1. General Questions & Planning
Why is the Great Ocean Road so famous?
It’s one of the world’s most iconic coastal drives. Stretching over 240 km, it combines beaches, cliffs, rainforest and charming towns, with landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
How many days do I need?
A day trip is possible but rushed. Two to three nights is ideal, with time to explore towns, rainforest and coastal walks. With more days, you can combine it with the Grampians or Mornington Peninsula.
When is the best time to visit?
- Summer (Dec–Feb): warm beach days, busiest with crowds.
- Autumn (Mar–May): mild, colourful, harvest season inland.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): wild seas, whales offshore, cosy lodges.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): wildflowers, fresh produce, quieter roads.
Can I drive it in one day?
Yes, but it means 9–12 hours in the car. A private guide makes it smooth, but an overnight stay or more is far more rewarding.
Do I need insider help?
Yes if you want to avoid crowds and access the hidden gems—exclusive wildlife encounters, private farmgate meals, and timing the icons for quiet moments.
2. Food, Wine & Stays
What are the best food and wine experiences?
- Local seafood straight from the ocean.
- Cool-climate wineries in the hinterland.
- Farmgate dining with chefs and distillers.
- Hidden craft breweries, bakeries and providores.
We arrange private tastings, vineyard lunches, and fireside meals with local chefs.
Where should I stay for true luxury?
- Drift House (Port Fairy) — design-led boutique.
- Anchors Port Campbell — villas with sea and farm views.
- Private retreats — secluded villas with chef-prepared dining.
- RACV Torquay Resort — contemporary comfort at the start of the road.
3. Things to Do & See
What are the must-see attractions?
- Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge — dramatic limestone icons.
- Otway Rainforest — waterfalls, giant ferns, treetop walks.
- Bells Beach — legendary surf.
- Seaside towns — Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Fairy.
What are the best short walks?
- Maits Rest — rainforest loop.
- Great Ocean Walk (sections) — clifftop trails with sweeping sea views.
- Kennett River — koalas in the wild.
- Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve — volcanic crater teeming with wildlife.
What are the best lookouts, and how do I escape the crowds?
- Teddy’s Lookout (Lorne) — panoramic river and ocean views.
- Castle Cove Lookout — dramatic, quiet coastal outlook.
- Gibson Steps — descend to the beach below the Apostles.
- The Grotto — sinkhole with framed ocean views.
- Hopetoun & Beauchamp Falls — rainforest cascades away from crowds.
We arrange sunrise or sunset access, or aerial viewing by helicopter, for near solitude at the icons.
What are the best active adventures?
- Surfing lessons at Bells or secret breaks.
- Guided hikes on the Great Ocean Walk.
- Kayaking with seals at Apollo Bay.
- Mountain biking in the Otways.
- Whale watching in Warrnambool.
4. Nature & Wildlife
Where can I see wildlife?
- Lake Elizabeth (Otways) — kayak at dawn/dusk for platypus and glow worms.
- Koalas — in Kennett River and Cape Otway forests.
- Kangaroos — near Anglesea golf course.
- Whales — off Warrnambool in winter.
- Echidnas & wallabies — in the Otways.
Are there unique or private experiences?
Yes. From conservationist-led wildlife encounters to seaside picnics, Indigenous-led walks, and farm-to-table meals, we create ways to experience the Great Ocean Road beyond the standard itinerary.
Plan Your Journey
The Great Ocean Road is iconic, but in the right hands it becomes extraordinary. Speak to us about creating a private journey tailored to your time, pace and passions.
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