The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road stretches over a distance of 243km and is also listed as an Australian National Heritage Road.
The road from Torquay to Allansford was built by soldiers who returned from the war and its construction took place from 1919 to 1932.
The road is also the largest war memorial in the world since it was dedicated to the soldiers who were killed during World War I.
If you visit this part of Australia, rent a car from Melbourne and take the time to enjoy this route at your own pace and on your own schedule.
Sights along the way
This route is nothing short of spectacular for each and every one of your senses.
The ocean views are obviously the most prominent of all the attractions this road holds and there are swimming, fishing, kayaking and surfing spots along the way as well.
There are also lookout points where, if you are in the right place at the right time, you can enjoy some whale watching.
At Port Campbell, don’t forget to get a good look at London Bridge – a scenic geological formation that is truly remarkable.
It is also the closest town to the 12 Apostles which you won’t miss when you travel this route.
Apollo Bay is home to a number of activities and attractions including the fabulous Great Ocean Walk and Mait’s Rest Forest which is another great spot for a hike.
Just past Apollo Bay, you will reach Cape Otway and the Great Otway National Park.
The local Cape Otway Lightstation, built in 1848, is one of the main attractions here. Climb up for fantastic views!
If you want to get a look at some of the local wildlife during this trip, make sure that you stop off at the Tower Hill State Game Reserve and enjoy the company of some koalas, kangaroos, emus and various birds.
Top surfing spots along the route include Bells Beach, Blacknose Beach and Lorne makes a great stop for both surfing and to stretch your legs.
Culture, food and wine
Apart from treating yourself to a wonderful outdoor experience, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy some of the country’s finest foods and wines at Geelong and Henty.
Rest assured that any coastal town you pass along the way is sure to have more than one restaurant specialising in seafood. There’s nothing quite like that fresh catch of the day!
The climate and general weather conditions are also perfect for growing some of the country’s best grapes used in their finest wines.
Even if you are driving, you can let your passengers enjoy a taste and you can buy a bottle to enjoy when you are done driving.
Although all the towns along the way have something special to offer in the line of food and drinks, tourists often choose to stop off in Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Warrnambool for a good meal and refreshments.
There are also points along the route where you can learn more about the native Aborigines, their way of life, the didgeridoo and interesting natural remedies.
For anyone wanting the ultimate road trip in Australia, this route really has it all.
So if you’re planning an Aussie holiday, make sure that you include the Great Ocean Road on your itinerary and look into the popular option of one way car hire in Australia as well as Melbourne motorhome rental or booking hotel accommodation online to help you save on your travel costs.
