Great Ocean Road
Victoria, Australia | 243km
Image: Mark Watson
One of Australia’s most iconic roads is far more than just a strip of sinewy bitumen that hugs the cliffs and stretches from Torquay to Allansford in Victoria. Between 1919-32 the 243-kilometre highway was built by over 3,000 returned Australian World War One soldiers and is believed to be the world’s largest war memorial. The Peterborough to Torquay stretch is possibly one of the most picturesque roads on the planet supported by landmarks such as the 12 Apostles – naturally occurring sandstone obelisks situated off the coast of which only seven now remain, and the equally spectacular Bay of Martyrs. From Apollo Bay, you can choose to push on along the coast to overnight in Warrnambool or for a shorter day ride try heading back on the inland road over Mount Sabine to Winchelsea.
Cuddle a Koala
Lovers of the Australian bear that’s not a bear (it’s a marsupial) should aim for the Grey River Road or Kennett River Koala Walk, about 30 minutes south of Lorne. You’re pretty much guaranteed a sighting and hang around until nightfall to get a bonus glow-worm display.
Celebrate the history
This purpose-built permanent exhibition in the newly constructed Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre is located in the Lorne Visitor Centre. Pay your respects and learn something at the same time.
Originally published in 2023.
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