Great Ocean Road

One of the world's most scenic drives, the Great Ocean Road follows Victoria's stunning south-western coastline past the famous Twelve Apostles. From Torquay, south of Geelong, to Peterborough, east of Warrnambool, the 243-kilometre road winds along cliff tops, over headlands and down to the shoreline, crosses river estuaries and moves under the canopies of lush rainforests.

Scenic landmarks

The Twelve Apostles stand imposingly in the ocean just off the mainland and reach up to 45 vertical metres. These ancient rock formations are part of a dramatic landscape of gorges and spectacularly shaped cliffs, including Loch Ard Gorge and the Blowhole. A great way to take in the scenery is from a helicopter for an aerial tour of the sights.

This stretch of coast includes some of the nation's best surf beaches. There are protected spots for sunning and swimming and great places to walk and take in the views. The Shipwreck Coast is dotted with more than 160 wrecks, a legacy of the treacherous waters' rich maritime history, as recounted at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

Outdoor activities

For an aquatic challenge, head to Torquay and learn to surf - you will be conquering the waves before you know it! Wander along the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk into the forest canopy or embark on the Great Ocean Walk, a 104-kilometre track that spans the magnificent landscape between Apollo Bay and the Twelve Apostles. Choose from day walks with convenient accommodation options along the way, or pack a tent and walk the length of the picturesque trail.

Towns and villages

Discover the laid-back coastal towns in the region, including Victoria's second largest city, Geelong. Stroll past the sculptured wooden bollards dotted along the foreshore that chronicle city characters, dine at waterfront eateries, or explore the city's 100 National Trust listed buildings. Book a room at the resort-style Crowne Plaza Torquay and step out of your door to the beach.

The village of Queenscliff is home to historic forts and is located on the Bellarine Peninsula, one of the state's wine regions. Lorne and Apollo Bay are great places to relax and enjoy one of the many great pubs, cafes and restaurants. Port Fairy, one of Victoria's busiest fishing ports, offers a range of boutique, antique, art and craft shops to peruse and is home to the popular annual folk festival. Acclaimed as a 'two-hat' establishment by the Age Good Food Guide, the Merrijig Inn serves imaginative food in an elegant, old-fashioned dining room. The refurbished nineteenth-century building overlooking the wharf also offers quaint guesthouse B&B accommodation.

Logans Beach near Warrnambool is famous for the Southern Right whales that can be spotted from the shoreline when they arrive to calve there between May and October.

Go to Visit Victoria (Great Ocean Road) for further information.