Adelaide to Melbourne: Great Ocean Road self drive

Itinerary in brief:

• 1 night Adelaide
• 1 night Mount Gambier
• 1 night Port Fairy
• 1 night Apollo Bay
• 3 nights Melbourne

Day 1: Arrive Adelaide

On arrival into Adelaide, you will collect your rental car and head to your hotel for the night, the rest of the afternoon is yours to explore this laidback city.

Head down to Glenelg, Adelaide’s beach spot, and enjoy some lunch, take a stroll around the shops or walk to the end of the pier to enjoy lovely views across the ocean.

Day 2: Adelaide to Mount Gambier

We recommend an early start today as you make the 4.5-hour journey to Mount Gambier.

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, head to the Blue Lake with its watercolours that change depending on the season or visit the top of centenary towers to get the best scenic views of the surrounding city & landscape.       

Day 3: Mount Gambier to Port Fairy

You have an almost 2-hour drive to Port Fairy today so leave Mount Gambier at your leisure. After checking into your hotel in Port Fairy you have the afternoon free to explore the town, visit the port to witness the local fisherman unloading their catch or take a stroll around the arts & crafts shops scattered throughout the town.

Day 4: Port Fairy to Apollo Bay

After breakfast this morning, its time to move onto your next destination, Apollo Bay, a 2.5-hour drive away. It’s up to you how you time your drive today, the Twelve Apostles are located along the route approximately an hour from Apollo Bay, these iconic rocks are an amazing place to stop and take some pictures and are even more special at sunset! We recommend avoiding the middle of the day as this is when crowds are at their peak.

Days 5: Apollo Bay to Melbourne

You have your final driving day today, a 2.5-hour journey to your final destination, Melbourne. On arrival drop your car off at the downtown depot before heading to your hotel, located in the city.       

Days 6 & 7: Melbourne

You now have two full days to explore Melbourne, take the tram to the beachside town of St. Kilda to sample local craft beers, drool over the array of boutique cake shops or relax in one of the beachside restaurants and cafes. Take a ride up the Eureka Sky deck in Melbourne city to experience uninterrupted 360-degree views of the skyline, you can even enjoy a cocktail at the top!       

We've included an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This area is culturally significant to the Kulin Nation, the local tribe and a First Nations guide will take you on a journey through rich history and thriving culture to discover the native plants in the Gardens. Learn about the traditional plant use and ongoing connections to Country.

Day 8: Depart Melbourne

Check out of your hotel this morning to carry on with your travel plans. If you need any assistance or ideas on where to head next, speak to your consultant who will be happy to make some suggestions.