Anyone who plans to visit Melbourne, Victoria should most definitely consider setting two or three days aside to explore the Costa Verde of Australia, the Great Ocean Road. This magnificent coastal tour combines spectacular Southern Ocean scenery, epic cliffs, towering rock formations, tranquil bays, intriguing coastal villages, lush rainforests, history-filled towns and pristine uncrowded beaches with fantastic surf.

The Great Ocean Road meanders its way along the breathtaking coastline of southwest Victoria, from Geelong in the east to Nelson in the west, with the area between Lorne and Apollo Bay being the most picturesque of the drive. Great Ocean Road is undoubtedly one of the world’s most memorable scenic coastal drives. It traverses a coastline that includes the world-famous Twelve Apostles rock formation, the Otways rainforest and Bells Beach on the Surf Coast. It also passes through coastal resort towns including Lorne, Torquay and Apollo Bay,  the coastal cities of Warrnambool and Geelong, and historic townships including Queenscliff, Port Campbell, Port Fairy and Portland.

There is ample opportunity to expand and extend a Great Ocean Road journey by detouring inland to visit the magnificent Grampians National Park and the Goldfields. Alternatively, travellers may continue across Victoria’s western border to South Australia for more stunning views. Taking the route to the wonderful Port Phillip Bay in the east also includes the Bellarine and Mornington peninsulas.

Here are some of the villages, towns at cities along the Great Ocean Road:

Portland
Population: 11, 000
Founded by the pioneering Henty brothers in 1834, Portland is home to more than 200 well-maintained heritage buildings and private residences. The Maritime Discovery Centre is a popular place for tourists to gain an insight into Portland’s long history on the sea. Anglers will also be in heaven in Portland, with the range of fish in the area including rarities such as the King George whiting, snapper, tuna and flathead.

Apollo Bay
Population: 2, 000
Characterised by its white, crescent-shaped swimming beach, Apollo Bay has the undulating green Otway hills as a backdrop to its pristine lands. The relaxed lifestyle, waterfalls, national and state parks are just an added bonus. The beach is active all year long and outdoor activities are in abundance, including kayaking, deep-sea fishing and horseback riding along the sands.

Anglesea
Population: 2, 500
A favourite Great Ocean Road stop for many weary travellers looking to reside for the evening, Anglesea is small but packed full of intrigue. With great beaches, bushland, wildlife and stunning coastal scenery, it is perfect for swimming, surfing and relaxing. Anglesea is located on a wide sandy expanse behind the Anglesea River, making it a great place to explore on foot. Visitors are invited to take the 35 kilometre Surf Coast Walk trek through the township and along the coast.

Torquay
Population: 3, 670
Being a major holiday resort town and Victoria’s surfing capital, Torquay is the epitome of Victorian beach-based culture. The Surfworld Museum in Torquay also captures the spirit of surfing in a variety of multimedia and hands-on displays. Famous surf beaches in the region include Jan Juc and Bells Beach, famous as the venue for the Rip Curl Pro held every Easter, one of the most sought after titles on the Surfing World Championship Tour.

Lorne
Population: 1, 170
With postcard-perfect scenery, Lorne has a distinct Mediterranean atmosphere that has been attracting visitors for over a century. Located between Loutit Bay and the cool Otway ranges, this beautiful coastal town has charm that is difficult to beat. Mild weather, a thriving café culture, and a range of shops, boutiques and galleries make Lorne one of the Great Ocean Road’s most popular holiday destinations.

Warrnambool
Population: 29, 500
Nestled into the coast amid green countryside and overlooking the deep blue of the Southern Ocean, Warrnambool has a long and colourful history linked with the sea. The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum provides a fascinating insight into the early life of the city, and includes original buildings, a lighthouse and a recreated port complete with ships.

Port Fairy
Population: 2, 600
Port Fairy is a charming old fishing village with wide streets lined by old stone churches, boarding houses, 19th century cottages, inns and imposing Norfolk pines. Many fine examples of 19th century architecture are found as well as more than 50 buildings classified by the National Trust.