Great Ocean Round

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most stunning coastal drives, and three days is a perfect amount of time to soak in the breathtaking views, charming towns, and iconic landmarks. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary for your adventure!

Day 1: Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Morning:

• Start Early: Grab a hearty breakfast in Melbourne before hitting the road. A café in the city’s laneways is a great choice!
• First Stop - Torquay: About an hour from Melbourne, Torquay is the surfing capital of Australia. Take a stroll along the beach or visit the Australian National Surfing Museum if you’re keen on some surf history.

Midday:

• Bells Beach: Just a short drive from Torquay, stop at Bells Beach for some stunning coastal views. If you’re lucky, you might catch some surfers riding the waves!
• Lunch in Anglesea: Head to Anglesea for a relaxed lunch. There are plenty of cafes with lovely views. Try some local seafood!

Afternoon:

• Lorne: Continue your journey to Lorne, a picturesque seaside town. Take a walk along the beach or visit the famous Lorne Pier. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to Erskine Falls, which is a short drive away.

Evening:

• Arrive in Apollo Bay: Check into your accommodation and freshen up.
• Dinner: Enjoy a cozy dinner at one of the local restaurants. Seafood is a must-try here!

Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell

Morning:

• Great Otway National Park: Start your day with a visit to the Great Otway National Park. You can take a short walk to see the beautiful Maits Rest Rainforest or visit the Cape Otway Lightstation for some history and stunning views.

Midday:

• Lunch in Apollo Bay: Head back to Apollo Bay for lunch. Grab a bite at a local café or pack a picnic to enjoy at the beach.

Afternoon:

• 12 Apostles: Drive towards Port Campbell, stopping at the iconic 12 Apostles. This is a must-see! Take your time to walk along the boardwalk and capture some amazing photos.
• Loch Ard Gorge: Just a short drive from the 12 Apostles, visit Loch Ard Gorge. The dramatic cliffs and beautiful beach are breathtaking. Don’t forget to check out the history of the shipwreck that gave the gorge its name!

Evening:

• Port Campbell: Arrive in Port Campbell and check into your accommodation.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local pub or restaurant. The area is known for its fresh fish and chips!

Day 3: Port Campbell to Melbourne

Morning:

• London Arch: Start your day with a visit to London Arch (formerly London Bridge). It’s a stunning natural rock formation and a great spot for photos.
• Gibson Steps: Head to Gibson Steps for a walk down to the beach. The views of the towering cliffs are simply spectacular!

Midday:

• Lunch in Port Campbell: Before you leave, grab a leisurely lunch in Port Campbell. There are some lovely cafes with great views of the ocean.

Afternoon:

• Return Journey: Start your drive back to Melbourne. You can take a slightly different route through the hinterland if you want to see more of the countryside. Stop at charming towns like Timboon for some local cheese or ice cream!

Evening:

• Back to Melbourne: Arrive back in Melbourne in the evening. If you have time, enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s vibrant restaurants or bars to celebrate your amazing trip!

Tips:

• Stay Flexible: The weather can change quickly along the coast, so be prepared to adjust your plans if needed.
• Take Your Time: The Great Ocean Road is all about the journey, so take your time to enjoy the views and explore the little towns along the way.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable trip along the Great Ocean Road! Safe travels! 🌊🚗✨