Great Ocean Road 2

Marking halfway into the journey, Mount Gambier welcomes you to South Australia. Here you’ll discover some natural wonders such as the Blue Lake which turns a vivid blue colour during the summer months or marvel at the Umpherston Sinkhole. For the adventurous, snorkel the crystal clear waters of the Piccaninnie Ponds which have been filtering through the limestone over thousands of years.

Continuing along the Princess Highway towards Portland and Port Fairy, where the Warrnambool Coastal Park begins. The rest of the day is available to visit the most famous stretch of coast in Australia: you will first encounter the London Bridge, The Arch, and Sentinel Rock. Arrive in Port Campbell in the evening. (Approximately 250km/3.5 hours). Stop off at Port Campbell during your Great Ocean Road journey and admire the spectacular coastal scenery, including Port Campbell National Park and the mighty 12 Apostles. A colourful and lively seaside village, Port Campbell is home to restaurants and cafes with views of the beach, bakeries selling homemade goodies, and plenty of vibrant shops and galleries to explore. Sheltered by cliffs and Norfolk pines, the town has the atmosphere of a safe haven on the edge of wild nature. Finish the day with a walk out to the Port Campbell Jetty and watch the waves crashing against the limestone cliffs. You are here to look at the towering 12 Apostles, the dramatic limestone stacks that have made the region famous. But be sure to leave time to check out some of the other coastal features in the area. Discover the eerie beach at Loch Ard Gorge, walk down the 70-metre cliff face via the Gibson Steps, and look out over the serene Bay of Islands. And bring your camera to capture the unique rock formations at London Bridge, The Arch and The Grotto. Two Mile Bay is revered by surfers as one of the best big-wave breaks in Australia. Make your way north of the coast on the Kanawinka Geotrail and explore the lush green farmland peppered with volcanic lakes and craters. Sip, sample and savour the region's bounty along the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail. Take an afternoon cruise and pick up a basketful of regional cheeses, wines, chocolates, ice-cream and fresh berries. Round out the tour with a sip of whiskey or sweet liqueur from Timboon's finest.

The visit to the Great Ocean Road continues with Loch Ard Gorge and the famous 12 Apostles. Stop at Otway National Park and, after passing Lorne, arrive at Queenscliff and board the ferry to Sorrento, departures every hour from 08.00 to 18.00 (not included). Continue along the Mornington Peninsula to the overnight location. (Approximately 280km / 4.5 hours + ferry). The Mornington Peninsula offers a pleasant refuge from city traffic and stress. Beautiful beaches, vineyards, national parks, hot springs, and nature walks are all available. The inland area is home to over 50 wineries, many of which are renowned for both their wines and their refined restaurants with views of vineyards, gentle hills, and lakes. The coastline between Mount Martha, Dromana, Rosebud, and Portsea is crowded with colorful cabins that have become iconic. The beaches on the other side of the peninsula are frequented by winds known as the "Roaring Forties," which create waves suitable for surfers. For pampering, the ideal place is the Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria's first natural hot springs and daytime wellness center.