destination – Great Ocean Road

GREAT OCEAN ROAD
Cruising the key to the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most spectacular drives no matter what the time of year. But it’s in the warmer months that those who make the trek along this Victorian icon can take advantage of all its magical components.

The 250 kilometre road accesses some of Victoria’s most popular beach resorts and the key to a successful trip is ensuring you allow plenty of time.

>> Destination Great Ocean Road, Weekends For Two

Many travellers make the mistake of trying to fit too much into a short period of time which is never a good idea. It’s especially fraught with danger in the summer months when the road is very busy.

Having time means you can explore such delights as Torquay which is regarded as Victoria’s surfing capital. Some of the biggest names in surf wear and accessories are headquartered here while the Surfworld Museum captures the spirit of the popular pursuit in words, pictures and hands-on displays. Then take a detour to Bells Beach, home to world class surfing competitions.

If you’re keen for a swim Lorne offers a sheltered two kilometre beach bordered by lawn, gum trees and picnic and barbecue areas.

At Apollo Bay you can swim in the clear water, sea kayak with local seals, indulge in some deep-sea fishing, learn to surf, or horse ride along the beach at sunset. For the less energetic there are the numerous art and craft galleries to explore.

If you’re a keen walker then allow time to explore at least part of the Great Ocean Walk.

The walk stretches 100 kilometres from Apollo Bay to Glenample, which is just before the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre. The walk passes through the beautiful national parks and overlooks the Marine National Park and Sanctuary. It’s designed so walkers can ‘step on and step off’ the trail at a number of places, completing short, day or overnight hikes.

If you’re a lover of forests then a trip to the Otway National Park is a must. It’s home to magnificent tall-timbered rainforests showcasing nature at its best. Waterfalls, lakes, glades of massive tree ferns and native animals abound. Another attraction is the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. Around 600 metres of elevated walkways, nearly 40 metres from the ground, provide captivating views of the forest from its ceiling. At ground level, a two kilometre walk through the lush rain forest floor is just as enjoyable.

Of course no visit along the Great Ocean Road is complete without a stop at Port Campbell National Park, home to such natural beauties as the Twelve Apostles, Island Arch, the Razorback, Muttonbird Island, Thunder Cave, the Blowhole, Bakers Oven, London Bridge and the Grotto. You’ll want to allow plenty of time here.

Also worth a long visit is the charming old fishing village of Port Fairy. Here you’ll find wide streets, great Norfolk pines and many fine examples of the architecture of the 1800s. Indeed more than 50 buildings are classified by the National Trust.

Follow one of the town’s historic walking trails and discover charming, fully restored white washed cottages, built by whalers and seamen, beside Georgian-style merchants’ homes and grand public buildings.

There’s also a range of boutique, antique, art and craft shops to peruse, local artists to see at work and museums to explore. Or you can relax and enjoy the fine food and wine on offer at one of the many great pubs, cafes and restaurants in town.

Like so many towns and attractions along the Great Ocean Road the more time you spend here the more you’ll appreciate its many charms.