One destination that has to go on your bucket list is the Great Ocean Road. It’s one of the most spectacular things Australia has to offer.
Victoria’s south-west region is where the Great Ocean Road is at and it starts at Torquay, a coastal town which is famous for it’s superb surfing beach. The road ends at 12 Apostles, a world renowned place that is over 100 kilometers from Torquay.
While some will complain that the road is slow because of all the traffic that goes through this area, two lanes are just enough to allow you to drive comfortably and enjoy in the landscapes. And you will be able to see a lot of interesting places and take a lot of photographs!
12 apostles on the great ocean road view from the sky Australia Shutterstock Like I said before, the Great Ocean Road stretches from the coastal town Torquay, a small town that many people visit. Tourists from all over the world come to enjoy this surfing town. And it’s not just any surfing town, it’s the surfing capital of Australia. Bells Beach is a world famous place and if you happen to be anywhere near this place, you simply have to go to this beach. You will see people surfing on some of the biggest waves. This sight is something you won’t be able to forget.
Bells beach, near Torquay ShutterstockThe road begins from Torquay and after this town, you will visit one beach after the other. Usually, there won’t be anyone swimming here so you can stop at any beach you like and rest for a while. Sunbathe, take a swim and enjoy the beauty Australia has to offer. I’m sure you’re gonna love it.
Driving along the Great Ocean Road ShutterstockThen, you will drive through several smaller towns until you get to Lorne, a premier seaside resort. You’ll find a very beautiful bay in Lorne, so make sure you get out of the car and take a walk. You can also surf here and beginners love this place because it’s easy to learn surfing here. If you can stay here for a day or two, that would be perfect, as you will be able to enjoy swimming on this beautiful and safe beach.
Lorne Beach ShutterstockAfter Lorne, the Great Ocean Road goes towards Cape Paton. Since this location is a bit higher than Lorne, you will have a spectacular view over the surrounding area. The landscapes here are just wonderful and you can take fantastic photos if you stop on one of the pullovers the road offers.
One past Cape Paton, the road goes down again, closer to sea level. You will quickly get to Apollo Bay, a fishing village that you can rest in for a couple of days. It’s a quiet place that offers good beaches and delicious food. Don’t forget to order a lobster here!
Apollo Bay Coastal town Shutterstock Once you leave Apollo Bay, you will get to Great Otway National Park. You want to drive slowly through this national park as it offers many beautiful landscapes and clean, fresh air, with lots of birds and wind that will cool you down. The trees within this park are hundreds of years old, some of them are so spectacular that you won’t resist to get out of the car and admire them for a few minutes. What you will see on the road are several roadsigns – make sure you take them seriously. The roadsigns notify you about kangaroos, koalas and other animals which are often crossing the road. Their home is Cape Otway and you will certainly see some of them walking around or climbing the trees. If you have the time, go towards the cape to see an old lighthouse.
Cape Otway Lighthouse Shutterstock
Koala in Great Otway National Park ShutterstockOnce you leave Cape Otway, you will drive through the forest region, which is a bit inland. Then the road goes closer to coast again and this is where you will have the opportunity to enjoy in one of the most beautiful parts of the road – coast at Johanna. Don’t just drive on, take the turn towards Johanna Beach and enjoy yourself!
Johanna beach in Cape Otway ShutterstockAfter Johanna Beach, the Great Ocean Road moves inland again. After one hour drive, you will get to the 12 Apostles. Be prepared to see a lot of people there, as it is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Australia. Sunset is when you want to be in 12 Apostles. The skies will turn blood red and the atmosphere in the air will change completely. A place you simply must visit!
Twelve Apostles, Great ocean road, Australia ShutterstockEven though the Great Ocean Road ends here, you don’t have to turn back. There are many fabulous coastal sights here – the Bay of Martyrs and the Bay Of Islands are just two of them. Get to see them and visit the beach as well, you’ll have lots of fun and you will be able to get some rest from all the driving you did.
Bay of Island Coastal Park in Australia Shutterstock While you’re driving on the Great Ocean Road you have to keep two things in mind – have fun and drive on the left!
