The Great Road Trip

Rochelle Gore. Thursday 30 May 2013

One of the best experiences when visiting Victoria is travelling along the Great Ocean Road. Its picturesque views are best during the Australian summer, and there is no better way to travel then in a convertible with all your friends.

The Great Ocean Road is over 250 kilometres long and features awe-inspiring sights such as the surf of Torquay and Apollo Bay, the pristine forestry of the Otway Ranges and the historic Twelve Apostles. The drive begins an hour outside Melbourne in Torquay and winds its way to Warrnambool, over 3 hours away. Though the road is daunting, with its cliff facing roads and steep drops, the long drive is worth it, simply to see Australia’s beautiful coastline.

 

The beginning of the Great Ocean Road. Source

The Great Ocean Road has possibilities to stop every few kilometres, and it is recommended that you use these available breaks to take as many pictures as you can. Torquay, where the road begins, is famous for Bell’s Beach where the annual Ripcurl Pro is held every Easter weekend. Board shorts and thongs are strongly recommended in this beach town. Anglesea provides the earliest opportunity to stop and overlook the coastline. The AngleseaRiverbank Market is held at various dates between December-March and is the place to purchase souvenirs. There is also an Anglesea Adventure Ride which allows you to experience the scenic bushy surround of Anglesea while also capturing unhindered photos of the views from the Great Ocean Road. 

Just before Lorne is what is known as Devil’s Elbow, a single lane road with a cliff face on one side and a sheer drop into the ocean below on the other. Breathe easier after this part of the road, as it is considered the most difficult part of the drive. Lorne offers a small town filled with peace and quiet. Its fresh seafood comes straight from the ocean onto your plate in its large choice of restaurants.

The Triplet Falls. Source

 

Another short, winding drive leads to the Otway Ranges where you are able to experience the Great Ocean Road at another level. The Otway Fly Tree Top Adventure allows you to tour the tree tops among the Great Otway National Park, and if you’re feeling brave, there is also a zip-line that is worth the stomach-drop.

From the Otway Ranges, it is about an hour’s drive to the Twelve Apostles and Shipwreck Cove. Though you move away from the coastline, there are charming country landscapes on either side of the road. The Twelve Apostles are best viewed at sunset or sunrise to get the best photos and experience the natural wonders at their best. The massive structures rise 45 metres above the Southern Ocean, and though there are eight remaining stacks, the Twelve Apostles are a force to be reckoned with.  The Twelve Apostles are one of the last features along the mighty Great Ocean Road.

The Twelve Apostles. Source

 

The Great Ocean Road is a dangerous road. There is a freeway that runs adjacent to the Great Ocean Road that offers similar scenery without the risk and narrow roads. It is also important to not attempt to drive the Great Ocean Road in one day. There are multiple opportunities to stop and explore your surroundings so to drive the Road in one day may be rushed. As the Great Ocean Road is along the ocean, it has unpredictable weather, meaning it is important to watch the weather before and whilst driving the Great Ocean Road.

Travelling along the Great Ocean road is a journey of a lifetime. It offers unparalleled views and landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles. The fresh, salty air should be experienced at least once in your lifetime, preferably during summer with a close group of friends. The Great Ocean Road is unforgettable and Australia summed up in one road.