Solo Travellers’ Guide to the Great Ocean Road
Whether you’re looking to recharge, explore nature, or meet new people along the way, here’s everything you need to know about making the most of a solo journey along the Great Ocean Road.
Travelling solo is one of the most rewarding ways to see the world and the Great Ocean Road is the perfect place to do it. With wide-open landscapes, friendly coastal towns, and experiences that range from adrenaline-pumping adventure to soul-soothing wellness, this world-famous route gives you the freedom to travel entirely on your own terms.
Why Choose the Great Ocean Road for Solo Travel
The Great Ocean Road offers the perfect balance of adventure, safety, and accessibility. Towns throughout the region are known for their welcoming atmosphere, with locals who are used to greeting visitors from around the world.
Staying Safe While Travelling Solo
The region is generally very safe, but it’s always smart to take simple precautions:
- Be aware of beach and cliff safety. Follow signs, avoid dangerous edges and don’t venture off the designated trails.
- Let someone know your plans if heading into more remote areas.
- Check weather forecasts before you set out and take care when driving on winding coastal roads.
The Great Ocean Road region offers a variety of big nature experiences worth exploring. In Lorne, spots like Sheoak Falls and Teddy’s Lookout provide short walks with rewarding views.
The Great Otway National Park features ancient rainforest trails and waterfalls that are perfect for nature walks and wildlife spotting. Along the coast, the London Bridge formation is a dramatic landmark to visit in an impressive section of the coast.
Further west, the historic town of Port Fairy is a gateway to the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its significant Indigenous heritage and ancient aquaculture systems.
The Great Ocean Road region is rich with artistic and cultural experiences that offer a deeper connection to the local community and its history. For something a little different, the Australian National Surf Museum in Torquay celebrates the vibrant surf culture that has shaped the coastline, with fascinating exhibits and stories.
A little further along, Nirranda Arts Studio offers a peaceful retreat housed in a 1896 wood-lined hall, showcases the contemporary silk paintings, textile designs, and sculptures of David and Gail Higgins.
Further along the coast, Warrnambool Art Gallery presents a diverse range of exhibitions that celebrate both contemporary and traditional art
For those seeking an active experience, the Great Ocean Road region delivers a range of options. Walk a portion of the Great Ocean Walk yourself or book onto a Great Ocean Road Long Weekend to experience some unique coastal hiking.
The Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail and the recently opened Timboon to Port Campbell Trail is a favourite for cyclists and walkers. You can even hire a bike for the day from Ride with Us.
Mountain biking enthusiasts will find challenging trails and forest tracks around Forrest, surrounded by towering trees and natural beauty and is not to be missed.
For those looking to nurture both body and mind, the Great Ocean Road region offers a variety of wellness experiences designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate.
If you are heading to the Surf Coast consider checking out (or checking in) One Spa at RACV Torquay, Lux Spa and Wellness which is part of Great Ocean Road Resort in Anglesea, or Indie Spa in Aireys Inlet.
For a unique geothermal experience head to Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool.
Where to Stay
Explore recommended accommodation options throughout the Great Ocean Road Region