Australia

Adelaide to Melbourne

Great Ocean Road adventure

Distance

910 km (565 miles) via Great Ocean Road

Duration

10-11 hours direct, 3-5 days scenic

Best Time

October to April

Route

Adelaide, SAMelbourne, VIC

About This Drive

The drive from Adelaide to Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road is Australia's ultimate coastal journey. Start in the wine regions of South Australia, cross into Victoria, and finish along one of the world's most scenic coastal roads—featuring the famous Twelve Apostles limestone stacks.

Stops Along the Way

1

Coorong National Park

180 km from start

Coastal lagoon system with incredible birdlife

2

Mount Gambier Blue Lake

450 km from start

Volcanic crater lake that turns vivid blue in summer

3

Port Campbell

700 km from start

Gateway to the Twelve Apostles

4

Twelve Apostles

720 km from start

Iconic limestone stacks rising from Southern Ocean

5

Lorne

850 km from start

Charming beach town with rainforest waterfalls

Driving Tips

  • 1

    Drive west to east on Great Ocean Road for ocean-side views

  • 2

    The Twelve Apostles are best at sunrise or sunset

  • 3

    Stop at London Bridge and Loch Ard Gorge near the Apostles

  • 4

    Great Otway National Park offers stunning rainforest walks

  • 5

    Book accommodation in Lorne or Apollo Bay in advance

Alternate Routes

  • Western Highway direct (8 hours)

  • Great Ocean Road coastal route

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