If you are ever lucky enough to find yourself in Victoria, Australia– do yourself the favor of taking a trip down the Great Ocean Road. You can either drive it, take a tour, or walk it (taking about a week).

When driving, you can hit most of the sights in one day. But one day of the GOR will leave you wanting weeks to explore it and all of its beauty. You will weave your way along the South Australian coast through quaint surf towns and temperate rainforest, while seeing some of the most dramatic beach landscapes the world has to offer.

PLACES TO STOP:

-Surf Beach
-The towns/beaches of Lorne and Angelsea
-Kennett River (spot wild parrots and koalas!)
-Maits Rest (temperate rainforest walk)
-Gibson Steps (for a killer beach view of a few of the Twelve Apostle rock formations)
-Loch Ard Gorge (bring your swimsuit!)
-Twelve Apostle Viewpoint

THINGS TO KNOW:

-It is a lengthy drive from Melbourne, if you aren’t comfortable driving on the left side of the road- get a tour or make an Aussie friend.
-The bugs are terrible and there is nothing to do about it.
-Crowds can be huge at the 12 Apostle viewpoint, there is enough space to spread out, but try to go early or late to avoid those pesky tourists (like you).