
From Torquay, continue west along the B100 towards Lorne, one of the most picturesque towns along the Great Ocean Road. The 58-kilometre (36-mile) journey takes around 1 hour, with several scenic lookouts and photo opportunities along the way.
Bells Beach
Just a short drive from Torquay, Bells Beach is a world-renowned surf spot, hosting international surfing competitions, including the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach. Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the powerful waves crashing against the shore.
Anglesea Golf Club
For golf enthusiasts, the Anglesea Golf Club (open daily from 6:30 am to 6 pm, green fees from AUD55) offers a unique experience, with kangaroos roaming the fairways. Make sure you keep your distance and respect these beautiful animals.
Lorne: Coastal Paradise
Lorne is a charming seaside town, home to pristine beaches, artsy boutiques, and a variety of dining options. Stroll along the picturesque Lorne Main Beach, and visit the iconic Lorne Surf Life Saving Club (open daily from 9 am to 5 pm) for fantastic views of the beach and the Southern Ocean. If you fancy a hike, venture to the handsome Erskine Falls (open daily, free entry), a 30-metre (98-feet) cascade in the lush rainforest. The walk to the falls takes around 20 minutes each way, with steps leading down the hillside.
Discover the Great Otway National Park
From Lorne, continue your journey west along the B100 towards the Great Otway National Park. The 55-kilometre (34-mile) stretch takes around 1 hour, meandering through dense rainforests, towering trees, and charming coastal villages.
The Great Otway National Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. Make sure to visit the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures (open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, adults AUD35, children AUD18) to experience the rainforest canopy from above. If you prefer to stay on the ground, explore the Melba Gully Walk (free entry, open daily, 20-minute return walk), where you can witness the unique glow worms and lush fern gullies.
End Your Journey: The Twelve Apostles and Port Campbell
The final leg of the Great Ocean Road takes you from the Great Otway National Park to the famous Twelve Apostles and the charming coastal town of Port Campbell. The 76-kilometre (47-mile) journey takes around 1.5 hours, with several viewpoints and attractions along the way.
The Twelve Apostles
The Twelve Apostles are a collection of towering limestone stacks, located off the coast of Port Campbell National Park. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the golden light illuminates the rocks, creating a striking display. The site is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, and parking is available on-site. Keep in mind that the visitor centre, cafes, and public toilets close at 8 pm.
Port Campbell
Port Campbell is a quaint coastal town, offering a variety of accommodation options, cafes, and restaurants. Take a stroll along the picturesque Port Campbell Beach or venture to the nearby London Bridge (open daily, free entry), a natural rock formation that used to be connected to the mainland until part of it collapsed in 1990.
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Returning Your Rental Car and Departing Melbourne
Once you've finished exploring the Great Ocean Road, it's time to return your rental car in Melbourne. Most rental companies require you to refuel the vehicle before returning it. Use the FuelCheck app to find the cheapest fuel prices in Melbourne and the surrounding areas.
The drive from Port Campbell to Melbourne takes around 3.5 hours via the M1, covering approximately 275 kilometres (171 miles). If you're returning your car after hours, make sure to park it in the designated area and drop the keys in the after-hours drop box. Remember to check your rental agreement for any additional fees or charges related to after-hours returns.
And there you have it, a comprehensive road trip guide to the striking Great Ocean Road in Australia. We hope this article helps you plan your journey and inspires you to explore more of this beautiful country.
