Melbourne is an incredible city, but the real adventure begins the moment you point your bonnet south towards the Great Ocean Road. While the world-famous Twelve Apostles are an absolute must-see, the true magic of this rugged Victorian coastline lies hidden just off the main tourist trail. We have mapped out the ultimate itinerary to help you
swap the crowds for ancient rainforest walks, secluded beaches and the perfect quiet coffee spots.
Key Takeaways:
- The Great Ocean Road offers incredible driving conditions with iconic coastal bends.
- Great Otway National Park is packed with ancient trees, cool fern canopies and thundering waterfalls.
- Hiring a reliable vehicle from our Melbourne branch gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Conquering the Coastal Bends
Leaving Melbourne behind, the drive quickly transforms into a world-class motoring experience. The road hugs the coastline, offering sweeping bends and spectacular ocean views right outside your window. Pulling over in charming seaside towns like Lorne or Apollo Bay is the perfect excuse to stretch your legs and grab a quiet coffee by the beachfront. We ensure our fleet is perfectly maintained for these exact driving conditions, so you can confidently tackle every turn.
Escaping into the Otway Rainforest
Once you have had your fill of the ocean breeze, the road plunges deep into the Great Otway National Park. This ancient, cool temperate rainforest feels like stepping straight into Jurassic Park, completely insulated from the coastal winds. You can park up and take a peaceful stroll along the Maits Rest Rainforest boardwalk, wandering beneath giant ferns and towering eucalyptus trees. Keep your eyes peeled, as this lush hinterland is heavily populated with koalas, echidnas and native birdlife.
A Masterclass in Southern Exploration
There is a massive difference between simply driving the Great Ocean Road and truly experiencing it. Grab your keys from our Melbourne team, load up the boot and take your time discovering the hidden gems scattered along the Victorian coast. Your ultimate southern road trip is waiting!