The Great Ocean Road is one of the most spectacular scenic ocean drives in the world, with impressive natural formations such as the Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and the famous Twelve Apostles (as pictured below) taking the spotlight.  The Great Ocean Road is second only to the City of Melbourne for being the most visited region in Victoria.   

History of the Great Ocean Road

In 1864 the State of Victoria identified the need for a road along the south-west coastline, however, the idea was not to be initiated until 1914, with the creation of The Great Ocean Road Corridor Strategy.  The planning process lasted from 1914 until 1918.   In 1918 surveys of the area were completed, and construction began in 1919 employing returned servicemen from the First World War.  

The official Great Ocean Road was opened in Lorne on November 26, 1932 by Lt. Governor Sir William Hill Irvine.  From 1932 to 1936, the Great Ocean Road was a toll road, with vehicles stopping at the Fairhaven toll gate.  Fares were 2 shillings and 6 pence per car and driver, and 1 shilling and 6 pence for each additional passenger. 

For more information on the ongoing Great Ocean Road Corridor Strategy or to view original photographs of the Great Ocean Road, please visit the Great Ocean Road Corridor Strategy official website.

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Distances

Melbourne to Geelong - 75 km
Geelong to Queenscliff - 30 km
Queenscliff to Anglesea - 54 km
Anglesea to Lorne - 28 km
Lorne to Apollo Bay - 45 km
Apollo Bay to Port Campbell - 103 km
Port Campbell to Warrnambool - 66 km
Warrnambool to Port Fairy - 29 km

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