The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic drives on the planet, hugging Victoria’s rugged coastline for kilometre after kilometre of cliff-top views, quaint seaside towns and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. It’s a trip that deserves more than a rushed glance out the window — and the best way to see it properly is with a small group tour that takes its time.
Let’s hit the road!
Why the Great Ocean Road Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Great Ocean Road stretches for hours along the coast between Torquay in the northeast and Allansford in the southwest, hugging some of the most dramatic coastline in the country. Along the way you’ll pass famous surf breaks, ancient rainforest, and limestone cliffs shaped by wind and water over thousands of years.
Because the road covers so much ground, it’s not the kind of place you tick off in an afternoon. Most travellers find a multi-day journey is the best way to properly take it all in — with time to stop, explore and soak up the scenery instead of rushing between photo spots. Along the way you’ll pass landmarks like:
- Bells Beach, just outside Torquay — one of the birthplaces of Australian surfing
- The rugged coastline of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge
Letting someone else handle the driving means you can put your feet up, enjoy the sea breeze, and actually look at the view instead of watching the road.
What You’ll See Along the Way
Most journeys begin in Melbourne, travelling southwest along the coast to Torquay before weaving through Lorne, Wye River, Kennett River and Apollo Bay — with plenty of stops for coffee, wildlife spotting and short coastal walks. From there, the road continues into the Great Otway National Park and on to the Twelve Apostles.
A few highlights to look forward to:
- Catching a wave (or just watching the surfers) at Bells Beach near Torquay
- A stop at the Wye River Café for lunch, right on the water
- Spotting koalas in the wild at Kennett River
- A guided rainforest walk through the Great Otway National Park
- Marvelling at the limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles
- Exploring Loch Ard Gorge, site of Australia’s most famous 19th-century shipwreck
Why a Guided Tour is the Way to Go
Because the Great Ocean Road is such a big stretch of coastline, a full-day tour barely scratches the surface — which is why they’re not all that common here. Instead, most operators run multi-day tours that let you take in the highlights properly, without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or planning every stop yourself.
Travelling with a small group and a local guide comes with plenty of perks. Guides know the best times to visit each lookout to dodge the crowds and catch the light for great photos. They handle the driving, so you can relax and enjoy the coastline instead of keeping your eyes on the road. Many tours also include insider stops you wouldn’t find on your own, plus commentary that brings the history and stories of the region to life.
When to Visit
The best time to visit depends on what you’re after. Summer (December to February) brings hot days and a lively buzz to the seaside towns — and it’s also when Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake, further along the route, shifts to its famous intense cobalt colour. Autumn (March to May) offers cooler weather and quieter beaches. Winter (June to August) brings dramatic, moody coastal views. Spring (September to November) is wildflower season along the coast.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Pack comfortable walking shoes — there are plenty of short walks and lookouts along the way.
- Bring layers. Coastal weather can turn quickly, even in summer.
- Bring your camera, but remember to put it down every now and then and just enjoy the view.
- Travelling in a small group means a relaxed, unrushed pace — no need to worry about the logistics, we’ve got it covered.
Ready to Discover the Great Ocean Road?
Skip the stress of planning and driving, and let a local guide show you the best of the Great Ocean Road and beyond. Our small-group, 4-day, 3-night tour from Melbourne to Adelaide takes in all the icons — plus a few hidden gems — with comfortable accommodation, most meals and top-notch commentary all included.