{"id":20249,"date":"2017-08-03T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-08-03T09:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/?p=20249"},"modified":"2021-03-25T15:14:40","modified_gmt":"2021-03-25T15:14:40","slug":"australia-great-ocean-road","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zestcarrental.com\/blog\/australia-great-ocean-road\/","title":{"rendered":"Australia Road Trip- Driving the Great Ocean Road."},"content":{"rendered":"

Arguably one of the most, if not the most, iconic driving route in Australia<\/a>, the Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile stretch connecting Torquay to Allansford, delighting visitors in the state of Victoria. It was built the 1920s as the world\u2019s longest war memorial by returning servicemen from World War I intended to connect isolated settlements. Drivers and hikers experience a stunning route along dramatic ocean cliffs and pretty surf beaches.<\/p>\n

\"AustraliaPhoto by: superjoseph\/Adobe Stock<\/span><\/p>\n

Visiting Victoria opens you up to a world full of mouth-watering local cuisine; farm produce, local wines, and freshly-caught sea food, all readily available from the quaint towns along the route. The varied ecosystems along the route are also a magnet for nature lovers. Out to sea you can spot whales and pods of dolphins. The pristine rainforests inland are home to koalas, kangaroos, and a range of birds, some unique to the area. You\u2019re also in with a chance of seeing a platypus.<\/p>\n

The area is a huge draw for surfers throughout the year and whatever watersport you\u2019re into, you\u2019re bound to find an opportunity to do it here; windsurfing, boogie-boarding, scuba diving, and more.<\/p>\n

The coast is also renowned for its dangers however, having claimed over 600 ships on hidden rocks at sea. In fact, part of the stretch is called the Shipwreck Coast and many wrecks can be dived. You should always check the state of the road before driving as it can have sections closed due to landslides or bushfires. Although the road itself can easily be travelled in less than 4 hours, we recommend taking a few days so you can base yourself in some of the coastal towns and experience the full delights on offer.<\/p>\n