Discover the striking scenery and diverse landscapes of the famous Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes. The road extends from Torquay in the east to Warrnambool in the west, with the stretch between Lorne and Apollo Bay being the most picturesque. Look out over huge cliffs, towering rock stacks and raging surf, cool off in tranquil bays and sandy beaches, and explore lush rainforests and fun filled resort towns. Here at the Lady Bay Resort, we recommend you beat the crowds and visit the Great Ocean Road on your way home whilst making the most of your South West Victoria trip by exploring the Grampian region.
3 DAYS – 2 NIGHTS
Melbourne direct to Warrnambool via the M1
Depart: Melbourne
O/night: Lady Bay Resort, Warrnambool
Distance: 265 kilometres, 3hrs
Depart Melbourne nice and early to arrive in Warrnambool early to mid afternoon and make th most of it’s beautiful location. Welcome to Warrnambool a city with sweeping green pastures contrast the Southern Ocean’s deep blues and orange hues of rocky outcrops, history lives on in ancient lands and famous shipwrecks, culture abounds and wildlife add animation to the already energetic landscape. Relax with a delicious dish and coffee in one of our eateries. Explore our white sandy beaches and cliff top walks whilst soaking up the fresh coastal air and abundance of nature. Head to Warrnambool’s Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, and venture out a little further to Tower Hill’s intriguing volcanic landscape. Dine in our restaurant for dinner and enjoy a relaxing night by the ocean.
Warrnambool, day trip to Halls Gap & the Grampians
O/night: Lady Bay Resort, Warrnambool
Distance: 161 kilometres each way, just under 2 hrs
Head north through farming country, detouring to Hamilton Gallery for an art fix and Pierrepoint Wines or Fallen Giants to taste local vintages. Make your way to Halls Gap to discover authentic Australian wildlife, waterfalls and vast bushland. Head back to Warrnambool in the early evening.
Nestled in the heart of the Grampians National Park, Halls Gap is a delightful small village with varied accommodation on offer and activities at your doorstep. The area is renowned for spectacular hiking, stunning views and inquisitive wildlife including kangaroos, emus, wallabies and birds.
If you prefer to canoe, fish or birdwatch, Lakes Bellfield, Lonsdale, Fyans and Wartook are all within a short drive of town.
For the more adventurous, opportunities abound with rock-climbing, abseiling, canoeing, 4 x 4 driving and quad bike adventures close by.
Local tips:
- Visit any of the local cafes to get great coffee, or enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of the many restaurants in and around Halls Gap.
- Use Halls Gap as a great base to access the many hikes, lookouts and waterfalls, including the spectacular Mackenzie Falls.
- Enjoy a day out at the Halls Gap Zoo and get up and personal with over 160 native and wild animals including cheetah, giraffe, meerkats, koalas and kangaroos.
- Call into Fallen Giants winery to enjoy complimentary wine tastings, local produce plates and a beverage or two. Be sure to allow plenty of time as you won’t want to leave!
- Take to the skies for a birdseye view with Grampians Helicopters or sip and savour the region on a Grampians Wine Tours experience leaving from Halls Gap.
Warrnambool to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road
Depart: Lady Bay Resort, Warrnambool
Distance: 353 kilometres, allow 6-8 hours
Beat the busy crowds of the afternoon and depart Warrnambool in the morning to make your way to the 12 Apostles and surrounds (just 45mins from Warrnambool) Discover the western reaches of the Great Ocean Road. The road trip of a lifetime is just the beginning. Nature unfolds as you journey rugged coasts, iconic surf breaks, waterfalls, lakes, rivers and tracks that twist into the forest. You set the pace – lazy beach days, heart-stopping adventure, fresh seafood, wildlife at large and maritime history you can taste on the sea air. Discover lighthouses, endless coastlines and unforgettable sunsets. The vast Great Otway National Park spans the Southern Ocean to the volcanic lakes and plains of the south west. It’s a natural for bushwalking, mountain biking, bird watching, wildlife spotting, trail running, forest exploring and all sorts of adventure. Come get lost in nature or learn something new, like surfing or kayaking. Be sure to visit Bay of Islands, Loch Ard Gorge, 12 Apostles and Port Campbell National Park, London Bridge, Gibsons Steps, The Grotto, Childers Cove.