Great Ocean Road Trip
Leave the city behind for the Great Ocean Road! This stunning 7-day road trip from Melbourne ventures along Australia’s most scenic and iconic coastlines. Follow this detailed road trip itinerary from Melbourne to uncover and explore seaside towns from Wye River to Portland. But most of all, experience the many iconic coastline scenes, from the Twelve Apostles, Island Arch Lookout, and London Bridge.
Continue inland on this circuit route to discover the beautiful Halls Gap and the Grampians National Park. Step back in time in this Heritage Listed National Park, a part of the Gariwerd Aboriginal cultural landscape home to ancient Aboriginal rock art. Explore hiking trails, impressive waterfalls and stunning mountain vistas. Stop by wineries, breweries, and cafes, and experience a taste of this region of Halls Gap and the Grampians in Victoria.
But before you leave home, you can see our meal planning guide for easy meals while travelling and stay on track with the best navigation apps. So get ready, and let’s go on an unforgettable road trip from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road in just seven days!
Experience the iconic Great Ocean Road on this 7-day road trip from Melbourne.

Distance: | 834 km |
Length: | 7-days |
When to Visit: | March to April |
Where to Stay: | Holiday park accommodation, tent camping, RV camping. |
Iconic Australian Road Trip: The Great Ocean Road
Day 1 – Depart Melbourne on this iconic road trip. Enjoy the ocean-side drive from Anglesea towards the first night’s destination at Apollo Bay. Big 4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to cabins. Stay for one night, 190 km.
Things to do at Apollo Bay, VIC:
- Explore Great Otway National Park for amazing waterfalls and tall mountain forests.
- Maker Beacon Lookout over the Southern Ocean.
- Enjoy a seaside stroll along Apollo Bay.
- Apollo Bay Museum.
- Don’t go past the 10-minute walk to panoramic views from Mariner’s Lookout.
- Thinking food? How about a seafood platter at Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-op?

Day 2 – Start the day early to see all the sights, the Twelve Apostles and the many other attractions along this road trip. The places of interest along this route are not limited to Gibson Steps, Loch Ard Gorge, Thunder Cave, The Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto, and the Bay of Islands. Make way to stay at Discovery Holiday Park Warrnambool, conveniently between the beach and town. Stay for two nights—187 km.
Things to do in Warrnambool:
- Visit Cheese World for locally-made cheese, wine and sweets.
- Logans Beach Whale Watching platform in Winter.
- Explore Stingray Bay for the chance to encounter a stingray! Or explore the scenic walking trails.
- Beach Stroll along McGennan’s Beach.
- The Whalers Hotel for a wholesome meal in a relaxed setting.

Continue this road trip from the Great Ocean Road to the ancient landscapes of the Grampians National Park.
Day 4 – Continue this journey along the coastal drive towards Portland. Stay by the sea at NRMA Parks and Resorts. Explore coastline lookouts and sites around Cape Nelson State Park or Point Danger Gannet colony. Stay for one night, 101 km.
Day 5 – Now leaving the coast behind, this journey proceeds to the Grampians National Park. Stay at Smiths Hill Campground or nearby accommodation options in Halls Gap while you explore the stunning region. Observe the stunning landscape from the Boroka Lookout, admire Splitters Falls, and take the loop walk through Venus Baths Loop. Stay for two nights—125 km.

Things to do near The Grampians and Halls Gap:
- Discover one of Grampians National Park’s many walking trails, lookouts and waterfalls.
- View ancient Aboriginal rock art at Billimina Shelter or Ngamadjidj Shelter.
- Taste the wine in the region at Fallen Giants Vineyard.
- Halls Gap Zoo.
- Halls Gap Visitor Centre.
- Hungry? Choose from various food options along Grampians Road, from Fish and Chips to Pizza or fine dining.
Day 7 – From The Grampians and Halls Gap, return to Melbourne 258 km.
As this road trip from Melbourne concludes, the fantastic experience will create long-lasting and cherished memories from the charming seaside towns, rugged coastal panoramas, and the timeless beauty of Gariwerd’s Aboriginal cultural landscape. Each stop along this circuit route offers a unique experience. Wander through historic towns, view ancient rock art, and explore hiking trails and beaches with awe-inspiring views. The road unfolds blending coastal scenes with the rugged hinterlands. So, pack your sense of adventure, hit the road, and let this itinerary guide you to moments of awe and the unmatched beauty of southern Australia on this Road Trip from Melbourne: the Great Ocean Road…
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