A blend of coastal charm, rainforest vibrance and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Taking the route from the Great Ocean Road to the Grampians will take you through some of the best views in southwest Victoria.
The Great Ocean Road is Victoria’s most epic road trip. Begin on this stunning, windy road that promises long, sweeping panoramas of a vast ocean, tingling with white-capped waves. Spot whales, count koalas, and visit kangaroos along this stretch that promises plenty of wildlife.
Whether you’ve got 2 days or 2 weeks, here’s how you can best maximise your road trip and soak up all the wonderful sights along the way.
This is the best road trip if you want to see the best of the Victorian Coast!
This trip is the ultimate road trip, promising sweeping coastal views and a ridge of mountain ranges.
Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road
Assuming you begin from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road…assuming you’re beginning from the city to Melbourne, get your first stop in just an hour and a half.
Head west out of the city and make your way down to the surf coast! Don’t forget to stop off at…
Coastal charm: Lorne & Anglesea
Stop off at the small coastal towns of Lorne and Anglesea for a rest and refuel. Whether you’re looking for a place to stop for a coffee or a place to rest your head for the night, Lorne is a great place to press pause.
Visit Anglesea to spot koalas, head to Lorne for a bigger coastal town that will offer plenty of spots for a recharge. If you’ve got time, head to the waterfalls near Lorne. Erskine Falls is a crowd favourite!
Enjoying the Surf Coast
- Surfing: If you’re a keen surfer, then you’ll be in heaven! It’s called the Surf Coast for a reason! You’ll find plenty of surf schools along the surf coast – whether you’re a keen surfing pro or you’re a complete beginner.
- Hiking: Go for a hike along the surf coast. The Surf Coast Walk is a huge hike that travels along the whole Great Ocean Road. Choose a section that interests you! Bells Beach and Torquay are popular spots. It begins at Point Impossible, near Torquay. The walk ends at Fairhaven.
- Accommodation: Sleeping along the surf coast? There are heaps of hostels, campsites and B&Bs. Read our guide to accommodation along the Great Ocean Road for some inspiration!
After the first half of the Great Ocean Road, head over to the magnificent 12 Apostles. This impressive stack of giant rocks is one of the most incredible views along the Great Ocean Road.
12 Apostles and the Otway National Park
Make your way down to the wonderful 12 Apostles for a view that’ll stay in your head forever.
These ancient limestone stacks are a product of millions of years worth of erosion, creating these unique structures. The 12 Apostles are among some of the most breathtaking, stunning views in the country!
Head over to the Otway National Park
Wander around the Otway National Park and soak up the wonderful, vivid greens of the rainforest. Admire the greenery that surrounds the area and soak up the wonderful wildlife that thrives in the Great Otway National Park. For a great dose of Aussie wildlife mixed with an immersive rainforest experience, go to Melba Gully.
Visiting the Grampians from the Great Ocean Road
The total driving time from the Great Ocean Road to the Grampians National Park is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
When you start heading towards the Grampians, head out from the turning point to Melba Gully. The road will take you through the small town of Lavers Hill, before you go onwards inland. The road is straightforward, and the roads are uncomplicated. Drive during the day time and try to avoid any dusk time driving as there are more wildlife on the road.
The inland route goes straight from Melba Gully and then straight to the Grampians National Park. You’ll eventually arrive in the town of Halls Gap.
From Halls Gap, you’ll easily be able to travel to the famous Boroka Lookout. It’s only about 15 kilometres away from Halls Gap – so the drive is short.
- Halls Gap
- Mackenzie Falls
- Boroka Lookout
This impressive lookout towers high above the whole Grampians National Park and Lake Bellfield.
Mackenzie Falls
What’s a trip to nature without a drop into a waterfall? Head over to Mackenzie Falls, close to Halls Gap.
For keen hikers, check out Mount Abrupt and Mount Surgeon. This route is 7 kilometres long, taking about three hours through some steep parts of the bush. This is quite an active zone, so you’ll need to have a decent level of fitness for this!
There’s heaps to do in the Grampians National Park – whether you’re after a relaxing few days away from Melbourne, or you’re on a nature adventure of a lifetime.
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