What makes a road trip along the Great Ocean Road a once in a lifetime experience

Spectacular coastlines, wild wildlife, and a history that touches the heart: the Great Ocean Road reveals Australia at its most iconic. This ultimate guide to Australia’s legendary coastal road reveals which stops are worth making and how much time you really need.

The Great Ocean Road in Australia is no ordinary road. It is a symbol, a place of remembrance, and one of the most beautiful panoramic routes in the world. Built between 1919 and 1932 by returning soldiers, it is considered the largest war memorial in the world. Today, the approximately 240-kilometre route stretches from Torquay to Allansford like a ribbon along the south coast of Victoria. Travellers here encounter wild nature, endless waves, ancient rainforests – and a piece of Australian identity.

Must-sees on the Great Ocean Road: from the 12 Apostles to Loch Ard Gorge

The most famous section is the Shipwreck Coast – a coastline that has swallowed hundreds of ships and today offers a backdrop of rock, water, and wind. First and foremost are the 12 Apostles, limestone pillars rising up from the ocean to a height of up to 45 metres. They change with every wave, with every storm – and it is precisely this transience that makes them so fascinating. Spectacular photos can be taken from the main viewpoint, but if you really want to experience the scale of the rocks, climb down the Gibson Steps to the beach.

Just a few minutes away, Loch Ard Gorge tells a story that is sure to get under your skin: in 1878, the ship Loch Ard was wrecked here. Of the 54 people on board, only two survived. Today, the paths around the bay are as much a journey through history as they are a nature experience. London Bridge, which partially collapsed in 1990, the mysterious Grotto, and the tranquil Bay of Islands are also among the stops that make this route unforgettable.

Rainforests and waterfalls: the green heart of the Great Ocean Road

Those who drive the Great Ocean Road experience more than just the coast. Behind Apollo Bay, the route turns inland – and suddenly you find yourself in the dense greenery of the Great Otway National Park. Here, waterfalls such as Hopetoun Falls plunge into the depths, fern groves stretch across the paths, and the mighty Otway Redwoods rise up at Beech Forest. They were planted in the 1930s and today form a forest that is as quiet as a cathedral. A walk on the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, a treetop path high above the ground, is particularly impressive – or even more exciting: a zipline tour through the canopy.

Koalas, kangaroos, and surf culture: encounters along the route

The Great Ocean Road offers encounters that can only be experienced in Australia. At Kennett River, koalas doze in the branches of eucalyptus trees, while in Anglesea, kangaroos graze in the middle of the golf course. Off Warrnambool, southern right whales pass by with their calves from May to October, and in the evenings, little penguins come ashore. And then there are the waves: Torquay is the home of Australian surfing and, every year, the world’s elite gather at the legendary Bells Beach for the Rip Curl Pro. Even if you’ve never set foot on a board, you can feel the energy of an entire culture here.

Culinary stops: from fine dining to fish and chips

The Great Ocean Road also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. The range extends from the award-winning Brae in Birregurra to Spanish tapas at MoVida in Lorne or the relaxed Koala Kafe in Kennett River. There are also craft beer breweries, gin distilleries, and the famous Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie, where you can even make your own chocolate. And if you prefer something more traditional, buy a portion of fish and chips, sit on the beach, and watch the sun sink behind the Apostles.

Hotels and camping: the best accommodation tips

Those travelling the Great Ocean Road have a choice:

• Luxury & design: for example, the spectacular Pole House in Fairhaven, which hovers above the ocean, or the stylish Chocolate Gannets in Apollo Bay.
• Special & close to nature: the Sky Pods in the wildlife sanctuary near Cape Otway or a room in the historic Cape Otway Lightstation.
• Camper & caravan parks: For many, this is the most authentic way to experience the coast. Wild camping is prohibited, but there are many sites along the route – often right by the sea.

Itinerary: the perfect 3‑day route along the Great Ocean Road

The biggest pitfall for travellers is trying to ​‘tick off’ this coastal road in just one day.

Although the route can be driven in five to six hours, those looking for the real experience should allow at least three days.

• Day 1: Torquay to Apollo Bay – surf culture, coastal villages, koalas.
• Day 2: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell – rainforest, waterfalls, 12 Apostles in the evening light.
• Day 3: Coastal wonders such as Loch Ard Gorge and Bay of Islands, then return or continue your journey.

Great Ocean Road tips: the most important things for your trips

• Best time to travel: March – April (mild climate, fewer visitors). In winter, wild seas and whales.
• Direction of travel: from east to west – this way, the sea is on the ​‘right’ side.
• Vehicles: motorbike for the driving experience, car for comfort, camper for freedom.
• Construction work (2024÷25): delays at Spout Creek Bridge & Wye River Bridge.
• Length: approx. 240 – 243 km – people often underestimate how much time stops take.

Why the Great Ocean Road is worth it

The Great Ocean Road Australia is much more than just a coastal road. It is a monument, a natural stage, an animal paradise, and a pleasure route all in one. If you take your time, you can experience what makes Australia so unique in just a few days – and you won’t just be driving down a road, you’ll be creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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