Great Ocean Road — Day Trip★★★
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world — 243 kilometers between Torquay and Allansford, built by returning soldiers after World War I as a memorial to their fallen comrades. The road was declared a national heritage site in 2011.
As a day trip from Melbourne (2 hours to the start), the route is ambitious but doable. The highlights from east to west:
- Bells Beach: One of the most famous surf spots in the world. Every Easter, the Rip Curl Pro takes place here. Spectacular even for non-surfers — the cliffs offer dramatic views of the surf.
- Lorne & Apollo Bay: Two charming coastal towns for a coffee stop. In Lorne: Swing Bridge Café (great Flat White by the river).
- Otway Rainforest: The Great Otway National Park offers ancient rainforest with giant ferns and the Otway Fly Treetop Walk — a 600 m long walkway 25 meters high through the treetops (29 AUD). Wild koalas along the Lighthouse Road (especially around Kennett River) almost guaranteed!
- Twelve Apostles: The absolute highlight. Limestone stacks up to 45 meters high rising from the roaring surf of the Southern Ocean. There are actually only eight left (the others have collapsed) — but the sight is still overwhelming. Free access, parking available. Best at sunset when the rocks glow golden.
- Loch Ard Gorge: Just a few minutes from the Twelve Apostles. A dramatic gorge named after the shipwreck of the "Loch Ard" (1878, 52 dead). Stairs lead down to the beach in the gorge — swimming is possible, but the water is ice-cold.
💡 Tipp
For the day trip: Leave Melbourne at 7 am to reach the Twelve Apostles by sunset. Return via the inland route (A1/M1) — faster than the coast and you miss nothing in the dark. Alternatively: Overnight in Apollo Bay (B&Bs from 120 AUD), then see the Apostles almost alone at sunrise the next morning.
Achtung
The Great Ocean Road is winding and slippery when wet. Expect 3–4 hours of pure driving time (one way) — with stops, it will be a full day. Keep in mind the LEFT-HAND TRAFFIC! Watch out for kangaroos and wombats on the road at night.