Explore the Great Ocean Road

A unique Australian treasure, the Great Oceanpopular lookouts. Back closer to shore, Cape
Road offers travellers one of the mostOtway features a majestic old lighthouse which is
spectacular coastal drives in the world, and has toworth the climb for panoramic views of the
be experienced. It is the perfect destination forcoastline. It is one of the few lighthouses along
the self drive holiday. With pristine campingthe coastline open to tourists.
grounds throughout the coastline, amazing nationalFurther along the coast, visit the Lower Glenelg
parks and pretty seaside towns from start toNational Park, which offers incredible camping
finish, there is something for everyone here.grounds surrounded by towering trees and a
Located in Victoria's south west coast, the Greatpeaceful river. Canoeing is popular here. As well as
Ocean Road begins in the trendy city of GeelongApollo Bay, there are so many ideal camping
which is close to an hour from Melbourne. Youspots to choose from, some located along the
might want to set aside a few days to enjoy theBellarine Peninsula, Cumberland River Reserve,
turquoise waters of the Bellarine Peninsula, orLower Glenelg National Park, Wye River and
spend some time in historical Queenscliff beforeKennett River reserve.
you set out on the road trip of a lifetime.There is every type of outdoor activity along the
Port Campbell is one of the most well knownGreat Ocean Road. Swimming is a must, with
stretches, which is where you will find theTorquay one of the prettiest beaches, and
unforgettable Twelve Apostles, rock stacks whichAnglesea another great choice for families with
rise up from the ocean like golden fingers. Thethe quiet waters great for the kids. Cycling, golf
best photo opportunities are around sunrise andand horse riding are also popular past times, as
sunsets with the brilliant colours totallywell as fishing, with a smorgasbord of choices for
mesmerising. Bring your scarf and coats as thethe most avid fisherman. One of the most
area is known for its cold winds, and set somecommon water sports along the coastline is
time aside to enjoy the local wharves andsurfing. Some of the most popular surfing
museum which will give you a greater insight intobeaches can be found at Point Lonsdale, Torquay,
the coast and legends of the many shipwrecksPoint Danger and Bells Beach. Lorne and Apollo
primarily located between Moonlight Head and PortBay are ideal for the body surfer, or just relaxing
Fairy. This stretch has been named 'Shipwreckand enjoying the beach views. It is best to try
Coast' for obvious reasons.some of the breaks further out of the popular
Planning an itinerary before you leave is a greattourist strips. Once again Cape Otway is a
idea, although there area so many places to stayfavoured destination for surfers, although further
that you can still allow some flexibility in yourwest the conditions are too wild for safe surfing
plans. If you are looking for a relaxing getawayconditions.
location, Lorne and Apollo Bay are the ideal basesFor avid walkers, the Great Ocean Walk takes
to provide a closer look at this stunning part ofyou through almost 100 kilometres of isolated
the world. One of the best places to camp in thiscoastline as along high cliffs and weaving into the
area are located close to the Wye and Kennettforests further inland. You can start and stop
Rivers, with Blanket Bay another secluded spotalong the trail which starts at Apollo Bay and
that is often hidden from most of the touristsfinishes right near the Twelve Apostles. Allow one
that frequent the area. Not only do you haveweek to a fortnight to make the most of this
prime access to the beautiful beaches here, butincredible journey. With so many places to see
the rainforests of the Otway Ranges whichand things to do you will need a few days in each
frame the coast are just as breathtaking.favourite spot, and your rental car will give you
Take some time out to drive into the hinterlandthe freedom to choose exactly how and when
and enjoy some of the spectacular scenic walks,you experience the Great Ocean Road and its
or alternatively enjoy the mountain views fromwonders.
your campervan as you head to some of the