Adelaide To Melbourne Via Great Ocean Road Tour
Are you planning a trip to Australia? Don't miss the opportunity to drive along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world's most scenic coastal routes. This 243-kilometer road takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, from rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations to pristine beaches and lush rainforests. In this article, we'll guide you through the best sights and attractions on the road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road.
Starting point: Adelaide
Your journey begins in Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore this vibrant city, known for its excellent food and wine scene. Don't miss the Adelaide Central Market, where you can sample fresh produce from local farmers, or the National Wine Centre of Australia, where you can taste some of the country's best wines.
When you're ready to start your road trip, head south on the A1 highway towards Cape Jervis, the gateway to Kangaroo Island. Along the way, you'll pass through scenic countryside and charming towns such as Victor Harbor and Goolwa, where you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat.
Kangaroo Island
If you have some extra time, we highly recommend a detour to Kangaroo Island, one of Australia's most incredible natural wonders. This small island off the coast of South Australia is home to an abundance of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, seals, and penguins.
Highlights of the island include the Flinders Chase National Park, where you'll find the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, two of the most iconic rock formations in Australia. You can also visit the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, which offers the chance to see and interact with koalas, echidnas, and other native animals.
The Great Ocean Road
After returning from Kangaroo Island, it's time to hit the Great Ocean Road. Your first stop should be in the seaside town of Robe, where you can stretch your legs and take a stroll along the beach. From there, continue along the A1 highway and turn onto the B100, which marks the start of the official Great Ocean Road.
As you wind your way along the road, you'll encounter some of the most incredible natural sights in Australia. Don't miss the Twelve Apostles, a series of towering limestone stacks that rise up from the ocean, or London Bridge, a natural arch that used to connect the mainland to a nearby island before it collapsed in 1990.
Other highlights include the Gibson Steps, a set of stairs that lead down to a beautiful secluded beach, and Loch Ard Gorge, a dramatic gorge that was named after a ship that was wrecked there in 1878.
Grampians National Park
As you near the end of the Great Ocean Road, make sure to stop at the Grampians National Park, a stunning wilderness area that is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Australia. The park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Popular activities in the park include hiking to the top of Mount William, the park's highest peak, and visiting Mackenzie Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Victoria. You can also take a scenic drive along the Mount Victory Road, which offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
Final destination: Melbourne
After exploring the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians National Park, it's time to head to your final destination: Melbourne. This vibrant city is known for its arts and culture scene, excellent food and wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.
Some of the must-visit attractions in Melbourne include the Royal Botanic Gardens, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Zoo. You can also take a stroll along the Yarra River or explore the laneways, which are filled with street art, cafes, and shops.
Before you leave Melbourne, make sure to stock up on some souvenirs and sample some of the local cuisine, such as meat pies, fish and chips, and Tim Tams, a popular Australian chocolate biscuit.
Conclusion
A road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road is the perfect way to explore the beauty of the Australian coastline. From the stunning rock formations and secluded beaches to the lush rainforests and towering sandstone cliffs, this journey offers something for everyone.
Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, you'll find plenty to see and do along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible sights and attractions that await you on this unforgettable journey.
