How far is the journey down the Great Ocean Road?

How far is the journey down the Great Ocean Road?

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 11/09/2018

Reading time: 3 mins

The renowned Great Ocean Road is a stretch of highway that spans along the Victorian Coast of Australia.

Australia’s Great Ocean Road is an iconic stretch that spans against the jagged clifftops and beachfront of the Victorian Coast. A famous tourist spot home to glorious rainforests, soft sands, and charming beach towns, making up one of the best coastal road trips this country has to offer.

The Beginning of the Great Ocean Road

Construction on the road began in 1919, but it wasn’t until 1932, 13 years after, that it was fully finished. Majority of the workers who created this road were returning soldiers of World War I, who built the Great Ocean Road as a permanent memorial to those who died in the war. At the time the road was a turning point for trading and tourism for the region, as the rough route terrain stopped many from ever getting through to this stunning coastal land.

The Entire Length of the Road

The Great Ocean Road officially begins at Torquay, marked by the historic memorial arch. The road continues to curve around the coast for 243 kilometres until it hits the small-town of Allansford. However, the majority of the time, those who travel along the Great Ocean Road begin in the buzzing city of Melbourne, beginning their road trip before the Great Ocean Road even begins. Overall if you are interested in stopping off along the way during your road trip, the route can take from nine hours to a whole weekend depending on your own choices!

The Attractions you don’t want to miss

  • Twelve Apostles

    Out of all the attractions found along this iconic road, there is none as popular as the famous collection of limestone rock formations. Gutting out straight from the rough surf of the beach, these rocks tower above, being historic structures for thousands of years. See the rocks from a number of points, either from the soft sands of the beach, the iconic lookout point on top of the clifftops, or even from a bird’s eye views in a helicopter!

  • Kennett River

    Australian wildlife is flooding the area, including the much-loved koala. Stop at Kennett River and stroll along the walking track where you can spot the Koalas lazing about amidst the trees. Keep your eyes peeled for other animals scattered within, including the colourful lorikeets and laughing kookaburras.

How to Travel along the Great Ocean Road

Depending on your own style of travelling will give you the best idea for how to take your trip along the Great Ocean Road. Public transport isn’t the greatest option for this region, as trains only go part of the way from Melbourne, with a couple bus’ being the end transport. If you have a car, you can travel along the road at your speed, even staying a few nights in the towns scattered along the way. If you are short on time or prefer giving the reins to a professional, a tour might work best for you! With a range of tours from 1-day adventures to weekend-long trips!

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.