Great Ocean Road
What’s so great about a road? This ‘tourist’ finds the excitement is as much in the quaint towns, rainforests, festivals, pastoral plains, waterfalls and scenery to be experienced around it as the thoroughfare itself.
With wildflowers in bloom, sea spray in the air and shimmering waves breaking onto magnificent rugged cliffs, the journey along it is one of constant surprises. From Torquay to Warrnambool, the 300km of roadway clings tightly to the amazing south-west coast of Victoria, providing breathtaking sights at every turn.
The historic road was originally constructed in 1932 with only picks and shovels, by servicemen who came back after World War I and considered themselves lucky – and it’s dedicated to the memory of the others who didn’t come back. These days, the way meanders along cliff edges, hilly slopes and endless beaches, offering world-famous views of rugged outcrops and awe-inspiring headlands that are quite spectacular.
Apart from the ancient limestone rock formations known as Twelve Apostles, the drive can actually be a very festive one if planned at the right time of year. Bells Beach near Torquay is famous for its Easter surfing classic. Due to the excellent surf here, Bells has become a permanent fixture on the world surfing professional circuit and it’s one of Victoria’s hallmark International Sporting Events.
Along the eastern side through Anglesea, Lorne and Apollo Bay, you discover each town is unique, with a plentiful supply of hideaway resorts and retreats. The township of Apollo Bay lies en route to Cape Otway, where the sea-beaten cliffs are home to the oldest lighthouse in Australia, and it holds its own music festival every March.
Recreation possibilities are endless along the Great Ocean Road, from hang-gliding, whale watching, abseiling, trail-riding and water sports to Eco tours and nature trails. Wander through art galleries, pottery shops and museums, and indulge at a quaint café, cheesery or winery.
Related Articles
|
