Victoria’s Great Ocean Road isn’t just another drive — it’s a must-do coastal journey . From rugged coastal turns over the Southern Ocean to lush greenery in Victoria’s temperate rainforest, every kilometre feels like a discovery. Whether you’re self-driving or booking a Great Ocean Road day trip , the experience is equal parts history, scenery and surprise .
When I began the journey from Melbourne’s coastal gateway, I thought I knew what was coming: the Twelve Apostles , dramatic coastlines and bus tours . What I didn’t expect? a hot pie from Apollo Bay to taste like heaven or the echo of waves at Loch Ard Gorge to stop you in your tracks.
The Great Ocean Road humbles you — you can’t rush it, and you won’t want to.
If you’re starting from Melbourne , tours from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road make it easy to explore Victoria’s southwest coast. It’s one of the best Melbourne day trips .