Australia: Great Ocean Road Scenic Drive 2

🚗 Great Ocean Road, Australia 🌊 A breathtaking coastal drive featuring cliffs, blue seas, and lush greenery ⸻ 🌏 A 243km road trip where the sea and sky blend seamlessly Starting about an hour's drive from Melbourne, the Great Ocean Road begins in the town of Torquay and stretches approximately 243km. Along the way, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs battered by the Pacific Ocean, serene surf beaches, and eucalyptus forests teeming with wildlife. The ever-changing scenery feels like a series of cinematic moments stitched together. Every turn of the wheel opens up new vistas, and the salty sea breeze flows through your car windows. ⸻ 📸 Highlighted Attractions • London Bridge A natural rock arch sculpted by years of wave erosion. Its stunning beauty leaves visitors in awe. • The Twelve Apostles Towering limestone pillars rising from the ocean. At sunset, the rocks glow golden, creating a mesmerizing view. • Kennett River A spot where you can find koalas lounging in eucalyptus trees. • Apollo Bay A charming seaside town offering fresh seafood and cozy cafes. ⸻ ☀️ Best Seasons to Visit • Summer (December–February): Long daylight hours allow you to explore more spots. • Autumn (March–May): Cooler weather and fewer crowds. • Winter (June–August): Witness dramatic waves and enjoy whale watching. ⸻ 🚗 Driving Tips • While a day trip from Melbourne is possible, a relaxed 1-night, 2-day itinerary is recommended. • Right-hand drive and left-side traffic make driving familiar for visitors from Japan. • Stop frequently at lookout points to enjoy both the drive and the scenery. ⸻ ✨ Travel Diary On the day I visited, the morning started with cloudy skies, but as the day progressed, the blue sky emerged, making the ocean's hues even more vibrant. At Kennett River, I spotted koalas with the help of friendly locals, turning the experience into a delightful treasure hunt. At the Twelve Apostles lookout, the breathtaking view held my gaze, making me want to etch the scene into memory rather than just capturing it in photos. On the return journey, I drove along the coast at sunset, savoring the day's memories as the horizon turned a warm orange hue, heading back to Melbourne. 🐨🦘 Tips for Choosing National Parks The Great Ocean Road spans approximately 240km. Select national parks based on your preferred scenery and activities for an efficient trip. 1. For Coastal Scenery Enthusiasts - Port Campbell National Park Home to iconic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. Perfect for photography. - Recommended Duration: Half-day to full-day 2. For Rainforest & Hiking Lovers - Great Otway National Park Features ancient forests, waterfalls, and wild koalas. Don't miss Melba Gully's glow worms and Hopetoun Falls. - Recommended Duration: 2–3 hours to a full day 3. For Wildlife & Quiet Beach Seekers - Coastal reserves around Anglesea Spot kangaroos and diverse bird species. Enjoy tranquil beaches away from crowds. 🚗 Suggested Route: Melbourne → Great Ocean Road → Melbourne