Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's great drives along part of Australia's wild southern coast. Dotted with amazing surf beaches (for the experienced surfer) and stunning scenery this is a great way to spend a day or two enjoying the wonders of Victoria's south west.
The road meanders along the coast and is often busy, so take you time and enjoy the journey. We recommend that you stop and explore some of the small towns that dot the route. Make sure that you sample the local restaurants and produce.
At the Twelve Apostles you can observe the majesty and power of the Southern Ocean and its artistic endeavours sculpting the cliffs of southern Australia. The Twelve Apostles features a number of viewing platforms and is a great spot for photos.
On your way back take time to stop off in Colac and experience a small Australian country town. Colac fronts the southern shores of Lake Colac - the largest natural freshwater lake in Victoria. There is a bird reserve in the wetlands off The Esplanade which attracts a diverse range of bird life to the lake.
The Colac Botanic Gardens are perched on an elevated 12 hectare allotment above the lake and were established in 1910. The gardens contain many historical trees, shady picnic areas, a playground and cafe. From the gardens, scenic views across Lake Colac can be enjoyed.
Getting there
Drive down the Princess Highway out of Melbourne towards Geelong. At Geelong follow the signs towards Torquay. At Torquary you join the Great Ocean Road.
If you want to visit famous Bell's Beach then as you leave Torquay turn left onto Bells Boulevard and at the end turn left onto Bones Road,this will take you round to Bells Beach Road, After you have visited Bells, keep following Bells Beach Road and it will join onto Jarosite Road and this will lead you back to the Great Ocean Road.
Follow the Great Ocean Road until you reach the Twelve Apostles taking time to stop and take in the sites and lunch at Apollo Bay.
After the Twelve Apostles head back along the Great Ocean Road until you see the Colac turn off on route C166. Follow the signs to Colac, and then from Colac back to Geelong.