So, you’ve made it to Melbourne. With so much to see and do in this iconic city, it can be easy to miss out on hitting the Great Ocean Road – but you shouldn’t! Visit the team at East Coast Car Rentals to sort out all of your car hire Melbourne needs, pack the essentials and get set to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
For all of the things not to miss on this once in a lifetime road trip, print off this list and prepare to get tick happy!
The Memorial Arch
There’s no better way to embark on your awesome roadie than with a cheesy, touristy shot underneath the official starting spot – the Memorial Arch. The iconic sign is made up of timber, stone and cement, and is a tribute to the World War One servicemen who built the Great Ocean Road. Stop in the designated car park, just before the arch, and wait for a clear path before attempting your selfie shot.
Jan 19, 2017 at 7:07pm PST
Lorne
79 per cent of visitors say the top activity to do on the Great Ocean Road was general sightseeing, with 72 per cent agreeing that Lorne Pier was the number one attraction, according to a recent Tourism Research Australia study. One of the best places to watch migrating whales between May and September, stroll along the pier and get your cameras at the ready.
Not only is Lorne a great maritime hotspot, it’s also a colourful community of culture. Playing host to the ever-popular Lorne Festival of The Performing Arts and Falls Festival, this charming seaside town certainly knows how to have a good time. Join the fun and be sure to stop off at this must-see spot.
One of the best places to watch migrating whales between May and September.
Kennett River
One standout reason why booking your car rental in the Melbourne Airport was totally worth it, is a visit to Kennett River. Unlike any river you may have seen before, this spot, south of Lorne is home to one of Australia’s most loved species – the koala.
Park your car at the nearby cafe and simply follow the other tourists gazing into the gum trees. Watch as the cuddly creatures snooze, climb and sit calmly for photographs as they chomp their way through an average of half a kilogram of leaves per day! A much more authentic experience than seeing them in a zoo, finding koalas in the wild is a true Aussie experience you’ll never forget.
Apr 9, 2017 at 2:49pm PDT
Apollo Bay
Stopping off in the picturesque village of Apollo Bay is a Great Ocean Road must-do. With a great focus on the big blue, head out on a deep-sea fishing excursion, take a dip if you dare and be sure to sign up for a kayak tour – you won’t be forgetting it any time soon. As well as time spent paddling in the ocean, Apollo Bay’s kayak tours also give you the opportunity to get up close to the seal colonies that reside here. A fun time is to be had all round as you join these playful creatures in their beautiful, natural habitat.
The 12 Apostles
The 12 Apostles are a Great Ocean Road icon. What started out as 12 limestone pillars standing proud in the ocean is now eight equally impressive natural monuments. Once connected to the neighbouring cliffs, these 45-metre-tall pillars separated due to the wind and waves, eventually becoming individual crumbling columns. Beat the crowds and arrive at sunrise for an unforgettable photo opportunity, or visit at dusk to watch the sun set behind these golden wonders.
Loch Ard Gorge
Just a three-minute-drive from the 12 Apostles lies the historical hotspot of Loch Ard Gorge. Situated in Port Campbell National Park and with an epic story to its name, this must-see stop off is beyond beautiful. Surrounded by two towering limestone cliffs, you can effortlessly find a spotless, sandy bay and an inlet of clear, calm water at this picture-perfect spot. Spend time strolling the beach, learning about the shipwreck that washed ashore in 1878 and wandering the various trails that span the area. Visit the blowhole and thunder cave, and if you have the time, wait until dusk to watch the short-tailed shearwater birds fly home. And hey, you’ll be glad you booked that awesome car rental in Melbourne for moments like these!
Join the growing number of people visiting Great Ocean Road for an unforgettable Australian experience. With so much to see and do, get ready to make some memories to last a lifetime. For low rates and a great range of vehicles to get you on your way, call the team at East Coast Car Rentals for the best car hire in Melbourne.