Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles: An Adventure Review

So, have you ever wanted to witness some scenery that just stops you in your tracks? The Great Ocean Road in Australia is that very place. It’s not just a drive; it’s a feast for your eyes, a dive into the heart of Victoria’s breathtaking coast. The crown jewel of the Great Ocean Road trip is, too, the Twelve Apostles – those iconic rock stacks standing tall against the crashing waves. I took the trip myself, and I wanted to share the memories, the experiences, and those little insider tips that make all the variance.

What Makes the Great Ocean Road Great?

Now, the Great Ocean Road isn’t just your normal scenic route. It’s a 243-kilometer stretch hugging the southeastern coast of Australia, built actually by returning soldiers after World War I. That’s, like, pretty incredible, you know? It’s a memorial in itself, dedicated to those who fought. As you’re rolling along, the scenery switches almost at every turn, so you’ve got the dramatic cliffs, the awesome beaches, the rainforests just creeping right up to the edge of the road.

Is that any wonder why it lures folks from all over? It really has that “something for everyone” kind of vibe. Want adventure? You have got surfing and hiking trails, as a matter of fact. Need some peace? You can easily find a cozy beach to unwind on, I think. And, the wildlife? Keep an eye out, as you might see a kangaroo bouncing by or even a whale spouting out in the ocean, very much in the right season of course.

Planning Your Great Ocean Road Trip: DIY or Tour?

Right, that part can feel a bit tough. You see, when it’s about tackling the Great Ocean Road, one of the questions a lot of folks ask is this: should I do it myself, or should I hop on a tour? Very often, I would always lean towards doing things independently, purely because it gives me, almost, way more flexibility and a way to explore at my pace. If you’re like that too it’s good. You get to choose the stops, the detours, the amount of time you spend soaking up each spot, sort of. I’d advise it that way, almost always.

But, on the other hand, tours offer a lot, such as removing the pressure of driving and letting someone else deal with all of the planning. So, they also often come loaded with guides, who really have gold dust knowledge of the area, so it gives real depth to the trip. Is that your thing too? I get it!

If you’re leaning towards the DIY route, you definitely need to decide about your ride. A comfortable car is very important, alright, because you’ll be spending loads of hours behind the wheel. I’d also plot out your route, looking at what spots are non-negotiable and also, just a little, working out how long you’re planning to spend at each place. Are you going to just visit for one day, or stay for many? Knowing the answer helps.

Another pretty vital thing would be, in my book, booking your lodging ahead of time, very often if you’re traveling in the busiest months, but any other time also. From snug little B&Bs to fancy hotels with awesome coastal views, there really is all ranges of option out there.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

So, there is a ton of awesome spots that demand a place on your itinerary, like your very own personalized list of treasures, right? Here is a couple you really shouldn’t miss:

Bells Beach: That is almost a pilgrimage site for surfers. I’m talking world-renowned breaks, big swells. I loved chilling on the sand watching the pros tackle the waves. That, and it’s the ideal photo backdrop, pretty much all the time, right?
Anglesea & Aireys Inlet: These seaside towns? Real cuties, I think. Aireys Inlet is the home of the Split Point Lighthouse – the “White Queen” from a children’s TV program – and provides cracking views up and down the coast. Get the camera ready!
Lorne: Now, this is where the coast starts to become truly amazing, so it feels way different in reality, to a photograph or film. Lorne has that cool artsy vibe going on, really it does. I’d recommend roaming the galleries, filling up your lungs with fresh air on the beach, and treating yourself to a delicious seafood lunch, personally, that, or grabbing some chips and just watching the sea.
Kennett River: Koala spotting central! It is almost like this small area where you’re just about guaranteed to see them munching away in the trees. I did, anyway. So cute.
Apollo Bay: I’d rate this as the heart of the Great Ocean Road, certainly. A chilled out town providing cracking views and that gateway to the Great Otway National Park
Great Otway National Park: Switch the coast for tall trees, pretty waterfalls, and a stroll deep into nature. I am being serious. You want the Otway Fly Treetop Adventures if you enjoy a bit of a thrill. That said, they might be a bit gimmicky. Still!
The Twelve Apostles: Ok, this needs its own section! Keep reading!

The Majestic Twelve Apostles

Now, let’s get right into the real jewel of the Great Ocean Road trip. The Twelve Apostles are really something. These limestone stacks poking out of the ocean are a natural masterpiece, like how nature has carved its mark over the millennium. Ok, there aren’t actually twelve anymore thanks to the erosion, very true, yet the remaining stacks really are imposing. Did you know that once they were known as the Sow and Piglets?! Apparently, it’s so, yeah.

The must-do? I’d say, without a doubt, that’s getting there for sunrise or sunset. This is, of course, very popular, just to warn you. The light paints the stacks in various shades of orange, pink, and purple. A photographers dream – the ultimate backdrop!

There is a load of viewpoints around the main area to see these geological spectacles from multiple angles. Also? Think about that helicopter ride! Yeah, that would seriously let you appreciate the vastness of the coast from a completely variance stance, alright.

The Twelve Apostles is not the end. Actually, they are neighbors with a load of similarly dramatic spots you may want to consider:

Loch Ard Gorge: So, this one has you walking down into the beach enclosed by seriously high cliff faces. So cool.
London Bridge: Another stunning rock formation. This used to be a complete archway, just so you know, yet now it’s an ‘island’ bridge in the ocean because a chunk of the arch fell down!

Where to Eat: Local Delights

Right, a food part! Luckily the Great Ocean Road region is loaded with spots to tickle the tastebuds. Fresh seafood? Totally is often on the menu in those coastal towns – think grilled fish, that’s so delicious, lobster, yummy mussels. Want that classic Australian pie? Of course, many little bakeries also boast fantastic local pies. They are ideal, right?

You should swing by one of the farm gates or roadside stalls. That part might sound boring. However, trust me – you’ll find things that taste great, like, home-grown fruit, great cheeses and delicious olives. A little fancy picnic, maybe?

You’re not exactly short of cafes. These really are your best bet to grab a good coffee, also a quick snack to fuel that adventure of yours. And you’ve a big pick, from cosy little coffee shops to funky establishments offering organic lunches.

I know it could sound fairly touristy but be sure you grab some hot chips at a restaurant in Apollo Bay – the seafood is of great standard, that’s just it!

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

Want this adventure to be plain sailing? Of course, me too! So, some of my top tips would be to pack for all types of weather – Australia can chuck four seasons at you in one day, and the southern coast of Victoria tends to be prone to wind and rain. Layered clothing, warm coats, sunglasses, are those essentials? Totally!

Speaking of which? It would not hurt to load the car up with food, water, drinks and snacks – I would advise that! In reality, you are travelling via more sparse lands so do plan ahead. Especially for things you like yourself, you know?

Driving-wise? Do remember that, like your, they drive on the left, yeah. And you should watch those speed limits because they might switch. I’d say regularly, take breaks to dodge fatigue. Then the rest should be obvious. Enjoy yourself! The scenery will speak for itself, certainly.

Very quickly, it’s really very simple! Do that prep for all the weathers. That’s useful. And the last nugget? Charge everything – devices, battery packs, all of those things, alright?