Drive along this stunning stretch of coast past world-class surfing beaches, charming beachside villages, staggering cliffs and dense rainforest.
This is the ultimate self-drive destination; stop to snap the breathtaking views and sample the local cuisine. Visit the towering 12 Apostles geological site; wander Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and learn why this stretch is called the ‘Shipwreck Coast of Victoria’; catch some amazing waves at Bells Beach; or take in the marvellous views at Loch Ard Gorge.
Wildlife lovers will also find plenty to enjoy on this drive:
- koalas,
- kangaroos,
- seals and
- whales
can all be spotted along the way.
The Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is set inside an inactive volcano and offers amazing views as well as the opportunity to glimpse an array of Australian wildlife, including wallabies, emus, echidnas and native birds.
The drive starts in Torquay, Victoria, and ends in Port Fairy; you can drive down from Melbourne (via Geelong), or travel by ferry from Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula to Queenscliff. This amazing drive could also be part of a self-drive adventure between Melbourne and Adelaide.
Louise
Travel Specialist
Where to go in Australia
Australia travel information
When to visit Australia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best time
Good time
Ok time
- Time zone: +8 GMT
- Flight time: 17 hours - 23 hours
- Recommended airlines: British Airways, Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Airlines
- Currency: Australian Dollar
- Tipping guideline: Optional, but not expected
- Health considerations: No major health risks. There is no risk of yellow fever in Australia, however, yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Capital: Canberra
- Population: 26,699,482
- National languages: English
- Electricity and plugs: Type I (V), 230V
- Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage
- UK passport visa requirements: You need a visa for Australia if you have a British passport - apply online
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