If you’re looking for the quintessential Australian road trip, a 7-day Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne offers a journey through lush forests, stunning coastal landmarks, and quaint seaside towns. This article provides you with a day-by-day itinerary that will take you along one of Australia’s most picturesque and awe-inspiring routes. From towering limestone cliffs to serene rainforest walks and vibrant wildlife encounters, this itinerary is crafted to ensure you experience the best of the Great Ocean Road over an immersive seven days.
Day 1 – Starting Your Journey from Melbourne
As you embark on your Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne, the surf town of Torquay is your first essential stop. Torquay is not only famous for its excellent surf beaches but also for its laidback culture and historical significance in the surfing world. At Bells Beach, you might catch sight of surfers riding the renowned swells. Afterward, delve into surf history at the Surf World Museum which houses an impressive collection of surf memorabilia. After soaking up the surf culture, head to Anglesea for a quieter pace where you can enjoy a riverside walk or even a round of golf among grazing kangaroos, offering a truly Australian experience.
Discovering the Surf Capital of Torquay
Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road, invites visitors to immerse in its adrenaline-packed surf atmosphere. Pay a visit to the iconic Bells Beach and witness where the world-famous Rip Curl Pro surfing competition takes place. The Surf World Museum is next on the itinerary, offering a deep dive into surfing culture and history, showcasing a vast collection of surfboards and documenting the evolution of this exhilarating sport.
Relaxation at Anglesea
After the excitement of Torquay, Anglesea presents a perfect contrast with its relaxing ambiance. The town’s picturesque river is lined with walking tracks that reveal beautiful landscapes and local fauna. For a unique experience, visit the Anglesea Golf Club where kangaroos are commonly spotted lounging on the greens, providing a unique backdrop for your first day’s adventures on the Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne.
Day 2 – From Lorne to Apollo Bay
Your second day on the Great Ocean Road takes you from the charming seaside town of Lorne to the lush rainforest settings near Apollo Bay. On your way out of Lorne, make sure to stop at Teddy’s Lookout for a breathtaking view of the coast where the road and the river meet the sea. And once in Lorne, a plunge into the town’s nearby waterfalls like Erskine and Henderson Falls offers a refreshing escape.
Exploring the Waterfalls of Lorne
Numbered List:
- Erskine Falls: Tucked away in the forest, Erskine Falls plunges from a 30-metre drop, making it one of the Otways’ most popular waterfalls.
- Henderson Falls: Accessible through a scenic trail, Henderson Falls promises serenity and is a hidden gem amongst the lush foliage.
After working up an appetite from your waterfall adventures, Lorne town awaits with a plethora of quaint cafes and eateries where you can enjoy a delicious lunch with local flavors.
Encounters with Wildlife at Kennett River
Kennett River is a small haven for wildlife enthusiasts on the Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne. A slow drive up the Grey River Road often rewards visitors with sightings of koalas dozing in the eucalyptus trees. This area is also perfect for birdwatching, with colorful parrots and the laughing kookaburra being common sightings.
Day 3 – Delving into the Otway National Park
On the third day, dive deep into the heart of the Great Otway National Park. Marvel at the ancient ferns and towering trees on the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, which brings you up close with the rainforest canopy. Following your treetop adventure, ground yourself by visiting some of the park’s majestic waterfalls, like the impressive Triplet Falls, or witness the grandeur of the lush California Redwoods.
Treetop Adventures and Ancient Rainforests
The Otway Fly Treetop Walk is an awe-inspiring opportunity to view the rainforest from a bird’s eye view. Suspended 30 meters above the floor, the walkway offers unparalleled views of the lush landscape below. For more grounded experiences, the nearby Triplet Falls and the awe-inspiring sight of the California Redwood plantation are must-visit destinations, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Otway Ranges.
Cape Otway Lightstation
The oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, Cape Otway Lightstation, presents sweeping ocean vistas and a rich history lesson. Here, you can learn about the lives of early lighthouse keepers and explore the surrounding maritime heritage, adding a historical depth to your Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne.
Day 4 – Journey to the Shipwreck Coast
The fourth day is all about the raw beauty of the Shipwreck Coast, known for the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. Make sure to check these natural wonders at different times of the day as the sunlight plays off the cliffs, creating a constantly changing palette of colors.
The Iconic Twelve Apostles
| Time of Day | Visitor Experience |
|---|---|
| Dawn | Quiet and serene; ideal for photography |
| Midday | Clear and bright; good for panoramic views |
| Sunset | Dramatic light; perfect for memorable shots |
| Evening | Possibly uncrowded; peaceful atmosphere |
In addition to the Twelve Apostles, do not miss the opportunity to walk along the Gibson Steps, where the enormity of the cliffs becomes truly apparent, and the tranquil Loch Ard Gorge which holds both natural beauty and a tragic shipwreck story within its walls.
Walking the Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge
Descending the Gibson Steps gives access to a spectacular beach flanked by towering limestone cliffs, offering a unique perspective of the Gog and Magog offshore stacks. Just a stone’s throw away is Loch Ard Gorge, the site of a historic shipwreck from 1878, where interpretive signs recount the tales of survival and tragedy linked to the area.
Day 5 – Exploring Port Campbell to Warrnambool
The stretch of road from Port Campbell to Warrnambool is dotted with remarkable rock formations. Places like The Grotto, London Bridge, and The Arch showcase the dynamic forces of nature that have carved out the coast over millennia. Warrnambool is also a renowned spot for whale watching during the migration season, offering the chance to observe these gentle giants from purpose-built platforms.
The Grotto, London Bridge, and The Arch
Numbered List:
- The Grotto: A sinkhole geological formation offering views through a window to the ocean.
- London Bridge: Formerly a natural bridge formation until its collapse in 1990, now a stunning double arch.
- The Arch: A natural arch demonstrating the powerful erosive forces of wind and water.
Each stop along this part of the Great Ocean Road offers unique photographic opportunities and showcases the ever-evolving coastline.
Warrnambool’s Whale Watching
During the winter and early spring months, the Southern Right Whales visit the shores near Warrnambool to calve, making it a prime location for whale watching. The Logan’s Beach Whale Watching Platform provides views of these majestic marine mammals, often just a few hundred meters from the shore.
Day 6 – From Warrnambool to Port Fairy
Leaving Warrnambool behind, make your way to the delightful town of Port Fairy. On the way, indulge in the local produce at the Great Ocean Road Dairy, where a cheese tasting session provides a delectable palette of flavors. Once in Port Fairy, spend time exploring the town’s maritime history, take a stroll along the wharf, or visit the quaint cottages that line the old streets.
A visit to the Great Ocean Road Dairy is an opportunity to taste the area’s rich dairy produce. Sample soft brie, sharp cheddars, and creamy blues amongst other artisanal cheeses, giving you a taste of the region’s fine food offerings.
Port Fairy appears to be a page from a storybook with its charming fishing village atmosphere. The town’s history is deeply connected with the sea, evident from its preserved 19th-century cottages and old wharf. Walking tours are a great way to uncover the hidden tales of Port Fairy’s past, each building holding stories of yesteryears.
Day 7 – Final Stretch to Portland and Beyond
Your final day takes you to the end of the Great Ocean Road and beyond, to Portland. On the way, stop at Cape Bridgewater to witness a thriving colony of fur seals from the viewing platforms. Once in Portland, you can end your trip with fishing, hiking, or exploring the town’s rich maritime history, offering a fitting conclusion to a spellbinding Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne.
Seal Watching at Cape Bridgewater
Observation platforms at Cape Bridgewater provide incredible views of Australia’s largest mainland colony of fur seals. Binoculars in hand, you can watch these playful animals frolicking in the waves and resting on the rocky shores, providing a delightful wildlife spectacle.
Adventures in Portland
Portland, the oldest European settlement in the state, has plenty to offer for the adventurous spirit. Opportunities to fish in some of Victoria’s richest waters or hiking trails that expose the raw beauty of the coastal landscape await you here. With its rich maritime museum and historical attractions, Portland is a treasure trove of cultural experiences that embody the spirit of the Great Ocean Road.
Conclusion
Our 7-day Great Ocean Road itinerary from Melbourne concludes with a treasure trove of memories. From the surf breaks of Torquay to the tranquil streets of Port Fairy and the dynamic coastline in between, this journey offers a mosaic of experiences that blend natural wonders with cultural depth. As the road unwinds and the ocean fades from view, the stories, sights, and sensations of the Great Ocean Road will endure as an unforgettable Australian adventure.
FAQs
1. What is the best time of the year to travel the Great Ocean Road?
The best time to travel the Great Ocean Road is during the Australian spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist traffic is moderate.
2. Do I need a 4WD vehicle for the Great Ocean Road?
A 4WD is not necessary for the Great Ocean Road as it is fully paved and accessible with a standard vehicle. However, a car with good handling is recommended due to the winding nature of the road.
3. Are there any tolls on the Great Ocean Road?
No, there are no tolls on the Great Ocean Road. It’s a public road, free for all to enjoy.
4. How much time should I allocate for each stop along the itinerary?
It’s best to allocate at least 1-2 hours for major attractions like the Twelve Apostles but be flexible as some stops may require more or less time based on personal interest.
5. Is it better to drive the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to Portland or in reverse?
The drive from Melbourne to Portland allows you to travel alongside the ocean, giving you better views and ease of access to stops. However, both directions offer the same attractions and experiences.