Stretching along the south-western coast, this trip will take you through all of the best surf spots, coastal towns and hidden gems the state has to offer.
Day 1
Setting out from the city, cruise down the freeway through Geelong. Stop for a coffee or to take a walk along the pier. You could spend hours exploring this up and coming city – but don’t. There’s still plenty more on today’s itinerary.
From Geelong, head south to Torquay, the official start of the Great Ocean Road. Make a pit stop at the famous Bells Beach, known for its big wave competitions. A bit farther down, you’ll find the Split Point Lighthouse, known locally as the Round the Twist Lighthouse, that offers great views of the Surf Coast.
End the day in the beachside town of Lorne and be treated to the best section of the Great Ocean Road. Popular with summer holidaymakers, there are enough pubs, cafes and restaurants here to keep you busy for the evening, not to mention legendary fish & chips.
Day 2
The second day of the trip is for exploring the Otway National Park region. Start by cruising down to Kennett River. Here, along Grey River Road, you’re almost guaranteed to spot koalas taking a nap or having a snack up in the trees. Down the coast in Apollo Bay, head to the Mariners Lookout for a great coastal view, then continue into the state forest.
Within the Otways, you’ll find plenty of bushwalks and trails. Choose from walks that vary in skill levels, such as Triplet Falls, Beauchamp Falls and Stevenson Falls. Or meander through the forest floor at Maits Rest and get up amongst the treetops at the Otway Fly Treetop Walk (reaching up to 47m). You can also walk through a redwood forest. The options here are endless.
Finish the day at Cape Otway Lighthouse. This is another great area to view koalas, and the views from the point are stunning. Then set up camp or head back to Apollo Bay to get some sleep.