Where the Forest Meets the Road: A Slower Take on the Great Ocean Road

Apostles Sunrise Art Print

We spent nine days travelling the Great Ocean Road at a relaxed pace. Instead of ticking off a checklist, we savoured quiet moments, sweeping views and textures carved by wind and water. This journal follows our journey from the surf town of Torquay to the sea stacks near Port Campbell, highlighting memorable stays, meals and experiences along the way.

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction
• 2. Torquay – Where It All Slows Down
• 3. Bells Beach & Point Addis – Mornings in Motion
• 4. Aireys Inlet – Small Town, Big Views
• 5. Lorne – Waterfalls and Winding Roads
• 6. Cape Otway – Where the Elements Take Over
• 7. Port Campbell – Quiet Ends and Coastal Icons
• 8. Closing Thoughts

Introduction

We gave ourselves nine days—enough time not to rush but to truly take in the Great Ocean Road. What we found was more than coastline: it was a blend of quiet moments, expansive vistas and landscapes shaped by wind and water. This wasn’t a checklist of stops; it was a journey that lingered long after the road ended.

Torquay — Where It All Slows Down

Torquay welcomed us with ocean views, surfers at every turn and laid‑back cafés that set the pace. The coastal path wound past quiet beaches and lookout points, instantly making us want to stay longer.

• Stay: The Sands Torquay — a relaxed stay near Whites Beach, perfect for kicking off the Surf Coast Walk.

• Highlight: Sunset at Rocky Point Lookout. The sky turned soft shades of orange and pink, and the cliffs framed every colour perfectly.

• Eat: Grab a burger at Doc Hughes for an easy lunch, or settle in at Il Matto for a hearty beef cheek ragu after a long day — both local favourites.

Bells Beach and Point Addis — Mornings in Motion

The next morning was just us, a few van‑lifers and surfers in the water. Golden light stretched across the cliffs, lighting up the textured shoreline.

At Point Addis, we watched the coastline unfold beneath us and took our first real drone flight—wind, nerves and all.

Aireys Inlet — Small Town, Big Views

After a Mediterranean‑style lunch at A La Grecque, we explored Split Point Lighthouse and Castle Rock, where weathered cliffs met the rising tide.

A brief clearing in the weather gave us just enough time to walk beneath the bluff—one of the most stunning moments of the trip.

• Stay: Sunnymead Hotel — retro, colourful, and full of charm. (Bonus: the best coconut crème brûlée we’ve ever had.)

• Rainy morning plan: Duck into Onda Food House for a whole‑food brunch and views over Painkalac Creek—a great way to start the day.

Lorne — Waterfalls and Winding Roads

The road opened up to big views as we passed Devil’s Elbow and Big Hill and based ourselves in Lorne to chase waterfalls. 

Phantom Falls was the standout: a winding trail, dense ferns and water spilling over jagged rocks.

Afterwards, Teddy’s Lookout gave us one of the best panoramic views of the coast.

• Eat: Dinner at Totti’s was a win—Italian favourites with a beachside view. Their signature wood‑fired bread is a must.

• Must try: Pulled lamb burger from Pit Stop and an Anzac cookie from The Bottle of Milk.

• Quick stop: On the way out of Lorne, a quick stop and a short walk led us to Sheoak Falls (not to be missed!) 

Cape Otway — Where the Elements Take Over

Our stay at the lighthouse came with mist, wind and views that changed with the weather. We explored trails, watched storms roll in across the Southern Ocean and attempted a few stormy night shots. The wind won—but it was worth trying.

• Tip: Head to Radar Lookout for one of the best views—where the ocean meets the edge of the continent.

Port Campbell — Quiet Ends and Coastal Icons

We closed out with views of sea stacks and crashing waves. From the Twelve Apostles to hidden spots like The Grotto, the final stretch gave us everything—scale, silence and salt air.

• Stay: The Port O’Call – a revamped motel that felt like a welcome reward at the end of our journey

• Eat: We kept returning to Grassroots Deli Café for its local produce, creative touches and Rose’s friendly welcome.

Conversations with fellow travellers led us to explore beyond the usual stops, making this part of the trip even more memorable.

Closing Thoughts

Travel at the pace of the road and see what stays with you. The Great Ocean Road is more than a drive—it’s a collection of places and people that shape Australia’s story. Exploring each stop slowly let us appreciate those textures and take home memories that last far beyond the coastline. View our Australian Print Collection for more scenes that echo this journey.

Written by Linda Moschos, Photographer and founder of Wanderlust Prints.