The need to connect the fishing communities that lived along the southwest coast of Victoria and the necessity of generating employment for the ex-servicemen who had returned home after the First World War led to the commissioning of the road. It was literally hewn out of the earth by sheer man power, hard work and determination. Work on the road began in 1918 and was finally completed during the Great Depression in 1932. The long winding road extends some 300km starting at Torquay, 100 km from Melbourne before it terminates at Warrnambool.

The finished product has become famous as one of the most scenic and spectacular coastal drives in the world. It is the second most favourite destination for travellers to Victoria after picturesque Melbourne. The Great Ocean Road wends its way along roughhewn cliffs, past windswept beaches and coves and through thick rainforest and wood tracts. The sheer cliffs and wind buffeted rocky formations in the deeply indented coastline have gained it notoriety as 'the shipwreck coast' with over 100 ships sinking to their watery grave after having strayed onto the rocks during storms or in the thick mist that often shrouds the shoreline.

Some of the more impressive natural formations that wind and water have created are Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and the famous Twelve Apostles, stone pillars protuding from the sea of which only seven remain. Gibsons Steps, 500m east of the Twelve Apostles leads down the side of the cliff to the beach at the bottom of the Apostles. The towns along the Road are very popular weekend getaways with both domestic and foreign visitors. The pounding waves are perfect for surfing and the Surf Coast and Bells Beach are two top surfing centres. Lorne, Anglesea and the beautiful curve of Apollo Bay are great for a lazy beach holiday or for some energetic surfing.

Once the Great Ocean Road leaves Apollo Bay and moves inland, the landscape changes the gold and blue of the coast to the irridiscent green of fern and rain forests. The Cape Otway National Park and the Cape Otway Lighthouse are areas replete with tracts of rainforests, tall eucalyptus and gum tree stands and innumerable scenic walkways.

Accommodation is available in abundance - holiday cottages, camp sites, motels and hotels line the coast but can get full during peak season, so book in advance. To get a grand view of Australia, don't miss this drive. Rent a car and drive the distance. The roads are relatively safe, and for the most part sealed, though speed limits are high on the highways. Just keep the blood alcohol level under 0.05% and you shouldn't have a problem. All kinds of fuel is available but distances between service stations can sometimes be long and fuel could be expensive, so carry extra.  Another good option is to take the one day bus tour from Melbourne to Adelaide.