Driving along the Great Ocean Road
Driving along the Great Ocean Road is a journey that showcases Australia’s unique natural beauty.
Travelling from Melbourne to Alkina Lodge, you will pass by pretty coastal towns and popular Australian tourist attractions. The famous coastal drive features some of Australia’s most impressive scenery. The drive from Melbourne to your destination at Alkina Lodge is only a few hours if you take the direct route. But why not extend the journey, and make a day (or two) of it with a few worthwhile stops along the way?
Melbourne to Geelong
Travel Time: Approx. 1 hr 6 mins
Geelong is the second largest city in Victoria, located on Corio Bay. The city boasts a large commercial centre, leading down to the foreshore. Visitors can explore beachfront attractions such as the Eastern Beach and the Steampacket Gardens.
Things to do:
Visit the Eastern Park, located on the edge of the Central Geelong business district. The park spans 185 acres of sporting facilities, walking tracks, parkland and recreation spaces and picnic areas. It is also is home to the Geelong Playspace, Geelong Botanic Gardens and East Geelong Golf Course. With stunning views, the Eastern Park is the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air.
Visit the National Wool Museum, located in central Geelong. An educational and fun experience for the whole family to enjoy. Discover why fleece from Australia’s sheep was at the heart of our economy for nearly 200 years. Sheep farming began in Geelong in 1835, and for many years was known as the ‘wool centre of the world’.
Take a ghost tour through the Old Geelong Gaol. The Gaol opened in 1853 and was known to intimidate even the most hardened criminals. Explore the prison after dark and be haunted by the stories of its previous residents.
Geelong to Torquay
Travel Time: Approx. 25 mins
Torquay is the official start of the Great Ocean Road, and is Australia’s surfing capital. It is home to the international event, Bells Beach Rip Curl Pro, which occurs during Easter and features the world’s best surfers. A visit to Torquay means immersing yourself in the Aussie surf culture.
Things to do:
Learn to surf. If it’s something on your bucket list, then Torquay is definitely the place to tick it off! There are a range of surf schools to choose from within the area, including Torquay Surf Academy. Learn to surf with qualified coaches, either privately or in small to large groups. There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the Torquay surfing culture!
Visit the Surf World Museum. Celebrating the story of surfing, the museum charts Australia’s significant contribution to the development of surfing worldwide. With the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame and a range of exhibits, the museum makes for an educational and fun experience.
Hike or cycle through one of the trails of the Surf Coast Walk. If sticking to dry land is more your style, than be sure to try one of the Surf Coast Walk trails. With a path to suit any skill level, enjoy the unique and natural beauty of Bells Beach.
Torquay to Lorne
Travel Time: Approx. 50 mins
Lorne is the heart of the Great Ocean Road, nestled where the beach meets the rainforest. Situated near the Great Otway National Park, Lorne offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views.
Things to do:
Visit The Great Otway National Park. Featuring rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, ferny gullies and waterfalls. Go hiking, cycling, mountain biking or horseback riding through the magnificent National Park. It is also a great place to have a picnic or go camping.
Visit the Gentle Annie Berry Gardens. A 25 minute drive inland from Lorne, but this pickyour-own farm in the beautiful Pennyroyal Valley is worth it. It also features a licensed farmhouse café and produce shop.
Immerse yourself in the unique shops and fashion boutiques in Lorne. With eclectic pieces and well-known brands, there is something for everyone. Stroll through the town and meet the friendly and welcoming Lorne community.
Lorne to Alkina Lodge
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours
As you make your final journey to Alkina Lodge, be sure to stop at the Cape Otway Lightstation along the way. Built in 1848, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse in mainland Australia. The lighthouse perches on towering sea cliffs where Bass Straight and the Southern Ocean collide. When you finally arrive at your destination, relax and enjoy the comforts of our luxury Alkina Lodge accommodation
