Beautiful views, cliffs, and the Twelve Apostles make the Great Ocean Road one of Australia's most renowned coastal drives. Instead of leaving Melbourne and heading west, a reverse itinerary trip does the opposite. A trip inland avoids the crowd and ends with a breathtaking seaside drive that gives a new perspective on this natural gem. A Melbourne Great Ocean Road reverse itinerary tour's highlights and experiences are covered in this article.
Starting from Melbourne's Hinterland:
The reverse Great Ocean Road trip from Melbourne heads inland into Victoria's beautiful heartland. With its old buildings and beautiful scenery, Colac is generally the first visit. Enjoy a leisurely morning tea while strolling the small town's charming streets.
The Otway Ranges, a verdant jungle with eucalyptus aroma, awaits you. Visit the Otway Fly Treetop Walk to walk along suspended walkways above the forest floor. You may see nature, local species, and the Australian outback from a unique viewpoint.
Discovering the Loch Ard Gorge and Shipwreck Coast:
After the food, the reverse itinerary trip rejoins the Great Ocean Road and visits Loch Ard Gorge. This natural marvel showcases Australia's rough coastline with towering cliffs and carved rock formations. The site's emotional history includes the Loch Ard shipwreck and its two survivors.
The Twelve Apostles, the centerpiece of every Great Ocean Road trip, are a short drive away. See magnificent limestone pillars rise from the Southern Ocean in majesty. Sunrise and sunset at this place are spectacular, allowing you to photograph the Twelve Apostles in varied colors and moods.
Chasing Sunsets at Gibson Steps:
The reverse itinerary excursion lets you chase sunsets at Gibson Steps, another Great Ocean Road landmark. The natural sandstone cliffs and "Gog" monolith provide a spectacular sunset background. This site is ideal for photographers and romantics, producing stunning images.
Wildlife Encounters at Tower Hill Reserve:
Tower Hill Reserve is another highlight of the reverse Great Ocean Road journey. The verdant environs of this dormant volcano-formed wildlife sanctuary are home to various species. While exploring the reserve, look for kangaroos, emus, koalas, and birds. Tower Hill lets you see and photograph Australia's native animals.
Nurturing Mind and Body at the Peninsula Hot Springs:
The reverse itinerary trip ends in Peninsula Hot Springs on the Mornington Peninsula, a short drive from Melbourne. This quiet retreat is known for its geothermal baths in beautiful gardens and natural scenery. Relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters in this peaceful location. Spa and wellness services like massages and facials at Peninsula Hot Springs enable you to rest before returning to Melbourne. It's a great way to end your Great Ocean Road trip and prepare for the city.
Practical Information for the Reverse Great Ocean Road Tour:
Before starting your reverse Great Ocean Road excursion, prepare for a pleasant ride. First, choose a reliable Melbourne reverse itinerary Great Ocean Road travel provider. Look for operators with good ratings and skilled guides to improve your experience.
The trip usually lasts one to three days, depending on the route and stops. Choose a tour length that fits your schedule. Pack clothes for different weather, comfortable shoes for walking, and a camera to record the gorgeous view. Tour packages typically include accommodation, so you know its kind, location, and suitability. Tell the tour operator about your dietary restrictions, especially if you have special requirements. To enjoy all the tour's activities and views, be prompt and follow the timetable and meeting spots. Finally, plan your reverse Great Ocean Road trip, particularly during high tourist seasons, to ensure a smooth experience.
Scenic Stops Along the Hinterland Drive:
The hinterland drive at the start of your reverse Great Ocean Road journey is frequently ignored. You'll see peaceful panoramas and attractive settlements through the lush countryside and rolling hills. Stop at Apollo Bay, a gorgeous seaside village, to stretch your legs, eat fresh seafood, and sample local craft items.
Birregurra has a lovely art scene where you can see local artists' work. The Otway Ranges provide woodland hikes amid lush vegetation and incredible summer retreats. Before heading to the seaside, these less-visited sites let you experience the region's rural beauty and quiet.
Culinary Delights on the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail:
Discover local flavors on the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail. Enjoy farm-fresh veggies, artisanal cheese, handcrafted chocolates, and fine wines. The path showcases the area's rich culinary culture and supports local producers.
Enjoy homemade ice cream, gourmet pies, and whisky sampling at Timboon Railway Shed Distillery in this gastronomic town. Cheese lovers can visit Apostle Whey Cheese to try their homemade cheeses. The 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail enhances your Great Ocean Road experience, whether you're a gourmet or just like fresh, local cuisine.
Sunset Magic at Iconic Locations:
The reverse route lets you see the famous sunsets at various spots on the Great Ocean Road. The Twelve Apostles in the sunset sun's golden light are stunning. Seeing the limestone stacks change color and produce lengthy shadows is unforgettable.
Gibson Steps also offers stunning sunsets. The sandstone cliffs and immense beach shine as the sun sets over the Southern Ocean. An intimate and magnificent encounter gives a new perspective on the coast's natural beauties.
Capturing Memories: Photography Tips:
Photography buffs will love the reverse Great Ocean Road trip. Here are some photographic strategies to capture the gorgeous environment. First, dawn and sunset lighting are great for dramatic photos. Visit renowned places at these hours for optimum outcomes.
If you want to catch sea motion with long exposures, use a tripod. Wide-angle lenses are great for coastline views, while telephoto lenses are suitable for details. Try various perspectives and compositions to make your images stand out.
Preparing for Wildlife Encounters:
On the Great Ocean Road, you may see natural animals. The area is home to kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and many birds. Bring binoculars for bird gazing and close-up animal observation to maximize these wildlife encounters. Keep your distance to prevent upsetting the animals. To acquire clear, detailed wildlife photos, get a telephoto lens. Keep an eye out and your camera ready for unexpected animal encounters that enhance your trip.
Conclusion:
The reverse Great Ocean Road route from Melbourne gives a new perspective on one of Australia's most famous road journeys. It lets you experience Victoria's hinterland, coastal scenery, culture, and cuisine. You'll find hidden jewels, exquisite delicacies, and calm reserves on this unusual adventure.
This voyage is about enjoying the Great Ocean Road's numerous experiences and not simply reaching the Twelve Apostles. The reverse itinerary tour of Victoria's southern coastline is a fantastic experience for anyone interested in natural marvels, gourmet delights, or wellness retreats.
