A Guide to the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour in Kennett River, Melbourne

Encompassing stunning roadscapes, historical sites, and exciting wildlife, the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour in Kennett River, Melbourne is one of Australia’s great adventures. Of course, with so much to see and do, you’ll want to start off with a plan to ensure you explore all the must-see attractions. Read on for our comprehensive guide to the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour in Kennett River, Melbourne, including stops and must-see attractions.

What Is the Great Ocean Road?

The Great Ocean Road is an incredibly scenic stretch of road that winds along the Victoria coastline from Allansford, near Warrnambool on the South Australian border, to Skenes Creek in the west. Spanning 243 kilometers (151 miles), it is Australia’s longest war memorial dedicated to fallen WWI soldiers. Completed in 1932, it is also Australia’s first sealed road.

The Best Stops Along the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour

From Allansford near Warrnambool, to Skenes Creek in the west of Victoria, the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour offers something for everyone. Here is a list of the top attractions to look out for:

1. Twelve Apostles

No visit to the Great Ocean Road would be complete without seeing the Twelve Apostles. Situated off the mainland in a rocky coastal area known as Port Campbell National Park, these giant limestone stacks were formed by relentless sea erosion over thousands of years. Visit early in the morning or at sunset for the best views.

2. Loch Ard Gorge

Just a short distance from the Twelve Apostles is the breathtaking Loch Ard Gorge. Named after a shipwreck from 1878, the gorge which has sheer sandstone cliffs, bubbling surf and clear blue waters is a picturesque mix of natural beauty and breath-taking tragedy.

3. Phillip Island Nature Park

Phillip Island Nature Park is an iconic destination just off Melbourne’s south eastern coast where you can observe wild Australian fur seals. Guided tours allow up close encounters with these creatures in their natural environment and are recommended for an immersive wildlife experience.

4. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

For those wanting a closer interaction with Australia’s unique flora and fauna, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a must stop. Home to over 140 species of birds and double this number of animal species, the reserve has been operating since 1963, offering visitors guided walks, interactive Aboriginal cultural experiences, and picnic areas in a safe and secure environment.

5. Cape Otway Lightstation

For history buffs, Cape Otway Lightstation is an absolute must-stop attraction on the Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour. Built in 1848, it is Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse providing a glimpse into how life was for its first lightstation keeper Johner Fuller and his family. The guided tours offer insights into the roles of lightkeepers before automation as well as stunning views of the cape itself.

Getting Around – How to Access Each Tour Stop

Getting around the Great Ocean Road needn’t take up too much time or be complicated if you plan it right. With car hire or your own vehicle already arranged, you’ll be able to access each tour stop with ease. Just make sure you have enough petrol or charge in your electric vehicles to cover the route; distances between stops range from mild to quite significant. Take note also that some roads are single lane and usually windy, so care needs to be taken when approaching blind curves – although this just adds to the adventure! An alternative could be to book a tour that runs from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road and back, allowing more time to take in the sights without having to worry about navigation or logistics. Many tour companies offer itineraries tailored according to visitor preferences; some come with add-on activities such as animal sightings and whale watching too. Check them out here. Of course, for those who prefer DIY touring, finding each attraction can be fairly easy; most of them can be accessed from the main road via turn offs. When booking accommodation, do note that most of the above locations are fairly far apart from each other and will require multiple nights away from a base city like Melbourne or Warrnambool. Further driving times may be required if you wish to explore places such as Warrnambool or transit via Adelaide or Canberra en route back to Melbourne – great for those wanting to extend their adventure or have a few additional stops along the way. Heading back via coastal routes can be quite relaxing too as well as being scenic!

What To Pack

Planning what you need to bring on your travels along the Great Ocean Road will depend on many factors; these include where you’re staying and careful consideration of the type of activities you might do along the way such as wildlife spotting, swimming and walking trails – all of which require their own range of clothing and gear. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sunscreen
• Hat and/or sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Comfortable walking shoes/boots (and sandals if swimming!)
• Sufficient clothing for temperature changes
• Camera/smartphone
• Jacket for those chillier early morning starts
• Picnic blanket

Remember also that accommodation varies from luxury resorts to camping – each requiring their own range of items – do make sure to check what you need prior to booking. Furthermore, mobile reception can be quite sparse depending on where you stop along your journey so stock up on water and snack supplies accordingly before starting out lest your find yourself stranded in an isolated area with just your snack bars for company!

Conclusion

The Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Tour is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most celebrated experiences offering a blend of natural wonderment with historical tales from bygone eras alongside memorable wildlife sightings that will leave a lasting impression on all who partake -highly recommended! For those who prefer to take it easy and full advantage of everything available along each stop while being guided and informed throughout, booking an organised tour is an option worth considering Book your tour now!. With careful navigation mixed with a few surprises this incredible journey is an experience not soon forgotten and well worth every moment spent on it.