The Great Ocean Road, located west of Melbourne, is a highway in Victoria, Australia. Stretching approximately 276 kilometers, it is built along cliff face and was constructed to commemorate soldiers who fought in World War I. It is often described as one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads, boasting some of the world's most stunning scenery.
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| Transport | Charter car |
While a one-day trip to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne is technically possible, it involves extensive driving and very limited time at each major attraction. To reach key sights like Apollo Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and London Bridge and return to Melbourne within a single day, the schedule would be very rushed. Many visitors find that a single day does not allow enough opportunity to truly soak in the stunning scenery, explore the charming towns, or enjoy additional activities like wildlife spotting. A multi-day tour offers a more relaxed and fulfilling experience.
The Great Ocean Road can be visited year-round, but spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring coastal lookout points. During these seasons, temperatures are mild, rainfall is lower, and the crowds are typically smaller than in peak summer. Summer (December to February) is popular for its warm weather but can be very busy. Winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures and more rain, but also dramatic skies and fewer tourists, offering a different, rugged beauty.
Currently, eight of the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks remain standing and can be viewed from the main lookout points along the Great Ocean Road. The erosion from the powerful Southern Ocean waves continuously shapes these natural wonders, with stacks occasionally collapsing over time. Despite the changing numbers, the remaining Apostles, alongside other dramatic rock formations like Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge, continue to offer breathtaking views of Victoria's rugged coastline.
The Great Ocean Road is located in the southwestern region of Victoria, Australia, stretching along the southeastern coast. It officially begins in the town of Torquay, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. The road then winds westward for about 243 kilometers, officially concluding near Allansford, just east of Warrnambool. This scenic route offers continuous views of the Southern Ocean, passing through various national parks, rainforests, and charming coastal towns.
When selecting a Great Ocean Road tour, consider the duration, the number of stops, and the included amenities. A two-day, one-night itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace and in-depth exploration of sites like Apollo Bay, the Twelve Apostles, and Loch Ard Gorge. Look for tours offering multiple convenient pick-up locations in the city, comfortable transportation, and opportunities for unique experiences such as koala spotting at Kennett River. A well-planned tour ensures you maximize your sightseeing and enjoy the stunning coastal journey without feeling rushed.
Kennett River, a popular stop along the Great Ocean Road, is renowned for its excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly for koalas. Visitors on a "Koala Hunting Tour" can often observe numerous koalas in their natural habitat, clinging to eucalyptus trees right by the roadside or along specific walking trails. Beyond koalas, the area is also home to a variety of native birds, including colorful parrots and kookaburras, making it a fantastic location for nature enthusiasts and photographers to engage with Australian wildlife.
The section of the Great Ocean Road between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles is particularly rich in dramatic coastal scenery. Typical attractions and viewpoints visited include Maits Rest Rainforest Walk, offering a glimpse into ancient rainforests, and various panoramic lookouts that provide stunning ocean vistas. As you approach the Port Campbell National Park area, key stops include Gibson Steps, allowing access to the beach below the cliffs, and the iconic Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre, which provides access to multiple viewing platforms for the famous rock formations.