Castaway with Crystal

Great Ocean Road Route for First-Time Caravan Adventurers

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

  • 22 October, 2017

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Great Ocean Road by Campervan: The only way to do it!

The Great Ocean Road route or the drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is one of the world’s most scenic drives where you are treated with the fantastic coastline, nearby national parks, and hidden gems just waiting to be found.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

The Great Ocean Road is exactly 243 kilometres (or 151 miles) long. It takes at least 3 whole days, but you may extend it if you want to immerse yourself more in the experience. You may travel anytime, but winter may be too cold, so it’s your call.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Heading West Along the Coast to Adelaide

Grab an informational brochure before heading to the Great Ocean Road. Here’s a link to a downloadable brochure .

The Australian Heritage stops include the following in order:

⚑ Melbourne

As your journey’s precursor, experience the vibrant city of Melbourne: go shopping, eat at fantastic restaurants, and enjoy Victorian markets.

READ:   Guide to Melbourne

Your first stop will be in Torquay, the first town you’ll encounter. The place is a famous surfing spot and is also where the Rip Pro Curl surfing contest is held yearly in Easter.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

⚑ Bells Beach

Found on the outskirts of Torquay, Bells Beach is where the world’s top surfers go to take on waves of up to five metres. Bells Beach features two right-hand breaks for intermediate and advanced surfers. The waves are virtually sure to be good, particularly from March to October.

Unwind or relax in the seaside town of Lorne for a bit. This quiet town fascinates tourists for more than a century with its soothing Mediterranean feel and pleasant scenery. Cool off in the sparkling waters of Loutit Bay or walk up to Shelley Beach to explore the rock pools. 

⚑ Kennett River

Kennett River is where you go to see wild koalas in their natural habitat. You may be lucky enough to spot them chilling in the trees while you eat lunch. It’s also a campground so it’s a nice spot for a bathroom break.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Located just ten minutes west of Torquay on the Great Ocean Road, this old-world surf town is a picture-perfect spot for natural adventures. Here you’ll find towering cliffs and expansive white beaches to rich flora, native wildlife and shore walking trails, Anglesea is truly a majestic experience by the water.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

⚑ Triplet falls

Triplet Falls is one of the most iconic visitor sites in the Great Otway National Park. Located among the ancient forests of Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beach, you will find three distinct and remarkable cascades flowing through shaded rainforests and clearings of mossy tree ferns.

⚑ Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay is a delightful coastal town jam-packed with restaurants and local shops along the bay. You will encounter pop up markets and you will discover amazing seafood here. It’s the picture-perfect pit stop or place to stay for the night.

READ: Planning Your 3-Week Itinerary for Australia

⚑ Gibson steps

Here you’ll be dwarfed by the 70-metre high vertical cliffs and marvel at Gog and Magog, the nicknames given to the massive limestone stacks rising up out of the sea. Visit the beach via the 86 steps that were engraved into the face of the cliff by local settler Hugh Gibson.

⚑ Loch Ard Gorge

The Loch Ard Gorge is definitely one of the most-visited stop-off points along the Great Ocean Road. It’s nestled in the Port Campbell National Park, plus it’s only three minutes from the world-famous…

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

⚑ The Twelve Apostles

The rugged splendour of the famous 12 Apostles is a magnificent sight to behold. This wonder is naturally created by constant erosion of the limestone cliffs of the mainland around 10–20 million years ago. Take lots of pictures!

The Arch is a quick stop, it is a naturally formed archway from the rocks encircled by crashing waves.

⚑ Port Campbell – National Park

A lively and vibrant seaside village, Port Campbell is a great place to stop and experience restaurants and cafes with views of the beach, bakeries, and a plethora of exciting shops and galleries to discover.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

⚑ The Grotto

The Grotto is a fantastic place if you arrive during sunset or sunrise, where you can catch a sight of the Australian sun through the archway of the rock formation, where it mirrors gold and pink off the smooth rock pools inside. 

⚑ Bay of Islands

This subtropical micro-region is famous for its equally stunning beauty and history. If you love the beach and enjoy water activities, stop here – it’s a paradise for reals!

That’s it. Hey, if you want to make the most of your travel, you just have to visit all of these locations!

READ: A HUGE 6-Week Trip Itinerary for around Australia!

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

So How Do I Get a Campervan?

The Great Ocean Road isn’t the easiest of roads to drive on, especially if you’re not an experienced driver or the weather is poor. You’ll need a top-rated campervan that has good handling and has the features you need. Thankfully, you can quickly book a campervan online ahead of your planned trip.

Hiring a campervan is the perfect way to go as the campervan is usually packed with the essentials making it easy for you to jump in and drive away!

Campervan/caravan or motorhome rental days are usually charged on a per calendar day basis and the rental period is 5 days. However, may always extend it if you have the time and to maximise your stay.

Also, take note that demands are higher in Australia during the fourth quarter of the year, so secure a caravan for hire as soon as you made up your mind to avoid disappointment. 

Without a doubt, the Great Ocean Road route is an epic road trip and a fantastic opportunity to take in some of the best landscape and coastline Australia has to offer for first-timers. Stay safe out there and have fun!

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

READ: I’m totally loving these Road trip Quotes by Pretty Wild World

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

KIMPY OLIVAR

Kimpy Olivar is a freelance writer who enjoys travelling and road trips. He dreams of travelling the world and writing a book about it.

Have you ever dreamed of travelling Australia by caravan?

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

This post was written by a guest. Check out the bottom of the article for more information on the writer!

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Melbourne to Adelaide Fun 5-Day Road Trip

Looking for an epic road trip to do in Australia? Check out this 5-day journey from Melbourne to Adelaide! Starting in the cultural heart and soul of Victoria, this route winds its way from Melbourne, past the beauty of the Great Ocean Road, alongside the grandiose Umpherston Sinkhole in Mt Gambier, via the salty Pool Of Siloam and many other top Australian attractions, before finishing in the charming city oasis of Adelaide. Traversing over 1100 km in five days, this itinerary is full of beautiful scenery, top Australian attractions, and plenty of places to stop and eat along the way!

Whether you are backpacking in a campervan , solo travelling or simply just excited to try a little van life, this five-day adventure is the perfect Victoria to South Australia itinerary to experience it all. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

How long does it take to drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along the Great Ocean Road?

While a direct route may be slightly shorter, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, making it the perfect addition to this itinerary. The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along the Great Ocean Road takes about 10 hours. As such, if you want to really experience all that the Great Ocean Road has to offer, five days is the perfect amount of time to experience it all.

Melbourne to Adelaide

Best Time of the Year

All year round

  • Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre
  • Bells Beach
  • Umpherston Sink Hole
  • Coorong National Park

The Journey

Tourism Australia Image Gallery

Day 1 Melbourne to Lorne

Distance 141km - driving time 2 hours 15 minutes.

Once you have arrived in Melbourne, your first stop is to pick up your campervan from the Mighty Melbourne branch . There is plenty to see and do in Melbourne, so if you like, spend a few hours exploring the city before hitting the road. Then, it's time to head west! The first leg of your trip takes you along the Great Ocean Road to the seaside town of Lorne. This scenic drive is one of Australia's most popular, and for good reason. The first stop along the way is in Geelong for a wander and check out the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre , where you can learn about Aboriginal history in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Next up, make a little stop in Torquay. This charming little seaside town is best known for its laid-back charm, great eateries and the famed Bells Beach . While you’re here, be sure to jump in and enjoy the surf, or simply marvel at the surfers down below from the cliffside platforms - it's quite a sight. Once you’re back on the road, all that's left to do is to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along the first stretch of the Great Ocean Road. If you are still feeling energised once you arrive in Lorne, hit the beach for a paddle or head to Jebbs Pool Swimming hole for a dip. Then settle in at camp for the night.

Where to stay: Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park.

Day 2 Lorne to Port Fairy via the Great Ocean Road

Distance 230km - driving time 3 hours 35 minutes.

Wake up and grab a bite to eat at the popular Bottle of Milk cafe in Lorne. This little hole-in-the-wall offers a range of delectable breakfast options, from goat's cheese-stuffed mushrooms and pancake stacks to quick bites and coffee. Once you have had your fill, it’s time to get on the road. The first stop on the itinerary today is to explore the Great Otway National Park . Tucked away a little north of the coast, this stunning park is home to waterfalls, rainforests and plenty of wildlife. While here, be sure to stop by the iconic Redwoods Forest . This remarkable forest is filled with the world's tallest tree species - the Californian Redwoods - that tower at a staggering 60 meters above these fertile soils!

After a bite to eat for lunch, jump back in your campervan and wind back towards the coastline for the ultimate iconic Great Ocean Road stop: the 12 Apostles . These huge limestone stacks are a must-see in this region. Along this stretch, you will also find the infinite beauty of Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and Gibson Steps - all offering a unique angle and perspective of these precariously balanced rock formations.

End the afternoon by driving to Port Fairy. Here you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the wharf and check out the Griffiths Island Lighthouse before checking into your campsite for the night.

Where to stay when you arrive: Gardens Caravan Park.

Day 3 Port Fairy to Beachport

Distance 250km - driving time 2 hours 55 minutes.

After a restful night's sleep in your van, you'll be ready to hit the road again and continue your travels crossing into South Australia. After leaving Port Fairy, the next stop on your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is the quaint coastal town of Beachport. On the way, stop and stretch your legs in Mt Gambier at the Umpherston Sinkhole . This limestone cavern is a beautiful natural wonder that you won't want to miss. Filled with stunning greenery, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture this unique landmark. While in town, you can also enjoy a hike to the famous Blue Lake , where you'll get sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and marvel at the vivid blues of this lake.

Once you arrive in Beachport, spend some time exploring its stunning beaches and crystal blue waters. Take a stroll along the jetty or relax by the Pool Of Siloam . This unique pool is said to be seven times saltier than the sea and provides a very buoyant experience - no floaties required!

Where to stay when you arrive: Beachport Caravan Park .

Day 4 Beachport to Victor Harbour

Distance 398km - driving time 4 hours 25 minutes.

Looking for a unique travel experience on your road trip through Australia? Then buckle up for day four of this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! After enjoying a leisurely breakfast in your campervan, it's time to hit the road. Along the way, stop at Coorong National Park along the way from Beachport to Victor Harbour. Located just a few hours' drive away, Coorong National Park is home to some of Australia's most stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches and sand dunes to marshes and wetlands.

Next, stop in at Langhorne Creek and try some of the local wines. With its warm climate and fertile soil, this region produces some of Australia's best vintages, perfect for pairing with a delicious meal at one of the local wineries. Once you arrive in Victor Harbor, explore the area by taking a ride on the scenic horse-drawn tramway or visiting the penguin colony along Granite Island. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there truly is something for everyone in this beautiful coastal town.

Where to stay when you arrive: NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park.

Day 5 Victor Harbour to Adelaide via Cape Jervis

Distance 167km - driving time 2 hours 20 minutes.

Today marks the last day of this road trip and so be sure to make the most of it. Get an early start to the day with a drive to take a walk around Deep Creek National Park . Just 40-minutes from Victor Harbour, this stunning natural oasis is home to some of the region's most breathtaking views of Kangaroo Island. An early start will ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic walk along the park's trails through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls. As you make your way through the park, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas - there are plenty to be found! Then it’s time to drive north into the vibrant city oasis of Adelaide.

Once you arrive in Adelaide, be sure to check out the city's bustling Adelaide Central Market . This is one of the largest undercover markets in the southern hemisphere and a must-do! Here you'll find everything from local crafts and artisanal foods to hand-painted artwork, and local produce. Then, spend the afternoon checking out the city's many museums, art galleries, botanic gardens, beaches and shopping experiences.

From here you can choose to end your trip and return your camper to the Adelaide Mighty branch . Not quite ready to end the trip? Why not loop back to Melbourne and take an inland route or keep exploring north towards the Northern Territory or across the bite towards Western Australia? The opportunities are endless.

Does this campervan itinerary look good to you?

So there you have it, the ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! Five days is the perfect amount of time to explore everything this great region has to offer. From world-famous wine country and stunning coastal drives to unique cultural experiences, this is easily one of the best road trips from Melbourne. And what better way to experience all this than in a comfortable and convenient campervan?

Ready to experience this iconic road trip for yourself? Book your Mighty campervan today and start planning your own adventure! For more tips on your upcoming campervan trip, such as top tips for a cheap campervan trip , check out the Mighty blog .

  • Questions? Talk to us now

The Road Is Life

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – An Epic 8 Day Itinerary

There are very few road trips in the world that pack in quite as much amazing variety as a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. In the space of 8 days you will traverse pristine beaches, ancient rainforest, dramatic mountains, volcanic landscapes and fertile wine regions.

Of course while you are at it you’ll also be ticking off one of the world’s most famous drives, the Great Ocean Road . This is a trip everyone should do once in their lifetime.  The below itinerary covers all the best highlights of the Melbourne to Adelaide drive over a period of 8 days.

If you’re in a rush you can remove the detours to Grampians National Park and/or Beachport to take the time down to 5 days. Conversely, those with more time won’t regret spending an extra night or two at each of the stops.

melbourne to adelaide road trip

The Great Ocean Road lives up to it’s name

Table of Contents

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – Overview

Recommended stops.

  • Great Otway National Park – 2 nights
  • 12 Apostles
  • Warrnambool
  • Grampians National Park – 2 nights
  • Mount Gambier – 1 nights
  • Beachport – 1 night
  • Naracoorte Caves National Park
  • Hahndorf – 1 night
  • Mount Lofty and Cleland Conservation Park
  • Adelaide – 1+ nights

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Summary

Day 1 – Leave Melbourne early in the morning and drive 2 hours to Lorne. Spend the morning seeing amazing waterfalls and hilltop views of the Great Ocean Road. If you want more excitement then test your courage at the Live Wire Park.

Explore Cape Otway and spot koalas before settling in for the night.

Night 1 – Cape Otway

Day 2 – Spend the day exploring the stunning Great Otway National Park.

Night 2 – Great Otway National Park

Day 3 –  Jump back on the Great Ocean Road and check out the famous 12 Apostles and surrounding attractions. After this you’ll follow the road to Warrnambool where you can visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

Head north in the afternoon to Halls Gap in the Grampians National Park. Check in to your accommodation and have a well earned drink.

Night 3 – Halls Gap

Day 4 –  Explore the epic peaks and lookouts of the Grampians.

Night 4 – Halls Gap

grampians national park

You don’t even have to leave your car to see wildlife!

Day 5 – Leave the Grampians in the morning and drive 2.5hrs to Mount Gambier. Welcome to South Australia! Spend the day exploring the many highlights around this area.

Night 5 –  Mount Gambier

Day 6 – After all the hiking thus far you’ve earned a day at the beach. Drive one hour to Beachport for a taste of the beautiful beaches of the Limestone Coast.

Night 6 – Beachport

Day 7   – You’ll have to go cross country for an hour to get back to the main highway. A little over an hour’s drive will take you through the beautiful vineyards of the Coonawarra wine region, ending at the Naracoorte Caves.

Spend a couple of hours exploring the awesome caves and other attractions here before jumping back in the car. It’s a solid 3 hours and 20 minutes drive this afternoon but the end point of Hahndorf is well worth it!

Night 7 – Hahndorf

Day 8 – Spend the morning exploring the unique town of Hahndorf. When you’re ready to move on, an easy 15 minute drive will take you to Mount Lofty. Explore the beautiful botanic gardens and take in the amazing views of Adelaide from the summit.

Night 8 – Adelaide

Final Day –  You’re in Adelaide! What you do from here will depend on your time and circumstances. You can explore the CBD in a day before returning to Melbourne but you ideally need 3 days in Adelaide  to explore it properly.

If you’re on a longer trip and heading towards W.A then make sure to check out our Perth to Adelaide Road Trip (It’s the wrong way around for this scenario but just as amazing to do backwards!).

Total Driving Time

15.5 hrs – Melbourne to Adelaide, one way

Longest Stretch of Driving

4hrs 40mins, Day 8, Beachport-Naracoorte-Hahndorf

Total KM Covered

Melbourne to adelaide road trip highlights.

  • The stunning waterfalls of the Great Otway National Park
  • Winding mountain roads lined with lush ferns and huge trees
  • Driving the Great Ocean Road
  • The 12 Apostles
  • Standing atop the epic peaks of the Grampians National Park
  • The vivid blue crater lake in the middle of Mount Gambier
  • The historical German town of Hahndorf
  • The amazing array of wildlife at Cleland Conservation Park

adelaide to melbourne road trip

Exploring the amazing Grampians National Park

How Long Will I Need?

To complete this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary as written, you will need at least 10 days. If you additionally want to explore Adelaide properly you should add another 2 days to this.

It is possible to complete this road trip in a week or less . Removing the Grampian National Park and Beachport stops will save 3 nights and streamline the journey.

Accommodation

There are plenty of accommodation options available throughout this trip. If you have an RV or caravan then there are some great camp sites and caravan parks too. In each section we will list our recommended accommodation and the best areas to stay.

Best Time of Year To Go

Late spring is the best time to do this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip. You have a lot of sunny days on average plus there is still a lot of water coming down the falls. Add to this the stunning new growth and flowers that abound at this time of year.

Of course you can also complete the trip any time over summer. The weather is fairly mild along most of this route and the large amount of sunny days will mean less chance of rain putting a damper on things.

great ocean road trip

There is a lot to see around the 12 Apostles

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Tips

  • Save Money:  Make use of free campsites using the  WikiCamps app . We will list some of the best camp sites along the route however some do not allow tents so make sure to double check.
  • Get up early for the 12 Apostles:  Given the direction of the lookout to the rock formations, the sun will be rising behind you in the morning. This will give you amazing morning light shining onto the rocks and making for the best photos.
  • Don’t drive at night: Always plan your drives during daylight hours. There is a lot of wildlife along parts of this route.
  • Check your route before you drive:  The Otways have some pretty crazy mountain roads and large RVs/caravans may not be suitable. We will point this out in the Otways section. Driving Beachport to Naracoorte offers several routes, make sure to pick the one going through Coonawarra.

►Check out our full list of all of the best  Australian road trip tips  you must know before hitting the road!

The Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

If you are travelling to Australia from overseas then make sure you have good travel insurance before hitting the road. We use  Heymondo  when we travel as it’s perfect for adventures such as hiking, surfing, road tripping etc.

For peace of mind while abroad, Heymondo is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and basic medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered.

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Hiring a Car

If you don’t own a car then you can search for the perfect hire car below. We always use rentalcars.com to find the best price between various operators. There is an option to include full insurance with no excess, which is always highly recommended. Use the form below to check out the various options.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – One of the Best Drives in Australia

great ocean road sign

Don’t miss a photo op at this iconic sign

This amazing road trip doesn’t make you wait to start seeing stunning sights. You’ll begin the day with your first taste of the Great Ocean Road, driving about 2 hours south-west to the town of Lorne.

If you’re a surfer then you might want to start the day nice and early so you can make a stop at Torquay. This seaside town is the home of the famous Bells Beach and also has a small surf museum which is well done.

If you don’t want to have an early surf or swim then continue on to Lorne (there is also a nice beach here). Make sure to stop at the ‘Memorial Arch at Eastern View’, this is a classic photo spot on the Melbourne to Adelaide drive.

Lorne is home to some really beautiful waterfalls . It is up to you how many you see as there are even more tomorrow. The best falls to see here are the Erskine Falls, the road is quite steep so leave any caravans behind.

erskine falls

Erskine Falls are one of the best in Victoria

Other falls in town are Henderson, Sheoak and Phantom Falls. They are all nice but the ones in the Otways tomorrow are better so it’s up to you how much time you spend here.

The Blanket Leaf Picnic Area on the way back to town makes a beautiful morning tea stop. Right before you reach town you will also see the Live Wire Park . This is a forest amusement park consisting of high ropes courses, zip-lines and other exciting activities.

One of the best views of the Great Ocean Road can be had in the hills above Lorne. Head up to Teddy’s Lookout and take in sweeping views of the forest covered mountains dropping away into the sea.

Cape Otway – Great Otway National Park

The destination for the afternoon is Cape Otway. This is part of the Great Otway National Park which is an absolute highlight of this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. The stretch of the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay is very scenic and arguably the best part.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Spot wild koalas on Cape Otway

The main town in this area is Apollo Bay, you can stay here but we recommend to stay out on Cape Otway tonight. Make sure to stock up on anything you need if planning to stay out of town.

Cape Otway is an amazing place to spot wildlife, especially Koalas. The Wildlife Wonders sanctuary is located 5 mins outside of Apollo Bay and offers guided nature walks . You’ll get a set of binoculars and walk a 1.4km trail through a range of landscapes, spotting all sorts of creatures along the way. The best part is that all proceeds go towards conservation efforts of endangered species.

For the last stop of the day head out to the Cape Otway Lightstation . This is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Australian mainland and was built in 1848. You can explore the surrounding heritage buildings and climb the lighthouse for dramatic views of the coastline. Check the website for current hours and prices.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Catch a clifftop sunset at Cape Otway Lightstation

Where to Stay in Cape Otway

Bimbi Park –  Located only 8 minutes from the lighthouse, this park offers a range of beautiful cabins. The park itself is a huge highlight, with trees full of wild koalas. Another great perk is that you are close enough to watch an amazing sunset from the lighthouse grounds.

Caravanning/Camping

Bimbi Park – The above mentioned park also offers caravan and camp sites.

Camp Grounds – There are several highly rated camp grounds around this area. Parker Hill, Aire River East and Johanna Beach are all amazing spots. Use the link to browse all sites on a map and book with Parks Victoria.

Great Otway National Park

This itinerary devotes an entire day to exploring this park, which is one of the top highlights of Victoria. You have a couple of options for accommodation tonight which you may have to think about in advance. There is free camping at a stunning site near the main attractions however it is not suitable for large RVs or caravans.

great otway national park

Beauchamp Falls Reserve is a great campsite

If you want to be best positioned for sunrise at the 12 Apostles tomorrow then you will want to find accommodation closer to there. Lastly, you can remain on Cape Otway which will be about a 50km drive to the attractions on today’s list. See below for the best accommodation options.

The main activity to do here is walking through pristine rainforest to get to spectacular waterfalls . There are several of them here and this is one activity that never gets old. The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is blessed with a number of the best waterfalls in Australia.

Our favourites in order were Beauchamp Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Triplet Falls. Near to Hopetoun Falls you can also visit ‘The Redwoods Otways’. This trial plantation of California Redwoods was planted in 1936 and left to grow. They are thriving here next to a pretty creek and it such an amazing experience to be able to walk through this scene in Australia!

otway fly treetop walk

The Otway Fly Treetop Walk is a highlight

The top highlight however is seeing the forest from another perspective. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures has a 600m elevated walkway and tower. The kids and young at heart will love the ziplining through the forest and the enchanted forest walk.

Where to Stay in Great Otway National Park

As stated above it is possible to stay in your accommodation in Cape Otway. If you want to be closer to the 12 Apostles for amazing sunrise shots then check out the below.

12 Apostles Cottages – These beautiful self-contained cottages have amazing ocean views and are only a stones throw from the 12 Apostles.

If you have a large RV or caravan it is probably not advisable to take it to the waterfalls/campground however you can reach the Otway Fly parking lot.

Beauchamp Falls Reserve –  This is a free campground only a short walk from the falls. There are only 6 sites however and it is unpowered. There are toilet facilities, fire-pits and amazing views down a forested valley. Unfortunately there has been recent forestry works around the site but the views are still great.

Princetown Recreation Reserve – This cheap site is perfect if you have a caravan or large RV. They offer powered or unpowered sites only 10 minutes drive from the 12 Apostles.

melbourne to adelaide road trip

Walking amongst the giant redwoods is magical

12 Apostles/Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

The 12 Apostles lookout point is the iconic image of the Great Ocean Road. The lookout faces roughly west and so the morning light provides amazing photographic opportunities.

If you have stayed close to the lookout at one of the properties above then you won’t have to get up too early for the magical golden hour. If you have made a beeline for this lookout then when you are done you will need to backtrack a short distance. Gibson Steps wind down the cliff face and access the beach where you can admire the huge cliffs and sandstone pinnacles up close.

Jump back on the road and continue heading west. After a short distance you will come to the turnoff for Loch Ard Gorge. This is well signposted and another highlight on the Great Ocean Road . In this same area are several other great sights like the Tom and Eva lookout and Thunder Cave.

Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road - Australia

Sunrise at the iconic 12 Apostles

Continue down the Great Ocean Road past the town of Port Campbell. Between here and Warrnambool are several great photo stops. The first is ‘London Bridge’, closely followed by ‘The Grotto’. The final recommended stop before the road heads inland is the ‘Bay of Islands’.

That’s the Great Ocean Road completed and your next stop is going to be the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool. This complex houses a great museum about the settlement of Victoria as well as a living history village. It’s a lot of fun walking the streets here and visiting all the shops decorated with antique items.

Volunteers sometimes walk the village and work the shops in period costumes. The weekends have the most happening but it is a great visit any day of the week. Close by the village are several other attractions if you have the time, remembering that there is 2 hours to drive to get to Halls Gap.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Loch Ard Gorge is another great stop

Stingray Bay is a very nice beach near to the Maritime Village. In this same area you can also find the ‘Deep Blue Hot Springs’, which are a great way to relax after walking around the village. During whale watching season (June to September) there are several whale watching lookouts that are worth checking out.

Once you have finished exploring Warrnambool you will need to drive 157km to Halls Gap. This takes about 2 hours so make sure to leave enough time to reach here before dark as there are a lot of animals. It’s better to stay in town and make the drive in the morning if you run out of time.

melbourne to adelaide drive

The fun and informative Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

Where to Stay in Halls Gap

Halls Gap Log Cabins – This accommodation is right near town and features wood fires. Some cabins also have spa baths to ease those sore legs after all the hiking.

►Browse more accommodation options in Halls Gap

BIG4 NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park – A full featured caravan park in walking distance to the Halls Gap town centre. They even have a heated swimming pool!

Smiths Mill Campground – This is a great campsite situated right near MacKenzie Falls. It has both vehicle and tent sites and must be booked in advance. It has drop toilets and the shower listed is just a bucket on a rope with a faucet. This site is at the top of a pretty full on mountain road so may not be suitable for large caravans and RVs.

Grampians National Park

You’ll have the whole day to explore the Grampians which is just enough to leave you wanting more. There is way too much to see here to fit into one day but you will be able to see the main highlights.

adelaide to melbourne road trip

MacKenzie Falls has an amazing flow year round

The main attractions all sit along the Mt Victory road, which is where you should concentrate your efforts today. The following recommended attractions are listed in the order that you will come across them when driving from town.

For the first stop you should enter ‘Wonderland Carpark’ into your navigation system. This is the starting point for the Pinnacle Lookout hike which is a huge highlight of the Grampians. There are several attractions and amazing viewpoints along this hike. Splitters Falls is a separate hike from the carpark but not too long (although very steep). This only flows nicely in the wetter seasons so don’t bother in summer/autumn.

To reach the next stop at Boroka Lookout you will have to make a right turn onto Mt Difficult Road. This is a pretty steep road but the lookout at the top is well worth it. This is arguably the best lookout in the Grampians National Park.

grampians national park

The Pinnacle Lookout is worth the effort!

Head back to the main road and continue a short distance to the turnoff for ‘The Balconies’. This is another stunning viewpoint offering views over a different aspect of the park. The photogenic rock ledges provide a great subject for your shots.

The final stop along the road is the phenomenal MacKenzie Falls. There are quite a lot of steps down to the bottom but boy is it worth it. The falls flow year round and the thunder and spray of the water can be experienced from up close. If you’re brave you can even go for a dip, but it’s pretty chilly!

This is definitely enough to fill a whole day but if you don’t hike or are just super efficient there is plenty more. Check out the official website for a full list of sights to see in this park.

the balconies grampians national park

The Balconies are an amazing lookout point

Mount Gambier

Welcome to South Australia! Mount Gambier sits right in the south-east corner of the state, only 2.5 hours from Halls Gap. This town is a bit of a hidden gem, with some amazing scenery and interesting things to do. It’s also home to several of South Australia’s best natural landmarks .

If you leave the Grampians reasonably early then you should have plenty of time to explore the main highlights. The most interesting sights are right in town or close by.

The first attraction you’ll come across as you enter town is the Umpherston Sinkhole. There are numerous sinkholes around the Limestone Coast, most formed by collapsed caves. This particular one was converted into a garden all the way back in 1886 by a Mr James Umpherston.

It’s a truly unique sight and descending down into the beautiful garden makes for a lovely short walk. The sight is open from dawn to dusk and sunset makes for a particularly nice visit.

umpherston sinkhole mount gambier

Umpherston Sinkhole Garden from above

The next must-visit attraction in Mount Gambier is the Blue Lake. This incredible lake sits inside a huge volcanic crater and is vibrant blue in colour. The best time to view the lake is on a sunny day but it is still quite impressive even when overcast.

There are several lookouts around the lake which are all worth visiting. The best one is along the narrow cliffside stretch of road on the north-west side of the lake. From here you can walk up a steep trail to a viewing platform that offers an amazing perspective.

Speaking of great perspectives, you can head up to the Centenary Tower for the best view of the surrounding countryside. Accessed by a trail from the ‘Lions Lookout’, this 1904 tower sits at the highest point in this area.

melbourne to adelaide road trip mount gambier

The deep azure waters of the Mount Gambier crater lake

The final site that you should check out today is the Engelbrecht Cave system . This network of caves actually runs underneath the town and is accessed from right near the town centre. They offer guided tours and you can even scuba dive flooded sections of the cave if you are qualified.

There is plenty more to do in and around town if you still have time left over. Check out this list on Tripadvisor if you have energy left for more exploration. Otherwise settle in to your accommodation for some well earned relaxation.

Where to Stay in Mount Gambier

Colhurst House – This beautiful heritage mansion is packed full of old world charm. The rooms are beautifully presented and they have hot-tubs and bathrobes, need I say more?

The Old Mount Gambier Gaol – This is a super unique accommodation option to match the attractions around town. This gaol from 1866 has been converted into a range of rooms while still retaining a lot of the old features of the gaol.

►Browse more accommodation options in Mount Gambier

Pine Country Caravan Park – This park is slightly out of town but worth the small extra drive. It’s a beautiful park with spacious sites. The huge flocks of cockatoos in the evenings are delightful to watch.

After all the sightseeing thus far you’ve earned a day at the beach. South Australia has some fantastic beaches and the best ones are possible found right here on the Limestone Coast.

This is a bit of a detour in the wrong direction so if beaches aren’t really your thing or the weather is terrible then you can save yourself a day and not make the trip.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

The Beachport Jetty

If you do choose to come here then you won’t be disappointed. The pristine beaches and clear water make for a great day swimming and sunbaking. It is quiet enough that you can often have a large area of beach to yourself.

The best thing to do here is just relax and take a break from the busy schedule. A good tip is to take the Bowman Scenic Drive (which you shouldn’t miss) out to the family friendly Salmon Hole beach. The shallow water here is great for swimming and snorkelling.

The Beachport Jetty is also a great walk, it stretches a really impressive distance out in to the sparkling ocean as you can see above! If you are a sucker for sightseeing then check out the official list of all the things to do around town.

Spend the night here and try to get an early one as it’s a big day tomorrow!

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

The beautiful Bowman Scenic Drive

Where to Stay in Beachport

Bonnies of Beachport – Stay beachfront in Beachport. These spectacular apartment offer ocean views and are walking distance to the town centre.

►Browse more accommodation options in Beachport

Southern Ocean Tourist Park – This park offers large grassy sites and clean amenities only a short walk to the beach. It is also right in town so you can take advantage of the restaurants and shops.

3 Mile Bend Campground – This campground is located 3km out of town and features drop toilets. It is suitable for tents or caravans. Bookings must be made via the link provided and it costs $16 per night.

Naracoorte Caves/Hahndorf

Today is the longest stretch of driving on the trip at 445km. There is some great scenery and a fantastic stop along the first 180km so they fly by quite easily.

After leaving Beachport, the first stop is the Naracoorte Caves. Google maps plots several different routes to get there so make sure you select the one that heads east to Penola before continuing north on the main highway.

The drive will first take you through Coonawarra, which is known for producing some fantastic red wines. The beautiful scenery of endless vineyards begins around here and continues for a large part of the drive to Padthaway.

adelaide to melbourne road trip

Exploring one of the fantastic caves at Naracoorte

The first stop is the Naracoorte Caves National Park. These caves are around 800,000 years old and numerous fossils of extinct creatures have been found here. They offer some great tours and there is a small but really fun museum. You can choose from a number of different experiences including adventure caving, fossil filled caves and a bat observation centre. Click here for more information.

Following your visit to the caves it’s basically a straight shot to the town of Hahndorf. It’s a little over 3 hours more driving and so you might be arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll have the morning tomorrow to explore this town so don’t stress about sightseeing today.

Hahndorf has some great restaurants and pubs so you should definitely make the most of them tonight! Check out the German Arms or the Hahndorf Inn for a great German style pub experience.

melbourne to adelaide road trip - hahndorf

The Hahndorf Inn has operated as a pub/hotel since 1863

Where to Stay in Hahndorf

Manna by Haus – These clean and comfortable rooms are situated right in the heart of Hahndorf. They offer free parking and it’s a great place to stop after a long day of driving. You will be walking distance to all the best pubs in town.

►Browse more accommodation options in Hahndorf

Discovery Parks Hahndorf Resort – There is only one option in town but don’t worry because it’s a great one. This is a lovely park with great facilities. It’s a little outside town but still only a short walk away and the bus stops right outside.

Hahndorf/Mount Lofty

The first half of today can be spent exploring all the cute little shops and sights around Hahndorf. There are some great places for breakfast and it is worth eating out for the ambiance provided. Check out Café 1839 for some of the best décor.

The main thing to do here is browsing the shops and finding hidden away photo spots down alleys. Around town are some fabulous wineries like Hahndorf Hill Estate, Shaw + Smith and Nepenthe. Don’t feel rushed as the next stop is only a short drive away, as is Adelaide.

melbourne to adelaide road trip

Café 1839 is a great spot for breakfast

When you have finished exploring Hahndorf, jump in the car and enter Mount Lofty Botanic Park into the navigation. This is a beautiful garden set into a steep slope. Only a short distance further up the road is the Mount Lofty summit. Here you will have an amazing view over Adelaide and the surrounding area. There is a café at the top and also some walking trails.

If you have time left over in the day then consider visiting Cleland Wildlife Park. This is right near the summit and one of the best wildlife parks in Australia. There are a huge range of native animals to see and interact with. If you can’t make it then don’t stress, it can easily be done in a day trip from Adelaide .

After exploring Mount Lofty you can wind your way down the scenic mountain roads to Adelaide. Head to your accommodation and put your feet up, you’ve just completed this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip!

Melbourne to Adelaide drive

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

Where to Stay in Adelaide

The Palms Apartments  – Situated on the north-east corner of the CBD, this is perfectly located within walking distance to some of the top attractions. The rooms are clean and spacious with great amenities like free Wi-Fi and a dishwasher.

Stamford Grand Adelaide  – This building is an iconic part of the Glenelg beachfront. It is equally beautiful inside and out and has an amazing indoor pool to relax in after a day of sightseeing. You will be right near the tram line for easy access to the city.

►Browse more accommodation options in Adelaide◄

Adelaide is unique in having plenty of great caravan parks right in the city. For easy access to the CBD check out Adelaide Caravan Park or Levi Adelaide Holiday Park .

For beachfront stays (but further from the attractions in the CBD) check out BIG4 West Beach Parks or Discovery Parks Adelaide Beachfront .

Although you’ve reached your destination, the trip definitely doesn’t have to end. Hopefully you’ve put some time aside to explore Adelaide as there are a lot of great sights to see. There are also many amazing day trips from Adelaide if you have longer to spend.

Lovers of wine will know South Australia as a wine mecca. Check out this list of the best wine tours from Adelaide , there is something for everyone here, from casual fan to connoisseur.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Historic buildings in Port Adelaide

For those who are lucky enough to be travelling onward, you will have plenty of time to explore further afield. Check out these weekend getaways from Adelaide for some ideas of places to visit.

Once you’ve finished exploring South Australia, your next stop will be the Nullarbor Plain and then onward into W.A. This road trip from Perth to Adelaide is the best itinerary to follow to not miss any of the sights. (You’ll have to do it in reverse but it’s just as good that way round!).

I hope you have an amazing time on this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! Safe Travels.

Enjoy This Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip? Pin It For Later!

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

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The Road Is Life - Ann Kelly

Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

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Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

The Ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip (+ Map, Itinerary)

From zig-zag roads and lush wine country to national parks and scenic vantage points – Melbourne to Adelaide is one of Australia’s most iconic road trip routes. The range of discoveries you find along the way is simply remarkable – giving the best Aussie experience to visitors travelling from across the world. So if you’re planning a road trip on this route, you’ll find an in-depth resource below to help you out with everything!

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip runs along the Great Ocean Road of Australia, which in itself is one of the wonders of this country. I’ve been curating road trip guides for Australia for a long time now, but this in particular is something pretty special to me. The only reason is because of the fact that Great Ocean Road boasts a great diversity of attractions to feel and experience. Even if you journey on a full-day trip from Melbourne, you get to see some of the amazing wonders.

The most notable ones include exploring the mighty Mount Gambier, the acclaimed wine regions of Coonawarra  and  McLaren Vale , and the postcard-worthy seaside towns of Robe, Victor Harbor and Second Valley. Of course, there are plenty of vantage points and lookout areas that offer perfect panoramic views of the ocean. But all-in-all, Melbourne to Adelaide is one such road trip you should definitely add to your bucket-list adventures.

When it comes to planning a road trip, isn’t an easy task! Especially if you do all arrangements on your own. Thus, to help you out in order to compile everything for this trip, we created a simple yet in-depth guide for Melbourne to Adelaide. This article details all the resources – including the best places to visit, hidden gems to explore, accommodation suggestions, a sample itinerary, and much more.

So let’s get started!

Planning Tips for Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

Firstly, let’s dig into the finer planning details of our road trip. In this section, we’ve provided a detailed map, suggested driving routes, car rental ideas, and much more.

How to Get to Adelaide from Melbourne

There are multiple routes to reach Adelaide from Melbourne. One via National Highway A8 which cuts through the Grampians National Park into South Australia. The other is via M79 , which intersects National Highway A8 at Little Desert National Park. Both these routes considerably take less time, as they cut through the state of Victoria directly.

However, the best driving route to reach Adelaide is via Great Ocean Road . It goes without saying, that the journey is far more scenic than the other routes mentioned above. Furthermore, you can span your entire journey across five to six days to get the best experience of Australia.

Melbourne to Adelaide via Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road lies in the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia. It is a roughly 78-minute drive away from Melbourne’s main city centre and is often regarded as one of the best day trips from the city. This scenic route starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford, covering a total distance of 243 km.

The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is a total of 924 km. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 10hr 41mins to reach via the Great Ocean Road.   However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it’s best to include stops throughout your entire road trip. As suggested, plan a detailed itinerary on where to make pit stops, which places to visit, and where to stay. This will ensure that your road trip to Adelaide isn’t tiresome.

How to Rent a Car in Australia

Renting a car in Australia isn’t as difficult as you’d think. It’s a pretty straightforward process, which only requires a little understanding of vehicles. For all my Australian road trips, I’ve suggested Rentalcars.com as their service and price affordability are hard to beat. They are the best in their business, and you can easily get a perfect vehicle at an affordable rate.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map to reach Adelaide (including all the stops)

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip map

The Best Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Stops

It’s time to finally hit the roads and explore the best road trip stops on this iconic route.

Discover Great Otway National Park

Drive from Melbourne to Otway National Park : 2hr 46mins (209 kms)

Home to dense rainforests, bushlands, tiny waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails – Great Otway National Park is a paradise for all wildlife & adventure lovers. Upon crossing Apollo Bay at the Great Ocean Road, you’d see a road heading inland from the main highway. This stretch leads youy right into the heart of the Great Otway National Park.

This majestic national park has been a popular stopover point for visitors on the Great Ocean Road. Many tourists stay at Apollo Bay, as the area boasts a great chocie of accommodation. Alternatively, the Great Otway National Park also hosts amazing cottages, treehouses, and lodges. This is ideal for those who plan to stay a couple of days more within the park.

What I genuinely like the most about this place is the diversity of things to see & do . From amazing hiking & walking trails, to ziplining across the forested area – the Great Otway National Park bustles with thrilling and energetic activities.

Otway Fly Tree Top

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is perfect for families, friends, and young children to enjoy a range of vast activities in the middle of a national park. The two main activities – ziplining and the treetop walk – are the most popular ones here.

The Fly Tree Top, which is situated 25-metres above the ground, gives unparalled views of the Otway Ranges. Its a suspension bridge that expands 600 metre in length. To complete the walk from one end to another, it will approximately take one hour. All-in-all, the Fly Tree Top is a fun adventure to witness the rainforest from soaring heights.

The zipline, on the other hand, is perfect for thrill-seekers. The rope is suspended up to 30-meters in height, from where visitors can zip through the treetops from one station to the other. Ensure that you book both the activities well in advance, as they sell out like hot cakes during peak season.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Great Ocean Road is already known for its spectacular coastline. There’s probably hundreds of viewpoints and lookout areas spready across Victoria and South Australia. However, nothing can beat the panormic sight exploration of Cape Otway Lightstation.

Nestled atop the cliff, this historical landmark is worthy of its own. The views from the lighthouse are simply unmatched. Furthermore, nearby trails and whale-watching from the lighthouse makes it even more enthralling to explore this amazing attraction.

Guided Excursions of the National Park

The Great Otway National Park has a tremendous indigenous history. I would highly recommend you to consider a guided walk in the forest. These excursions are led by conservationist who provide an in-depth knowledge of the national park’s ecology, native wildlife, and protected communities.

Where to stay in the Great Otway National Park Budget : Beachcomber Motel & Apartments , The Apollo

Marvel at The Twelve Apostles

Drive from Otway National Park to the Twelve Apostles : 55 mins (61.6 kms)

Nestled alongside the coastline of the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles stands as an iconic landmark of this route. Cometh any season, these towering limestone pillars strike their natural pose to all photographers who want breathtaking pictures. I mean, you could just marvel at this setting for hours and hours, and still not get bored imagining how beautiful they simply look.

The Twelve Apostles were once connected to the mainland cliffs, but by natural occurrences of strong wind & ocean, these limestones got battered with only a few standing tall today. With continuous erosion and changing climate, scientists believe that these limestone stacks will remain unstable in future.

Book Excursion | Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip from Melbourne

Discover the 12 Apostles’ Viewpoints

When it comes to exploration, there are plenty of ways to see the 12 Apostles. The most budgeted way is to take full advantage of the scenic vantage points. These lookout areas offer the best panoramic view of the limestone along with the coastline surrounding them.

The Castle Rock lookout is my favourite one, but it could be a little crowded during the peak season. The second best is Tom and Eva Lookout offering a sweeping coastline view over the Island Arch and the Loch Ard Gorge. Alternatively, head to Island Arch Lookout which provides fantastic views of the historic rock formations.

Must Read | Best Amazing Viewpoints of the Twelve Apostles for Photographers

Marvel the 12 Apostles from the Air

Honestly, there’s no better way to see these limestones than to take an aerial route. A helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles is all you need to catch breathtaking scenes of the surrounding coastline. From the sky, you could also marvel at the Shipwreck Coast that lines up all the way up to Cape Otway.

Take a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge

Learn more about the 12 Apostles’ history, timelines, geology, and marine discovery with a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge. It’s one of the most intriguing places to visit on the coast, as you discover its Ochre-hued cliffs shaped in a dramatic curvacious landscape. Beyond its beauty, Loch Ard Gorge has a popular tale of ship wreckage. But I’ll probably leave this story for your guided adventure!

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road Mid-range : The Oak & Anchor Hotel , Lady Bay Resort Luxury : RACV Torquay Resort , Apollo Bay Guest House , Southern Ocean Villas

Relax at Warrnambool

Drive from Twelve Apostles to Warrnambool : 58 mins (73.7 kms)

Warrnambool is a thriving region that houses some of Australia’s best coastal scenery, quaint seaside villages, fascinating history, and amazing wildlife. The town has been driving a massive number of visitors every year, with plenty of them opting to stay overnight. Thus, along with discovering Warrnambool’s famous sights – you could opt to spend a luxurious night here .

Popular Things to do in Warrnambool, Australia –

Visit Middle Island

Middle Island is a great stop for tourists to spot penguins. They are often found within the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. You’d also see Maremma’s trained dogs at Middle Island guarding and protecting these penguins from foxes. You can also book a ‘Meet the Maremma Tour’ for a live experience.

Go Whale Watching

Warrnambool is a paradisical land for wildlife lovers. Especially, from June to September – the town treats you with an amazing whale-watching experience, as humpback whales return to the shores to mate and socialize. Some of the guided tours do take you out on a discovery ride to watch these whales in their natural habitat. Few of the operators do offer guaranteed success in spotting them.

Mount Gambier

Drive from Warrnambool to Mount Gambier : 2hr 7mins (182 kms)

Mount Gambier is the highlight of your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. Bustling with geological wonders, Mount Gambier houses some of the most natural spectacular scenes. From the underground garden of Eden to the crystal blue water lakes, you can spend half a day exploring the wonders of Mount Gambier.

Popular activities to do in Mount Gambier include:

Discover Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole is a blissful, lush green park which houses beautiful garden spaces and traditional English plants. It’s one of the photogenic places of Mount Gambier, which was formed by millions of years of limestone corrosion. However, along with its natural process – James Umpherston ( a citizen of Mount Gambier) – converted the entire sinkhole into a beautiful underground sunken garden.

Explore the magical Blue Lake

Unravel one of the gorgeous attractions of the Limestone Coasts – Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake. This 72-metre-deep lake magically changes its colour into different shades of blue, which contrasts beautifully against the backdrop of the mighty coast. The best time to visit Blue Lake is between November to late February. Many lookout areas and vantage points are spread across the crater’s rim to give visitors the best possible view.

Marvel at Little Blue Lake

The lesser-known version of the famous Blue Lake – Little Blue Lake – is equally impressive and gorgeous. It is less crowded, which makes it perfect for tourists to enjoy swimming and diving. Even if you simply want to relax, the towering 10-metre limestone walls which guard the lake, making it sight-worthy for your eyes.

Explore the town of Robe

Drive from Mount Gambier to Robe : 1hr 26mins (128 kms)

Robe is one of the trendiest coastal towns in South Australia today. Just 90 minutes away from Mount Gambier, it’s a perfect place to stay, unwind and relax after a tiresome journey. Many visitors often tend to overlook this town, and often end up staying someplace else.

But in reality, Robe is seriously a good road trip stop. Given its luxuriant sandy beaches, dazzling cafes, bijou boutiques, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s hard to miss this place at any time.

As you soak up the sun relaxing at a beach, you’d tend to get a natural laidback Australia vibe. And essentially this is what visitors need after a tiresome road trip journey. Even if you don’t go out exploring much, there’s plenty to see within the area you stay. Historically, Robe was once the busiest shipping port in SA. And you could still its past resemblance through period buildings and old maritime structures.

Because it was a shipping port once, you’d definitely find some of the state’s finest seafood restaurants located. Some of the local’s favourites include Sails at Robe , Caledonian Inn , and Robe Seafood & Takeaway. The word is you shouldn’t miss out on trying their famous crayfish.

Where to stay in Robe, SA Budget : Sea Vu Caravan Park , Robe Marina Accommodation

Wander through Fleurieu Peninsula

Drive from Robe to Fleurieu Peninsula : 4hr 6mins (369 kms)

Fleurieu Peninsula is one of my favourite places to visit in South Australia. If you look at our Australian section, you’d see dozens of guides & resources being curated on this region. So, understandably – Fleurieu Peninsula is emerging as one of the hotspots of this amazing country. And that’s the reason why we thought this place should be listed on our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip stops.

This small-sized peninsula packs incredible things to see and do , with beautiful coastal villages, varied hiking trails, diverse native wildlife, and excellent culinary scenes. What pleases me the most is the contrast of crystal clear beaches with a backdrop of towering peaks and rugged landscapes. Such kind of setting opens up the door for visitors to venture into exploring opportunities.

Must Read | 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

Fleurieu Peninsula is home to amazing attractions and some of the major ones include visiting Victor Harbor, Normanville Beach, Horseshoe Bay (Port Elliot), Port Willunga Beach, and Rapid Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek National Park will offer an enriching experience of being in the wild. It is also one of South Australia’s beloved camping destinations. If you plan on spending a couple of days extra, then you could also add Onkaparinga River National Park to your itinerary.

What you shouldn’t miss doing in Fleurieu Peninsula is trying out the local cuisine. The region is best known for its classic fish & chips, and there’s no way you could miss the opportunity of sampling it. If you aren’t sure where to look, then this guide will help you in finding the best fish & chips. For a more indulging experience, we also have curated a guide on the best restaurants located in Fleurieu Peninsula.

Also Read | 5 Best Restaurants on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Visit McLaren Vale

Drive from Fleurieu Peninsula to McLaren Vale : 44 mins (51.9 kms)

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip isn’t only popular for its scenic attractions and sights, but also for acclaimed wine regions that remarkably mark their footprint in the culinary world. And there’s no better place than McLaren Vale to relax, unwind, and sample some of the deliciously locally produced wine.

McLaren Vale is only a 40-minute drive from Adelaide. It is regarded as the premier wine region of South Australia. With bushland, vineyards, cellar doors, and award-winning restaurants harbouring the entire region – it’s no wonder that McLaren Vale is also one of the best weekend destinations to explore.

McLaren Vale offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to wander off on their own. Be it sampling the local wines, or joining a guided tour to get an in-depth wine-making process – there are endless things to do here. You could also delve into their wine collections, explore cellar doors, hop into some local cuisine and shop their local farm produce. If you prefer outdoor adventure, then discover its many hiking and scenic walking trails.

Must Read | Explore five of the finest McLaren Vale’s wine trails and scenic walks

Apart from the normal things to see & do in this wine region, there are two main attractions which you shouldn’t miss at any cost – Down The Rabbit Hole  and  d’Arenberg Cube . These newly introduced attractions are notably worthwhile. To find out more, read this guide.

Book Excursion | McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

We hope the above detailed road trip stops gave you a comprehensive idea of all the must-see places. However, its a hassle to plan and compile them into one single itinerary. To help you out with this, we created a custom sample itinerary of Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. This sample includes all the places, attractions & experiences listed in our above section.

Sample Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

Depart Melbourne Melbourne to the Great Otway National Park Overnight at park of Apollo Bay

Leave early morning from Otway Explore Port Campbell & the Twelve Apostles Head to Warrnambool Overnight at Warrnambool/ Port Campbell

Early morning checkout from Port Campbell Drive to Mount Gambier Exploration & sightseeing at Mount Gambier Overnight stay

Drive towards Robe Spend a relaxing day at this surfing town. Overnight stay

Head to Fleurieu Peninsula Explore McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor & other places Overnight stay

This custom curated five day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary is perfect for all age-groups. The plan ensures that you visit all the top-rated attractions of Victoria and South Australia. If you need to check out a seperate itinerary for Great Ocean Road, then read this guide .

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Explore a range of vast activities, experential tours, and niche guided exursions with GetYourGuide . Our partnership with them brings amazing tours which can compliment your road trip well. With easy availability & affordable pricing, you can be sure of booking the right activity at the right price.

Further Readings & Resources

Love Australian road trips? Here are a couple of in-depth guides:

Great Ocean Road : The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days Whitsundays : Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips) Airlie Beach: 3-Day Airlie Beach Itinerary | How to Spend 3 Days in Airlie Beach Flinders Ranges: The Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Explore Fleurieu Peninsula with us:

Experiences : Best Things to Do in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia Where to Stay : 10 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula Coastal Towns : 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

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The Great Ocean Road: A Melbourne to Adelaide Campervan Road Trip

Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC. Photo: Tourism Australia

Looking for an adventure that’s all about coastal vibes, amazing wildlife and iconic Australian landscapes? Get ready for a campervan road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide down the Great Ocean Road. Load up the van, get your travel group together and hit the road!

Day 1-2: Melbourne

Start your journey in Melbourne, the city that has it all – cool cafés, street art and a buzzing artsy vibe. Make sure to walk past the iconic Flinders Street station and get some city views in. Before you leave, fuel up with a top-notch coffee and grab some snacks for the road. Then, drive your campervan west and head towards the famous Great Ocean Road. Your first stop is the surf town of Torquay. Relax, check out the local surf shops and hit the beach before driving further along the coast.

Photo Tip: If you have the time make your way to Brighton Beach in Melbourne, close to Saint Kilda. The colorful beach shacks make for a great photo!

Picturesque cityscape of Melbourne with sun peaking through buildings

Day 2-3: The Great Ocean Road

This stretch is all about the views! The Great Ocean Road is a scenic masterpiece, so take your time and soak it all in. Drive past windswept beaches, lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs. Be sure to stop at the Twelve Apostles for a coastal walk with epic views and let the crashing waves set the mood. After a day of sightseeing, find a seaside spot to park up and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.

Coastal cliffs with waves crashing against large rock structures

Day 3-4: Otways & Limestone Coast

After waking up to coastal bliss, keep heading west towards the Otway National Park. Whether you're up for a rainforest hike or just want to spot some koalas in the wild, this is the place to be. Once you’re done exploring nature, continue to the Limestone Coast. Swing by Mount Gambier to check out the Blue Lake or, if you’re up for a bit of spelunking, explore the caves at Naracoorte.

Waterfall in a lush, dark rainforest

Day 4-5: Fleurieu Peninsula

It’s beach time! As you head closer to Adelaide, make your way to the Fleurieu Peninsula. Victor Harbor is the perfect spot to soak up the sun, take a dip in the ocean or even catch a wave or two. Feel like something a little different? Hop on the horse-drawn tram to Granite Island, where you can spot wild penguins. With beach views all around, it's the ideal place to park your van for the night.

Kangaroos grazing on grassy hills near the coast

Day 5-6: Adelaide

Your final day on the road takes you straight into Adelaide city. Known for its laid-back lifestyle and top-tier food scene, Adelaide is the perfect end to your road trip. But before you get there, consider a stop at one of the wineries in McLaren Vale to toast your journey. Once you arrive into the city, park up, stretch out and get ready to explore Adelaide. Foodies should check out the Central Market and nature lovers should go for a stroll through the Botanic Gardens.

Public courtyard in Adelaide on a bright sunny day

Campervan Tips

  • Best Time to Go : Spring or autumn gives you ideal weather without the summer crowds.
  • Campgrounds : Plenty of great spots along the Great Ocean Road and the Limestone Coast to park for the night.
  • Essentials : Pack sunscreen, a solid playlist and don’t forget your camera for all those jaw-dropping coastal shots.

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How Long Should You Spend Driving From Melbourne to Adelaide?

Melbourne to adelaide road trip itinerary, melbourne to adelaide tips, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

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Planning the Perfect Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

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If you want a perfect trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, take your time and drive the scenic route. While you can drive there on one gruelling day along the A8, the drive will be long and not very relaxing. Instead, make a vacation of it! Spend a relaxing week driving along the Great Ocean Road and stopping at great scenic spots. 

We will review a seven-day itinerary for a pleasant trip, with suggestions for popular stops along the way and tips to make your journey run smoothly. 

Let’s get started so you can get on the road.

While you can technically drive from Melbourne to Adelaide in just under 9 hours if you drive inland along the A8, there is a much more relaxing option to take the scenic coastal route . 

The scenic route along the Great Ocean Road and Limestone Coast can be done in 2-3 days if you are short on time. However, if you’re not in a rush, make a week of it and enjoy making plenty of great scenic stops along the way. 

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Here is a 7-day itinerary for a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, taking the scenic coastal route. Ideally, this is a great caravan journey with plenty of campgrounds to stay in all along the road. Alternatively, you can travel in a car and camp in tents instead. Finally, there are plenty of towns to stop in and rent a hotel along the way. 

No matter which way you choose to travel, reserve your campgrounds or hotels ahead of time since the route is popular, and they can sell out fast, especially if you plan to travel during holidays or anytime during the summer. 

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne

Make your first driving day short so that you have plenty of time to double-check your gear and clothes. You will also need some time in the morning to pack things like perishables and frozen treats in your EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator . This fridge works as a fridge and freezer, all in the size of a standard cooler. 

It even has a built-in ice maker for excellent icy cold beverages on your stops at all the gorgeous beaches. It holds a charge for 40 hours, and you can charge it with clean, free energy from your EcoFlow solar generator . 

Since your first day is short, spend some time on the famous Surf Coast along Torquay, the home of Australian surfing. Even if you don’t surf, the beaches are a must-see! Take your time, enjoy a swim and some cold drinks.

When you get to Lorne, take a short walk to the famous Teddy’s Lookout. The best time to visit is at sunset for a panoramic view of where the St George River meets the ocean.

Day 2: Lorne to Port Campbell

Driving from Lorne to Campbell, including a must-see detour to Beauchamp Falls and Hopetoun Falls, will take you a little under four hours.  

Start by driving to another great surfer town, Apollo Bay, with many great swimming places. Bring your EcoFlow RIVER Portable Power Station to the beach to play music and charge your devices while you enjoy the sun and waves with an ice-cold drink. 

While there are different size options in the EcoFlow RIVER series , the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max is the perfect compact size for bringing to the beach, but it still has plenty of power, so you can stay there as long as you want. 

While in the Apollo Bay area, take a 15-minute detour to Maits Rest for a short 800 m walk along a boardwalk through the lush Otway Rainforest with giant trees and lush ferns; if you are lucky, you might even see some koala bears lounging around in the massive eucalyptus trees. 

After you leave Apollo Bay, head next to the breathtaking Beauchamp Falls and Hopetoun Falls. You can see the falls with just a short walk to each, and you won’t be disappointed!

If you didn’t get too delayed on your Apollo Bay swim and make it to Port Campbell in time for the sunset, head down to the famous Twelve Apostles beach and watch the sunset over the sea stacks for another gorgeous sunset. 

Day 3: Port Campbell to Port Fairy

This is another short drive, a little under two hours. But you will need it since there are so many great scenic stops with plenty of photography opportunities along the way. Some good ones to stop at include The Arch, London Bridge, The Grotto, the Bay of Martyrs, and the Bay of Islands. If you are making good progress and have time to spare, another great scenic spot that will require more of a detour off the Great Ocean Road is Childers Cove.

If you travel in the summer and are dealing with the heat, take advantage of the rapid cooling offered by your EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable AC . Or, if you like to avoid the crowds and travel in winter, this portable unit even doubles as a heater so you can take the chill off on cool nights!

You will come to the end of the Great Ocean Road in Allansford. From there, drive through Warrnambool to the small coastal town of Port Fairy, often called Victoria’s prettiest little town, and for good reason. It has great small-town charm with beautiful beaches, scenic views, and great dining out at the local restaurants.

Day 4: Port Fairy to Mount Gambier

Day four brings another short day of driving, just 2 hours, but again, there will be plenty of great stops along the way, this time with lots of nature reserves and geological sites. If you have time, spend some time in the Griffiths Reserve before you leave Port Fairy. 

Then enjoy some more coastal driving with several nature reserves along this stretch of the famous Shipwreck Coast if you want to take some detours and go for a hike. You can even stop at Yambuk Lake and the Great Yambuk Slide for some fun for the little ones. 

When you get to Portland, stop for lunch, enjoy the beach, and check out some sites, including the Petrified Forest and the Tarragal Caves. Also, check out the Point Danger Gannet Colony if you have birdwatchers in your travel group. 

Finally, save some time for exploring Mount Gambier, one of the best places to explore the Limestone Coast. It’s famous for its crater lakes, sinkholes, and ancient volcanoes. The gorgeous Umpherston Sinkhole, filled with rich plant life, and the famous limestone Engelbrecht Cave are two popular destinations there. 

Day 5: Mount Gambier to Robe

Next, take the coastal route from Mount Gambier to Robe to enjoy more of the Limestone Coast. When you leave Mount Gambier, check out the famous Tantanoola Caves, which have beautiful limestone sites. You can even make a day of it and book a tour with SA Parks, but make sure you book it ahead of time to ensure you can get in. 

Next, drive on to Millicent and take the Southern Ports Highway. Beachport is an excellent stop along the way for lunch and an afternoon surf or swim. You can always stay there, too, if you want something quieter. Otherwise, keep heading onwards to the more trendy town of Robe. While in Robe, check out the Robe Lighthouse and enjoy another gorgeous sunset on the beach, then check out some of the local nightlife.  

Day 6: Robe to Victor Harbour

Robe to Victor Harbour is another longer drive, around four hours, but it is incredibly scenic. You will drive along the beautiful Coorong National Park. This area is famous for its great fishing, so you can stop and put your line in the water. Sand dunes and wetland areas are also popular with visitors, but you mostly need a 4×4 to access those. 

Victor Harbor is located along Encounter Bay, another popular holiday destination with gorgeous ocean views. So be sure to plan ahead to secure your place to stay if you travel during summer or the holidays. Alternatively, if you like to avoid the crowds and travel in winter, you might be able to catch the migratory route of the Southern Right Whales. 

You can stop at the South Australian Whale Center in Victor Harbor to find out where the whales might be on their journey. 

Day 7: Victor Harbor to Adelaide

Now, your journey is reaching an end, and this is your shortest driving day yet. But it does not have to be uneventful. In fact, there are plenty of stops and short detours to make along the one-hour journey from Victor Harbor to Adelaide, so you can still make an entire day of it if you wish. 

Some popular destinations are Aldinga Beach and Sellicks Beach, both incredibly beautiful. Sellicks Beach has dramatic cliffs for great photography opportunities, and the hard-packed sand means that even 2WD vehicles can drive on the beach without worrying about getting stuck in the sand. 

If you like wine, there is a small wine region around McLaren Vale with popular wineries, including Paxton Wines, known for its organic wines, and the popular Down the Rabbit Hole, known for its fun atmosphere, great food, and great wine. 

Before you head into the beautiful city of Adelaide, check out the relatively easy hikes in the gorgeous Onkaparinga River National Park . 

Finally, when you get to Adelaide, plan to spend at least a day or two enjoying the beautiful city. It has more gorgeous beaches, vineyards, gardens, a great selection of restaurants, and small-city nightlife to enjoy. 

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Pay attention to these four important tips to make the most of your relaxing but exciting journey!

  • Note that there is no free camping along the Great Ocean Road, and the beach car parks are often patrolled at night. So, if you make the trip in summer, be prepared for lots of travellers. Plan ahead and book your campgrounds well in advance, as they might otherwise be sold out.  
  • Do not drive at night to avoid encounters with wildlife on the road that could be dangerous for both them and you. It is best to stop before sunset each night. 
  • Download an app like Petrol Spy to find cheap fue—some stations along the coast charge a lot more, especially during summer. 
  • Having roadside assistance and/or travel insurance is always recommended to deal with unexpected vehicle breakdowns or other issues along the way. 

Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide is a beautiful journey, especially if you take the coastal route, which offers many beautiful sights along the way. Take your time, don’t be in a rush to travel as much as possible each day, and you will have a nice, relaxing adventure. 

The most scenic route from Adelaide to Melbourne is along the coast on the Great Ocean Road and along the Limestone Coast, which will take at least 2-3 days or up to 7 if you make plenty of great scenic stops along the way.  

Melbourne to Adelaide can be a beautiful, relaxing road trip, whether you are caravanning or travelling by car. Along the way, you can see many fabulous beaches, nature reserves, hikes, stunning waterfalls, and gorgeous sunsets.  Be sure to plan ahead, especially when travelling in the summer or on holiday. These are popular destinations, so the campgrounds and hotels can sell out fast. 

Bring your EcoFlow Portable Power Station with you to keep your essential devices running so you and the kids can relax and enjoy your trip. You can even charge it with your EcoFlow portable solar panels when you stop at all those great beaches along the way. Now, hit the road and have fun.

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16 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

Discover the hidden gems of southeastern Australia on this unforgettable 14-day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary with a campervan hire. This epic journey leads you through picturesque towns, breathtaking coastlines, verdant forests, and world-class wineries, creating a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. Buckle up and prepare to delve into the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique attractions that make this region truly captivating. Let the adventure begin!

Melbourne to Adelaide Distance

Over the course of a 16-day road trip, the Melbourne to Adelaide distance covers approximately 1,057 km via the National Highway M8, offering a scenic inland route and an enjoyable drive. Travellers can expect an estimated total journey time of 13 hours, allowing ample opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, charming towns, and attractions at a leisurely pace along the way.

1057km trip distance

16 day roadtrip

Kuga Campervan recommended

Day 1-2: Melbourne

View of Melbourne cityscape and Yarra River, Australia

Kick off your road trip in Melbourne, a bustling city known for its rich culture, diverse cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. Stroll through the serene Royal Botanic Gardens or take in the impressive architecture at Federation Square. Discover hidden gems in the city’s laneways, indulge in world-class dining experiences, and catch a game at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. With its perfect blend of modern architecture, rich history, and diverse entertainment options, Melbourne sets the stage for an unforgettable start to your road trip adventure.

Sightseeing #1: Royal Botanic Gardens

Begin your Melbourne adventure at the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. With over 8,500 plant species, lush landscapes, and serene lakes, the gardens are an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Don’t miss the captivating Australian Forest Walk and the vibrant Guilfoyle’s Volcano. The Royal Botanic Gardens offer a refreshing escape from bustling city life, making it a must-visit attraction.

Sightseeing #2: Federation Square

Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s cultural hub at the iconic Federation Square. This architectural marvel is home to numerous galleries, museums, and eateries, providing endless entertainment options. Explore the cutting-edge Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) or admire Indigenous art at the Koorie Heritage Trust. With its diverse events calendar and central location, Federation Square serves as the perfect gathering place for locals and tourists alike, showcasing the city’s vibrant spirit.

Day 3-4: Melbourne to Ballarat

The Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia

As you continue your journey from Melbourne to Ballarat on Days 3 and 4, prepare to step back in time to the gold rush era of the 1850s. This historic city is best known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and captivating heritage sites, such as Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that brings the gold rush to life. Explore the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Australian art. With its rich history, beautiful gardens, and vibrant arts scene, Ballarat offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and an enriching experience for all travellers.

Sightseeing #1: Sovereign Hill

Step back in time at Sovereign Hill, a living-history museum that transports you to the gold rush era of the 1850s. Experience life as a miner, witness real gold being poured, and try your luck panning for gold. With costumed characters, interactive exhibits, and fascinating guided tours, Sovereign Hill offers an immersive journey into Australia’s rich history, making it an essential stop on your road trip.

Sightseeing #2: Grampians National Park

Craving a nature-filled escape? Look no further than Grampians National Park, a heritage-listed wonderland that has it all – Aboriginal history, diverse flora and fauna, and jaw-dropping beauty. Whether you’re conquering world-class walks or hiking trails like a true adventurer or simply cruising along for a scenic drive, the park’s stunning landscapes will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

Day 5-6: Ballarat to Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay, Australia

Embark on the next leg of your journey from Ballarat to Apollo Bay, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Nestled along the stunning Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is a picturesque coastal town offering breathtaking ocean views, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. Renowned for its outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy surfing, hiking, and wildlife spotting in the nearby Great Otway National Park. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious local seafood at one of the many charming waterfront eateries. With its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, Apollo Bay is an idyllic haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Sightseeing #1: Great Otway National Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Great Otway National Park, a diverse landscape featuring lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and cascading waterfalls. Explore the ancient tree ferns and towering mountain ash trees, or marvel at the mesmerising glowworms in Melba Gully. The park’s diverse flora and fauna make it an unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts, offering a spectacular showcase of Australia’s unique environment.

Sightseeing #2: Great Ocean Walk

Embark on the iconic Great Ocean Walk, a stunning coastal trail stretching over 100 kilometres along the rugged Southern Ocean coastline. Witness the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles, traverse windswept beaches, and spot native wildlife as you hike through this pristine landscape. The walk offers unparalleled views, diverse terrain, and an unmatched connection to nature, making it an essential experience for any adventure-seeker visiting Apollo Bay.

Day 7-8: Apollo Bay to Port Fairy

Port Fairy on the Great Ocean Road

Passing by the Port Campbell National Park from Apollo Bay, you’ll arrive at Port Fairy, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This charming coastal village boasts picturesque streets lined with historic bluestone buildings, inviting cafes, and boutique shops. Port Fairy is best known for its stunning beaches, scenic river walks, and vibrant arts scene. Be sure to visit the iconic Griffiths Island Lighthouse and immerse yourself in the area’s rich maritime history, making your stay in Port Fairy truly unforgettable.

Sightseeing #1: Griffiths Island

Experience the natural beauty of Griffiths Island, a tranquil sanctuary home to a thriving colony of short-tailed shearwaters and other native wildlife. Wander along the scenic walking tracks, take in the panoramic ocean views, and visit the charming historic lighthouse. With its diverse birdlife and picturesque landscapes, Griffiths Island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, making it a must-see destination in Port Fairy.

Sightseeing #2: Port Fairy Beach

Soak up the sun at Port Fairy Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline perfect for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. The crystal-clear waters and powdery white sands create an idyllic setting for a relaxing day by the sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, watch surfers ride the waves, or catch a magnificent sunset over the ocean. Port Fairy Beach provides the quintessential Australian beach experience, making it an unmissable stop on your road trip.

Day 9-10: Port Fairy to Mount Gambier

Beautiful sinkhole in Mount Gambier

As you venture from Port Fairy to Mount Gambier on Days 9 and 10, prepare to be amazed by this unique destination. Mount Gambier, set amidst a volcanic landscape, is famous for its mesmerising Blue Lake, which changes colour throughout the year. Explore the fascinating Umpherston Sinkhole, a lush sunken garden, and visit the engaging Lady Nelson Visitor Centre. With its natural wonders and captivating geological features, Mount Gambier offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Sightseeing #1: Umpherston Sinkhole

Venture into the enchanting Umpherston Sinkhole, a captivating sunken garden created within a collapsed limestone cave. Wander through lush ferns and vibrant hydrangeas, admire the beautiful hanging vines, and spot possums at dusk. This unique geological wonder offers a truly awe-inspiring experience, making it an unmissable attraction in Mount Gambier.

Sightseeing #2: Blue Lake

Be captivated by the stunning Blue Lake, a crystal-clear volcanic crater lake known for its vibrant cobalt blue hue during the summer months. Take a leisurely walk around the lake’s perimeter, learn about its fascinating geological history, and enjoy panoramic views from the various lookout points. The Blue Lake’s striking beauty and intriguing origins make it a must-visit attraction in Mount Gambier, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience its natural wonder.

Day 11-12: Mount Gambier to Coonawarra 

View of winery in South Australia

On Days 11 and 12, make the short 45-minute journey from Mount Gambier to Coonawarra, a wine lover’s paradise. An hour drive away from Limestone Coast, this renowned wine region is celebrated for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in its rich terra rossa soil. Spend your time visiting the many boutique wineries, indulging in wine tastings, and learning about the area’s viticulture history. Immerse yourself in Coonawarra’s picturesque countryside and savour the flavours of this world-class wine destination.

Sightseeing #1: Wynns Coonawarra Estate

Indulge in world-class wines at Wynns Coonawarra Estate, the region’s pre-eminent wine producer with a rich history dating back to 1891. Explore the estate’s picturesque vineyards, learn about their meticulous rejuvenation process, and savour the true essence of Coonawarra in every glass. A visit to Wynns Coonawarra Estate is a must for wine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable taste of this renowned wine region.

Sightseeing #2: Katnook Estate

Fancy a trip back in time with a glass of fine wine? Visit Katnook Estate, located in the heart of the legendary Coonawarra wine region. Established in 1867, Katnook boasts remarkable Terra Rossa vineyards and a rich heritage. Take a leisurely walk among the vines, admire the iconic Woolshed, and treat yourself to some of Australia’s finest wines. Trust us, Katnook Estate is an experience that will linger on your palate and in your memories.

Day 13-14: Coonawarra to Murray Bridge

View of Giraffes

On Days 13 and 14, head to Murray Bridge, a charming riverside town located along Australia’s longest river, the mighty Murray. The town is best known for its historic bridges, scenic walking trails, and abundant water activities. Cruise the river on a paddle steamer, try your hand at fishing, or explore the nearby Monarto Safari Park for an unforgettable wildlife experience. Murray Bridge offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure for all travellers to enjoy.

Sightseeing #1: Monarto Safari Park

Looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience? Visit Monarto Safari Park, home to Africa’s most impressive animals, including one of Australia’s largest lion pride and giraffe herds. Since 1993, this expansive park has been a haven for over 500 animals across its vast landscapes. Get ready to embark on an awe-inspiring safari adventure and witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Sightseeing #2: Sturt Reserve

Discover the beauty and fun of Sturt Reserve, Murray Bridge’s crown jewel. Located along the banks of the mighty Murray River, this stunning riverside playground is perfect for basking in the Mediterranean climate. Enjoy dipping your toes in the water, relaxing on the lush green lawns, or taking part in the annual Murray River Splash Festival. With activities for the whole family, Sturt Reserve promises a delightful day filled with leisure and entertainment.

Day 15-16: Murray Bridge to Adelaide

Adelaide at sunset, Australia

Conclude your journey on Days 15 and 16 with a leisurely 1-hour drive from Murray Bridge to Adelaide, the vibrant capital of South Australia. Known for its world-class festivals, art galleries, and picturesque parklands, Adelaide offers a rich cultural experience. Enjoy the bustling Central Market, sample exquisite cuisine at award-winning restaurants, or visit the renowned Barossa Valley wine region nearby. With its mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Adelaide is the perfect finale for your unforgettable road trip.

Sightseeing #1: Adelaide Zoo

Ready for a wild time? Swing by Adelaide Zoo, one of the city’s most roaring attractions. Home to over 2,500 animals and 250 species, this zoological wonderland is spread across eight hectares of lush botanic surroundings. From exotic mammals to feathered friends and scaly critters, there’s never a dull moment. So, unleash your inner explorer and embark on an unforgettable adventure that’ll leave you buzzing with excitement!

Sightseeing #2: Adelaide Botanic Garden

How about a need for a breath of fresh air? Stroll through Adelaide Botanic Garden, a historic haven of natural beauty spanning 50 hectares. Established in 1857, this leafy sanctuary boasts some of Australia’s finest plant collections. With highlights like the elegantly restored 1877 Palm House, the enchanting Amazon Waterlily Pavilion, and the awe-inspiring Bicentennial Conservatory, it’s no wonder visitors find themselves rooted to the spot! Go on, let your senses blossom at this captivating garden escape.

If you would like to read more of our  Melbourne Road Trips , come and explore our adventures. Don’t forget to check out our latest deals & specials on campervan hire in Melbourne.

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Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along one of Australia’s most famous coastal routes.

By Ellie Schneider

Surf at Bells Beach, walk among the 12 Apostles and sample wine in McLaren Vale on this five-day journey along Australia’s dramatic south-east coastline.

What to expect

  • Surf at world-famous Bells Beach.
  • Take in the beauty of the 12 Apostles.
  • Stay in luxury accommodation at seaside towns.
  • Time: 5 days
  • Distance: 728km (452mi)
  • Transport: car
  • Nearest major city: Melbourne

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne

Bells Beach, Torquay, VIC © Mark Chew, Tourism Victoria

Bells Beach, Torquay, Victoria © Mark Chew, Tourism Victoria

Morning Drive into the pretty port city of Geelong , 75km (47mi) south-west of Melbourne . Stop for brunch at one of the many local cafés –  King of the Castle  and  Box Office  all have excellent coffee – before stopping at the award-winning  Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre . Here, you can meet resident emus and kangaroos, learn to throw a boomerang and marvel over ancient art techniques, all while gaining valuable knowledge of local culture. The centre's cultural education program will fill you with the wonder and wisdom of Aboriginal culture passed down over generations. 

Next, continue on to Torquay . Torquay is where the Great Ocean Road begins and is often dubbed the ‘Surf Capital of Australia’ thanks to its world-famous Bells Beach. It is also the birthplace of leading surf brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver. If you're a first-time surfer, book a private lesson with the  Torquay Surf Academy , which includes equipment and a personal coach. Afterwards grab a sandwich or house-made pie at the  Torquay Larder .   

Afternoon The great waves continue at Fairhaven and Eastern View – worth a stop for avid surfers – en route to the seaside holiday resort town of Lorne , a 50-minute drive from Torquay. Once in Lorne, take a dip in the water or keep your feet dry and spend a few hours visiting the galleries and boutiques along the main street. Book well in advance for dinner at fine dining restaurant  Brae , which serves a set menu created from the highest quality local ingredients. There are also six luxury guest suites on site.

Day 2: Lorne and the 12 Apostles to Port Fairy

Worn Gundidj @ Tower Hill, VIC © Archie Sartracom

Worn Gundidj @ Tower Hill, Victoria © Archie Sartracom

Cape Otway Lighthouse © Visit Victoria

If time permits, drive to  Cape Otway Lighthouse , the oldest surviving lighthouse in Australia. Climb to the observation deck at the top of the lighthouse for fantastic views across the Southern Ocean.

Morning Enjoy breakfast on the banks of the Erskine River at  Swing Bridge Café  before heading off on the two-hour drive to see the 12 Apostles , a series of towering limestone pillars jutting out of the Southern Ocean. Park at the 12 Apostles car park and follow the paved pathway to the lookout. A 15-minute walk from the 12 Apostles is Gibson's Steps . Descend the 86 stairs, which are carved into the cliff face, to reach the beach, where you'll be rewarded with a close-up view of the Apostles. For another unique perspective of these geological formations,  book a scenic helicopter tour that takes in the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge .

Afternoon Continue along Shipwreck Coast, named after the wild seas that sent at least 700 ships crashing on the rocks. Explore the coastal town of Warrnambool  where, from May to October, southern right whales calve off Logan Beach. Nearby, stop into Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve for guided walking tours from an Aboriginal perspective. Your guide will lead you through a nature reserve inside a dormant volcano where kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas, echidnas and hundreds of bird species roam freely. At the end of the tour, try your hand at throwing a returning boomerang. 

From here, it's a 30-minute drive to Port Fairy , where you can stroll around the fisherman’s wharf and charming whitewashed cottages before a restful night at the boutique hotel,  Drift House .

Day 3: Port Fairy to Coonawarra

Umpherston Sinkhole, Mount Gambier, Limestone Coast, SA © South Australian Tourism Commission

Umpherston Sinkhole, Mount Gambier, Limestone Coast, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

Morning Carry on along the route to the historic township of Portland, a one-hour drive from Port Fairy. Watch fishing boats unload their catch on the waterfront before taking the 10-minute drive to the photogenic Cape Nelson Lighthouse . Here you can take a tour to delve into the maritime history of the region. Drive around to  Bridgewater Bay Café  where you can rest and refuel before taking the 2.5km (1.6mi) Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk . The viewing platform at the end of the trail looks out to a colony of roughly 650 Australian fur seals. Book a cage snorkel dive to get up close and personal with these playful animals. 

Afternoon Back on the highway, drive 50 minutes through Nelson and across the South Australian border. Stop at Mount Gambier , which sits on an ancient extinct volcano and is circled by vivid crater lakes. Take the 3.6km (2.2mi) trail around Blue Lake, which turns cobalt blue from December to March. You can also spend a bit of time exploring the stunning Umpherston Sinkhole . This unique natural attraction was once a cave formed through the dissolution of the limestone; the sinkhole was created when the top of the chamber collapsed downwards. It was turned into a picturesque garden by James Umpherston around 1886 and is open at all times to visit. Check it out at dusk to see the area come alive as resident possums venture into the floodlit gardens to feed.

Hop back in the car for the one hour drive north to Coonawarra , a region famed for its cabernet sauvignon. Drop in to one of the 20 cellar doors, such as  Wynns Coonawarra Estate  or  Balnaves , before checking into  Punter's Vineyard Retreat , which offers panoramic views across the vines.

Day 4: Coonawarra to Victor Harbor

Granite Island Tram, Victor Harbor, SA © Graham Scheer, South Australian Tourism Commission

Granite Island Tram, Victor Harbor, South Australia © Graham Scheer, South Australian Tourism Commission 

Morning Drive half an hour north from Coonawarra to visit the World Heritage-listed  Naracoorte Caves National Park , where 26 limestone caves house the fossilised skeletons of giant marsupials. Four of the caves are open to the public via a self-guided tour. From here it's a three-hour drive to the quaint town of Strathalbyn, where more than 30 heritage-listed buildings sit on the banks of the Angas River. The town is home to specialty antique shops and the idyllic Soldiers Memorial Gardens, a great spot for a picnic lunch. 

Afternoon Jump back into the car for the 40-minute drive south to Port Elliot. Swim at Horseshoe Bay or surf at Boomer Beach before arriving in nearby Victor Harbor . The seaside town is famed for its horse-drawn tramway (which dates back to 1878) and links Victor Harbor with Granite Island. Ride the tram across the causeway to Granite Island, which is home to a colony of little penguins. If you're visiting Victor Harbor between June and October, book  The Big Duck  boat tour to see the southern right whale breeding sanctuary of Encounter Bay. Stay the night in luxury waterfront accommodation at  The Bluff Resort Apartments  overlooking Encounter Bay.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

3 days in Adelaide

Day 5: Victor Harbor to Adelaide

Glenelg Beach, Adelaide, SA © Josie Withers, South Australian Tourism Commission

Glenelg Beach, Adelaide, South Australia © Josie Withers, South Australian Tourism Commission

Morning Travel through the rolling hills of Mount Compass to the McLaren Vale wine region, a 50-minute drive north from Port Elliot. Visit galleries and taste wine at some of the 45 cellar doors, including Yangarra , d'Arenberg and Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard . McLaren Vale is also a haven for foodies. Sit down for lunch at  Coriole Restaurant  and let the chef prepare you a selection of seasonal dishes accompanied by matching wines.

Afternoon From here, it’s an easy 45-minute drive to central Adelaide . Wander the cultural boulevard of North Terrace – home to the South Australian Museum and Adelaide Botanic Garden – then browse the department stores in Rundle Mall. Take the 35-minute tram trip from Rundle Mall to Glenelg Beach for a seaside stroll before heading back into the centre for dinner at any of the city's hottest restaurants . Try  Press Food & Wine ,  Peel St  or  Ruby Red Flamingo . Finish your trip with a restful night at the plush five-star  Mayfair Hotel . 

Explore more nearby

Mia Margarita, Adelaide, SA © South Australian Tourism Commission

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7-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean Road

Melbourne and Adelaide are two of the most liveable Australian cities. Built along the coast, both Melbourne and Adelaide offer easy access to incredible beaches. With the world-renowned Great Ocean Road located between these two capital cities, a coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide is among one of the most scenic road trips in Australia.

A drive between Melbourne and Adelaide via the inland route takes only 8 hours. However, a drive between Melbourne and Adelaide along the south coast can take up to 12 hours. Note: Estimations based on a non-stop drive with no traffic & regular breaks are suggested to avoid driving fatigue.

To allow adequate breaks and to visit the popular attractions along the south coast, 3-day is the minimum for a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip via the Great Ocean Road. For the best experience and to fully discover the south coast, 7-day is the ideal duration for a coastal drive between Melbourne and Adelaide.

In this article, I have put together a detailed 7-day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean Road . Suggestions on where to eat & where to stay are also provided for your convenience. Hope you can find this itinerary useful in your trip planning process.

If you are time restricted & only wish to visit the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, you may wish to check out this article on: ‘ Great Ocean Road One Day Itinerary ‘.

Portarlington Pier

Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay via Geelong

Torquay is located at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road. With only a 1 hour and 20 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD, many people will choose Torquay as the first stop of their Melbourne to Adelaide road trip.

However, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are also very scenic and well worth a visit in their own right. They are conveniently located along the drive between Melbourne and Torquay. Hence, I highly suggest visiting them before heading off to Torquay. If you do not wish to spend a whole day in this area, I suggest at least checking out the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula when driving by.

For more detailed information on visiting Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, you may wish to also check out this article on: ‘ One Day Itinerary in Geelong & the Bellarine Peninsula ‘.

  • Melbourne to Geelong : A drive between Melbourne and Geelong takes just over 1 hour on average & this drive is relatively straightforward.
  • National Wool Museum : The only wool museum of this scale in Australia. A visitor information centre is also conveniently located on the ground floor of the National Wool Museum, which you may also wish to check out.
  • Geelong Bollard Trail Walk : The most famous and popular walking trail in Geelong, featuring over 100 timber bollards dotted along Geelong’s waterfront area. These bollards are sculptures of iconic figures from Geelong & a great way for visitors to learn Geelong’s history.
  • Geelong Botanic Gardens : Although small, Geelong Botanic Gardens is extremely picturesque & a great place to relax.
  • The Dell & Clifton Springs : A beautiful former mineral spring site overlooking the incredible Port Philip Bay.
  • Portarlington Pier : Located at the northern end of Bellarine Peninsula, Portarlington Pier is the best place for a sunset walk in the Bellarine Peninsula.

Where to Eat

  • Breakfast : The Hardware Societe in Melbourne for a mouthwatering French breakfast.
  • Lunch : Cafe Francisco Geelong for a delicious kebab and a quick meal.
  • Dinner : The Gypsy’s Lunchbox in Torquay to satisfy your burger cravings.

Where to Stay

Geelong and Torquay are only a 25-minute drive away from each other. Hence, you can stay in either Geelong or Torquay for the first night of this road trip.

Since Geelong is bigger and more urbanised than Torquay, there are much more accommodations, shops, and eateries in Geelong . In addition, since Torquay is a popular holiday destination for people visiting the Great Ocean Road, in general, accommodations are more expensive in Torquay .

For more detailed information on accommodation options & pricing, you may wish to check out:

Opens in a new tab.

Day 2: Torquay to Apollo Bay

On the second day of this road trip, you will officially start to explore the extraordinary views along the Great Ocean Road.

From here on, you will drive past countless pristine beaches and breathtaking lookouts . You will likely have the urge to stop at every single one of them, but you do need to control this urge to some degree. Otherwise, it will take you way over 7-day to complete this coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide.

For more information on attractions along the Great Ocean Road, you may wish to check out this: ‘ Great Ocean Road One-Day Itinerary ‘.

  • Bells Beach : An internationally renowned surf beach with soft sand and a striking view. You may wish to bring a surfboard along as well.
  • Point Addis Beach Lookout : For another outstanding view of the beautiful Bells Beach.
  • Loveridge Lookout / Anglesea lookout : For an impressive view of the remarkable Anglesea Beach.
  • Split Point Lighthouse : A charming lighthouse next to a rugged coastline. There is also a short walk from the lighthouse for visitors to further explore this coastline.
  • Memorial Arch at Eastern View : One of the most popular landmarks along the Great Ocean Road. It was erected to commemorate the WW1 soldiers who helped to build the Great Ocean Road.
  • Teddy’s Lookout: A sensational lookout near Lorne, with an amazing view of the Southern Ocean.
  • Sheoak Falls : A short drive west of Lorne. From the carpark, there is a 30-minute return walk (depending on fitness level) through a gorgeous woodland to visit the stunning Sheoak Falls.
  • Mount Defiance Lookout & Cape Patton Lookout : There are various lookouts along the Great Ocean Road, all showcasing the spectacular coastline along the Southern Ocean. Mt Defiance Lookout & Cape Patton Lookout are two of my favourites between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
  • Marriner’s Lookout (Apollo Bay ): After arriving at Apollo Bay, make sure you drive up the hill to check out Marriner’s Lookout for a sweeping view of the marvellous Apollo Bay.
  • Apollo Bay Back Beach & Apollo Bay Harbour : Enjoy a sunset walk along Apollo Bay’s beautiful waterfront.
  • Morning Tea : Great Ocean Road Chocolate & Ice Creamery for some delicious chocolate treats and ice cream.
  • Lunch : The Lighthouse Tea Room  near Split Point Lighthouse for a light lunch.
  • Dinner : Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op for their freshly caught Southern Rock Lobsters.

Apollo Bay is the mid-way point between Torquay and Warrnambool (the two ends of the Great Ocean Road). Therefore, Apollo Bay makes the perfect overnight stop during a road trip along the Great Ocean Road.

You can also stay at Lorne or Port Campbell for the night, but you may need to alter this itinerary a bit to suit your plan.

From my experience, Apollo Bay also offers more options and better value , in comparison to the accommodations in Lorne and Port Campbell. There are more shops and eateries to be found in Apollo Bay as well.

For detailed information on accommodation options & pricing of these 3 locations, you can also check out via:

The Twelve Apostles

Day 3: Apollo Bay to Warrnambool

The drive between Apollo Bay and Warrnambool is arguably the highlight of the entire Great Ocean Road Drive .

From Apollo Bay west along the Great Ocean Road, you will first drive through a serene rainforest , then be presented with the famous Gibson Steps & 12-Apostles . From the Gibson Steps onwards, you will find countless impressive off-shore rock stacks dotted along this rugged coastline.

For more information on attractions along the Great Ocean Road, you may wish to check out this article on: ‘ Great Ocean Road One-Day Itinerary ‘.

  • Maits Rest Rainforest Walk : A 30-minute loop walk (depending on fitness level) in a tranquil rainforest in the Great Otway National Park. It is a relatively flat and easy walk but can be wet and slippery in certain spots.
  • Gibson Steps : The lookout platform at Gibson Steps offers a spectacular view of the rugged coastline along the Great Ocean Road. From the lookout platform, there is also a set of narrow steps to the pristine beach under the cliff.
  • 12 Apostles : The most well-known Great Ocean Road attraction. Although many people believe it is overhyped, you will still be better off taking 20-30 minutes out of this trip to check it out and take a photo of this site.
  • Loch Ard Gorge : An impressive cluster of lookouts and walking trails to discover the remarkable Shipwreck Coast. For the best experience, plan for at least 2 hours to explore Loch Ard Gorge.
  • London Bridge : An impressive off-shore stack along a remarkable coastline.
  • The Grotto : A serene spot with captivating rock formations. It is one of my favourite spots along this drive.
  • Bay of Martyrs to Halladale Point Walk : A stunning 30-minute walk to discover the beauty of Bay of Martyrs.
  • Bay of Islands Beach : A pristine beach with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Islands.
  • Breakfast: Check out the freshly baked scallop pies from Apollo Bay Bakery.
  • Lunch : Forage on the Foreshore in Port Campbell for a quick lunch & a stunning view of the Port Campbell waterfront.
  • Dinner : MADALA 134 in Warrnambool for some quality Thai food.

Warrnambool is located at the western end of the Great Ocean Road. It is also the largest town along the Great Ocean Road. With a decent range of accommodations, eateries, and shops to choose from, Warrnambool makes a great stop during a Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip.

Point Ritchie

Day 4: Warrnambool to Portland via Port Fairy

Although not as famous as the Great Ocean Road Drive, the coastal drive between Warrnambool and Portland is as scenic (if not more) as the Great Ocean Road Drive . Since most visitors tend to finish their road trips before arriving at Warrnambool, the journey between Warrnambool and Portland can be much more enjoyable than along the Great Ocean Road, especially during the peak seasons.

Since there is so much to discover between Warrnambool and Portland, I highly suggest splinting this section of the road trip over 2-day, if time allows.

For more detailed information on visiting Warrnambool & Portland, you can also check out the articles on:

  • ‘ Things to Do in Warrnambool ‘
  • ‘ Things to Do in Portland, Victoria ‘
  • Stingray Bay to Thunder Point Lookout : Start the day with a relaxing coastal walk in the gorgeous Thunder Point Coastal Reserve between Stingray Bay and Thunder Point Lookout in Warrnambool.
  • Logans Beach Whale Watching Platform : Check out Logans Beach for your chance to spot the impressive Southern Right Whales between June and August .
  • Myojil / Point Ritchie : Head off to Point Ritchie for a stunning ocean view and a range of impressive rock formations after your whale watching at Logans Beach.
  • Griffiths Island & Port Fairy Lighthouse : Under a 30-minute drive from Warrnambool, you can find the secluded Griffiths Island in Port Fairy. Following the well-maintained walkway from the carpark, you will eventually arrive at the picturesque Port Fairy Lighthouse . During the winter months, whales can also be spotted around the lighthouse.
  • Yellow Rock Coastal Park (Portland): A rugged coastline and a tremendous amount of unique yellow-coloured rock formations. A great spot for surfing as well.
  • Cape Nelson Lighthouse : One of my favourite spots along this drive. It features a stunning ivory-white lighthouse against the rugged coastline & the deep blue ocean. If you haven’t spotted a whale by now, Cape Nelson can be your best chance for spotting whales all year round ( Southern Right Whales during the colder months & Blue Whales during the warmer months) .
  • Portland Town Centre : Finish the day with a leisure walk around Portland Town Centre to check out its over 200 historic buildings.
  • Breakfast: Bohemia Cafe & Bar in Warrnambool for an amazing breakfast in a quirky Bohemian cafe.
  • Lunch : Bank St + Co in Port Fairy (name on the door is Toby’s Estate – confusing, but apparently the same place) for a light lunch and an amazing coffee to recharge the day.
  • Dinner : Check out Ric’s Pizza Bar in Portland for a pizza night.

South Australia's Southern Most Point - Cape Northumberland

Day 5: Mount Gambier

On day 5 of this coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide, you will be crossing the Victorian and South Australian border & start to discover South Australia’s famous Limestone Coast .

Mount Gambier is the most well-known area along the Limestone Coast. In addition to its impressive coastline , Mount Gambier is also renowned for its unique limestone sinkholes .

For more information on the attractions around Mount Gambier, you can also check out this article on: ‘ Things to Do in Mount Gambier ‘.

  • South Australia’s Southernmost Point : Check out the breathtaking coastline and remarkable rock formations at South Australia’s Southernmost Point – Cape Northumberland.
  • Mount Shank : Take a short hike to visit a dormant volcano at Mount Shank in Mount Gambier.
  • Little Blue Lake : Cool off after your hike in a picturesque crater lake, the Little Blue Lake.
  • Blue Lake : One of the most famous crater lakes in Mount Gambier. Take a short walk around the lake to appreciate the captivating views of this tranquil blue lake.
  • Centenary Tower : Take a walk up Centenary Tower for a sweeping view of Mount Gambier and its surrounding areas.
  • Umpherston Sinkhole : One of the prettiest sinkhole gardens in Mount Gambier. A walk within this beautiful sinkhole garden is indeed a walk in a fairytale!
  • Cave Garden : A small sinkhole garden located in the middle of Mount Gambier town centre. It also runs a nightly light show for everyone to enjoy.
  • Breakfast: The Lido Larder in Portland for an awesome selection of baked goods and delicious coffee.
  • Lunch : Pack a picnic to enjoy with a view of the stunning Blue Lake in Mount Gambier .
  • Dinner : Check out Natural Born Grillers in Mount Gambier for a succulent burger.

Mount Gambier is one of the largest regional towns in South Australia. With a range of accommodations, eateries, and shops to suit different needs, Mount Gambier is the perfect location for an overnight stay.

Town Beach

Day 6: Mount Gambier to Robe via Beachport

After exploring the Mount Gambier region, we will head further west along the south coast to visit the beautiful Beachport and Robe town.

Beachport is a small coastal village between Mount Gambier and Robe. With stunning coastal views and access to essential facilities, Beachport makes a great stopover between Mount Gambier and Robe.

Robe is a gorgeous coastal town along the Limestone Coast. It features a rugged coastline with remarkable limestone formations. It is also home to the Southern Rock Lobsters in South Australia & make sure you try them out when visiting Robe.

For more information on visiting Beachport and Robe, you may wish to check out these articles on:

  • ‘ Top 5 Attractions in Beachport ‘
  • ‘ Robe Road Trip Itinerary ‘
  • Beachport Jetty : Take a relaxing morning stroll along South Australia’s second-longest jetty, Beachport Jetty, after arriving at Beachport from Mount Gambier.
  • Bowman Scenic Drive : From Beachport Jetty, follow the signage to check out the spectacular views along Bowman Scenic Drive. Numerous parking bays are available along Bowman Scenic Drive for visitors to park safely before enjoying the views.
  • Beacon Hill Lookout : For a panoramic view of Robe, its magnificent coastline, and the surrounding reserves.
  • Robe Obelisk : The most iconic Robe landmark & one of the most scenic spots in Robe. Make sure you check it out too!
  • Robe Coastal Walk : From Robe Obelisk, follow Robe Coastal Walk towards Robe Lighthouse to better appreciate Robe’s spectacular coastline.
  • Glass Beach : Finish your coastal walk at the peaceful Glass Beach, with a view of Robe Lighthouse in the distance. If lucky, you can also find some colourful sea glasses around Glass Beach.
  • Long Beach : A long stretch of sandy beach near Robe. It is also one of Robe’s prime 4WD beaches.
  • Town Beach : A beautiful beach in the centre of Robe town. Perfect for a sunset walk.
  • Breakfast: Bay Blue Espresso Bar in Mount Gambier for a quick coffee and breakfast to start the day.
  • Lunch : Enjoy a delicious lunch at Adventurous Spoon in Robe .
  • Dinner : Check out Sails at Robe for their famous grilled Southern Rock Lobster with garlic butter sauce.

Robe is a great place to base yourself for the night.

Alternatively, you can also stay in nearby Kingston SE , but the accommodation and dining options in Kingston SE are much more limited in comparison.

For a detailed list of accommodation options, you may wish to check out:

Wallabies at Coorong National Park

Day 7: Robe to Adelaide

On the last day of this 7-Day road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road, you will get to explore the stunning Kingston SE, check out the famed Coorong National Park, take a walk along the beautiful Lake Albert, and arrive at the wine capital of Australia, Adelaide .

For detailed information on the attractions between Robe and Adelaide, you may wish to check out here on this: ‘ Adelaide to Robe Road Trip Itinerary’ .

For visiting Adelaide, you may also wish to check out these articles here:

  • The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Adelaide
  • 3-Day Adelaide Itinerary Without a Car
  • Adelaide Hills Day Trip Itinerary
  • Kangaroo Island 2-Day Road Trip Itinerary
  • Victor Harbor Day Trip Itinerary
  • Port Adelaide Day Trip Itinerary
  • Best Adelaide Beaches to Visit
  • 10 Best Day Trips from Adelaide
  • Barrosa Valley v.s McLaren Vale
  • Kingston Jetty : Take a relaxing walk along Kingston Jetty to enjoy Kingston SE’s stunning waterfront.
  • The Big Lobster : Stop by The Big Lobster, Larry, for a photo with this 17-metre-long fibreglass lobster sculpture.
  • Jack Point Observation Deck : Take a short walk from the car park to visit Jack Point Observation Deck for a taste of the wonderful Coorong National Park.
  • Meningie : Stop by Meningie for a walk along the tranquil Lake Albert.
  • Pink Lake : Check out the Pink Lake near Meningie for a surreal lake view. Note: the pinkness of this lake increases as it dries out during the warmer months.
  • Murray Bridge : Take a break at Murray Bridge along the beautiful River Murray.
  • Adelaide Hills : If time allows, you may wish to check out the picturesque Adelaide Hills before heading down to Adelaide.
  • Breakfast: Drift Cafe in Robe for a light breakfast to start the day.
  • Lunch : Check out the delicious baked goods, especially the meat pies, from Meningie Bakery .
  • Dinner : Windy Point Restaurant in Adelaide for a meal with the best view of the Adelaide skyline.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Best Road Trips: Melbourne to Adelaide (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips: Melbourne to Adelaide (Insider Guide for 2024)

Seeing as you’ve wound up here, we guess you’re planning a trip to South Australia’s laid-back capital. Now, all you need to do is suss out how to get there.

Oz is mammoth – so there is a lot to see. There’s a dramatic coastline flanked by plunging coastal cliffs and incredible limestone towers. Further inland, you’ll discover vast national parks peppered with waterfalls. It’s also a gateway to some of Australia’s most scrumptious vineyards.

There’s only one way to truly appreciate this natural wonderland, and that’s by creating the ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to start – we’ve got you covered! We’ve mapped out two of the best road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide, all you need to do is pick one!

Or, if you’re not so good at making decisions – make it a double! Take one route to Adelaide, then return with the other to Melbourne for the ultimate road trip experience.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

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Why Roadtrip from Melbourne to Adelaide?

Driving from melbourne to adelaide, the great ocean road, the inland alternative , what to pack for a road trip in melbourne to adelaide, insurance in melbourne and adelaide, final thoughts on the best road trips from melbourne to adelaide.

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Did you know that if you drive non-stop, you could get from Melbourne to Adelaide in merely eight hours? As much as that’s the case, you’d be crazy not to turn the outing into a proper adventure. 

But let’s get specific. Here are five reasons why taking road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide is our favourite way to travel between the two cities:

  • Travel at your own pace. The scenery of Australia is incredibly diverse (it’s much more than oceans and desert). In our opinion, van travel gives you more opportunities to take it all in and linger in the places you love.
  • Rad surfing. Well, this is Australia, after all. If you take the Great Ocean Road route, you get to surf in the official Aussie Surf Capital, Torquay. Time your road trip right, and you could even watch the annual Rip Curl Pro surf contest at Bells Beach. 
  • Gorgeous scenery. When you start planning a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, you’ll see that these states are scenic dreamlands. Highlights range from the iconic Limestone Coast to the vast wilderness of the Grampians and the cenotes of Mount Gambier.
  • Trekking: As much as you can appreciate the above from your cushy driver’s seat, nothing beats giving the limbs a stretch. Whichever route you pick, break up the drive with hiking. If you’ve got some spare cash, there are bountiful other outdoor activities to try. During the summer months, throw a tent in your boot and save some dollars at a cheap (or free) campground. 
  • Wonderful wildlife. The best road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide give you the chance to spot some of Australia’s incredible native fauna. Whales, fur seals, koalas, and kangaroos – we’ve got all the tips on where to find them.

flinders-street-station-melbourne-2661255_1280

Sealed and well-maintained, the roads between Melbourne and Adelaide are a doddle for road trippers. You will notice more congestion on the roads over the Christmas holidays, especially along the Great Ocean Road strip and its lookouts. The roads are quieter over winter, but be prepared for wetter and windier conditions.

As with pretty much any city in Australia, renting a vehicle for your road trip from Melbourne is easy as pie. There are plenty of rental companies in Melbourne to choose from, so we recommend shopping around for the best price.

Renting a Vehicle from Melbourne to Adelaide

You can rent a regular car, 4X4, or campervan for your road trip adventure. A 4X4 isn’t necessary unless you’ve got your heart set on a beach drive or some off-roading.

In order to pick up your vehicle in Melbourne, you will need a valid driver’s licence from your home country. Some rentals will ask to see your passport, too. Subject to your nationality, you might also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

The one drawback to renting a car in Melbourne is the expenses. To avoid surprises, bear the following costs in mind when planning your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide:

  • Age surcharge: Drivers must be aged at least 21 to rent a vehicle anywhere in Australia. But if you’re under 24, in most cases, you’ll need to pay an age surcharge.
  • Bond/deposit: You will need to pay a deposit (bond) to cover your rental against any damage. The figure varies depending on the vehicle and the rental agency, but it usually ranges between $200 – $1000.
  • Additional drivers: Planning to split the driving? Make sure you add any additional drivers to your rental agreement. Worst case – your insurance won’t cover you if an accident happens while an unregistered driver is behind the wheel.
  • Insurance:  Most likely, all rental companies will try to sweet talk you into purchasing their insurance. But if you’re a broke backpacker, it’s worth shopping around and getting insurance with a third party. This way, you have some spare cash to put towards your other road trip essentials.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Melbourne and Adelaide

Before you plan your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, familiarise yourself with local road rules. Aussie cops aren’t the kind to take bribes if you’re caught breaking one! If you’re not a native Aussie, remember that each territory and state follows its own road laws.

As your road trip takes you through Victoria and South Australia, here are a few to get you started:

  • No reckless honking. Australia has a nationwide ban on unnecessary honking, so only use it if you really have to. The fine is AU$300 in Victoria.
  • Don’t pick up any hitchhikers until you reach South Australia. Hitchhiking is illegal in Victoria and can land you with a $30 fine. 
  • Being overtaken? Let them go ahead. Increasing your speed while being overtaken is another big no-no.
  • Mind the gap in Melbourne. If you step more than 3 metres away from your car your windows can’t be open any more than 5 centimetres, and your vehicle needs to be locked. Which is common sense, really.
  • Keep your foot down, but not too much. You can receive fines for speeding as well as driving too slowly across the entire country. 

Don’t forget the obvious ones, like driving without your seatbelt fastened or texting behind the wheel. And we probably don’t need to tell you what Aussie police think of driving under the influence. On popular backpacker routes like the Great Ocean Road, it’s not uncommon to get pulled over for on-the-spot tests. 

Alright, alright…enough of the rules. Let’s check out our two ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip ideas. One follows a fairly famous road that we’ll bet you a packet of Tim Tams you’ll have heard of. Meanwhile, our alternate option weaves you through the Aussie outback.

The Great Ocean Road – 5 days

The inland alternative – 4 days.

First up, you guessed it – it’s  that  ocean drive. 

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  • From: Melbourne
  • To: Adelaide
  • Total Distance: 1,121 km
  • Top Road Trips Stops: Torquay, Lorne, Great Otway National Park, 12 Apostles, Logan’s Beach, Mount Gambier

The Great Ocean Road

You can’t put ‘Australia’ and ‘road trip’ in the same sentence and not have the Great Ocean Road spring to mind. This legendary route spans Torquay to Allansford, and is popular with backpackers, holidaymakers, and Aussies alike year-round. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone travelling around Melbourne.

 During summer the route buzzes with fellow road trippers – especially in the high season of January and February. If you can, we recommend this option in the shoulder season (February/March or October/November) when it’s warm but less busy.

Despite its popularity, it’s not one of those places that’s overhyped. There’s no shortage of surfing spots, hikes, climbs, and more. You could even pause for a Great Ocean Road skydive ! The coastal views are great from the car window but even better with 360-degree visibility from 15,000 feet.

Our road trip covers the full length of the route, plus a few other scenic treats.

Road trip highlights:

  • Drive the fabled 243 kilometres that make up the Great Ocean Road
  • Catch a wave in Torquay – the Surf Capital of Australia
  • Cruise the Limestone Coast and see the 12 Apostles and other iconic landforms
  • Spot whales off Logan’s Beach (between May and October) and look for wild koalas munching eucalyptus at Kennett River
  • Explore a subterranean world beneath the volcanic town of Mount Gambier

Pssst! Need a cheap place to crash in Melbourne before you start your road trip? Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Melbourne!

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne (2 hours)

Melbourne to Lorne

Before you begin your trip, we really recommend staying at one of Melbourne’s awesome Airbnbs to recharge and get ready for your adventure. Nothing’s worse than being unprepared and having a nice place to sort out all the little details is essential! Before you set off and sit on your ass in a car, take advantage of one of Melbournes sunset kayaking tours along the Yarra River with a seriously picturesque backdrop of the city lights. Give your arms the right to hang at your sides for hours! You even get to reward them by having a fish n’ chips meal from inside the kayak for the most authentic on-the-water dinner ever.

Less than 90 minutes of driving will bring you to Torquay, where the Great Ocean Road officially begins. Australia’s Surf Capital is home to surf brands Quiksilver and Rip Curl, plus, obviously – some cracking waves at Bells Beach. Surf newbie? Try Front Beach for milder waves. We can tuck into fresh seafood at Aireys Inlet before hitting the surf a second time at Fairhaven.

Once in Lorne, check out a couple of the local waterfalls (there are ten nearby) and chill in Victoria’s answer to Byron Bay. Lorne is an awesome place to stay along the Great Ocean Road , although accommodation can be on the pricier side. If you’re camping however, there are a few free campsites around.

  • Best stops: Torquay, Bells Beach, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven Beach, Phantom Falls, Erskine Falls
  • Where to eat: Torquay Larder (Torquay), A la Grecque (Aireys Inlet), Cuda Bar and Restaurant (Lorne)
  • Where to stay: Allenvale Mill Campground (free), Sunny Seaside Studio ($$$), The Sandridge Motel ($$$)

Day 2: Lorne to Great Otway National Park (1 hour)

Not too much driving today, but it’s a beautiful stretch of road with lots of stops. While following the Great Ocean Road, you’ll have endless sea to the left and ancient bush to your right. Take your time to check out waterfalls and viewpoints before arriving at the national park; Apollo Bay is a great stop-off for some kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Peer up at the gum trees in Kennett River for your chance to spot some wild koalas.

Lace-up your bush boots and explore the rugged hinterland of Great Otway. Watch the sunset at the oldest lighthouse in Australia, and round up the day wandering among the glowworm studded Melba Gully.

  • Best stops: Sheoak Falls, Kennett River, Apollo Bay, Marriner’s Lookout, Great Otway National Park, Triplet Falls, Cape Otway Lighthouse, Melba Gully
  • Where to eat: Kafe Koala (Kennett River), Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op (Apollo Bay), Lightkeeper’s Cafe (Cape Otway)
  • Where to stay: Aire Crossing Campsite (free), Bimbi Park – Camping under Koalas ($), Bimbi Park – Standard Cabin Shared Bathroom ($$)

Day 3: Great Otway National Park to Port Fairy (2 hours 10 minutes)

Great Otway National Park to Port Fairy

Keep your camera poised – today is the pinnacle of the Great Ocean Road. Follow the Shipwreck Coast, so-named for the countless ships that sunk to their watery graves off the coast. You’ll see those iconic limestone peaks that form the 12 Apostles, as well as the other landmarks of the marine park.

If you’ve been stashing your farming dollars, why not splash out on a helicopter tour for a birds eye view of the towers. Look for whales at Logan’s Beach before settling down for the night in Port Fairy.

  • Best stops: 12 Apostles, Gibson’s Steps, London Bridge, Lord Ard Gorge, Logan’s Beach, Warrnambool Botanic Gardens, Port Fairy Lighthouse
  • Where to eat: 12 Rocks Beach Bar Cafe (Port Campbell), Fishtales Cafe (Warrnambool), The Hub at Port Fairy (Port Fairy)
  • Where to stay: Port Fairy YHA ($), Gardens Caravan Park ($$), Retro on the River ($$)

Day 4: Port Fairy to Robe (3 hours 10 minutes)

Now you’ve completed the Great Ocean Road leg of the journey, you’ll continue to Adelaide along the Limestone Coast and into South Australia. Day 4 is packed with wildlife sightings and natural landscapes.

Follow the 2.5km Cape Bridgewater seal walk or book a cage dive to snorkel with the local fur seal colony. Allow plenty of time for volcanic Mount Gambier – home to crater lakes and cenotes. Divers can book a magical underwater tour of the Engelbrecht Caves, hikers can trek around the Blue Lake.

 Once in the pretty seaside town of Robe, kick back with some locally made wine and fish ‘n’ chips.

  • Best stops: Point Danger, Cape Nelson Lighthouse, Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk, Petrified Forest, Mount Gambier, Umpherston Sinkhole
  • Where to eat: Portland Strawberries (Bolwarra), Presto Eatery (Mount Gambier), Adventurous Spoon (Robe)
  • Where to stay: Robe Haven Motel ($$), Sea Vu Caravan Park ($$), The Sugar Shack – be amazed ($$)

Day 5: Robe to Adelaide (3 hours 40 minutes)

Robe to Adelaide

If you’re in a 4X4, you can take it for a hair-raising spin on the dunes of Long Beach. Later, stretch your legs with a short hike along the saltwater dunes of Ocean Beach in the Coorong National Park. Look out for wombats, penguins, kangaroos, and local birdlife. Before or after, enjoy a scenic lunch of pastries from the Meringue Bakery on the lakeside.

Take a detour via Port Elliot for our last surf of the trip and mooch along the waterfront in Victor Harbour. By dusk, kick back and toast the end of a stellar road trip in some of Adelaide’s best accommodation .

  • Best stops: Coorong National Park, Meningie, Victor Harbour, Port Elliot
  • Where to eat: Meningie Bakery (Meningie), Jelly Cafe (Port Elliot), Sparkke at the Whitmore (Adelaide)
  • Where to stay: Backpack Oz ($), Frewville Motor Inn ($$) CBD Deluxe Studio Penthouse with Square View ($$$)

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

  • Total Distance: 865 km
  • Top Road Trips Stops: Ballarat, Grampians National Park, Wartook Valley, Coonawarra, Murray Bridge

The Inland Alternative

Already tackled the Great Ocean Road? Or would you rather not get your fancy rental all sandy? In that case, you’ll want the sister road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. The Inland Alternative meanders through tousled mountain vistas and roaring waterfalls. Plus, you’ll cross through one of Australia’s best wine regions.

This option includes a full day to soak up the glorious Grampian park. But, if you’re pressed for time, you can do a whistle-stop tour and condense this one to three days. While not as famous as the coastal drive, we love this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary just as much. And why, you wonder? Here are five reasons.

  • Explore the tumbling waterfalls, fern gullies, and Aboriginal art of the Grampian National Park
  • Sip some of Australia’s most cherished red wine in the Coonawarra vineyard region
  • Meet the White Kangaroos of Bordertown (they’re Western Greys, not albinos)
  • Stroll through historic towns from the Gold Rush era. Besides a few Coffee Clubs, they’ve not changed much
  • Fulfil your fantasy of skydiving over the glittering South Australia coast

Day 1-2: Melbourne to Halls Gap (3 hours)

Halls Gap Australia

Grab a brew from your favourite Melbourne coffee fix and hit the road before the city wakes up. Take a quick gander back to 1852 at Sovereign Hill – this is quite literally a time capsule of Aussie’s wealthy heritage where  you’ll see costumed folk roaming the streets. You can even visit a mine while you’re there. If you’re in the market for something scarier, you can go meet the crocs and Tasmanian Devils down the road at Ballarat Wildlife Park .

Halls Gap is the gateway to the magical Grampians, and it’s worth spending the whole second day here to explore. This epic national park is home to numerous hiking trails, Aboriginal rock art, the MacKenzie Falls, and natural waterslides. The Balconies viewpoint is the best spot for sunset before settling in for the night.

If you only have three days for your road trip from Melbourne, skip the second night, and just leave in the morning.

  • Best stops: Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Grampian National Park, The Balconies, MacKenzie Falls, Venus Baths
  • Where to eat: Little Lucky Cafe (Bacchus Marsh), Forager’s Cafe (Ararat), Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co (Halls Gap)
  • Where to stay: Borough Huts Campground ($), Grampians Eco YHA ($), Heavenly Escape: Simply a Lovely Secluded Getaway ($$$)

Day 3: Halls Gap to Coonawarra (2 hours 30 minutes)

As you head north out of the national park, you can indulge in your second fix of mountain vistas in the Wartook Valley. If you fancy doing something adventurous, you can go horseback riding, rock climbing, or take a quad bike tour through the craggy wilderness.

Once at Coonawarra, you’ll see it’s one giant cluster of wineries. So park up the rental (safety first, kids), hire some bicycles and make an afternoon of it. If wine isn’t your thing, you can nip up the road to explore the Naracoorte Caves. Alternatively, you could even take a drive over to the seaside town of Robe.

  • Best stops: Wartook Valley, Naracoorte Caves, Coonawarra winery trail, Mount Gambier or Robe
  • Where to eat: The Wander Inn (Wartook Valley), The Coffee Shop (Edenhope), Balnaves of Coonawarra (our pick for your cellar door if you’re on a budget)
  • Where to stay: Eco Planet Green Camping #1 ($) Glamping Bell Tent w/ power, king and electric blanket $$), Coonawarra Units ($$$)

Day 4: Coonawarra to Adelaide (4 hours 30 minutes)

Coonawarra Australia

Hit the road early and plough north through the Victorian wine plains. Head out of Coonawarra and make a detour via the Bordertown Wildlife Park – home to a friendly mob of White Kangaroos. Turn off just before Tailem Bend if you want to squeeze in a cheeky skydive over the sand-swept Coorong National Park. Why not say hello to the  life-sized rhino and giant olive sculpture in Tailem Bend, too?

Time permitting, stop off at the languid Murray Bridge where you can cool down with a peaceful paddle along the Murray River by kayak. From here, it’s only an hour to your final destination – Adelaide!

With so many things to do in Adelaide , we recommend you spend a couple of days here to make the most of what this city has to offer. 

  • Best stops: Naracoorte Caves, Bordertown, Tailem Bend, SA Skydiving, Murray River
  • Where to eat: Soul Cafe (Bordertown), Little Local Co (Tailem Bend), Gin Long Canteen (Adelaide)
  • Where to stay: Tequila Sunrise Hostel ($), The Outback Studio – some SA outback in the city ($$), Adelaide Backpackers & Travellers Inn ($$)

money belt compressed png

Active Roots Money Belt

I never hit the road without my security belt. This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off. This is hands down the best way to hide your cash.

Grayls Geopress Water Bottle

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress is both a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

AR microfibre towel

Active Roots Microfiber Towel

It’s always worth packing a proper towel. Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Gifts for backpackers

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

Hammock for backpackers

Active Roots Camping Hammock

Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere. Right now, I’m rocking an Active Roots parachute hammock – it’s light, colorful, and tough.

Nomatic Toiletry Bag Open

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organize your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

There you have it – two fabulously scenic road trips between two of Australia’s most exciting cities! While you’re mulling over which route to take, we want to remind you about nobody’s favourite topic: insurance. We know it’s not the most riveting, but it’s still one of those road trip essentials that requires some thought. We hope you never need to use it, but it’s best to have it there as a safety net and peace of mind.

While driving in any Australian state or territory, it’s mandatory to have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This is a third-party personal injury insurance policy, and it should be included in your rental by default. You might see it listed as ‘Green Slip insurance’.

Note that comprehensive (or full) car insurance isn’t mandatory in Australia. However, all car rentals will try to sell you something along the lines of an ‘Excess Waiver’, ‘Damage Liability Waiver’ or ‘Reduction Liability Waiver’. Basically, this surcharge brings the remaining excess on your rental to zero if you have an accident. In Oz, this usually amounts to $20 – $60 per day on top of your rental fee, which we’re sure you’d rather spend on other things.

That’s why we suggest you check out a couple of independent insurance companies instead. For example, get a quote from RentalCover.com . Their package works as a flat fee and includes a few added bonuses, like Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance. Regardless of who is to blame, they’ve got your back in the event of an accident. Your rental might still insist on taking your credit card details, but in a worst-case scenario, Rental Cover will reimburse any deduction made by your rental.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Adelaide Australia

And that concludes our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip ideas! (Plus all the other essentials you need to know to ensure your trip goes without a hitch)

We think both routes are equally rewarding, but they couldn’t be more different. On the one hand, you’ve got surfing and seafood; on the other, you’ve got wilderness and wine. That’s why we’d tell you to take one route from Melbourne, spend a few days exploring Adelaide , then head home on the other.

The things both of our road trip itineraries have in common is heaps of natural wonders and the chance to encounter Australia’s unique native wildlife.

We hope you’re able to pick the best road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide to suit your own adventure style. Now –  go book yourself a rental, and stock up on Cheezels.

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A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali

Alexandria Zboyovski

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  • Travel blog

Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide

What to see and do on your drive from melbourne to adelaide.

25 SEP 2024

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Bowmanscenicdrive

Bowman Scenic Drive, Limestone Coast

The most direct route from Melbourne to Adelaide takes just over eight hours and will see you travel through scenic farmland, across the Murray River and through the rolling Adelaide Hills. Easily achievable in one day, we suggest grabbing a coffee and heading off early, so you can be checked into your Adelaide City hotel by dinner and ready to taste-test one of Australia’s best restaurants . 

This route, that will see you following the western freeway inland from Melbourne, takes you through historical towns such as Ararat and Horsham, before crossing over to South Australia at Bordertown. Murray Bridge will be your last major stop before rolling into Adelaide, completing your 728-kilometre road trip to Adelaide.

Have more time and keen for glorious sights? You’ll want to take the scenic route that will have you zigzagging through the countryside and hugging the coastline. South Australia is both vineyard country and coastal paradise with fine dining, cosy café strips, idyllic coastal retreats and spectacular wildlife spotting. What are you waiting for?

All visitors are encouraged to plan ahead to stay up to date on the latest traffic updates including road closures, road works and planned events via the South Australian Government website . 

Direct route – all in a day

Got a booking at one of Adelaide’s best restaurants to make? We get it – you don’t have time to waste and the sights, sounds and flavours of our boutique capital are calling your name! Starting in Melbourne, this route will see you jet across Victoria before officially entering South Australia via Bordertown. Make a pit stop in Keith where you can grab a classic country pie or stroll through the local community market.

Got time to spare? There’s no better place than Tailem Bend’s The Bend Motorsport Park – where you can drop in for a hot lap. Or, for the passenger princess, get someone else to do the driving when you visit Monarto Safari Park and join a Safari Tour (available on Saturdays). Alternatively, take your rest stop at German Village, Hahndorf , for a quick browse through boutique shops and galleries in heritage buildings, before arriving in Adelaide . 

Bordertown Recreation Lake

Bordertown Wildlife Park

Tintinara Disc Golf Course

Early Settlers Cottage - Keith

Tailem Bend Bakery

The Bend Driver Experiences

Monarto Safari Park

Bridgeport Hotel

Murray Bridge Swimming Centre and Water Park

The Beerenberg Family Farm

Grunthal Brew

Pizzafino Littlehampton

Mount Lofty Adventure Hub

Woodhouse Adventure Park

Places to stay in Adelaide

Check out accommodation as you cruise into adelaide., the soho hotel, the esplanade hotel, comfort hotel adelaide meridien, crowne plaza adelaide, stamford plaza adelaide, north adelaide boutique stays accommodation, mayfair hotel, hotel indigo adelaide markets, eos by skycity, ibis adelaide, hilton adelaide, want a more relaxed pace, take the scenic route via the southern ocean drive.

Journey through our lush wine country, discover crater lakes, roam along postcard-worthy beaches and cast off to an island paradise on the ultimate road trip to Adelaide.

Pack the car, get the road trip playlist ready. It's a definite adventure from Melbourne to Adelaide . The Southern Ocean Drive is a minefield of natural wonders that you'll find in  Mount Gambier or the Limestone Coast , and there are plenty of famous wine regions like Coonawarra and McLaren Vale to pick up your next award-winning wine. For a stretch and refresh on the way, you can even have a quick ocean dip at gorgeous seaside towns like Robe .

Elementary By Soul Co.

The Tasting Room at Mayura Station

Ottelia Coonawarra

Brand's Laira of Coonawarra

Robe Town Brewery

Robe Ice Cream

Parker Estate

Caledonian Inn Robe

Coorong National Park

Kimbolton Wines Cellar Door

Lake Breeze Wines

Victor Harbor Horse Tram

Nino's of Victor Harbor

Down The Rabbit Hole Cellar Door & Restaurant

The d'Arenberg Cube

Raidis Estate, Coonawarra

Stop off for a night or more at the Coonawarra wine region where you can glamp in bell tents and treat yourself to some world-class wines. With more than 24 cellar doors to visit, there’s plenty to taste, including  Brand’s Laira ,  Hollick Winery and Restaurant ,  Wynns Coonawarra Estate  and  Rymill Coonawarra . Drop into the Tasting Room at Mayura Station, where you can pair a local drop with scrumptious 100% full-blood wagyu beef.

Adventure seekers or those with families may prefer the Naracoorte Caves , a sanctuary where the echoes of lions, kangaroos and Tasmanian tigers - now preserved as fossils - whisper tales of an ancient South Australia. 

Limestone Coast

Robe, Limestone Coast

As the countryside fades in your review mirror, you’ll find the chic town of  Robe nestled along the Limestone Coast. The main street is dotted with cosmopolitan cafes and glam galleries, making it a great place to spend a few nights. Are you daydreaming about long stretches of white sandy beach from the comfort of your desk chair? Well, make it reality when you head to Long Beach. Don’t forget to sample South Australia’s best seafood, particularly Robe’s famed crayfish. The Pelican Shed offers coastal-style accommodation at its best, and after a night stay, you’ll be fresh to stroll along the beautiful Obelisk Coastal Trail, passing Robe’s historic old gaol ruins, jetty and marina. Beer fans can celebrate reaching their 10,000 steps for the day with a local brew at  Robe Town Brewery .

Coorong River

Coorong River, Coorong National Park

Continue along the coastal road through to the Coorong National Park – one of the most jaw-dropping and diverse natural wonders Australia has to offer. Here, you can boat, kayak, fish and camp – the Coorong is a playground for nature lovers. Nearby town Goolwa offers all of your creature comforts, as well as the Goolwa  Wharf Precinct, where you can jump on a boat cruise for a leisurely way to take in the environment. Detouring back inland,  breeze through more picturesque vineyards from Langhorne Creek , before travelling back south-west towards Victor Harbor . Along the way, pop into the famous Port Elliot Bakery, where the ‘Donut of the Month’ awaits to tantalise your taste buds next to chic beachside cottages.

Victor Harbor

The Bluff, Victor Harbor

Victor Harbor lies just beyond Port Elliot. Indulge in spectacular surf beaches and diving spots or take a horse-drawn tram to see Granite Island , home to our little colony of penguins and a way station for many other seabirds. Take in great views from The Bluff – the perfect vantage point to whale watch in winter!

McLaren Vale

The d'Arenberg Cube, McLaren Vale

Last, but not least on the itinerary, is McLaren Vale. You won’t want to miss the iconic d’Arenberg Cube , an architectural wonder inspired by the Rubik’s Cube boasting five stories of tactile wine, foo d  and art experiences, including a Salvador Dali exhibition.

This region also has 70 cellar doors if you’d like to sip your way towards Adelaide (as a passenger, of course!), with well-known names like  Coriole ,  The Currant Shed  or  Maxwell Wines all calling the Vale home. Many cellars provide wine, dine and stay options. Wander into an amazing lunch or dinner with views overlooking the vines and menus bursting with farm-fresh, sustainable produce. Alternatively, enjoy the relaxed (yet sophisticated) dining experience at the Star of Greece in Port Willunga, where you can catch a glorious sunset over the ocean from the comfort of your table.

Places to stay in SA

Thinking about taking your time on the scenic route slow down, put your feet up and relax at one of the many great accommodation options along the way., the commodore, delgattie estate, pine country caravan park, penola coonawarra caravan park, bellwether wines - glamping and camping, discovery parks - robe, robe holiday park, lake albert caravan park, discovery parks - goolwa, beach huts middleton, nrma victor harbor beachfront holiday park, victor harbor holiday park, nightcap at hotel victor, let’s stay in touch.

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Adelaide to Melbourne: 7-Day Campervan Itinerary

From the city of churches to the cultural capital.

Are you ready to explore the stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and fascinating attractions of Southern Australia? With your trusty campervan by your side, you'll embark on a journey filled with spectacular views, thrilling adventures, and unforgettable experiences.

The famous St Xaviers Cathedral in Adelaide, South Australia

Get great rental campervan deals in Adelaide with Camper Champ's comparison tool . Alternatively, you can pick up a campervan from Melbourne and drop it off in Adelaide.

Day 1: Adelaide to Hahndorf - A Voyage through German Heritage

Yearly village market on Hahndorf, South Australia

Your adventure begins in Adelaide, South Australia's cosmopolitan heart . Set off towards the charming town of Hahndorf, just a 30-minute drive away. This scenic town boasts the distinction of being Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, featuring numerous 19th-century buildings. The main street is lined with shops offering handmade items, authentic German food, and local wines – perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don't miss the chance to taste some of Hahndorf's famous sausages and schnitzels!

Day 2: Hahndorf to Robe - Picturesque Coastal Cruising

Obelisk, historic landmark at Cape Dombey during sunset, Robe, South Australia

Next you'll head south along the coast towards Robe, a charming fishing hamlet situated on South Australia's Limestone Coast. En route, pause at Coorong National Park, a wetland sanctuary celebrated for its diverse bird population and striking landscapes. The park houses resident emus and kangaroos, which you may be fortunate enough to glimpse. Upon arriving in Robe, you'll encounter a delightful historic pier, ideal for a stroll while soaking in the village's relaxed ambiance.

Day 3: Robe to Mount Gambier - A Journey to the Blue Lake

The Blue crater Lake at Mount Gambier, South Australia

As you progress towards Melbourne, your upcoming destination is the city of Mount Gambier. This compact city is renowned for its extraordinary geological wonders, including the famed Blue Lake. This remarkable lake exhibits a striking blue hue during summer, attributed to a natural occurrence known as seasonal color change, influenced by factors such as temperature, sunlight, and the water's unique chemical composition. The lake adopts an intense blue shade in summer, while in winter, it assumes a dark gray tone. Wander around the lake and appreciate the sweeping vistas of the surrounding terrain.

Beyond Blue Lake, Mount Gambier presents various natural and cultural attractions like the Umpherston Sinkhole, Tantanoola Caves, and the historic city center. Whether your interests lie in geology, history, or simply reveling in nature, Mount Gambier is an essential stop in southern Australia.

Day 4: Mount Gambier to Port Fairy - Exploring the Shipwreck Coast

Old river town with moored boats, Port Fairy, South Australia

Today, you'll venture towards Victoria's Shipwreck Coast, a wild, rugged coastline notorious for its numerous shipwrecks. Your initial stop is Port Fairy, an age-old fishing village that has preserved much of its 19th-century charm. Wander through the town's streets, admiring the well-maintained colonial architecture. Next, seize the opportunity to visit Griffith Island, a nature reserve inhabited by a colony of shearwater birds.

Day 5: Port Fairy to Apollo Bay - A Scenic Drive along the Great Ocean Road

Twelve apostles at sunset, Great Ocean Road at Port Campbell, Australia

Brace yourself for one of the planet's most picturesque drives as you traverse the Great Ocean Road. This iconic coastal stretch is acclaimed for its mesmerizing views of the Southern Ocean, soaring cliffs, and rock formations like the Twelve Apostles – a group of imposing limestone stacks emerging from the Southern Ocean. These formations are among Australia's most frequented and photographed sites. Aim for a sunset arrival, when the sky's warm colors create a dramatic backdrop for the stacks.

Besides the Twelve Apostles, several other points of interest along the Great Ocean Road include the magnificent Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, and Gibson Steps, which allow you to experience the rugged coastline up close.

Make a stop at the charming town of Apollo Bay, where you can savor fresh seafood and explore the numerous art galleries and handicraft shops.

Day 6: Apollo Bay to Phillip Island - A Wildlife Odyssey

Phillip island penguin, Victoria

Today, you'll make your way to Phillip Island, a favored vacation spot renowned for its unspoiled beaches and abundant wildlife. The island is famous for its fairy penguin colony. Every evening, visitors can witness hundreds of these diminutive penguins emerge from the sea and waddle across the beach to their burrows, offering a truly unique and unforgettable spectacle. The island also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including koalas, wallabies, and numerous bird species. Visit the Koala Conservation Center to see these endearing marsupials up close in their natural habitat.

Day 7: Phillip Island to Melbourne - The Art and Culture Metropolis

Princess Bridge and Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Victoria

On the final day of your campervan expedition, journey towards Melbourne, Australia's cultural hub . As you approach the city, make a stop at the Mornington Peninsula, a popular vacation area renowned for its hot springs, vineyards, and immaculate beaches. Once you reach Melbourne, drop off your campervan and delve into the city's myriad attractions, such as the National Gallery of Victoria, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the vibrant street art-filled alleyways. Indulge in the city's globally acclaimed coffee and dine at one of the numerous top-tier restaurants before you bid farewell!

Adelaide to Melbourne: 7-Day Campervan Itinerary

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caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Get Inspired

Popular Routes

Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to Adelaide

This 12-hour drive from Adelaide to Melbourne takes you along the famous Great Ocean Road , from  South Australia across to Victoria .

The Great Ocean itself has an  amazing history having been created to provide work for returning WW1 servicemen.

As well as the fascinating history, the beautiful scenery along the way on Great Ocean Road includes cliffs overlooking beaches and beautiful forest areas.

Travel past  National parks and visit amazing beaches along the way, for surfing and outdoor hiking. Take the opportunity to visit historic towns, wineries and delightful markets.

With this part of Australia having comfortable temperatures year-round, it’s a perfect trip for any time of year in the campervan.

Adelaide to Melbourne

Best Time of the Year

Any time of year

  • Twelve Apostles
  • Port Campbell National Park
  • Bells Beach
  • Grampians wine region
  • Ngarkat National Park
  • Geelong Botanic Gardens

The Journey

Visit Adelaide Hills

Day 1 Adelaide to Mount Barker

Distance 33km - driving time 30 minutes.

Mount Barker  is a beautiful countryside area in the hills, only half an hour inland from the city, and the detour out is undeniably one of the best things to do in Adelaide.

Mount Barker Summit  is a popular place for hiking the 250-metre trail. It’s an easy walk for the whole family and is a conservation area for animals and plants alike. The summit provides beautiful views of the area and takes around 1 hour to complete.

Totness recreation park  is another great spot for wandering and is also ideal for birdwatching. The park features an interesting dam that was constructed in 1884.

One of the best things to do in Mount Barker is heading to the Saturday  Farmers Market which offers locally grown produce like fruit and vegetables, as well as baked goods.

Enjoy the music from local buskers, and wander the stalls filled with handmade items.

Mount Barker also provides an opportunity to visit wineries . It’s part of the Great Southern wine region which produces about 37% of the wine grapes grown in Western Australia.

Pop by a  cellar door to have a taste and enjoy alfresco dining.

The  Jurlique farm tour is another great Mount Barker attraction for getting a peek at how the well-known skincare brand farms the plants used for their products.

Park up and stay the night at Mount Barker Caravan Park .

Tatiara District Council

Day 2 Mount Barker to Bordertown

Distance 241km - driving time 2.5 hours.

Travelling across South Australia for 2.5 hours, you will reach Bordertown , which as its name suggests, is the bordering town between the states of South Australia and Victoria.

The  Bordertown wildlife park is a fun family activity, with no entry fee. It has been around since 1968 and is home to Western Grey Kangaroos, Dama Wallabies, and White Kangaroos which the park have been breeding since the 1980’s.

A visit to the  Clayton farm heritage museum shows off buildings from as far back as the 1870s, and presents a collection of agricultural machinery, and historic farmhouse items so visitors can see how things used to be done on farms many years ago.

A detour North to  Ngarkat Conservation Park is worth a visit to wander the 270,000 hectares of land. Sand dunes, Western grey kangaroos and even emus are among the sites, as well as more than 120 species of birds.

Park the campervan for the night at Bordertown Caravan Park .

Visit Victoria Content Hub

Day 3 Bordertown to Grampians Region

Distance 272km - driving time 3.5 hours.

Heading across into Victoria for 3.5 hours you will reach the  Grampians region.

A quick detour to the  Little Desert National Park is well worth a trip, and offers activities such as 4WD experiences or Bird watching tours.

Halls gap zoo  is Victoria’s largest regional zoo and is home to native animals such as the Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby, the Wombat and of course the famous Tasmanian Devil. Many of the native animals are endangered and can only be found in Australia.

Among the natives you can also spot giraffes, rhino’s, cheetah, red panda and altogether over 160 different wildlife species including birds and reptiles. The zoo sits in the Grampians National Park, and is open 7 days a week.

When you are ready for a bite to eat, head to the  Flame brothers restaurant which also sits in the Park, and offers craft beer, smoked meat and woodfire pizza.

Grampians wine region has some of the world's oldest grape vines, and offers more than just tasting. Head out on a  wine tour or  picnic amongst the vines to experience the region to the fullest.

Park the campervan for the night at the Halls Gap Holiday Park .

Day 4 Grampians Region to Apollo Bay

Distance 208km - driving time 2.5 hours.

Heading south for 2.5 hours you will reach Apollo Bay , and the start of the  Great Ocean Road path.

Starting in Princetown, a must-see attraction is the 12 Apostles . Known as the most popular attraction in the area, these huge limestone pillars rise out of the ocean which you can see from the viewing platform, or on the Great Ocean Walk .

Port Campbell National Park  is not far from the 12 Apostles, and is home to Little Penguins and also short-tailed Shearwater birds from September to April. You can also  see whales at the right time of year.

Another great attraction in Apollo Bay is the Markets .  Apollo Bay farmers market runs every third Sunday of the month and is a great spot to stock up on produce for the motorhome like fruit and vegetables.

Swing by the Sweet view lolly shop , then park the campervan for the night at Apollo Bay Holiday Park .

Day 5 Apollo Bay to Torquay

Distance 90km - driving time 1 hour 40 minutes.

Following the coastline upwards for an hour and 40 minutes, you will reach the surf town of  Torquay.

Before you get there, stop off at  Lorne which is about halfway, and offers the chance to  check out waterfalls or get your heart racing at Live Wire Park . Have a bite to eat before you leave at MoVida , which offers ocean views with Spanish style food.

Once you reach Torquay, cool off at  Bells Beach where you can swim or join in with the local surfers.

Head for a tour through the Australian National Surf Museum , then  grab a bite to eat for dinner.

Stay the night at Torquay Caravan Park , then swing by to  get some seasonal produce from Peaches or go  strawberry picking before heading on to Melbourne.

Day 6 Torquay to Melbourne

Distance 104km - driving time 1 hour 20 minutes.

For the final day, head towards the last stop on the trip for an hour and 20 minutes to Melbourne.

On the way stop off at  Geelong which is about an hour out of the city centre, and is one of the best road trips from Melbourne.

Perched on the coast is  Eastern beach reserve which is perfect for a picnic and wandering along the boardwalk.

Visit an exhibition at the National wool museum , which displays heritage quilts and also waggas, which are a traditional style of blanket, originally made of jute sacks.

You can also see the items that were used to make them, which is a fascinating bit of history.

Enjoy more culture at the Narana aboriginal culture centre , which provides learnings on Australia’s indigenous culture, with a focus on building an understanding of the unique history of the region and peoples.

Head out for some fresh air and visit the Geelong botanic gardens , which was founded in 1851, and is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the country.

Walk among the heritage trees, visit the  Teahouse for a drink, or enjoy a picnic on the grass.

If you are a fan of second-hand goods, the  Geelong vintage market is for you. Open 7 days a week, this is the perfect place to wander and buy some mementoes for your Melbourne Australia road trip.

Heading closer to the central city, one of the best things to do in Melbourne is to visit the suburb of St Kilda. If you are around on a Sunday, visit  St Kilda market for handmade goods like jewellery, art and health products.

Have a bite to eat at a beach side restaurant, then try out some carnival rides at Luna Park . For a final stop before dropping off the campervan in Melbourne , check out  Space2B which is a local art and design space that focuses on supporting the community.

Head away on your Adelaide to Melbourne adventure with Britz

Visit one of the  10 Britz branches today to hire a campervan for your Adelaide to Melbourne trip, and explore Australia your way!

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Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

A road trip from melbourne to adelaide via the great ocean road.

Traveling from Melbourne to Adelaide by car (or vice versa) is one of the most popular Australian road trips for international and local tourists alike and it’s easy to see why. Taking in two of Australia’s most beloved cities, the rolling hills of the Barossa Valley wine region and the beautiful Great Ocean Road which snakes along the southern coastline of Australia through wild national parks and quaint seaside towns, the Melbourne to Adelaide coastal drive belongs on any travel bucket list.

While there are plenty of places to stop along this stretch of Australia, we have narrowed it down to a few of the best attractions from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road.

Thinking about a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip? Find the perfect campervan!

Stops Along The Great Ocean Road

The Melbourne to Adelaide coastal drive takes you along the famous Great Ocean Road, featuring some of Australia’s most iconic and scenic views. Even if you are not planning on completing the road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide, a trip to the Great Ocean Road and the famous 12 Apostles is one of the top things to do in Victoria.

While the list of things to do and see along the way may seem endless, we have picked a few of the best things to see along the Great Ocean Road as part of your Melbourne to Adelaide coastal drive.

Torquay is known as the surfing capital of Australia and the inventor of board shorts (thanks Quiksilver). But what is there to do in Torquay? Well, plenty, beyond the obvious of having a surf check out these great things to do in Torquay.

Don Your Birthday Suit at Point Impossible

If swimmers (or togs as they are known locally) feel a bit restrictive, then you are in luck in Torquay. A swimsuit optional beach exists between Point Impossible and White’s Beach which attracts those looking to tan their bits. Visit Victoria’s first nude beach and stroll along the white sand beaches watching the rolling waves and longboarders. Just don’t forget to bring your sunscreen!

Useful Information

  • Address: 425 The Esplanade, Torquay VIC 3228

Learn the History of Surfing at the Australia National Surfing Museum

Ever wondered why surfing is such a big deal here? Then you are in luck as Torquay is also home to the Australia National Surfing Museum. Learn all about the history of surfing in one of the most iconic surf destinations in the world.

  • Address: 3228/77 Beach Rd, Torquay VIC 3228
  • Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (except Christmas Day)
  • Adult $12, Student/Pensioner Concession $8, Child (aged 16 and under) $8, Family $25

Bells Beach

Watch the surfers at bells beach.

Your next stop as you make your way to the Great Ocean Road should be Bells Beach. Bells Beach is renown across the globe as a surfers’ beach. Professional surfers and brave wannabes flock here each year to try their hand at the incredible and consistent surf year-round. Spend some time watching the surfers tackle the waves before heading onwards.

  • Address: Bells Beach Rd, Mount Duneed VIC 3216

Aireys Inlet

Check out the splitpoint lighthouse in aireys inlet.

Aireys Inlet is one of the smaller communities along the Great Ocean Road. Visiting the Splitpoint Lighthouse here is one of the best places to stop along with the Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road. Split point Lighthouse remains a beacon along the concerningly named Shipwreck Coast helping navigate ships through the treacherous Bass Strait. Visiting the lighthouse and wandering the various nature paths nearby offer a taste of the impressive views awaiting you along the Melbourne to Adelaide coastal drive.

Tours can also be arranged to visit the lighthouse either as self-guided or guided. You can also visit the surrounding lookouts for views of Table Rock, Eagle Rock and Sentinel Rock.

  • Address: 13 Federal St, Aireys Inlet VIC 3231
  • Hours of Operation: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Website: https://splitpointlighthouse.com.au/
  • Free entry to visit the outside of the lighthouse
  • Self-guided tour: $10 AUD per person
  • Guided tours: Adult $15 AUD, Senior / Concession $12 AUD, Child $10 AUD, or Families (2 adults/2 children) $45 AUD

Lorne is a popular holiday destination along the Great Ocean Road and one of the best places to stop and spend the night if camping or caravanning is not for you. This typical seaside town has everything you need to have an enjoyable holiday with an abundance of cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. Here are a few things to do during your time in Lorne.

What to Do in Lorne

Chill on lorne beach.

Lorne Beach is a popular place to relax on your Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive. This 1.2-kilometer beach is an excellent place for a swim as the shore break is not as treacherous as other places along the Great Ocean Road. Lorne is also a great place for beginner surfers as the break is usually low and wide.

  • Address: 170 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne VIC 3232

Chase Waterfalls in Lorne

There is no shortage of outdoor activities and hiking trails near Lorne. If you enjoy getting active, head out to one of the eight nearby waterfalls to get your heart rate up after relaxing on Lorne Beach. Choose from one of these great options:

OPTION 1: Erskine Falls, Straw Falls and Splitter Falls and Cora Lynn Cascades

The first waterfall route takes you to the Erskine Falls which is Great Otway National Park’s most popular waterfall. The fall is approximately 30 meters tall and drops into a stunning fern gully. Visiting Erskine Falls does not require any hiking as the car park is 150 meters from the first viewing point and the second viewing point less than 150 meters further. There is a trail to the Erskine Falls from Lorne which is 7.5 kilometers each way and passes the Straw and Splitter Falls. The Straw Falls are also easily accessible from Erskine Falls with an easy 1-kilometer return journey.

The Cora Lynn Cascades can be seen either before or after visiting the nearby Erskine Falls but is not for the faint of heart. The trailhead starts at the Blanket Leaf Picnic Area and is a strenuous 4.5-kilometer hike to the base of the cascades. The journey takes you through the beautiful nature of the Great Otway National Park passing tall eucalypts and shady tree ferns before ending at the falls.

  • Erskine and Straw Falls Trail Head: Erskin Falls Carpark
  • Cora Lynn Cascades Trail Head: Blank et Leaf Picnic Area

Option 2: Phantom Falls, Won Wondah Falls, and Henderson Falls

The second waterfall route heads west from Lorne again past three separate waterfalls. The trailhead to visit the Phantom Falls begins at the Allenvale Road car park. The trail snakes along the St. George River and is a 3.5-kilometer return trail. The walk should take approximately 1.5 hours.

Next head over to the Sheoak Picnic Area to begin the 3 hour (4 kilometers) return hike to visit the Won Wondah Falls and Henderson Falls. The trail is an easy hiking trail but it can be muddy during the rainy season. The trail takes you through the Otway National Forest Park passing ferns, eucalypt trees and more.

  • Phantom Falls Trail Head: Allenvale Road Carpark
  • Won Wondah Falls and Henderson Falls Trail Head: Sheoak Picnic Are a

Option 3: Upper and Lower Kalimna Falls

The trek to reach the upper and lower Kalimna Falls is an easy hiking trail, however, to reach the upper falls it is an 8.5-kilometer return journey and a 6.5-kilometer return journey for the lower falls. The hike takes you along the route of a timber tramway used for transporting timber to the Lorne Pier between the 1890s and 1920s. The trailhead begins at the Sheoak Picnic Area.

  • Address to Trail Head: Sheoak Picnic Are a

Option 4: Cumberland Falls

The most difficult of them all, this six-hour journey is for the experienced hiker. The trailhead starts at the Cumberland River Holiday Park and takes approximately 2.5 hours to return. The hike crosses the Cumberland River on several occasions, so make sure to check the river levels and weather report before heading out.

  • Address to Trail Head: Cumberland River Holiday Park

The stretch of road between Lorne and Cape Otway is my favorite section of the Great Ocean Road journey. Snaking your way around headland after headland, you will be continually impressed by jaw dropping views. It can be hard to even concentrate on driving because of the dramatic, scenic views around each bend. Make sure you take time to stop regularly on this part of the drive as every bend in the road provides yet another vantage point to marvel at the natural beauty of The Great Ocean Road.

What to Do in Cape Otway

Besides the scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road to reach Cape Otway, there are a few unmissable things to do. Here are the best things to do in Cape Otway.

Search for Koalas along Lighthouse Road

Finding koalas in their natural habitat and not in a zoo or sanctuary is usually quite difficult. Lucky for you (and me) there are almost always koalas to be seen along Lighthouse Road in Cape Otway. I’ve been twice and seen koalas each time.

While these small marsupials can be difficult to spot, there is often a crowd of people parked along the side of the road if someone has managed to find one. Make sure you drive slowly, (but not too slow to impede traffic) and look closely at the crevices in the eucalypt trees.

Cape Otway Lighthouse

Lighthouse Road ends at the Cape Otway Lightstation. This lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia dating back to 1848. It was built to provide a beacon to ships crossing the dangerous Bass Strait. While the entrance fee to the Cape Otway Lighthouse is steep, it is a beautiful place to stop and explore.

  • Address: Otway Lighthouse Rd, Cape Otway VIC 3233
  • Hours of Operation: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:30 pm)
  • Website: https://www.lightstation.com/
  • Cost: Adult $19.50 / Child (5 – 17) $7.50 / Family (2 adults & up to 4 children) $49.50 / Seniors $17.50 / Child (0 – 4) Free

Johanna Beach

Unwind at johanna beach.

Do not miss the opportunity to stop and even stay at Johanna Beach. Johanna Beach is a rugged, wild beach with a strong shore break. While Johanna Beach is not the best place for swimming, the beach itself with its surrounding hinterland is stunning. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a bottle of wine on the beach. Camping is available just behind the sand dunes at Johanna Beach, but bookings are essential on the park website. All sites are unpowered and there are a few drop toilets available for use.

  • Address: Johanna Beach
  • Website: www.parks.vic.gov.au
  • Cost: $16 AUD

The 12 Apostles and Beyond

One of the most remarkable and most popular locations in Australia is the 12 Apostles. These limestone monoliths rising precariously from the wild and turbulent sea are an impressive representation of the ever-changing world that we live in.

The attractions to see along the Great Ocean Road do not end at the 12 Apostles as there are many more things to see just beyond.

Gibson’s Steps

Technically Gibson’s Steps are before you reach the 12 Apostles. This once was a popular spot for accessing the beach, however, presently the stairs are under construction (February 2020). A visit here is still warranted despite the lack of beach access as impressive views of the dramatic coastline and the southern end of the 12 Apostles are amazing.

Loch Ard Gorge

From the Loch Ard Gorge parking lot, there are a variety of different walking trails and lookout points to see. Each offers a unique vantage point to the dramatic coastline and the raging sea below. You could easily spend several hours exploring the different trails and viewpoints.

I have included a list below of all of the things to see besides the Loch Ard Gorge below.

  • The Razorback
  • Tom and Eva Lookout
  • Island Arch Lookout
  • Mutton Bird Lookout
  • Thunder Cave
  • Sherbrook River

Things to See Past Port Campbell

Most people think the Great Ocean Road ends in Port Campbell, but there are plenty of things to see beyond this coastal community. The first stop is The Arch which is literally that. A limestone arch rising out of the sea with thunderous waves crashing about. The arch is slowly being eroded by the sea, so make sure you visit before it falls down as the London Bridge arch did in January of 1990.

Another amazing example of the power of erosion is The Grotto. The Grotto is an open cave built from the thunderous waves pounding against the limestone coast. A small viewing platform allows you to see a glimpse out to the sea through the open cave while the waves crash about. We advise getting to The Grotto early as there is usually a queue on the small viewing platform.

Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands

The last two stops on the Great Ocean Road are the Bay of Martyrs and the Bay of Islands. Each bay provides stunning views along the Shipwreck Coastline of the dramatic cliffs, the roaring ocean and the uninhabited beach below. You will find fewer tourists here than at other attractions along the Great Ocean Road and will most likely have the place all to yourself.

Where to Stay Along the Great Ocean Road

Free camping on the great ocean road.

Who does not love a free place to stay? There is plenty of free camping on the Great Ocean Road, however, most of them are first-come, first-serve basis.

Allenvale Mill Bush Campsite (Lorne)

Free camping is available just outside of Lorne at Allenvale Mill Bush Campsite. Availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis with only six available sites. The campsites are 230 meters from the car park and drop toilets are available. It is a great place for tent camping especially for those looking to stay near Lorne.

  • Address: Allenvale Mill Bush Campground

Sharps Camping Area (Lorne)

Another popular free camping spot on the Great Ocean Road is Sharps Camping Area near the Won Wondah and Henderson Falls. This six-site campground caters more to the converted campervan or RV and is reserved on a first-come, first-serve basis. The only downside to Sharps Camping Area is the lack of a toilet. If you are self-contained, then this is the perfect free campsite near Lorne for you!

  • Address: Sharps Camping Area

Other Free Campsites Near the Great Ocean Road

There are a few other free campgrounds along the Great Ocean Road, however, these are more out of the way. See below for a list of these other spots.

  • Aire Crossing Campsite
  • Beauchamp Falls Campsite
  • Dando’s Free Campsite
  • Stevenson’s Falls Free Campground

Paid Campsites Along the Great Ocean Road

One of my favorite places to stay along the Great Ocean Road. Johanna Beach offers some of the most stunning views over unspoiled beaches. This campsite is operated by Parks Victoria and bookings are essential. The campsite has drop toilets, but no other facilities are provided.

Blanket Bay Campground

Located in the Great Otway National Park along the eastern shore is Blanket Bay Campground. With only 22 campsites, Blankey Bay fills up quickly due to its picturesque location with tall Manna Gum trees, the potential for koala spotting and the ocean just a few steps away. Make sure to book well in advance if you want to stay here as you continue on your road trip along the Great Ocean Road.

  • Address: Blanket Ba y

Hotel Accommodation

Lorne hotel.

Lorne Hotel is only a few steps from Lorne Beach making it the perfect accommodation when visiting Lorne. These stylish rooms have everything you could want or need for your stay in Lorne including A/C for those warm summer nights. This is the perfect place for those looking to unwind and relax during their time in Lorne with an excellent location, spacious and comfy rooms and if you are lucky views of the ocean!

  • Address: 176 Mountjoy Parade, Lor n e VIC 3232

Port Fairy is a quaint old port town just past the Great Ocean Road. Having been spared from overdevelopment, Port Fairy allows you to step back in time and imagine how it would have been in the olden days. This charming town is a great place to stop over on your road trip along the Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive.

What to Do in Port Fairy

Take a self-guided tour of the historic downtown.

Port Fairy started as a whaling station during the 1800s due to the demand for whale oil and other whale products. Port Fairy prospered until the end of the 19th century when the railway was built. With the addition of the railway, the town of Port Fairy suffered as it relied heavily on the activity of the port. By the beginning of the 20th century, most traders passed by Port Fairy spelling the demise of the town.

With Port Fairy no longer a commercial hub, commercialization that ravaged other neighboring cities such as Warrnambool skipped Port Fairy preserving many of the historic houses. Port Fairy has over 50 buildings listed on the National Trust and the city has designed a self-guided walking tour that shows you the way.

FREE Guide: Self-guided historic walk

A guided tour is also available on Saturdays at 11:00 am departing from the visitor’s center. Don’t miss a chance to explore this charming port city on foot!

There is also a shipwreck heritage walk along the Moyne River. For more information on the walk including all of the points of interest click her e .

Visit the Port Fairy Lighthouse on Griffiths Island

Another delightful walk in Port Fairy is the walking trail to the Port Fairy Lighthouse on Griffiths Island. A trail circles the whole island and takes approximately one hour to circumnavigate. The island is home to a colony of shearwater seabirds that migrate from the northern hemisphere each year in late September. No dogs are allowed to visit the island due to the bird colony, so leave the little pups at home for this one.

Attend a Glass Blowing Exhibition

Visiting the Eclectic Designs Glass Blowing Studio was high on our list of things to do in Port Fairy. Unfortunately, the furnace does not operate regularly, so we were unable to see a demonstration. The owners, however, were happy to share the process and field all the questions we threw at them. We still recommend stopping by if only to view what they have in stock. If you are interested in glass blowing, we recommend reaching out in advance to see if the furnace will be ablaze during your visit.

  • Address: 62 Regent St, Port Fairy VIC 3284
  • Hours of Operation: Friday to Monday 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Website: https://www.portfairyglass.com/

Dine at the Oldest Pub in Victoria

The Caledonian Inn (also known as “The Stump”) holds the title as the oldest continually licensed hotel in Victoria. Established in 1844, The Stump is the quintessential pub to visit on your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. Feast on standard pub food like parmies (chicken parmigiana), steak sandwiches, bangers and mash, and more while enjoying a frothy (beer!).

Quick fact: A pub in Australia is generally called a hotel as establishments could only obtain a liquor license if the accommodation was provided and so were aptly called hotels.

  • Address: 41 Bank St, Port Fairy VIC 3284
  • Cost: $ – $$

Other Things to Do in Port Fairy

If you still have more time in Port Fairy consider one of these other great activities:

  • Visit the Whale Bone Gallery which displays art from the surrounding area;
  • Browse one of the many boutiques along Sackville Street;
  • Explore the wharf and marvel at the old (and new) shipping boats; or
  • Head down to Southcombe Beach, if the weather is nice, just on the outskirts of town to soak in the warm Australian sun.

Where to Stay in Port Fairy

Free camping in port fairy.

Unfortunately, there are no free or state-run campsites near Port Fairy. The closest free campsite is Saw Pit Free Campground approximately 40 minutes from Port Fairy. Saw Pit offers basic facilities with drop toilets (TP not included), picnic tables and fire pits.

  • Address: 242 Boyers Rd, Narrawong VIC 3285

Paid Camping in Port Fairy

There are two nearby caravan parks Southcombe Caravan Park and Gardens Caravan Park which are both within walking distance to the attractions in Port Fairy. Each includes access to toilets, showers, washing facilities, shared cooking facilities including outdoor barbeques, and more!

  • Address: 19 James St, Port Fairy VIC 3284
  • Website: https://www.southcombecaravanpark.com.au/
  • Low Season: Unpowered $30 AUD, Powered $37 AUD
  • High Season: Unpowered $48 AUD, Powered $56 AUD
  • For more rate details click here !
  • Address: 111 Griffith s St, Port Fairy VIC 3284
  • Website: https://www.gardenscaravanpark.com.au/
  • For more rate details click her e !

Hotels in Port Fairy

Star of the west hotel.

Located above a pub, the Star of the West Hotel offers basic yet affordable accommodation. This is a no-frills type of place, so do not expect anything beyond a clean place to rest your head. The only downside is that occasionally the hotel will have musicians performing in the bar and courtyard until midnight which can be distracting.

  • Address: 76 Sackv ille St, Port Fairy VIC 3284, Australia

Seacombe House Motor Inn Port Fairy

The Seacombe House Motor Inn Port Fairy is another great option when visiting Port Fairy. Located at one end of the main street, Seacombe House Motor Inn is easily accessible to all of the attractions. The rooms are spacious and well maintained and the cottage even comes with an open log fire! You won’t be disappointed with your choice if you choose to stay here.

  • Address: 22 Sackville St, Port Fairy VIC 3284, Australia

The port city of Portland is recognized as the birthplace of Victoria. In November 1834, the Henty brothers established Portland, the first European settlement in Victoria. Since then, Portland has prospered from fishing, pastoral and agricultural industries and now the growing tourism industry. Spend at least one day exploring the things to do in Portland as you make your way along the road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide.

What to Do in Portland

Gaze at the local gannet colony.

Ok, gazing probably isn’t what you will be doing, unless you are an avid birdwatcher, but a visit to the local gannet colony is a unique experience in Portland. Portland is home to the only mainland Gannet bird colony in Australia. These seabirds have a wingspan of up to two meters, mate for life and are relatives to the unique blue-footed boobies. A local volunteer is usually stationed at the entrance to the gannets who will guide you on an up-close and personal tour.

  • Address: Point Danger

Follow the Norman Wade Scenic Drive to the Cape Nelson Lighthouse

From the gannet colony, make your way towards the Cape Nelson Lighthouse along the Norman Wade Scenic Drive. The drive takes you past a number of viewpoints and walking trails. The Yellow Rock Coastal Park trail takes you down to the beach where you can watch surfers catching waves. Next head over to the Enchanted Forest walk. This trail is an hour walk winding down towards the ocean through low brush and trees native to the area providing gorgeous views through the foliage.

The last stop on the scenic drive is the Cape Nelson Lighthouse. Although it took 30 years for the advocates of the lighthouse to finally convince the town of its need, the lighthouse still stands tall today guiding vessels as they cross the Bass Strait along Shipwreck Coast. This part of Australia’s coastline is aptly named Shipwreck Coast in light of the treacherous waters resulting in a number of shipwrecks throughout the years. Guided tours are available each day at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm which provides an in-depth look at the history of the lighthouse and even a peek inside the inner workings.

  • Address: Cape Nelson Rd, Portland West VIC 3305
  • Just to look: Free
  • Guided tour: Adult $15, child $10 and families $40

Stroll Along the Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk

The next stop on your road trip in and around Portland is Cape Bridgewater located approximately 20 minutes from Portland. Here you can visit a seal colony at Stony Hill from the lookout point (130 meters above sea level). The seal colony can be reached from the car park with a strenuous two-hour round trip walk or from the Bridgewater Blowholes with an easier three-hour round trip walk. The walk alone is worth it if you have the time as it provides spectacular views over the striking coastline.

Other Things to Do in Portland

If you still have time in Portland, consider looking up these additional things to do in Portland:

  • Visit the Bridgewater Blowholes and Petrified Forest in Cape Bridgewater;
  • Hop aboard the Portland Cable Tram in Portland;
  • Spot blue whales from May to October off the coastline; or
  • Hike the Great South West Walk (begins in Portland and is a 250km circular loop through southwest Victoria).

Where to Stay in Portland

Free camping in portland.

Free camping is available for vehicles that are self-contained just a five-minute walk from the city center of Portland at Henty Park Campground. Self-contained means if you do not have a toilet and tank for wastewater, no containment. Visitors are allowed to stay for up to 48 hours giving you plenty of time to explore the area. Henty Park offers toilets, a water tap, and a dump station for its guests. Showers are also available for $3 at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Center.

  • Address: 2 Bentinck St, Portland VIC 3305

Pro-tip: Don’t confuse Henty Park Campground with Henty Bay Beachfront Holiday Park which is a paid caravan park.

Hotels in Portland

Admella motel.

Admella Motel offers basic accommodation just 300-meters from Nuns Beach and the historic city center. Each room is equipped with a basic motel kitchen with a toaster, mini-fridge, and microwave. This is a great spot to stay for a night or two in Portland.

  • Address: Via Percy street, 5 Otway Ct, Portland VIC 3305, Australia

Mount Gambier

No road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide would be complete without a stop in Mount Gambier. Mount Gambier is the third-largest city in South Australia but still manages to retain a certain kind of small-town charm. We recommend stopping in for a few hours before continuing on to the Limestone Coast.

What to Do in Mount Gambier

Umpherston’s sinkhole.

A limestone cave formed by the corrosion of limestone rocks by the seawater is now home to an impressive garden. The sinkhole was originally transformed into a garden in 1866 by the owner of the property James Umpherston. The garden fell into disrepair when purchased by the forestry company, however, it has since been restored to its natural wonder. Filled with hydrangeas, tree ferns, hanging ivy and more, a trip to Mount Gambier would not be complete without visiting this spectacular garden.

  • Address: Jubilee Hwy E, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia
  • Hours of Operation: Sun up to sundown

Pro-tip: We recommend skipping the Cave Gardens in the center of town. It was quite depressing after visiting Umpherston’s Sinkhole. The Cave Gardens were in much need of some TLC when we were there. If you do visit, hopefully, you will find them in better shape than we did.

The Blue Lake

The Blue Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Mount Gambier. What attracts everyone to the Blue Lake is the unique blue watercolor. When you draw a picture of bodies of water, you almost always use a blue crayon but it is not often that you actually see a blue lake. Most lakes that I have ever seen are actually brown and murky.

The Blue Lake, however, only retains this color for a few months of the year. From April to November, the Blue Lake is in fact not blue but grey. There are many theories on why the water in this volcanic crater change colors, but the most plausible is the color changes with the change in temperature. Spend an hour walking along the 3.6-kilometer trail visiting all of the viewing points of the impressive Blue Lake.

  • Address: John Watson Dr, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia
  • Hours of Operation: All day

Pro-tip: Skip the nearby Valley Lake if you are in a hurry as it is just your typical brown, murky lake.

Centenary Tower

Up above the Valley Lake nearby Blue Lake is a viewing point over Mount Gambier called Centenary Tower. The tower offers stunning views back over Blue Lake, Valley Lake, and the countryside. Visitors can only visit when the flag is flying which unfortunately was not the case for us when we visited.

  • Address: Elliott Dr, Mount Gambier SA 5290, Australia
  • Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 8:30 am – 5:15 pm as long as the flag is flying
  • Cost: $2 AUD

Other Things to Do in Mount Gambier

While we only highlighted our personal favorites there are plenty of other things to do in and around Mount Gambier. If you have more time check out one of these things to do in Mount Gambier:

  • Engelbrecht Cave
  • Sound and Light Show

Where to Stay in Mount Gambier

Free camping in mount gambier, dry creek campground.

Dry Creek Campground is only a 20 min drive from Mount Gambier making it the perfect place to stay if you are looking for free accommodation. There is not much in the way of aesthetics as the campground is simply a loading dock area for the Glenelg River, however, there are two toilets available and an outdoor barbeque under a pavilion.

  • Address: 4 Dry Creek Rd, Donovans SA 5291

Hotels in Mount Gambier

The old mount gambier gaol.

It is not every day that you get to spend the night in jail or at least I hope not. In Mount Gambier, however, you can enjoy the unique experience of staying at T he Old Mount Gambier Gaol (jail) without the shackles. Spend the night in a cell or the old warden’s office. It is up to you, but do not miss this rare opportunity!

There are two routes that can be taken when leaving Mount Gambier, one inland option through Coonawarra and one along the coastline through Beachport and Robe. We opted to skip Coonawarra and head back to the coastline with our first stop being Beachport.

Beachport is a small coastal community located approximately one hour from Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast. While Beachport may be small, there are a few sights worth visiting as you make your way to Robe.

What to Do in Beachport

Walk along the ridiculously long beachport jetty.

Beachport’s claim to fame is holding the title of the second-longest jetty in South Australia which stretches to a length of 772 meters. Don’t miss the opportunity to stretch your legs with a walk along the jetty and to see what the local fisherman have caught for dinner.

  • Address: 3 Beach Rd, Beachport SA 5280

Be Awed on the Beachport Scenic Drive

If you haven’t yet exhausted yourself of scenic drives during your time in Australia, you are in luck! The Beachport Scenic Drive offers stunning views along the Limestone Coast as you make your way around various coves and headlands. Be careful on the drive as the views are so stunning you might forget where you are!

  • Address: McArthur Pl, Beachport SA 5280

Take a Salty Dip in the Pool of Siloam

The Pool of Siloam is an underground fed spring with seven times the saline content of the Ocean. If your joints are achy from all the driving over the past few days, make sure to stop for some therapeutic relief!

  • Address: Pool of Siloam

Robe was one of my favorite stops along the Limestone Coast. It is hard to say what makes Robe my favorite. Maybe it was the fact that you had all of the luxuries of a big city without the crowds. Or maybe the picturesque main drag with its colorful shops and restaurants. Whatever it was, Robe is definitely somewhere I would like to return to and a must-see along your Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive.

What to Do in Robe

There is only so much relaxing, shopping, and sunbathing that one can do. Luckily for you, there are plenty of other things to do in Robe to bide your time and best of all, most of these are free or budget-friendly. Here is a list of our favorite things to do in Robe!

Taste Camel Milk Icecream at Humpalicious Camel Dairy Farm

Located on the B101 in between Robe and Kingston SE is the Humpalicious Camel Dairy Farm. Stop in at Humpalicious for a tour of the grounds and the camels or if tours are not your thing stop in only for a taste of their delicious ice cream! It’s not every day you get to say you tried camel milk ice cream!

  • Address: Roys La, Mount Benson SA 5275
  • Hours of Operation: Thursday to Sunday 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
  • Website: humpalicious.com.au

Go Wine Tasting in Mount Benson and Cape Jaffa

Mount Benson and the Cape Jaffa region are relative newcomers to the wine scene in Australia. While Robe itself has two tasting rooms on the main shopping and dining street, there are others within an easy 30-minute drive also worth visiting.

For those looking to stay within Robe, we recommend Karatta Wines. Karatta Wines offers a tasting of four wines for free or a premium tasting can be arranged for $10 AUD. An art gallery is also attached to Karatta that houses pieces from artists within the area.

  • Address: 5 Victo ria St, Robe SA 5276
  • Hours of Operation: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Website: https://karattawines.com.au/

We visited Karatta Wines when we were in Robe, however, as we continued our journey north we ventured out to others in Cape Jaffa. Here is a list of the wineries you can visit as you continue north on your Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive.

  • Ralph Fowler Wines
  • Cape Jaffa Wines

Find Inspiring Views at Beacon Hill Lookout

Just on the outskirts of town is an observation tower providing you sweeping views over the small coastal community of Robe, the surrounding nature and the sea in the distance.

  • Address: Beacon Hill Lookout
  • Hours of Operation: Always open

Get Movin’ Along the Robe Coastal Walk

The Robe Coastal Walk takes you past some of Robe’s best scenery. Walk along the rocky coastline visiting the Robe Gaol Ruins, the Obelisk, the Robe Jetty, Glass Beach and more! Make sure you bring sunscreen, plenty of water and great walking shoes. Swimsuits are optional as the water temperature is usually quite cold as there is nothing separating South Australia from Antarctica except miles and miles of ocean.

  • Address: Joy Terrace, Robe SA 5276

Where to Stay in Robe

There are plenty of motels, caravan parks and rental homes available in Robe where you can stay.

If you are interested in camping, then there are a couple of great options in and near Robe that won’t break the bank and are still fairly close to town.

Free Camping in Robe

Although not officially deemed a campsite, the jetty in Robe is a place where travelers occasionally stop for a night or two (and the information center is well aware). While there are no amenities, the location is an easy walk into town making it the perfect stop while visiting Robe.

  • Address: 5 Obelisk Rd, Robe SA 5276

Paid Camping in Robe

Little dip conservation park.

There are two campgrounds within this state park which are an easy drive from the city of Robe. The first is Stony Rise Campground which is only 2.8 kilometers and the second, The Gums Campground, is only 3 kilometers from the center of town. Each can be reached without a four-wheel drive, however, the track to Stony Rise Campground is a bit dicier. Bookings are essential and can be made online here . A drop toilet is located at each campground.

  • Stony Rise Campground
  • The Gums Campground
  • Website: parks.sa.gov.au
  • Cost: $16 AUD per night

Hotels in Robe

Caledonian inn.

If you don’t mind a shared bathroom, then the Caledonian Inn . Located right on the main drag, they offer comfortable and stylish accommodation.

Tired of Australia and all things Aussie? Head over to Hahndorf to be transported to the faraway land of Germany. Established by German settlers, Hahndorf has managed to retain all of the small-town German charm for which it is known.

What to Do in Hahndorf

There are plenty of great things to do in Hahndorf , and below are a few of our favorites!

Dine and Drink Beer at a Bavarian Beer House

No visit to Hahndorf is complete without indulging in some of the German culture for which the city is known. There are several beer houses (or bierhalles) in Hahndorf where you can grab a typical German pilsner or lager along with schnitzel, bratwurst or pork knuckle. We recommend the Hahndorf Inn for an authentic German experience, however, there are several other restaurants serving German food along the main street.

  • Address: 35 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245
  • Hours of Operation: 10:30 am – 9:00 pm
  • Website: hahndorfinn.com.au

Explore the Adelaide Hills Wine Region

While your final destination on this road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is the Barossa Valley, a stop in the Adelaide Hills wine region is a must. The Adelaide Hills is one of the few regions in this area specializing in white wines.

Pick Strawberries at the Beerenberg Farm

If you are traveling with children, a trip to the Beerenberg Farm is a must for strawberry picking. From November to April each year, the Beerenberg Farm opens its doors for visitors to handpick their own strawberries to take home and enjoy. It doesn’t get fresher than this, so make sure to stop while in Hahndorf. You can also sample their other yummy products in the Farm Shop, so make sure you come at least a little bit hungry!

  • Address: 2106 Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf SA 5245
  • Strawberry picking: 9:00 am – 4:15 pm
  • Farm Shop: 9:00 – 5:00 pm
  • Website: https://www.beerenberg.com.au/
  • Strawberry picking: $4/adult and free for children to pick and $10.95/kg collected

Where to Stay in Hahndorf

Hahndorf resort.

Located on the outskirts of Hahndorf is the Hahndorf Resort . A caravan park offering plenty of unpowered and powered sites. The facilities are clean and spacious, however, the location is less than desirable as you cannot walk to the town center from the resort. If you don’t mind the drive, this is the perfect budget-friendly accommodation in Hahndorf.

  • Address: 145a Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf SA 5245, Australia

Hahndorf Motel

The Hahndorf Motel is an excellent option for your stay in Hahndorf. At reasonable prices, Hahndorf Motel is within walking distance to all of the restaurants and bars in the town. It offers spacious, clean rooms with attentive staff. Make sure to check them out when in Hahndorf.

The Barossa Valley

Your road trip from Melbourne to the Barossa Valley is now almost to an end (or just beginning if you travel in the opposite way). For us, we began our road trip wining and dining throughout Melbourne, and we decided the best way to end it is in exactly the same way.

The Barossa Valley has been high on my list of places to visit in Australia, and it has taken me three trips to The Land Down Under to finally make it here.

Where to Eat in the Barossa Valley

Dining at the best restaurants in the Barossa Valley often times comes with a hefty price tag. Restaurants in tourist destinations are not known for being cheap especially in wine regions. But we were able to find a few that fit the bill for your budget friendly holiday.

Barossa Farmers Market (Saturday Mornings Only)

If you are visiting Barossa Valley on a weekend, a trip to the Barossa Farmers Market is a must (especially if you are staying at a nearby Angaston Vineyards Motel). The Barossa Farmers Market is a Saturday morning community event bringing local artisans together to showcase their food and beverage products. Artisanal cheeses and cured meats, fresh vegetables and fruits, homemade jams and jellies, freshly baked bread and sweet and savory pastries are but a fraction of the goods available for purchase. The best bit, however, is the samples available for tastings. Spend the morning sampling your way through the market before selecting a few items to take back for your afternoon snack.

At the market, you can also grab breakfast at the Breakfast Bar located inside the market. The Breakfast Bar utilizes local ingredients found within the market each week meaning the menu changes weekly. You can, however, be rest assured that it will be delicious.

  • Address: Corner of Angaston Rd & Stockwell Rd, Angaston SA 5353
  • Hours of Operation: Saturday from 7:30 am – 11:30 am
  • Cost: Free (unless you buy something)

Home of the Brave (First Drop Wines)

We visited Home of the Brave on the advice of a local. This quirky winery and tapas bar is the perfect spot for a budget-friendly lunch option in Barossa Valley. Take a seat on their sun-drenched patio, grab a glass of wine and enjoy some delicious tapas. Home of the Brave offers a regular menu featuring charcuterie, cheeses, garlic and chili shrimp, patatas bravas and more. They also offer daily specials and the blue cheese gnocchi was divine.

  • Address: 30-38 Barossa Valley Way, Nuriootpa, South Australia 5352 Australia
  • Hours of Operation: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Best Budget-Friendly Wine Tastings

No trip to the Barossa is complete without a few wine tastings. Wine tastings in the Barossa can add up pretty quickly with some cellar doors charging upwards of $25 AUD per tasting.

Laughing Jack Wines

A trip to the Barossa Valley is not complete without visiting Laughing Jack Wines. Laughing Jack Wines is a family-owned winery run by Shawn and Briony Kalleske. It is named after the nickname for the Kookaburra which is derived from its manic laugh.

Laughing Jack Wines is known for its reds primarily the staple Shiraz for which the Barossa is famous. While I could go on and on describing the delicious wines, I do not want to spoil the fun or misrepresent the winery. You will just have to visit for yourself!

A visit to Laughing Jack Wines must be arranged in advance as visits are currently by appointment only. A cellar door is in the works, but amid the pandemic in 2020, the opening date is yet to be determined.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Laughing Jack Wines while you are in the Barossa Valley.

  • Address: 194 Stonewell Rd, Marananga SA 5355
  • Hours of Operation: By appointment only at   (08) 85 623 878 or [email protected]
  • Website: laughingjackwines.com
  • Cost: Free (although wine purchase is highly recommended)

Izway Wines

We stumbled upon Izway Wines by accident and could not have been more satisfied with our experience here. This farmhouse chic cellar door was the perfect place to start our day. Izway Wines is an off-the-grid winery supplying all its own power and doing things the old fashion way. Join Craig and his team and be amazed at the unique wines offered at Izway Wines.

Craig also let us in on a hot tip. You can bring up to six (6) bottles of wine on domestic flights assuming you meet any weight restrictions imposed by the airline carrier.

  • Address: 923 Seppeltsfield Road, Seppeltsfield Barossa South Australia 5355
  • Hours of Operation: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Website: https://www.izway.com.au/
  • Cost: $5 per person (waived if purchase a bottle)

David Franz

End one of your days in the Barossa Valley at David Franz. The cellar door at David Franz is unique in that they offer a DIY platter bar. They offer a smorgasbord of items ranging from artisanal cheese, cured meats, jams and jellies, olives, fresh bread and more for you to choose from. Just grab one of the many baskets hanging from the side of the bar, select your delicacies and the staff will arrange the platter of your choosing to be shared with the group.

In addition to your DIY platter, you can also choose from one of the three different tasting options available depending on the vintage and the number of wines you would like to taste. We enjoyed the red varietals more than the white and they even had a sparkling cider on the menu!

While David Franz may not be the cheapest option or the most budget-friendly, we think it is worth a visit. The wines are delicious, the DIY platter is to die for and the veranda with the views over the vineyard is the perfect place to wind down after a day of tastings.

  • Address: 94 Stelzer Rd, Stone Well SA 5352
  • Website: https://david-franz.com/
  • Wine Tasting: Prices range from $5 – $20 AUD
  • Platter: Prices depend on your selection but items range from $3 – $10 AUD per piece

Continuing onwards in the Seppeltsfield area a visit to Tscharke is a must. Tscharke again is a family-owned winery and is certified as organic and biodynamic. The Tscharke’s have been around for six generations in the Barossa Valley and you can certainly tell in their wines. Stop by Tscharke and try one or all from their wide array of wines from young, fresh wines to old, robust vintages.

  • Address: 376 Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga SA 5355
  • Website: https://www.tscharke.com.au/
  • Cost: Free (although purchasing a bottle of wine is recommended)

Hayes Family Wines

Our last vineyard in the Seppeltsfield area (we clearly like the wines in this area) is Hayes Family Winery. A newcomer on the scene, Hayes Family Wines has only been around since 2014. Run by two couples, the Hayes and the Seppelts, these guys offer a memorable experience with deliciously crafted wines. While most of their wines are of the red varietal like many wineries in the Barossa Valley, their Roussane which is a white varietal from the Rhone Valley is particularly delicious.

The only downside to Hayes Family Wines is the price tag. Here they charge $10 per person which is quite steep compared to some of the other nearby cellar doors. This price, however, is still significantly below some of the other vineyards in nearby Tanunda.

  • Address: 102 Mattiske Rd, Stone Well SA 5352
  • Hours of Operation: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Friday to Monday
  • Website: https://www.hayesfamilywines.com/
  • Cost: $10 per person (waived upon the purchase of a bottle)

Tomfoolery Wines

Toomfoolery Wines is located in Light Pass just up from the Barossa Farmers Market. This makes it the perfect first stop after your trip to the market on Saturday. I say this lightly, however, as our visit to Tomfoolery Wines was less than ideal. The wines were delicious, however, we felt a bit rushed during the tasting and there were only two other groups visiting when we visited. The tastings were brought out and explained to us before we could even have a sip of the one before it.

Nevertheless, if you do not mind the haste then stop in at Tomfoolery. Plenty of the boutique wineries mentioned Tomfoolery when asked for recommendations, so either they are all in cahoots or their wines are actually some of the best in the Barossa.

  • Address: 517 Stockwell Rd, Light Pass SA 5355
  • Hours of Operation: Thursday to Monday from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Website: https://www.tomfoolerywines.com.au /

The Willows Vineyard

The smallest vineyard on the list, The Willows Vineyard is dubbed “The Doctor’s Vineyard”. The Scholtz farm became the first private hospital in the Barossa Valley in 1883 when a femur was perfectly mended. Throughout the generations, the doctors somehow always returned to their roots and what some would say is one of the original remedies, wine. Drop in and taste their vintage especially their unique Sparkling Shiraz which is something you won’t find everywhere in the Barossa!

  • Address: 310 Light Pass Rd, Light Pass SA 5355
  • Hours of Operation: Wednesday to Monday from 10:30 – 4:30
  • Website: https://thewillowsvineyard.com.au/

Best Things to Do in Barossa for Free (or Almost Free)

We already told you a few secret spots for free wine tasting in the Barossa Valley, but there are also other things to do in the Barossa if you need a break from the wine.

Sample Cheese at the Barossa Valley Cheese Company

What goes best with a glass of wine? Cheese and maybe another glass of wine. If you like to indulge yourself with a bit of cheese as I do then make your way to the Barossa Valley Cheese Company. Located in Angaston, it is the perfect place to pop in as a break from wine tasting for a quick sample and perhaps even grab a few for the road. A sample of four different kinds of cheese is available for tasting all day but note that they do get busy with other hungry winos so it might be a tad cramped.

  • Address: 67B Murray St, Angaston SA 5353
  • Website: https://barossacheese.com.au/

Visit the Barossa Sculpture Park at Mengler Hill Lookout

While the sculptures here are not to my taste, the views over Tanunda and the surrounding area are beautiful. The Mengler Hill Lookout allows you to get the feeling of a valley that you do not notice when you are driving around in the Barossa Valley.

Peruse a Local Museum

Each town in Barossa has its own unique museums. If you are an avid museum-goer or want to learn more about the history of the Barossa Valley outside of just what the winemakers tell you, we recommend you visit one of these museums.

  • Website: https://www.barossamuseum.com/
  • Cost: $4 per adult and $1 per child
  • Website: https://angaston.org.au/blacksmith/
  • Cost: One two dollar gold coin
  • Cost: $5 per adult and $2 per child

Where to Stay in the Barossa Valley

As with many wine regions throughout the world, accommodation often comes with a hefty price tag. There are few places that offer budget-friendly accommodation in the Barossa Valley. The budget-friendly options are harder to find as these areas are not known as being particularly budget-friendly. In the Barossa, however, there are a few budget-friendly exceptions.

Camping at Greenock Centenary Park

The small community of Greenock located in the Barossa Valley offers basic camping facilities for only $5 AUD per night. The facilities are located in a public park with sports fields and offer nothing more than a few toilets and picnic tables. The value, however, is unbeatable. From the park, you can walk to a few wineries, a brewery and some eateries. Payment is on the honor system, so make sure you do your part to keep this budget-friendly option available to fellow travelers.

  • Address: Greenock Centenary Park
  • Cost: $5 AUD

Angaston Vineyards Motel

If camping isn’t for you or you are not well equipped while visiting the Barossa Valley, Angaston Vineyards Motel is your best alternative. Prices start around $100 AUD per night for double occupancy and rooms accommodating four people are also available. Each room comes equipped with a small fridge, toaster, and kettle which can be used to help alleviate costs from dining out each meal. The only downside to staying at Angaston Vineyards Motel is the location. The location is not within walking distance to any neighboring towns making it necessary to drive for almost any activity. One exception being the Barossa Farmers’ Market on Saturday mornings and Vinter’s Bar and Grill which is not by any means budget-friendly.

  • Address: 751 Stockwell Rd, Angaston SA 5353, Australia

I hope you enjoy your Melbourne to Adelaide coastal drive as much as we did and remember to drive safely!

Want to save this Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive for later? Pin It!

From a small town in the USA, I had my first taste of travel when I was 17. Since then, I have traveled to over 80 countries and every continent bar Antarctica. I love to experience new places, cultures, and food. While you may occasionally find me in popular tourist destinations, I tend to gravitate to up-and-coming destinations, hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

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13 Comments

So many things on this list! I would love to rent a car and just drive around the coast in Australia. Sounds like there is so much to do and see!

The things to do in Australia is never ending! Thanks for reading!

Glad you enjoyed! Thanks for reading!

I spent two months in Australia and did some of the iconic road trips (the Great Ocean Road and the Brisbane-Cairns road trip) but I totally missed Adelaide or this road trip, saving it for next time I go to Aus! Johanna Beach looks beautiful, thanks for sharing 🙂

There are so many road trips in AUS, but this is one not to miss. Thanks for reading!

woow This is such massive Guide on road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. You shared so much information. The Pictures are beautiful.

Thanks for reading! It is easy to take great pictures when the scenery is so beautiful!

It’s my dream to visit Australia!! You just gave me serious wanderlust!!

You will not be disappointed when you get here! Australia is amazing!

Wow, this is such helpful information, can’t wait to use your tips when I make it out to Australia!

You will not be disappointed when you make it here!

  • Travel Tips
  • Adelaide to Melbourne

The Great Ocean Road

Adelaide to melbourne drive: 10 incredible days.

1,500 km | 24 hr drive time

We've listed so many beautiful places to camp along this drive that doing it in a campervan will give you experiences you might otherwise miss. Below you'll find the itinerary, in both directions for those making the Melbourne to Adelaide drive.

This journey is the stuff of fantasy novels. You might be forgiven for thinking you are in Tolkien's Middle Earth. Coastal walks by the turquoise sea, beach camps beneath a glittering sky, ancient rainforests, glow worms, strange mountains and rock formations, the Great Ocean Road, limestone caves, wine tasting, cheese tasting, steam trains and paddle steamers are all part of the adventure. You'll meet emus, kangaroos, cockatoos, koalas, wombats, echidna's, dolphins and seals along the way.

Let the journey begin!

Adelaide to Melbourne Itinerary

Day 1: Adelaide | McLaren Vale | Onkaparinga River National Park  – 2 hrs | 117 km Day 2: Deep Creek Conservation Park  – 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100  km Day 3 & 4: Kangaroo Island  – 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100 km Day 5: Fleurieu Peninsula | Coorong National Park  –  4 hrs | 194 km Day 6: Naracoorte Caves | Coonawarra Wines  –  4 hrs | 319 km Day 7 & 8: Grampians National Park  –  2 hr 40 min | 210 km Day 9 & 10: The Great Ocean Road  –  8 hr | 570 km

Melbourne to Adelaide Itinerary

Day 1 & 2:  The Great Ocean Road  – 5.5 h | 397 km Day 3 & 4:  Grampians National Park  – 2 h | 165 km  Day 5:  Naracoorte Caves | Coonawarra Wines   – 3 h | 257 km Day 6:  Fleurieu Peninsula | Coorong National Park   – 4 h 45 m | 430 km Day 7 & 8:  Kangaroo Island  –  1 h 15 m (including ferry) | 182 km  Day 9:  Deep Creek Conservation Park  – 2.5 h (including ferry) | 119 km Day 10:  Adelaide | McLaren Vale | Onkaparinga River National Park   – 2.5 h | 135 km

Description

Click through to the full article for things to do and places to camp.

Day 1: Adelaide | McLaren Vale | Onkaparinga River National Park Drive time 2 hrs | 117 km Hike the river banks and peaks of Onkaparinga River in the morning, and taste wine and swim at beaches in the afternoon before camping at Deep Creek Conservation Park.

Day 2: Deep Creek Conservation Park Drive time 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100  km After a day of wonderful hiking head for Kangaroo Island. Book your ferry ride ahead of time.

Day 3 & 4: Kangaroo Island Drive time 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100 km Enjoy the wildlife (kangaroos, penguins, sea lions, dolphins, wallabies, wombats, koalas, birds of prey) and stunning landscapes and rock formations on scenic drives and coastal hikes. Sample the local food and wine.

Great Ocean Road - Melbourne to Adelaide drive - coorong pink lake

Day 5: Fleurieu Peninsula | Coorong National Park Drive time 4 hrs | 194 km The Fleurieu Way takes you through pretty coastal towns connected by a steam train, while the roads winding inland will lead you over rivers and into farmlands with roadside stalls. Coorong National Park is a tapestry of lagoons, sand dunes, and wetlands. Walk through towering white sand dunes, stroll along a jetty, and enjoy the prolific birdlife.

Day 6: Naracoorte Caves | Coonawarra Wines Drive time 4 hrs | 319 km Explore caves with limestone formations and fossils in the morning and taste fabulous wines in the afternoon.

campervan hire MELBOURNE

Day 7 & 8: Grampians National Park Drive time 2 hr 40 min | 210 km The Grampians National Park is a place of endless views, misty mornings, waterfalls, romantic sunsets and rugged rock formations best enjoyed on some of the many walks there.

Day 9 & 10: The Great Ocean Road Drive time 8 hr | 570 km One of Australia's most spectacular scenic drives - visit Port Fairy, the lush Great Otway National Park, Twelve Apostles rock formation, Erskine Falls, famously pretty coastal towns and surfing mecca Bells Beach before heading to Melbourne.

great ocean road - adelaide to melbourne drive

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Heart of Reef Shuttles, 48-50 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale, Queensland 4802 Phone: 1800 216 223

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The best weekend road trips from melbourne.

caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

Melbourne is a vibrant city that pulses with energy, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle for a relaxing weekend getaway. With stunning coastlines, picturesque countryside, and charming towns nearby, there’s no shortage of road trip destinations in Victoria.  Here are some of the best weekend road trips from Melbourne, in our opinion.

1. Great Ocean Road to Torquay

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 100 km (1.5 hours)

Kick off your weekend with a trip to Torquay, the surfing capital of Australia. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore the surf shops, and take in the coastal scenery along the Great Ocean Road. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Bells Beach while you’re there.

Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Torquay . This park offers a relaxing retreat just minutes from the beach, with modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for families and beach lovers alike!

ingenia holidays melbourne road trips

2. Murray Bend

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 230 km (2.5 hours)

Head north to the serene Murray River region, where you can unwind by the water and enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Murray Bend is perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Murray Bend . This riverside park provides comfortable accommodations and easy access to the river, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape.

ingenia holidays melbourne road trips

3. Cape Paterson

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 150 km (2 hours)

Cape Paterson is a hidden gem along the coast, known for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. Enjoy swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun on the beautiful sandy shores. The nearby Bunurong Marine National Park offers fantastic opportunities for wildlife watching.

Stay at: Ingenia Holidays Cape Paterson . This park is just a stone’s throw from the beach and features family-friendly facilities, making it a great choice for a coastal getaway.

4. Inverloch

Inverloch is a charming seaside town with stunning beaches and a friendly atmosphere. Explore the rock pools at Eagle’s Nest, take a stroll along the Inverloch Foreshore, or enjoy the local cafes and shops.

Stay at: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Inverloch . This park offers a comfortable base for your adventures, with easy access to the beach and local attractions.

ingenia holidays melbourne road trips

5. Queenscliff

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 110 km (1.5 hours)

Queenscliff is known for its historic architecture and beautiful coastal scenery. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, visit the local markets, or hop on a ferry to Sorrento for a day trip.

Stay at: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon . Nestled near the coast, this park provides a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploration, with modern facilities and a welcoming community feel.

ingenia holidays melbourne road trips

6. Phillip Island

Distance from Melbourne: Approximately 140 km (2 hours)

Phillip Island is famous for its wildlife, stunning beaches, and the iconic Penguin Parade. Spend your days exploring the island’s natural beauty, visiting local attractions, and enjoying delicious seafood.

Stay at: BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Phillip Island . This family-friendly park is conveniently located near key attractions, offering a great base for your island adventures.

Melbourne is surrounded by an array of stunning destinations perfect for weekend road trips. With Ingenia Holiday Parks providing comfortable and convenient accommodations, you can easily explore Victoria’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant towns. Happy travels!

Find more Road Trip Inspiration for your next adventure!

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caravan trip melbourne to adelaide

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  5. We DRIVE a road BETTER than the Great Ocean Road

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COMMENTS

  1. Great Ocean Road Route for First-Time Caravan Adventurers

    The Great Ocean Road route or the drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is one of the world's most scenic drives where you are treated with the fantastic coastline, nearby national parks, and hidden gems just waiting to be found. The Great Ocean Road is exactly 243 kilometres (or 151 miles) long. It takes at least 3 whole days, but you may extend ...

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    Where to stay: Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park. Tourism Australia Image Gallery. Day 2 Lorne to Port Fairy via the Great Ocean Road ... So there you have it, the ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! Five days is the perfect amount of time to explore everything this great region has to offer. From world-famous wine country and stunning coastal ...

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  4. The Ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip (+ Map, Itinerary)

    The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is a total of 924 km. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 10hr 41mins to reach via the Great Ocean Road. However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it's best to include stops throughout your entire road trip.

  5. The Great Ocean Road: A Melbourne to Adelaide Campervan Road Trip

    Day 1-2: Melbourne. Start your journey in Melbourne, the city that has it all - cool cafés, street art and a buzzing artsy vibe. Make sure to walk past the iconic Flinders Street station and get some city views in. Before you leave, fuel up with a top-notch coffee and grab some snacks for the road. Then, drive your campervan west and head ...

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  7. Planning the Perfect Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

    Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary. Here is a 7-day itinerary for a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, taking the scenic coastal route. Ideally, this is a great caravan journey with plenty of campgrounds to stay in all along the road. Alternatively, you can travel in a car and camp in tents instead.

  8. The Ultimate 1-Week Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

    Road Trip Essentials. Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary: Day by Day Guide. Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne. Day 2: Lorne to Port Campbell. Day 3: Port Campbell to Port Fairy. Day 4: Port Fairy to Mount Gambier. Add: Grampians National Park. Day 5: Mount Gambier to Robe. Day 6: Robe to Victor Harbor.

  9. 16 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

    Melbourne to Adelaide Distance. Over the course of a 16-day road trip, the Melbourne to Adelaide distance covers approximately 1,057 km via the National Highway M8, offering a scenic inland route and an enjoyable drive. Travellers can expect an estimated total journey time of 13 hours, allowing ample opportunities to explore diverse landscapes ...

  10. Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

    Take in the beauty of the 12 Apostles. Stay in luxury accommodation at seaside towns. Fast facts. Time: 5 days. Distance: 728km (452mi) Transport: car. Nearest major city: Melbourne. Price: $$$. Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip.

  11. 7-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean

    Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay via Geelong. Torquay is located at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road. With only a 1 hour and 20 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD, many people will choose Torquay as the first stop of their Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. However, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are also very scenic and well worth a visit ...

  12. 7-day Adelaide to Melbourne Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

    Adelaide to Alice Springs Road Trip Itinerary - explore the beautiful outback and discover underground towns, sacred Indigenous sites, and surreal hiking opportunities on this iconic roadie! Take our 7-day itinerary from Adelaide to Melbourne, exploring the beaches, valleys, towns, and wildlife along the way. Includes the Great Ocean Road, too!

  13. Best Road Trips: Melbourne to Adelaide (Insider Guide for 2024)

    From: Melbourne. To: Adelaide. Total Distance: 1,121 km. Days: 5. Top Road Trips Stops: Torquay, Lorne, Great Otway National Park, 12 Apostles, Logan's Beach, Mount Gambier. You can't put 'Australia' and 'road trip' in the same sentence and not have the Great Ocean Road spring to mind.

  14. The Great Ocean Road

    262 km | 2 - 5 days. The Great Ocean Road takes in Australia's spectacular coastline, surf culture, wine regions, glow worm caves, and the Otway forest of moss, ferns and towering trees. The Great Ocean Road is the first leg of the magnificent Melbourne to Adelaide drive, or one half of a loop that begins and ends in Melbourne taking in the ...

  15. Road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide

    Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide. What to see and do on your drive from Melbourne to Adelaide. 25 SEP 2024. 8 hours. 728km. Share. Scroll down. Bowman Scenic Drive, Limestone Coast.

  16. 7-Day Adelaide to Melbourne Itinerary for Campervans

    Day 1: Adelaide to Hahndorf - A Voyage through German Heritage. Your adventure begins in Adelaide, South Australia's cosmopolitan heart. Set off towards the charming town of Hahndorf, just a 30-minute drive away. This scenic town boasts the distinction of being Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, featuring numerous 19th-century ...

  17. Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to Adelaide

    Distance 104km - Driving Time 1 hour 20 minutes. For the final day, head towards the last stop on the trip for an hour and 20 minutes to Melbourne. On the way stop off at Geelong which is about an hour out of the city centre, and is one of the best road trips from Melbourne. Perched on the coast is Eastern beach reserve which is perfect for a ...

  18. Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive: Everything You Need to Know Before

    Lorne Beach is a popular place to relax on your Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Drive. This 1.2-kilometer beach is an excellent place for a swim as the shore break is not as treacherous as other places along the Great Ocean Road. Lorne is also a great place for beginner surfers as the break is usually low and wide. Useful Information.

  19. Adelaide to Melbourne drive

    Adelaide to Melbourne Itinerary. Day 1: Adelaide | McLaren Vale | Onkaparinga River National Park - 2 hrs | 117 km. Day 2: Deep Creek Conservation Park - 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100 km. Day 3 & 4: Kangaroo Island - 2 hr 20 min (includes ferry) | 100 km. Day 5: Fleurieu Peninsula | Coorong National Park - 4 hrs | 194 km.

  20. Melbourne to Adelaide in 6 days

    Road trip: Melbourne to Adelaide in 6 days. 1115km. Beach. Family. Benefit. The ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide roadtrip along the Great Ocean Road and taking in Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Fairy, Mount Gambier and Victor Harbour. The inland route via Ballarat and Bordertown is faster, but the Great Ocean Road is an incredible experience.

  21. The Best Weekend Road Trips from Melbourne

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  22. Melbourne to Adelaide (or vice versa)

    Australia's Northern Territory is a region that defies comparison—not just within the country but worldwide. It comprises the Top End, a lush tropical haven home to the multicultural city of Darwin, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, the pristine Arnhem Land, and the Katherine region where the outback begins.

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