there’s more to the great ocean road than the 12 apostles
If you like coastal drives, you’re going to want to check this one out. The Great Ocean Road was built by returned soldiers from 1919 to 1932 as a memorial to soldiers killed during World War I. It stretches for 151 miles, starting in the town of Angelsea in Victoria. Since I joined a day tour, we were very limited on time and drove only part of the road. Even with the little that we saw, it was still amazing. I can only imagine what’s out there on the rest of the road. These are some of the major points that we visited:
Urquhart’s Bluff – a popular spot for surfingMemorial Arch – dedicated to the WWI servicemen
LorneKennett River – a popular spot for koalas. A little hard to see since they’re so high up!Here’s a close upCrimson rosellas at Kennett RiverKing parrots at Kennett RiverFish and chips at Iluka Restaurant in Apollo BayMait’s Rest at Otway Rainforest – these pictures do not do justice to how tall these trees actually are!
Trees grow around fallen trees
Just to give you an idea of how big these trees really are (Photo Credit to Mabel)Loch Ard Gorge – named after the the ship, Loch Ard, which journeyed from England to Melbourne but got shipwrecked. Only 2 out of the 54 passengers survived – a 15-year-old ship’s apprentice, and a 17-year-old girl emigrating with her family. They went on to make headlines and even though the ship’s apprentice was engaged already, everyone pressured him to propose to the other survivor instead. So he did, and she said, “No thanks!”The 12 Apostles
Gibson steps down to the beach, where you can see some of the 12 Apostles a bit closer
The start of the Great Ocean Road is only about an hour and 20 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD, so it makes for a great day trip. Or if you have a few days to spare, I would definitely recommend driving the entire road. If you get tired, you can just stop in one of the small towns. That way, you have time to really explore and enjoy the drive. That’s my plan for next time!
how to be a tourist 