The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most spectacular coastal drives, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. Highlights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge make it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
One of the best-kept secrets of the Great Ocean Road is the option to do the tour in reverse, starting from the end near Port Campbell and traveling back toward Torquay. This strategy allows you to avoid the crowds, providing a more peaceful and intimate experience of popular attractions like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. With fewer tourists around, you can capture breathtaking photos without the rush, and enjoy the serene beauty of the coastline as it was meant to be experienced. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, a private tour of the Great Ocean Road promises a truly unforgettable journey.
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Aireys Inlet is “the one with the lighthouse”, even to the unfamiliar. Visit the Lighthouse for stunning views – take a tour for even better ones, plus a history lesson!
The Split Point Lighthouse is open to the public for tours and a discovery trail in the surrounding area offers insight into the history of the area as well as glorious views of the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary.
The Split Point Lighthouse dominates the Aireys Inlet landscape, its 34-metre high tower and typical red cap visible for miles. The still-operating lighthouse is open to the public with self-guided tours available and sweeping views of the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary and Great Ocean Road region below.
Thanks to its fresh sea air and a relaxed Mediterranean-style atmosphere, Lorne has been attracting eager holidaymakers for more than a century. The village is renowned for white-sand beaches, a buzzing arts community and easy access to the Otways.
A short drive to the top end of George Street at the back of Lorne is the scenic spot known as Teddys Lookout. A walkway takes you to the viewing platform where you have breathtaking, sweeping, coastal views of the surf breaking into the mouth of the Saint George River. On the lower platform to the right, views change to mountainous peaks and the Saint George river winding itself into fern covered valleys and gorges. A truly worthwhile spot for scenic views of the Great Ocean Road.
The Otway Ranges are infamous for their high rainfall - but on the plus side all that water means lush green fern gullies carved out by rivers and waterfalls. Erskine Falls is particularly popular among the waterfalls of the Otways, plunging (or trickling, depending on recent rainfall levels) down a 30-metre drop.
There's an easy walk to the first lookout or a more strenuous but rewarding climb down 230 steps to the second lookout, where you will see the waterfall in all its glory. The Erskine River Walk to Lorne continues off downstream from here if you are prepared for the 7.5km walk.
It’s a common myth that koalas can be seen everywhere across Australia. Koalas are solitary creatures that spend most of their time in the heights of eucalyptus trees. So, what makes the Kennett River Koala Walk in Victoria so special is that it is one of those rare places where koalas live in large numbers and can often be spotted in their natural habitat.
As a popular tourist destination, Apollo Bay offers both swimming and surf beaches, as well as a large boat harbour and marina which is home to a major fishing fleet. The town's commercial centre, which features a good selection of restaurants and cafes, is situated along one side of the Great Ocean Road, overlooking a wide, grassy foreshore which fronts the main swimming beach.
Take the self-guided rainforest boardwalk at Maits Rest in the Otways and see beautiful fern gardens and giant rainforest trees up to 300 years old.
Tread the boardwalk
A wooden boardwalk has been built over the tree-fern gullies and moss-covered roots of ancient rainforest trees, protecting the delicate ecosystem while providing visitors with unique views of the forest.
Witness the rugged splendour of the famous 12 Apostles, magnificent rock stacks that rise up majestically from the Southern Ocean on Victoria's dramatic coastline.
Erosion of the mainland coast's limestone cliffs began 10 to 20 million years ago, with the stormy Southern Ocean and blasting winds gradually wearing away the softer limestone to form caves in the cliffs.
The caves eventually became arches, and when these collapsed, rock stacks of up to 45-metres high were left isolated from the shore, resulting in the iconic 12 Apostles.
View the 12 Apostles at sunrise and sunset as they change from a brilliant sandy yellow colour under a full sun to appearing dark and foreboding in shadow.
Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.
Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.
The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.
The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.
The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.
The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.
A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.
A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.
A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
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Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Southern Cross Station
Southern Cross Coach Terminal
Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.
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Car, Bike, Scooter
The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.
The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.
Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.
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