Marvelous Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles and Port Fairy
Your journey begins in Melbourne. Many know it as the capital of Victoria, but we think it’s also earned the title of “Brunch Capital of Australia.” There are dozens of waterfront cafes, vegan restaurants, and eclectic eateries with one-of-a-kind menus worth trying.
Wandering the streets is an adventure in and of itself. Whether you enjoy exploring the nightlife scene, window shopping, or relaxing in landscaped parks, Melbourne is a scenic city perfect for jumpstarting your Australian journey to the Great Ocean Road.
Torquay is the surf capital of Australia, and even if you don’t ride the waves, you’re bound to be mesmerized by the magnificent views of the Tasman Sea. Torquay is home to plenty of famous beaches, including one of the stops on this trip, Bells Beach. While you’re there, you may also want to explore gems like Cosy Corner and Maidencombe Beach.
Sun, sand, and surf are the main draws to this captivating seaside town that enchants locals and natives alike. Torquay is also the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road — you’ll want to get a shot of the commemorative arch honoring the soldiers who paved the road in the first place.
Anglesea is a picturesque town in Victoria, Australia, situated on the iconic Great Ocean Road. Nestled between lush green hills and the sparkling waters of the Southern Ocean, it's a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
With its majestic cliffs, expansive white beaches, teeming flora, indigenous fauna, and meandering coastal hiking paths, Anglesea becomes a vibrant ode to coastal existence, just a mere fifteen-minute drive west of Torquay.
Our next destination is Cape Otway, home to Australia’s oldest lighthouse. This area is largely enclosed by the Great Otway National Park . If you’re looking for the best places to see koalas in Australia, you're in luck. Plenty of the furry marsupials call the park their home.
Named after Captain Albany Otway, an explorer in the 1800s, Cape Otway is a beautiful coastal stop along the Great Ocean Road that offers delightful vistas, pleasant campgrounds, and charming family-owned eateries.
Nothing can quite prepare you for seeing the Twelve Apostles in person for the first time. These magnificent geological structures only grow more magnificent against the backdrop of the Tasman Sea.
You’ve made it to New South Wales, Australia, and you should take your time enjoying these 45-foot-tall limestone formations. While you’re there, enjoy walking through the Loch Ard Gorge, discovering the history behind one of Australia’s most famous shipwrecks.
In the last stretch of your Great Ocean Road trip, you’ll visit Port Fairy, a lovely mariner town with interesting emu residents. Behold these beautifully unique birds, and spot some koalas and kangaroos if you’re lucky.
This historic town looks like it leapt out of a postcard, and you’ll feel immediately at ease as you navigate the family-friendly beaches and tour local attractions. Enjoy spending time on the beach and resting up for the return drive to Melbourne.
