Travel & Places Other - Destinations

The Great Ocean Road has a reputation for being one of the world"s most scenic roads

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives and is one that should be savored slowly so as to be appreciated fully. Although it is possible to travel its 150 mile length from Torquay to Allansford in a day, it would be tragic to do so. A better idea would be to spent at least one night at each of two or three strategic places along the way. The Great Ocean Road is made for tourists, so you won't have any trouble finding Great Ocean Road accommodation anywhere you opt to stopover for the night.

Even though Lorne is just a quick hop from Torquay, make it your first stop on the Great Ocean Road. For over a century, Lorne has been called one of Australia's most magnificent towns. Those who stay there often comment that it reminds them of a Mediterranean seaside town, combined with an Australian flavor. You will know what they mean as you enjoy a cappuccino at a trendy open air cafe and watch everyone enjoying a day in the sun at the beach fronting Loutit Bay.

Apollo Bay would be another great place to spend a day and a night as you make your way up the coast along the Great ocean Road. Apollo Bay is just at the edge of Cape Otway. If you're a surfer, you already know that there are some great waves to be ridden within the Apollo Bay area. If the water is calm, you can take a sea kayak tour and pay a visit to the seals that call the Apollo Bay coast home. If you're a horse lover, then go riding along the hardpacked sand on the beach at low tide. Obviously, another option is to simply sit back and unwind. Do a little window shopping and maybe find an antique you simply can't live without and then have a great meal in one of the restaurants or cafes in town.

As you pass through the spectacular Great Otway National Park, be sure to give yourself lots of time to explore. You will discover a few of Australia's oldest stands of trees there and go through verdant coastal rain forests filled with giant ferns. Stop in at one of Australia's oldest lighthouses right out on the tip of the cape and take in the breathtaking views. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas, kangaroos, parrots and wallabies: Cape Otway is a protected sanctuary for Australia's local wildlife.

You cannot stop short of the 12 Apostles, near Port Campbell. You would have seen photographs of them before. The 12 Apostles are one of Australia's most photographed sights. Seeing a photo of them does not do them justice, though. You must see them in person. Aside from just stopping along the edge of the road, one way you can see them is by hiking the Great Ocean Walk from Apollo Bay. It's a 64 mile (104kim) walk, though, so its not to be taken lightly. Another great way to see the 12 Apostles is from the air. Stay the night in Port Campbell and book a helicopter flight. It will be an unforgettable experience.

Believe it or not, there is much more to see and do on the Great Ocean Road than just these few highlighted attractions. Really, there is not a boring stretch along the entire road. Give yourself a lot of time to take it all in. After all, you are on the Great Ocean Road.



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