The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Melbourne. It is a 243-kilometer stretch of road that runs along the coast of the state of Victoria, providing breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean and some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks.
One question that often arises when planning a trip to the Great Ocean Road is whether it is possible to do it as a day trip. The short answer is yes, it is possible to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip, but there are some things you need to consider before embarking on this adventure.
Why do people consider doing the Great Ocean Road as a day trip?
There are many reasons why someone would want to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip. Some people have limited time in Melbourne and want to see as much as possible in one day. Others may not be interested in spending multiple days on the road and prefer to get it done in one go.
What are some things you need to consider before doing the Great Ocean Road as a day trip?
While it is possible to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip, there are some things you need to consider before embarking on this journey.
1. The distance: The entire route from Melbourne to Warrnambool (the end point of the Great Ocean Road) is around 280 km, which means you will be spending around 5-6 hours driving time alone. This can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to driving long distances.
2. The sights: The Great Ocean Road has many iconic landmarks that you should stop and see, such as The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. If you want to see all these sights properly without feeling rushed, it’s recommended that you take at least two days to do the drive.
3. The weather: The weather can be unpredictable along the Great Ocean Road, and if it’s raining or foggy, it may not be safe to drive. It’s important to check the weather forecast before embarking on this journey.
What is the best way to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip?
If you have decided to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip, there are some things you can do to make it more manageable. Plan your route: Plan your route before you leave and mark out the places you want to see. This will help you stay on track and avoid getting lost. Start early: Start your journey early in the morning so that you have enough time to see all the sights without feeling rushed. Take breaks: Take regular breaks along the way. This will help prevent fatigue and keep you alert while driving.
4. Pack snacks and water: Bring snacks and water with you so that you don’t need to stop for food along the way.
5. Avoid peak times: If possible, avoid traveling on weekends or during peak tourist season (December-January) when there is likely to be more traffic on the road.
The bottom line
In conclusion, while it is possible to do the Great Ocean Road as a day trip, it’s important to consider all of these factors before embarking on this journey. If time is limited and you want to see as much as possible in one day, then planning ahead, starting early, taking breaks, packing snacks and water, and avoiding peak times can make all the difference in making your trip enjoyable and memorable!