Let’s face it. There’s a lot of great scenery in Australia, and Australians are spoilt for choice living on a continent with over 34,000 kilometres of coastline.
Between Torquay and Allansford, the Great Ocean Road offers iconic beaches like Bells Beach, historic sites such as Loch Ard Gorge, great walks through National Parks and an impressive foodie scene. There’s a reason the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s best coastal drives! Here are our top 3 must-do’s while travelling Victoria’s South-West.
The Twelve Apostles At Sunset
The collection of 45 metre high stacks started forming around 20 million years ago. Extreme weather conditions from the Southern Ocean slowly eroded the limestone cliffs which formed caves, then arches which eventually collapsed, leaving magnificent rock stacks.
The Twelve Apostles are absolutely stunning at sunset, with their golden hues. There are eight to be seen – fun fact: there never were twelve – only nine – but due to continual erosion, now there are eight. It’s popular (i.e. it can be busy) but an experience you don’t want to miss.
Beer, Berries & Brie
Can you name a better combination? We think not! There are some delicious spots that are perfect to stop at to satisfy your foodie cravings.
Beer – Sit back and relax at Sow & Piglets Craft Brewery. Not far from the Twelve Apostles, they have year-round and seasonal Port Campbell brewed beers on offer.
Berries – Pick your own strawberries during summer at Berry World in Timboon. They are reasonably priced per kilo and the best you’ll ever have!
Brie – The Southern Brie from Apostle Whey Cheese is award winning! It’s rich, creamy and to die for. These guys run a genuine paddock to plate operation. When you visit, you can see cows being milked and cheeses being hand-made.
Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village
At the end of the Great Ocean Road you’ll find Warrnambool and Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. A visit there will give you a taste of what life was like for first European settlers. Walk cobblestoned streets, through over 40 buildings and hear about the Shipwreck Coast’s history – stories of ships and lives that were lost during the 19th Century. Be sure to climb the hill and heritage-listed Lady Bay lighthouse, built in 1858, for some of the best views.
Cosmos offers a great touring itinerary from Melbourne to Adelaide. Take a look at this 8-day adventure along the Great Ocean Road, including Kangaroo Island!
