4 Iconic Aussie Roadtrips
Traversing the 7.7 million square kilometre Aussie landscape by car or campervan is a right of passage for the adventure traveler and with such diverse landscapes to explore, like the Outback, the Reef, World Heritage-Listed rainforests, waterfalls and dramatic coastlines, this is your opportunity to make memories that are certain to last long after the ignition has been turned off.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Considered one of Australia’s most popular routes, the Great Ocean Road starts about 90 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. Spanning 400kms it stretches from the town of Torquay to the South Australian border town of Nelson. Attracting as many as 2.8 million tourists a year, this drive is all about the dramatic south-west coastline. Late summer is the best time to travel this stretch, as it is still warm and the conditions are more settled. Peak tourist season is December through to February.
Distance
Anywhere between one and seven days, depending on how much stopping you plan on doing along the way.
What you’ll see
Whether you’re a beach bum or more of a village hopper, there’s plenty to see on this stretch of coastline. Stop and have a dip in the ocean at Bells Beach (famous for its world-renowned Easter Classic surfing competition) or get amongst the arts community in Lorne. The biggest drawcard though is the 12 Apostles - the cluster of limestone stacks in the ocean off Port Campbell National Park, you’ll need your camera for those. Make time to visit the fishermen’s co-op at Apollo Bay for some of the best fish and chips around before heading south. Cape Otway marks the spot where the Southern Ocean meets Bass Strait. The Cape Otway Lightstation is a must-visit too, as it is Australia’s most important lighthouse and a picture-perfect landmark.
What to pack
A wind jacket is a staple on this trip, as is a good camera and your bathers. A picnic rug is a good idea too.