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Great Ocean Road in MelbourneThe highlight of any Australian vacationThe Great Ocean Road is a spectacular road trip that no visitor to Melbourne can afford to miss.
Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road The Great Ocean Road scenic drive takes you down the western coast that begins from Torquay, and goes on and on along what has to be the most striking natural scenery on land and water, till it ends at the Princess Highway. All along the way, you’re faced with the best of what nature has come up with. The beaches go from sandy to rocky and back again, forcing you off your car to explore and relax. What to see along the Great Ocean RoadThe scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road is scattered with interesting landmarks and natural formations. You come upon waterfalls, drive through rain forests, and pass by delightful fishing villages that will make it seem sensible to take a break. The Twelve Apostles of MelbourneSix hours into the drive you come to the Twelve Apostles. There they stand with an almost philosophical thoughtfulness that lends an imperial quality to their vigil. These are limestone, surrounded by the bluest waters, carved by the action of the water on them for eons. It is an incredible scene of startling beauty, especially around sunset. The Port Campbell National Park of which the apostles are a part, has more natural rock formations that are equally interesting. Helicopter rides are available to those that want to get up, close and personal. Melbourne’s Shipwreck CoastThe treacherous character of the coast hidden behind its spectacular good looks is laid bare along the Shipwreck Trail. There are plaques outlining tragic tales of wrecks that give visitors an idea of the dangerous maritime era that went before. Vestiges of those tragedies are still visible in the form of anchors on Wreck Beach. The tragic tale of the Loch Ard is a local classic that bears much re-telling. More information is available at the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum in Warnambool. Some Light stations on Melbourne’s Great Ocean RoadThe treacherous nature of the coast of course, called for the construction of light houses to guide incoming vessels to safety. Today you have the Cape Otway Lightstation, Split Point Lighthouse, and Cape Nelson Lightstation, all constructed in the 19th century, as testimonials to this valiant effort. Historical architecture on the Great Ocean RoadPortland, Port Fairy and Queenscliff have historic architecture that will impress aficionados. Imposing churches, mansions, as well as an honest-to-goodness 19th century military fortress are just some of an impressive array. Portarlington Mill, Barwon Park, Barwon Grange, and Heights Heritage House and Garden are some splendid must-sees while here.
The copyright of the article Great Ocean Road in Melbourne in Australia Travel is owned by Lizbeth Pereira. Permission to republish Great Ocean Road in Melbourne in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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