9-day Classic self-driving route of the Great Ocean Road
6 cities |
25 attraction(s) |
total distance 894
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day9
Day1: Melbourne > Phillip Island > Melbourne
3 attraction(s) ·
133 km
1
Translated into English, it becomes: As one of the narrow-gauge railway lines built by the government in the early 1990s for the development of remote areas, the Puffing Billy steam train has become one of the best-preserved steam train routes in the world today thanks to the relentless efforts of volunteers. Following many children on board, crossing over dozens of meters high wooden trestle bridges, and shuttling through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, after an hour's journey, you will arrive at Emerald Lake where you can take a walk on the surrounding hiking trails or enjoy outdoor barbecues and feed the friendly lorikeets.
116
km
2
Phillip Island
Phillip Island (Penguin Island) is an island located about 130 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, on the western bay mouth of the southern coast of Victoria, Australia. Phillip Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including koalas and kangaroos, making it a true animal paradise. The Summerland Beach near Nobbies Cape in the southwest of the island is famous for being a sanctuary for little penguins. These penguins are the smallest penguins in the world, measuring only 30 centimeters in height, and they are incredibly adorable.
During your visit to Penguin Island, you can also visit the Melbourne Zoo and the chocolate factory. The factory features a chocolate art gallery, a chocolate waterfall, and a one-ton chocolate block, which are all beloved by chocolate enthusiasts. Upon entering the chocolate factory, you will receive a complimentary piece of chocolate and can enjoy the exquisite chocolate crafts made by the factory while savoring the delicious chocolate. In the evening, at the tourist area of Penguin Island, you can clearly see the adorable little penguins returning from the sea to their nests. These small penguins have chubby bodies covered with blue fur, resembling tuxedos. They come back in groups, searching for their way home, creating a heartwarming and fascinating scene.
At sunset, a special group of stars, the little penguins, arrive here, earning Phillip Island the nickname "Penguin Island." You can sit on the beach and wait for these smallest penguins in the world to swim out from the sea in groups, waddling through the sand beside you and returning to their burrows. On the island, there are also activities such as watching milking, sheep shearing, and sheepdog performances at Churchill Island Heritage Farm, observing Australian wildlife at the Koala Conservation Centre, and encountering fur seals near a group of rocks called the Nobbies.
17
km
3
Churchill Island is very close to Phillip Island and has a significant historical importance. The island features unique Australian farms that offer various daily farming activities, such as milking cows and shearing sheep starting at 2:00 PM every day. Additionally, visitors can enjoy hiking around the island and admire the beautiful scenery both on the island and along the coast. The island offers a wide selection of villas, gift shops, and cafes, and has excellent public facilities and services.
Day2: Melbourne > Great Ocean Road
2 attraction(s) ·
21 km
1
Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens covers 25 acres, and is a unique maze and premium forest garden that stimulates the senses, celebrates the seasons, and showcases the true beauty of trees and plants. It offers an unforgettable garden experience that is both educational and fun and filled with surprises. This world-famous magical place can be shared with friends and family to experience exceptional quality. This is a sustainable garden with significant value and is essential for future generations.
21
km
2
Peninsula Hot Springs is a natural hot mineral spring and spa centre located on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia. It offers a variety of bathing experiences and relaxation treatments. The Bath House is suitable for all ages and has a cafe, while the Spa Dreaming Centre is for guests 16 years and older and offers dining options. Both facilities have specific opening hours.
Day3: Torquay > Great Ocean Road
3 attraction(s) ·
49 km
1
Surf World is a heaven for surf culture. It is the largest surfing and beach culture museum in the world, including the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame as part of the overall surfing exhibition. Surf World has been recognized by the International Surfing Association as one of the "most important centers of world surfing heritage." Surf World is a must-visit iconic interactive tourist attraction that showcases the essence of past, present, and future surfing activities through modern means. It provides comprehensive insights into surfing history, culture, and sports on regional, national, and global levels.
8
km
2
During Easter every year, a grand Rip Curl Pro World Surfing Championship is held at Bells Beach. Surfers from all over the world gather here to present a high-level competition for surfing enthusiasts and travelers who come from all over. At other times, like other beaches along the Great Ocean Road, it is calm and relaxing, making it a good place to unwind.
41
km
3
My Great Ocean Road journey officially started from Lorne. This picturesque seaside town, surrounded by lush greenery, unfolded before my eyes, bringing me endless surprises and awe. Lorne, located between Loutit Bay and Otway Ranges forest, is a well-known tourist town along the Great Ocean Road and a popular vacation destination for many locals in Australia.
Day4: Apollo Bay > Great Ocean Road
5 attraction(s) ·
101 km
1
The Great Otway National Park stretches from the town of Torquay to Princetown, and extends northwards through the Otway hinterland to Colac. The park features a winding coastline, sandy beaches, rocky platforms, wind-swept heathland, towering forests, fern-filled valleys, majestic waterfalls, and peaceful lakes. It showcases the diversity of nature, with magnificent waterfalls and sparkling gorges. The park offers excellent camping grounds throughout, catering to families seeking a holiday spot for their camper vans, as well as those in search of solitude to gaze at the night sky.
12
km
2
Cape Otway Lighthouse is the oldest and well-preserved lighthouse in Australia. It provides hope for early Australian immigrants after months of sailing. From the top of the 90-meter tall tower, you can overlook the wild Southern Ocean and understand why numerous shipwrecks occurred along this isolated and rugged coastline. The museum houses early telegraph and radar stations, and you can also enjoy the spectacular views of Bass Strait. From Apollo Bay to the lighthouse, there is a great chance to see koalas. The waterfalls and beautiful sunsets here will also impress you with the wonders of nature. The traditional Head Lighthouse Keeper's cottage has four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and laundry facilities. The Manager's House is renovated and offers a comfortable experience for travelers.
78
km
3
The Twelve Apostles is one of the most famous attractions on the Great Ocean Road, located in the Port Campbell National Park. These rock formations, initially consisting of thirteen different-shaped giant limestone pillars, resemble the twelve apostles following Jesus in the Bible, hence the name "The Twelve Apostles."
These pillars, about 45 meters high, have been eroded and weathered by the sea over time, and five of them have collapsed. However, this does not diminish the awe and admiration that this natural wonder brings. The best time to admire the Twelve Apostles is during sunrise and sunset. Standing on the lookout platform, overlooking the vast expanse of the sea, feeling the gentle sea breeze, one can't help but marvel at the power of nature's craftsmanship.
The park is free for visitors and has an information center providing cultural information and basic facilities such as toilets. There are numerous viewing platforms throughout the park, allowing visitors to experience the visual impact of this wonder from different angles. Due to the fragile geological structure of the limestone, there are clear signs in dangerous areas, and visitors are advised to stay away. The best time for photography is in the early morning and evening on sunny days.
5
km
4
Lock ard Gorge is located in the Campbell Port National Park, a 10-minute drive west of the Twelve Apostles.
8
km
5
Camperdown Bay, located on the western end of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is a natural gorge. The Campbell Port National Park was established in 1964 and named after Captain Alexander Campbell. It is a fascinating seaside village that can be reached either by the Princes Highway, 245 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, or via the Great Ocean Road, 281 kilometers in total.
Day5: Great Ocean Road > Warrnambool > Melbourne
3 attraction(s) ·
352 km
1
The Port Campbell National Park is located 190 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. It covers over 1,700 hectares and is known for its limestone geological formations, including famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibson Steps. The park is also a haven for many native Australian bird species, such as emus and honeyeaters. In winter nights, penguins can be spotted along the coastline, but it's important to dress warmly to avoid catching a cold. Travelers who visit this park are often drawn by the Twelve Apostles rock formations, which are a highlight of the Great Ocean Road and should not be missed.
77
km
2
The eruption of a volcano formed a volcanic lake in Wunanbur to the west about 30,000 years ago, as well as a densely vegetated area. There are abundant wildlife, many lightweight hiking trails, and many plants, as well as an indigenous cultural center. It is very suitable for family picnics.
275
km
3
Flinders Street Station is the largest and busiest train station in Melbourne, Australia. It is a Victorian-era building and the first railway station in Melbourne. Located in the city center, directly opposite Federation Square, with St Paul's Cathedral nearby. It is a landmark building on Swanston Street and a popular meeting point for locals. The station's famous "meet under the clocks" refers to the large clock in front of the station. The entire station is made of yellow stone, with a distinctive bronze dome. At night, the station is illuminated by yellow lights, showcasing a different classical and magnificent Victorian architecture. It is worth visiting Flinders Street Station at night to experience its unique charm.
Day6: Melbourne
3 attraction(s) ·
233 km
1
Built in 1869, the Melbourne Town Hall was designed by the renowned local architect Joseph Reed in the Second Empire style. It features a concert hall and was once the most renowned music hall in Australia.
117
km
2
This is an abandoned gold mine, but it has been cleverly transformed into a popular tourist attraction located in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia, 112 kilometers west of Melbourne.
In 1851, gold was discovered here, triggering a gold rush worldwide. Within a short period of time, a large number of gold seekers from Europe, America, and Asia flocked to Ballarat, making it and the nearby Melbourne rapidly wealthy and causing Melbourne to become the most prosperous city of the British Empire at that time. In the early 20th century, the gold here was exhausted, and the fifty-year gold rush became history.
After the restoration of the gold rush town in the 1970s, it was opened to the public as a tourist attraction. Currently, there are about 160 staff members who work here wearing clothing from that era, giving visitors a sense of stepping back in time. Gentlemen wearing top hats sit on benches by the road playing harmonicas, British soldiers in red traditional uniforms patrol with rifles, and horse-drawn carriages pass by, creating a scene reminiscent of the mid-19th century gold rush era. This old gold mine, built to replicate the gold rush period, is one of the most famous outdoor museums in Australia. You can descend into the mine to experience the working environment of the gold seekers at the time, learn about candle making methods in the candle shop from the 19th century, and even try your hand at primitive wooden bowling. Perhaps the most enticing activity is the opportunity to sift for gold in the river using tools, where any gold nuggets you find can be kept, although it is quite challenging.
117
km
3
There are two main wealthy areas in Melbourne. Toorak is considered one of the safest areas in Melbourne, and you can see many distinctive mansions while walking in Toorak. Please try not to take photos to avoid privacy issues.
Day7: Melbourne
2 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
You can choose to immerse yourself in the Victoria State Library established in 1854, admire the famous giant dome of the La Trobe Reading Room, or find a quiet corner in the Arts Reading Room to enjoy music. Sitting lazily on the lawn in front of the library with the locals, basking in the sun and watching people pass by, is also a good way to relax. Just be careful of seagulls eyeing your snacks.
4
km
2
With over 12,000 species of plants, it is more accurate to say that it is Melbourne's most "luxurious" garden. The botanical garden is located on the beautiful Yarra River, where exotic flowers and plants from Australia and around the world thrive. You can take a stroll along a dirt road through a small patch of pristine rainforest, or have some fun with a frisbee on the vast lawns scattered throughout. There is also a 4-kilometer running track that runs through the garden, and you can even spot eels and black swans in the lake.
Day8: Melbourne
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
1
Melbourne Central is a fantastic shopping center with an interesting architectural feature. The preserved Ammo Tower not only holds historical and cultural significance, but also allows for the effective use of natural light through the glass dome above the shopping center. Another highlight is the special clock in the mall that puts on a unique performance every hour.
Day9: Melbourne
3 attraction(s) ·
5 km
1
When you come to Australia, you must have a close encounter with the animals. You can enter the enclosure of emus and kangaroos and have an intimate encounter with them; you can also admire the swimming skills of seals and penguins from underwater; if you are lucky, you can even have a close look at polar bears through a layer of glass. The park is well-greenned, and various birds, including peacocks, freely roam on the lawn, making you feel like they have escaped from their cages.
4
km
2
Melbourne Museum is the largest museum in the southern hemisphere and a must-visit tourist attraction in Melbourne. Located north of the CBD, just 5 minutes from the city center, it houses 17 million exhibits showcasing the history of Australian society, indigenous culture, and scientific development. It is adjacent to the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens. The museum also features the world's largest IMAX 3D cinema.
Its main three sections are:
1. IMAX Cinema: Featuring the world's largest movie format, with an eight-storey-high screen, showcasing documentaries and the latest releases in both 2D and 3D.
2. Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre: A space for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to learn about the Koorie (South-Eastern Aboriginal) people of Victoria, showcasing art, artifacts, stories, and performances.
3. Permanent Exhibitions: Dynamic Earth, Evolution of Victoria over 6 million years, Sam the Koala, Wild Animals, Walk with Dinosaurs, Memory and Dreams, Insect World, Our Sea, Marvelous and Magical Human Body, Smart Home of Water, Australia's Other Computer, Secrets of the Forest, Children's Area (how plants, animals, minerals, and humans grow), DNA Exploration and Mechanisms, Pharmacy, and an outdoor "Colonial Plaza."
2
km
3
Melbourne's Chinatown is located on Little Bourke Street, primarily referring to the section between Swanston and Exhibition Streets (as there are Chinatown arches at the intersections of Swanston/Little Bourke Street and Exhibition/Little Bourke Street). The liveliest part of Chinatown is the section between Swanston and Russell Streets.
There are numerous Chinese restaurants and shops on both sides of Chinatown and its vicinity. Most of the shopkeepers (including bank and post office staff) can speak Mandarin and Cantonese, making it a place where tourists can seek assistance besides shopping. Australian souvenirs such as sheepskin and lanolin can also be purchased in Chinatown, and bargaining is encouraged.
Melbourne's Chinatown is a one-way street, allowing vehicles to travel only from east to west. Pedestrians have no restriction on their walking direction, but they must be cautious of cars. On major holidays like Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival, Chinatown is closed to vehicles and becomes a pedestrian-only street on designated days (usually a Saturday or Sunday).
