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Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip

Discover Australia’s spectacular southern coastline on a self-drive journey from Melbourne to Adelaide. Begin in the cultural capital of Melbourne before following the legendary Great Ocean Road, where dramatic cliffs, surf beaches, and natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles define the journey. Continue through charming coastal towns and historic ports, explore lush national parks and volcanic landscapes, and cross into South Australia’s celebrated wine and food regions. From the vineyards of Coonawarra to the seaside charm of Robe and the cultural heart of Adelaide, this route offers an unforgettable blend of scenery, wildlife, history, and regional flavours.

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Day 1 - Welcome to Melbourne

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 1
Arrive into Melbourne

Welcome to Melbourne, a city that thrives on creativity, diversity, and an undeniable energy. Stroll through its laneways, where vibrant street art and tucked-away cafes create a buzzing atmosphere, or step into historic arcades like the Block Arcade, offering boutique shopping with a touch of old-world charm. The city’s dining scene is legendary, from multicultural precincts like Lygon Street to the bustling Queen Victoria Market, where fresh produce and artisan treats tempt every palate. Outdoors, Melbourne provides riverside walks along the Yarra, the tranquillity of the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the beachside vibe of St Kilda

Melbourne

Melbourne, Australia’s vibrant cultural capital, offers a dynamic mix of experiences for every traveler. Wander through eclectic laneways filled with world-class street art, indie boutiques, and cozy cafés. Dive into the city’s thriving arts scene with galleries, live music, and theatre performances. Enjoy iconic attractions like Federation Square, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Queen Victoria Market. Food lovers can indulge in global cuisine, from bustling Chinatown to chic waterfront dining. Just outside the city, explore the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley wineries, or take a wildlife-filled day trip to Phillip Island. In Melbourne, there’s always something new to discover.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Hidden Bars of Melbourne Walking Tour with Depot Adventures

Find your Melbourne hidden bars bar guru (look for their blue umbrella) at Gordon Reserve. After meeting your guide, you’ll get to know your fellow guests who will serve as your new drinking buddies for the new 3 hours (or more!). Your guide will provide all you need to get the best out of the tour and even after you leave. Everything from what makes Melbourne’s bars so unique, where to find our best venues, and what to order. You won’t dally too long though as you have four bars to get to! The venues are all walking distance 5-15 minutes from each other (so comfortable walking shoes are advised) but occasionally the guides will make use of the free trams within the CBD/ city grid.  As your guide traverses you through the famous laneways, you will be shown more points of interest that make Melbourne such a fascinating city and encounter more venues to visit on other occasions (or straight after the tour has ended).

Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Melbourne

Discover the changing and unchanging face of Melbourne’s streetscape with a stay in the heart of the CBD. Vibe Hotel Melbourne dominates the intersection of Melbourne’s iconic Flinders and Queen Streets and allows guests to lose themselves in the city’s famed laneways and historic arcades – all of which are in striking distance from the hotel.

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Day 2 - Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 2
Collect Rental Car

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Begin your journey by heading south to the charming town of Torquay, renowned as Australia’s surfing capital and home to the iconic Bells Beach. From there, follow the coastal road to Anglesea and Lorne, where a short detour to Erskine Falls is highly recommended. You can park near the 30-meter cascading waterfall or enjoy a refreshing walk through the lush rainforest to stretch your legs.

The stretch of road from Lorne to Apollo Bay is often described as one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world, with stunning ocean views and dramatic scenery at every turn. Apollo Bay, your destination, is the gateway to some of Australia’s most famous short and multi-day hikes, including the Great Ocean Road and the enchanting Otways rainforest. While in Apollo Bay, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Southern Ocean, stroll along the scenic coastline, or explore the rainforests, waterfalls, ferns, and sparkling streams that make this region so captivating.

Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay is the starting point for some of Australia’s most famous short and multi-day walks and is the perfect base to explore the Great Ocean Walk and surrounding Otways rainforest. Take a swim in the waters of the southern ocean, wander along the coast and explore rainforests and waterfalls, ferns and crystal clear streams. Sit and watch the whales travel along the coast in migration season or gaze at the glow worms at Melba Gully. Apollo Bay has a reputation for the freshest seafood which you can enjoy in a range of restaurants, or check out the local distillery and brewery for a refreshment.

Your accommodation: Captains at the Bay

Nestled along the spectacular Great Ocean Road, Captain’s at the Bay offers boutique comfort, personalised touches, and relaxed coastal hospitality. From smooth check-in to local recommendations, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance your stay. As you settle in, enjoy great local coffee, explore Apollo Bay’s vibrant dining scene, and breathe in the fresh sea air.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 196 kms / 122 miles : 3.0 hours

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Day 3 - Apollo Bay to Port Fairy

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 3
Apollo Bay to Port Fairy

The first part of your drive today will take you to the iconic Twelve Apostles, perhaps the most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road, and stopping here is a must. You can park at the carpark and follow the paved path to the lookout, or to take some time and stretch your legs take the path down Gibson's steps to the beach. Descending these 86 stairs carved into the cliff face, and reaching the beach you are treated to a closeup view of these incredible rock formations. 3 minutes further along what is known as the Shipwreck Coast, you will find the stop-off point for Loch Ard Gorge, a glistening inlet of striking blue water surrounded by sheer sandstone cliffs. Beyond the town of Port Campbell, stop at the London Bridge and The Grotto for more stunning sights and photo opportunities.
Explore the coastal city of Warrnambool where you might be lucky enough to spot southern right whales calve off Logan Beach if you are travelling between May and October. From here, it's a 30-minute drive to your destination of Port Fairy

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - 12 Apostles to London Bridge Scenic Helicopter Flight

An energetic, 15-minute flight that packs in the must-see Great Ocean Road sights. Catch the highlights of the Shipwreck Coast from a luxury helicopter. See the 12 Apostles, London Bridge, and more from breathtaking heights. London Bridge is a thrilling addition to any Great Ocean Road tour.

Port Fairy

The last destination on Victoria's famed Shipwreck Coast, Port Fairy is home to wide streets lined with nineteenth-century cottages, old stone churches, and great Norfolk pines. Here, you can have the opportunity to see native animals in the wild - from southern right whales, seals and dolphins to wallabies, kangaroos and emus. Tower Hill, Victoria's first-ever National Park, is the ideal place to get up close and personal with some of these native animals. Enjoy a relaxing swim at the local beaches or catch a wave at The Passage point break, before relaxing over dinner and a drink at any of the numerous bars and restaurants in town.

Your accommodation: Merrijig Inn, Port Fairy

Overlooking Port Fairy Wharf, Merrijig Inn offers antique-style accommodation just a 3-minute walk from Shipwreck Walk Trail. Relax in the garden, sit by the fireplace in the shared lounge or read a book in the library. This historic Inn offers a very unique, personal country inn experience.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 187 kms / 116 miles : 2.7 hours

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Day 4 - Port Fairy

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 4
Explore Port Fairy at leisure

Begin your day with a serene sunrise at Griffiths Island. A short 20-minute walk from Martin’s Point Car Park brings you to the iconic Port Fairy Lighthouse, constructed in 1859. The island, named after John Griffiths, a pioneer of the local whaling industry in the 1830s, offers scenic pathways through coastal scrub where you can spot native birdlife and black wallabies. Fuel up with breakfast at Bank St & Co, a stylish café offering an extensive menu featuring local delicacies like Portland squid and gourmet toasties. Afterward, explore Port Fairy’s boutique shopping precinct, housed in historic buildings that blend charm with unique offerings, from antiques and artisan goods to fashion and books. Stop by the Port Fairy Information Centre to pick up maps for self-guided walks, such as the Maritime & Shipwreck Heritage Walk or the Historical Buildings Heritage Walk, highlighting sites like Battery Hill, the Powder Magazine, and the Historic Lifeboat Station. In the afternoon, unwind with treatments at the Port Fairy Day Spa or visit the History Centre Museum to delve deeper into the town’s fascinating past. End your day with dinner at the historic Merrijig Inn, Victoria’s oldest inn, savoring seasonal dishes paired with biodynamic wines.

Your accommodation: Merrijig Inn, Port Fairy

Overlooking Port Fairy Wharf, Merrijig Inn offers antique-style accommodation just a 3-minute walk from Shipwreck Walk Trail. Relax in the garden, sit by the fireplace in the shared lounge or read a book in the library. This historic Inn offers a very unique, personal country inn experience.

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Day 5 - Port Fairy to Mount Gambier

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 5
Port Fairy to Mount Gambier

As you bid farewell to Port Fairy, your adventure pivots westward along the coast towards Portland. If you see a yellow flag outside the Visitor Information Centre, then it means that a whale has been spotted! Try your luck from one of the local vantage points; in winter, this can be either out on the breakwater or from the clifftop overlooking the bay, and in summer, the best place is the Cape Nelson Lighthouse. A popular side trip from Portland is to the Cape Bridgewater. Continue through the town of Nelson, before crossing state lines into South Australia. Your destination, Mount Gambier, is the second-largest city in South Australia and has been built onto the slopes of a long-extinct volcano. Stop at the city's famous Blue Lake and the Umpherston Sinkhole to marvel at their sunken terrace garden. 

Mount Gambier

Discover Mount Gambier, the vibrant heart of South Australia's Limestone Coast. Known for its stunning geological wonders, this charming town is home to the breathtaking sapphire waters of the Blue Lake and the locals' gem, Little Blue Lake. Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush underground garden at Umpherston Sinkhole, a true natural wonder. As you stroll through the town, admire the impressive heritage buildings, and enjoy a variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants. Beyond Mount Gambier, you'll find great day-trip spots like Robe, Penola, and the renowned wine region of Coonawarra

Your accommodation: The Barn Mount Gambier

Nestled on 5 acres of well-maintained English-styled gardens. With an amazing steak restaurant on site, a tennis court, a fitness center, and a piano bar you will have everything you need to enjoy your stay.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 196 kms / 122 miles : 2.3 hours

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Day 6 - Mount Gambier to Robe via Coonawarra Wine Region

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 6
Mount Gambier to Robe via Coonawarra

Leaving Mount Gambier, pass through rich farmland and volcanic landscapes before reaching the famous terra rossa soils of Coonawarra, renowned for its world-class Cabernet Sauvignon and welcoming cellar doors. Along the way, there’s an opportunity to detour to the Naracoorte Caves National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where guided tours reveal spectacular limestone caves and fascinating fossil history. Continue south as the landscape opens to rolling countryside and coastal plains, before arriving in the seaside town of Robe, celebrated for its historic charm, rugged limestone coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant food and wine scene.

Naracoorte Caves National Park

Step into a world frozen in time at the Naracoorte Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site in South Australia. Famous for their dramatic limestone formations and remarkable fossil beds, these caves hold the secrets of ancient megafauna that roamed the land over half a million years ago. Wander through awe-inspiring chambers lined with stalactites and stalagmites, and explore interactive fossil exhibits that bring Australia’s prehistoric past vividly to life. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, science buffs, and adventurous travelers, a visit to Naracoorte Caves is a journey into deep time you won’t want to miss.
Open Monday to Sunday: 09:00 - 17:00

Robe

Robe, on South Australia’s Limestone Coast, is a charming seaside town known for its historic streets, pristine beaches, and relaxed coastal vibe. Wander along the heritage jetty, explore colorful boutiques and galleries, or enjoy fresh local seafood and wine. With unspoilt scenery, rugged coastline, and a mix of history and nature, Robe is the perfect destination for a leisurely coastal getaway.

Your accommodation: Stony Rise Lodge

Stony Rise Lodge is a premium boutique hotel offering five luxurious en-suite rooms showcasing Australian craftsmanship. The open-plan living and dining area, with stunning views of LittleDip Conservation Park, features a bar and fireplace. Enjoy Sundowners at 18:00 daily and personalised service from the Lodge's Team.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 175 kms / 109 miles : 1.9 hours

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Day 7 - Robe to Adelaide

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 7
Robe to Adelaide

Today's drive is about 340 km; follow Princess Hwy alongside the coast. In Kingston SE see the Giant Lobster, or for something more educational, visit the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse Museum. Head north to the coast and discover saltwater lagoons, sand dunes, birdlife, and Aboriginal history along the stunning Coorong National Park. Keep driving towards Tailem Bend, where you can step back in time at the fascinating pioneer village of Old Tailem Town. After crossing the Murray River, take a break along Hahndorf’s tree-lined main street at boutique cellar doors, cafes, and restaurants. Just a 20-minute drive from Adelaide's city centre, cuddle a koala and feed a kangaroo at Cleland Wildlife Park, or enjoy spectacular views from Mount Lofty. In the South Australian capital, you can wander the cultural boulevard of North Terrace, home to the South Australian Museum and Adelaide Botanic Gardens, and continue your stroll down to the Festival Plaza precinct and the River Torrens parklands, often playing host to an array of summer festivities. 

Explore Adelaide

Experience the charm and vibrancy of Adelaide, South Australia’s bustling capital, renowned for its rich cultural scene, beautiful parklands, and exceptional food and wine offerings. Known as the "City of Churches," Adelaide combines historic architecture with modern attractions, offering visitors a diverse experience. Explore iconic sites like Adelaide Oval, Art Gallery of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum, all reflecting the city’s deep cultural heritage. For wine lovers, Adelaide is a gateway to some of the best wine regions in the world, including the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley. The National Wine Centre of Australia is a must-see, where visitors can learn about Australia’s rich wine history, explore an interactive wine experience, and sample some of the finest wines the country has to offer. Stroll through the lush Botanic Gardens or enjoy a relaxing day by the River Torrens, surrounded by the city’s peaceful green spaces. For a taste of local produce, visit the Adelaide Central Market, offering an array of fresh food, gourmet treats, and artisan goods. Adelaide offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an essential stop on any Australian itinerary.

Your accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

Located in the heart of Adelaide, Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is immersed in the vibrant café, restaurant, bar and eclectic shopping scene of the East End. Situated a short walk from some of the city’s most popular attractions including Rundle Mall, Adelaide Oval, National Wine Centre of Australia, Adelaide Zoo and a short tram stop to the Adelaide Festival Centre and Adelaide Central Markets.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 331 kms / 206 miles : 3.5 hours

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Day 8 - Depart Adelaide

Melbourne to Adelaide Coastal Road Trip - Day 8
Free Day in Adelaide at leisure

With a growing small-bar scene, world-class art and music, and a festival calendar to rival that of any other Australian city, Adelaide is a destination worth discovering. Take time to explore its vibrant laneways, visit the iconic Adelaide Central Market, and go shopping in Rundle Mall. Slow things down and relax at the Botanic Gardens, jump on the iconic Popeye Cruise along the River Torrens, or take the tram out to Glenelg to explore the popular metropolitan beach, dine in one of the many foreshore restaurants, or even enjoy the beach cabanas in summer months. Adelaide is also lucky enough to be surrounded by some of Australia's most famous wine regions, and a stop into one of the wineries or the National Wine Centre is highly recommended.

Return your vehicle to Adelaide Airport

Return your vehicle at the Adelaide Airport depot.

Farewell from Adelaide

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!

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