Why is the Great Ocean Road so popular? Well first, it is FREE! It offers free gorgeous scenery and free interesting attractions! It also is part of any decent to-do list for travellers in Australia. Amongst the attractions: The 12 Apostles, Cape Otway, Bells Beach and the many small towns by the side of the road.

The famous road is a 273 km long road that stretches from Warrnambool to Torquay, about 60 km southwest of Melbourne. It is a possible day trip from Melbourne but it is also nice to take an extra day to travel back inland and admire the different view. Although it only has a few windy sections, the Great Ocean Road has one line each way, slow speed limits and so there can be quite a bit of traffic, especially during the busier December to February period.

The 12 Apostles

 It used to be called “Sow and Piglets” and it used to have 9 limestones, so its current name cannot be clearly explained but nevertheless, it is one of the most famous views in Australia.  The 9th limestone crumbled on itself just 5 years ago, leaving 8 “Apostles” that can be admired from the many viewpoints off the cliff-top trail.

Cape Otway

Excellent location for a picknik, it is situated in a national park and its lighthouse has been proudly looking over the cape since 1848.

Bells Beach

Simply one of the best surfing beaches of the country! It has been the host to a surf competition every Easter since 1961.

Small Towns

Last but not the least, there are many cute little towns, not overloaded with commercialism, where you can hang out and grab a bite to eat on the way.