π₯ Did you know that over 2.5 million visitors ride the Great Ocean Road each year? Yeah, itβs basically the ultimate Aussie cycling pilgrimage β and Iβve been doing it since I was knee-high to a grasshopper!
π 1. Bells Beach β The Ride of a Lifetime
This is where the legend starts. Iβm talking 8km of winding coastal road with the Indian Ocean crashing below. The climb up the backside? Brutal, but the view from the top? Pure ripper. Perfect for beginners and intermediates. Ride it early in the morning to beat the heat and dodgy winds. Pro tip: Stop at the little cafΓ© near the turnoff β their brekkie roll is heaps good!
π 2. The Twelve Apostles β Epic Coastal Climb
This oneβs for the serious riders. The road from Loch Ard Gorge to the Apostles is steep, scenic, and absolutely jaw-dropping. Youβll be pedalling past limestone stacks that look like theyβre straight out of a movie. I did this in 2024 with my mate, and we stopped for lunch on the edge of the cliff β just to soak it in. Donβt forget your sunnies, mate, the glare off the water is bloody fierce!
π 3. Aireys Inlet to Lorne β The Sweet Spot
This stretch? Absolute gold. Itβs flat enough for families, but still got enough hills to keep it interesting. I rode this with my kids last arvo and they loved the little beach stops. The roadβs well-maintained, and there are heaps of BBQ spots and picnic tables along the way. Perfect for a relaxed sunset ride.
π 4. Otway National Park β Off-Road Adventure Zone
Craving something different? Skip the pavement and head into the Otways. The gravel trails here are like natureβs gym β rocky, muddy, and totally worth it. Iβve done the trail from Apollo Bay to Forrest, and itβs a full-day adventure. Bring a spare tube β the tracks are rough on tyres. And if youβre lucky, youβll spot a kangaroo mid-ride. Bonus points if it gives you a cheeky hop!
π 5. Torquay β The Proβs Starting Line
If youβre serious about the ride, start here. Torquay is where the pros train, and itβs home to the Australian Surfing Hall of Fame. The coastal route from here to Bells Beach is smooth, fast, and packed with energy. Iβve seen Olympic cyclists here training β itβs humbling! Rent a bike from the local shop, theyβve got top-tier gear for under $70 a day.
π Practical Info
π Great Ocean Road, Victoria, 3225
π From Melbourne, 3.5 hours by car or train (with transfer to a bike rental in Torquay)
π° $60β$120 (bike hire + optional guided tour)
π Best from October to April (spring/summer) β sunny, mild days
β±οΈ Half-day (4β6 hours) for short loops, full day (8β10 hours) for full route
π‘ Tips & Warnings
β
Ride early β the mornings are cooler and less busy
β Donβt skip the bike check β especially the brakes and tyres
β οΈ Watch for sudden gusts of wind, especially near cliff edges
π Which spot are you keen to check out first? π
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