Top-notch Rest Stops for a Melbourne to Adelaide Journey on the Road
Exploring the Best of Australia's Coastal Road Trip: Melbourne to Adelaide
Embark on a journey through some of Australia's most stunning landscapes, as we guide you through the recommended towns and attractions for a memorable Melbourne to Adelaide coastal road trip.
Starting Your Journey
Your adventure begins in Torquay, the official start of the famous Great Ocean Road. Known for its surfing beaches, Torquay offers a taste of what's to come as you wind your way along the picturesque coastline.
As you continue south, you'll reach the charming town of Apollo Bay. With its white sand beaches, Apollo Bay is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It also serves as a gateway to the Otway Ranges and Cape Otway, offering scenic lookouts like Marriner's Lookout.
Iconic Landmarks
The next stop on your itinerary is Port Campbell National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles - limestone rock formations that have captivated visitors for years. Nearby attractions include Loch Ard Gorge and other coastal rock formations, making Port Campbell National Park a must-see landmark.
Nature and Wildlife
The route also offers opportunities to explore national parks and witness Australia's diverse wildlife. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve near Warrnambool hosts a range of Australian wildlife and is the largest nested maar volcano in Victoria. Belfast Coastal Reserve in Port Fairy offers scenic walking trails, near-secluded beaches, and is home to over 20 shorebird species.
For whale watching enthusiasts, the Logan Beach platform in Warrnambool is the best spot to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. From May to September, boat tours can be booked in Port Fairy to get close to migrating whales.
Art and Culture
McLaren Vale, the final stop before Adelaide, is known for its world-class vineyards, top-rated dining, and creative endeavors. The Shiraz Trail, an 8km bike or walking route, passes wineries and cafes, offering a taste of the region's finest produce. McLaren Vale is also home to a diverse art scene with galleries and shows often amid the vines.
Scenic Drives and Hiking
For avid hikers, the Great Ocean Walk is a 104 km walking trail starting from Apollo Bay and ending at the Twelve Apostles. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, staying overnight in coastal towns like Apollo Bay allows for a relaxed exploration of the area.
Final Destination: Adelaide
Before reaching Adelaide, you'll pass through the Grampians National Park, known for its lush mountain ranges, gushing falls, and Aboriginal rock art. Victor Harbor, located on the Fleurieu Peninsula, offers craggy cliffs, broad beaches, and wildlife encounters such as swimming with southern bluefin tuna and meeting penguins and sea lions on Granite Island.
Getting There and Back
From McLaren Vale, it takes 45 minutes to reach Adelaide. The distance from Warrnambool to Port Fairy is 29km and the travel time is 30 minutes. The distance from Port Fairy to Naracoorte Caves is 235km and the travel time is 2 hours 40 minutes. The distance from Naracoorte Caves to Victor Harbor is 363km and the travel time is 4 hours.
Safety First
Before embarking on your road trip, it's recommended to have Emergency Roadside Assistance. With its combination of vibrant coastal towns, scenic drives with cliffside views, iconic natural landmarks, and access to hiking and national parks, this itinerary is a highly recommended choice for a Melbourne to Adelaide coastal road trip.
Experience the charm of Apollo Bay, a delightful stopover between Torquay and Port Campbell, offering white sand beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, as well as serving as a gateway to the Otway Ranges and Cape Otway for breathtaking lookouts.
As you delve deeper into your journey, don't miss the opportunity to embark on a scenic drive from Port Fairy to McLaren Vale, a final leg of your trip that showcases the region's world-class vineyards, top-rated dining, and vibrant art scene, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a seamless blend of lifestyle and culture.
