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The Great Ocean Road, Lorne, Victoria © Visit Victoria

Melbourne to Adelaide: A 5-day road trip

Drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along one of Australia’s most famous coastal routes.

By Ellie Schneider

Surf at Bells Beach, walk among the 12 Apostles and sample wine in McLaren Vale on this five-day journey along Australia’s dramatic south-east coastline.

What to expect

• Surf at world-famous Bells Beach.
• Take in the beauty of the 12 Apostles.
• Stay in luxury accommodation at seaside towns.
• Time: 5 days
• Distance: 728km (452mi)
• Transport: car
• Nearest major city: Melbourne

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne

Bells Beach, Torquay, Victoria © Mark Chew, Tourism Victoria

Morning Drive into the pretty port city of Geelong , 75km (47mi) south-west of Melbourne . Stop for brunch at one of the many local cafés –  King of the Castle  and  Box Office  all have excellent coffee – before stopping at the award-winning  Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre . Here, you can meet resident emus and kangaroos, learn to throw a boomerang and marvel over ancient art techniques, all while gaining valuable knowledge of local culture. The centre's cultural education program will fill you with the wonder and wisdom of Aboriginal culture passed down over generations. 

Next, continue on to Torquay . Torquay is where the Great Ocean Road begins and is often dubbed the ‘Surf Capital of Australia’ thanks to its world-famous Bells Beach. It is also the birthplace of leading surf brands Rip Curl and Quicksilver. If you're a first-time surfer, book a private lesson with the  Torquay Surf Academy , which includes equipment and a personal coach. Afterwards grab a sandwich or house-made pie at the  Torquay Larder .   

Afternoon The great waves continue at Fairhaven and Eastern View – worth a stop for avid surfers – en route to the seaside holiday resort town of Lorne , a 50-minute drive from Torquay. Once in Lorne, take a dip in the water or keep your feet dry and spend a few hours visiting the galleries and boutiques along the main street. Book well in advance for dinner at fine dining restaurant  Brae , which serves a set menu created from the highest quality local ingredients. There are also six luxury guest suites on site.

Day 2: Lorne and the 12 Apostles to Port Fairy

Worn Gundidj @ Tower Hill, Victoria © Archie Sartracom

If time permits, drive to  Cape Otway Lighthouse , the oldest surviving lighthouse in Australia. Climb to the observation deck at the top of the lighthouse for fantastic views across the Southern Ocean.

Morning Enjoy breakfast on the banks of the Erskine River at  Swing Bridge Café  before heading off on the two-hour drive to see the 12 Apostles , a series of towering limestone pillars jutting out of the Southern Ocean. Park at the 12 Apostles car park and follow the paved pathway to the lookout. A 15-minute walk from the 12 Apostles is Gibson's Steps . Descend the 86 stairs, which are carved into the cliff face, to reach the beach, where you'll be rewarded with a close-up view of the Apostles. For another unique perspective of these geological formations,  book a scenic helicopter tour that takes in the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge .

Afternoon Continue along Shipwreck Coast, named after the wild seas that sent at least 700 ships crashing on the rocks. Explore the coastal town of Warrnambool  where, from May to October, southern right whales calve off Logan Beach. Nearby, stop into Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve for guided walking tours from an Aboriginal perspective. Your guide will lead you through a nature reserve inside a dormant volcano where kangaroos, wallabies, emus, koalas, echidnas and hundreds of bird species roam freely. At the end of the tour, try your hand at throwing a returning boomerang. 

From here, it's a 30-minute drive to Port Fairy , where you can stroll around the fisherman’s wharf and charming whitewashed cottages before a restful night at the boutique hotel,  Drift House .

Day 3: Port Fairy to Coonawarra

Umpherston Sinkhole, Mount Gambier, Limestone Coast, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

Morning Carry on along the route to the historic township of Portland, a one-hour drive from Port Fairy. Watch fishing boats unload their catch on the waterfront before taking the 10-minute drive to the photogenic Cape Nelson Lighthouse . Here you can take a tour to delve into the maritime history of the region. Drive around to  Bridgewater Bay Café  where you can rest and refuel before taking the 2.5km (1.6mi) Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk . The viewing platform at the end of the trail looks out to a colony of roughly 650 Australian fur seals. Book a cage snorkel dive to get up close and personal with these playful animals. 

Afternoon Back on the highway, drive 50 minutes through Nelson and across the South Australian border. Stop at Mount Gambier , which sits on an ancient extinct volcano and is circled by vivid crater lakes. Take the 3.6km (2.2mi) trail around Blue Lake, which turns cobalt blue from December to March. You can also spend a bit of time exploring the stunning Umpherston Sinkhole . This unique natural attraction was once a cave formed through the dissolution of the limestone; the sinkhole was created when the top of the chamber collapsed downwards. It was turned into a picturesque garden by James Umpherston around 1886 and is open at all times to visit. Check it out at dusk to see the area come alive as resident possums venture into the floodlit gardens to feed.

Hop back in the car for the one hour drive north to Coonawarra , a region famed for its cabernet sauvignon. Drop in to one of the 20 cellar doors, such as  Wynns Coonawarra Estate  or  Balnaves , before checking into  Punter's Vineyard Retreat , which offers panoramic views across the vines.

Day 4: Coonawarra to Victor Harbor

Granite Island Tram, Victor Harbor, South Australia © Graham Scheer, South Australian Tourism Commission 

Morning Drive half an hour north from Coonawarra to visit the World Heritage-listed  Naracoorte Caves National Park , where 26 limestone caves house the fossilised skeletons of giant marsupials. Four of the caves are open to the public via a self-guided tour. From here it's a three-hour drive to the quaint town of Strathalbyn, where more than 30 heritage-listed buildings sit on the banks of the Angas River. The town is home to specialty antique shops and the idyllic Soldiers Memorial Gardens, a great spot for a picnic lunch. 

Afternoon Jump back into the car for the 40-minute drive south to Port Elliot. Swim at Horseshoe Bay or surf at Boomer Beach before arriving in nearby Victor Harbor . The seaside town is famed for its horse-drawn tramway (which dates back to 1878) and links Victor Harbor with Granite Island. Ride the tram across the causeway to Granite Island, which is home to a colony of little penguins. If you're visiting Victor Harbor between June and October, book  The Big Duck  boat tour to see the southern right whale breeding sanctuary of Encounter Bay. Stay the night in luxury waterfront accommodation at  The Bluff Resort Apartments  overlooking Encounter Bay.

3 days in Adelaide

Day 5: Victor Harbor to Adelaide

Glenelg Beach, Adelaide, South Australia © Josie Withers, South Australian Tourism Commission

Morning Travel through the rolling hills of Mount Compass to the McLaren Vale wine region, a 50-minute drive north from Port Elliot. Visit galleries and taste wine at some of the 45 cellar doors, including Yangarra , d'Arenberg and Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard . McLaren Vale is also a haven for foodies. Sit down for lunch at  Coriole Restaurant  and let the chef prepare you a selection of seasonal dishes accompanied by matching wines.

Afternoon From here, it’s an easy 45-minute drive to central Adelaide . Wander the cultural boulevard of North Terrace – home to the South Australian Museum and Adelaide Botanic Garden – then browse the department stores in Rundle Mall. Take the 35-minute tram trip from Rundle Mall to Glenelg Beach for a seaside stroll before heading back into the centre for dinner at any of the city's hottest restaurants . Try  Press Food & Wine ,  Peel St  or  Ruby Red Flamingo . Finish your trip with a restful night at the plush five-star  Mayfair Hotel . 

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We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.

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The Ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip (+ Map, Itinerary)

From zig-zag roads and lush wine country to national parks and scenic vantage points – Melbourne to Adelaide is one of Australia’s most iconic road trip routes. The range of discoveries you find along the way is simply remarkable – giving the best Aussie experience to visitors travelling from across the world. So if you’re planning a road trip on this route, you’ll find an in-depth resource below to help you out with everything!

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip runs along the Great Ocean Road of Australia, which in itself is one of the wonders of this country. I’ve been curating road trip guides for Australia for a long time now, but this in particular is something pretty special to me. The only reason is because of the fact that Great Ocean Road boasts a great diversity of attractions to feel and experience. Even if you journey on a full-day trip from Melbourne, you get to see some of the amazing wonders.

The most notable ones include exploring the mighty Mount Gambier, the acclaimed wine regions of Coonawarra  and  McLaren Vale , and the postcard-worthy seaside towns of Robe, Victor Harbor and Second Valley. Of course, there are plenty of vantage points and lookout areas that offer perfect panoramic views of the ocean. But all-in-all, Melbourne to Adelaide is one such road trip you should definitely add to your bucket-list adventures.

When it comes to planning a road trip, isn’t an easy task! Especially if you do all arrangements on your own. Thus, to help you out in order to compile everything for this trip, we created a simple yet in-depth guide for Melbourne to Adelaide. This article details all the resources – including the best places to visit, hidden gems to explore, accommodation suggestions, a sample itinerary, and much more.

So let’s get started!

Planning Tips for Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

Firstly, let’s dig into the finer planning details of our road trip. In this section, we’ve provided a detailed map, suggested driving routes, car rental ideas, and much more.

How to Get to Adelaide from Melbourne

There are multiple routes to reach Adelaide from Melbourne. One via National Highway A8 which cuts through the Grampians National Park into South Australia. The other is via M79 , which intersects National Highway A8 at Little Desert National Park. Both these routes considerably take less time, as they cut through the state of Victoria directly.

However, the best driving route to reach Adelaide is via Great Ocean Road . It goes without saying, that the journey is far more scenic than the other routes mentioned above. Furthermore, you can span your entire journey across five to six days to get the best experience of Australia.

Melbourne to Adelaide via Great Ocean Road

Great Ocean Road lies in the state of Victoria in south-eastern Australia. It is a roughly 78-minute drive away from Melbourne’s main city centre and is often regarded as one of the best day trips from the city. This scenic route starts from Torquay and ends in Allansford, covering a total distance of 243 km.

The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is a total of 924 km. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 10hr 41mins to reach via the Great Ocean Road.   However, a direct journey is not recommended, and it’s best to include stops throughout your entire road trip. As suggested, plan a detailed itinerary on where to make pit stops, which places to visit, and where to stay. This will ensure that your road trip to Adelaide isn’t tiresome.

How to Rent a Car in Australia

Renting a car in Australia isn’t as difficult as you’d think. It’s a pretty straightforward process, which only requires a little understanding of vehicles. For all my Australian road trips, I’ve suggested Rentalcars.com as their service and price affordability are hard to beat. They are the best in their business, and you can easily get a perfect vehicle at an affordable rate.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map to reach Adelaide (including all the stops)

The Best Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Stops

It’s time to finally hit the roads and explore the best road trip stops on this iconic route.

Discover Great Otway National Park

Drive from Melbourne to Otway National Park : 2hr 46mins (209 kms)

Home to dense rainforests, bushlands, tiny waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails – Great Otway National Park is a paradise for all wildlife & adventure lovers. Upon crossing Apollo Bay at the Great Ocean Road, you’d see a road heading inland from the main highway. This stretch leads youy right into the heart of the Great Otway National Park.

This majestic national park has been a popular stopover point for visitors on the Great Ocean Road. Many tourists stay at Apollo Bay, as the area boasts a great chocie of accommodation. Alternatively, the Great Otway National Park also hosts amazing cottages, treehouses, and lodges. This is ideal for those who plan to stay a couple of days more within the park.

What I genuinely like the most about this place is the diversity of things to see & do . From amazing hiking & walking trails, to ziplining across the forested area – the Great Otway National Park bustles with thrilling and energetic activities.

Otway Fly Tree Top

The Otway Fly Treetop Adventures is perfect for families, friends, and young children to enjoy a range of vast activities in the middle of a national park. The two main activities – ziplining and the treetop walk – are the most popular ones here.

The Fly Tree Top, which is situated 25-metres above the ground, gives unparalled views of the Otway Ranges. Its a suspension bridge that expands 600 metre in length. To complete the walk from one end to another, it will approximately take one hour. All-in-all, the Fly Tree Top is a fun adventure to witness the rainforest from soaring heights.

The zipline, on the other hand, is perfect for thrill-seekers. The rope is suspended up to 30-meters in height, from where visitors can zip through the treetops from one station to the other. Ensure that you book both the activities well in advance, as they sell out like hot cakes during peak season.

Cape Otway Lightstation

Great Ocean Road is already known for its spectacular coastline. There’s probably hundreds of viewpoints and lookout areas spready across Victoria and South Australia. However, nothing can beat the panormic sight exploration of Cape Otway Lightstation.

Nestled atop the cliff, this historical landmark is worthy of its own. The views from the lighthouse are simply unmatched. Furthermore, nearby trails and whale-watching from the lighthouse makes it even more enthralling to explore this amazing attraction.

Guided Excursions of the National Park

The Great Otway National Park has a tremendous indigenous history. I would highly recommend you to consider a guided walk in the forest. These excursions are led by conservationist who provide an in-depth knowledge of the national park’s ecology, native wildlife, and protected communities.

Where to stay in the Great Otway National Park Budget : Beachcomber Motel & Apartments , The Apollo

Marvel at The Twelve Apostles

Drive from Otway National Park to the Twelve Apostles : 55 mins (61.6 kms)

Nestled alongside the coastline of the Great Ocean Road, the Twelve Apostles stands as an iconic landmark of this route. Cometh any season, these towering limestone pillars strike their natural pose to all photographers who want breathtaking pictures. I mean, you could just marvel at this setting for hours and hours, and still not get bored imagining how beautiful they simply look.

The Twelve Apostles were once connected to the mainland cliffs, but by natural occurrences of strong wind & ocean, these limestones got battered with only a few standing tall today. With continuous erosion and changing climate, scientists believe that these limestone stacks will remain unstable in future.

Book Excursion | Great Ocean Road Full-Day Trip from Melbourne

Discover the 12 Apostles’ Viewpoints

When it comes to exploration, there are plenty of ways to see the 12 Apostles. The most budgeted way is to take full advantage of the scenic vantage points. These lookout areas offer the best panoramic view of the limestone along with the coastline surrounding them.

The Castle Rock lookout is my favourite one, but it could be a little crowded during the peak season. The second best is Tom and Eva Lookout offering a sweeping coastline view over the Island Arch and the Loch Ard Gorge. Alternatively, head to Island Arch Lookout which provides fantastic views of the historic rock formations.

Must Read | Best Amazing Viewpoints of the Twelve Apostles for Photographers

Marvel the 12 Apostles from the Air

Honestly, there’s no better way to see these limestones than to take an aerial route. A helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles is all you need to catch breathtaking scenes of the surrounding coastline. From the sky, you could also marvel at the Shipwreck Coast that lines up all the way up to Cape Otway.

Take a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge

Learn more about the 12 Apostles’ history, timelines, geology, and marine discovery with a guided walk to Loch Ard Gorge. It’s one of the most intriguing places to visit on the coast, as you discover its Ochre-hued cliffs shaped in a dramatic curvacious landscape. Beyond its beauty, Loch Ard Gorge has a popular tale of ship wreckage. But I’ll probably leave this story for your guided adventure!

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road Mid-range : The Oak & Anchor Hotel , Lady Bay Resort Luxury : RACV Torquay Resort , Apollo Bay Guest House , Southern Ocean Villas

Relax at Warrnambool

Drive from Twelve Apostles to Warrnambool : 58 mins (73.7 kms)

Warrnambool is a thriving region that houses some of Australia’s best coastal scenery, quaint seaside villages, fascinating history, and amazing wildlife. The town has been driving a massive number of visitors every year, with plenty of them opting to stay overnight. Thus, along with discovering Warrnambool’s famous sights – you could opt to spend a luxurious night here .

Popular Things to do in Warrnambool, Australia –

Visit Middle Island

Middle Island is a great stop for tourists to spot penguins. They are often found within the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. You’d also see Maremma’s trained dogs at Middle Island guarding and protecting these penguins from foxes. You can also book a ‘Meet the Maremma Tour’ for a live experience.

Go Whale Watching

Warrnambool is a paradisical land for wildlife lovers. Especially, from June to September – the town treats you with an amazing whale-watching experience, as humpback whales return to the shores to mate and socialize. Some of the guided tours do take you out on a discovery ride to watch these whales in their natural habitat. Few of the operators do offer guaranteed success in spotting them.

Mount Gambier

Drive from Warrnambool to Mount Gambier : 2hr 7mins (182 kms)

Mount Gambier is the highlight of your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. Bustling with geological wonders, Mount Gambier houses some of the most natural spectacular scenes. From the underground garden of Eden to the crystal blue water lakes, you can spend half a day exploring the wonders of Mount Gambier.

Popular activities to do in Mount Gambier include:

Discover Umpherston Sinkhole

Umpherston Sinkhole is a blissful, lush green park which houses beautiful garden spaces and traditional English plants. It’s one of the photogenic places of Mount Gambier, which was formed by millions of years of limestone corrosion. However, along with its natural process – James Umpherston ( a citizen of Mount Gambier) – converted the entire sinkhole into a beautiful underground sunken garden.

Explore the magical Blue Lake

Unravel one of the gorgeous attractions of the Limestone Coasts – Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake. This 72-metre-deep lake magically changes its colour into different shades of blue, which contrasts beautifully against the backdrop of the mighty coast. The best time to visit Blue Lake is between November to late February. Many lookout areas and vantage points are spread across the crater’s rim to give visitors the best possible view.

Marvel at Little Blue Lake

The lesser-known version of the famous Blue Lake – Little Blue Lake – is equally impressive and gorgeous. It is less crowded, which makes it perfect for tourists to enjoy swimming and diving. Even if you simply want to relax, the towering 10-metre limestone walls which guard the lake, making it sight-worthy for your eyes.

Explore the town of Robe

Drive from Mount Gambier to Robe : 1hr 26mins (128 kms)

Robe is one of the trendiest coastal towns in South Australia today. Just 90 minutes away from Mount Gambier, it’s a perfect place to stay, unwind and relax after a tiresome journey. Many visitors often tend to overlook this town, and often end up staying someplace else.

But in reality, Robe is seriously a good road trip stop. Given its luxuriant sandy beaches, dazzling cafes, bijou boutiques, and stunning coastal scenery, it’s hard to miss this place at any time.

As you soak up the sun relaxing at a beach, you’d tend to get a natural laidback Australia vibe. And essentially this is what visitors need after a tiresome road trip journey. Even if you don’t go out exploring much, there’s plenty to see within the area you stay. Historically, Robe was once the busiest shipping port in SA. And you could still its past resemblance through period buildings and old maritime structures.

Because it was a shipping port once, you’d definitely find some of the state’s finest seafood restaurants located. Some of the local’s favourites include Sails at Robe , Caledonian Inn , and Robe Seafood & Takeaway. The word is you shouldn’t miss out on trying their famous crayfish.

Where to stay in Robe, SA Budget : Sea Vu Caravan Park , Robe Marina Accommodation

Wander through Fleurieu Peninsula

Drive from Robe to Fleurieu Peninsula : 4hr 6mins (369 kms)

Fleurieu Peninsula is one of my favourite places to visit in South Australia. If you look at our Australian section, you’d see dozens of guides & resources being curated on this region. So, understandably – Fleurieu Peninsula is emerging as one of the hotspots of this amazing country. And that’s the reason why we thought this place should be listed on our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip stops.

This small-sized peninsula packs incredible things to see and do , with beautiful coastal villages, varied hiking trails, diverse native wildlife, and excellent culinary scenes. What pleases me the most is the contrast of crystal clear beaches with a backdrop of towering peaks and rugged landscapes. Such kind of setting opens up the door for visitors to venture into exploring opportunities.

Must Read | 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

Fleurieu Peninsula is home to amazing attractions and some of the major ones include visiting Victor Harbor, Normanville Beach, Horseshoe Bay (Port Elliot), Port Willunga Beach, and Rapid Bay. For outdoor enthusiasts, Deep Creek National Park will offer an enriching experience of being in the wild. It is also one of South Australia’s beloved camping destinations. If you plan on spending a couple of days extra, then you could also add Onkaparinga River National Park to your itinerary.

What you shouldn’t miss doing in Fleurieu Peninsula is trying out the local cuisine. The region is best known for its classic fish & chips, and there’s no way you could miss the opportunity of sampling it. If you aren’t sure where to look, then this guide will help you in finding the best fish & chips. For a more indulging experience, we also have curated a guide on the best restaurants located in Fleurieu Peninsula.

Also Read | 5 Best Restaurants on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Visit McLaren Vale

Drive from Fleurieu Peninsula to McLaren Vale : 44 mins (51.9 kms)

Melbourne to Adelaide road trip isn’t only popular for its scenic attractions and sights, but also for acclaimed wine regions that remarkably mark their footprint in the culinary world. And there’s no better place than McLaren Vale to relax, unwind, and sample some of the deliciously locally produced wine.

McLaren Vale is only a 40-minute drive from Adelaide. It is regarded as the premier wine region of South Australia. With bushland, vineyards, cellar doors, and award-winning restaurants harbouring the entire region – it’s no wonder that McLaren Vale is also one of the best weekend destinations to explore.

McLaren Vale offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to wander off on their own. Be it sampling the local wines, or joining a guided tour to get an in-depth wine-making process – there are endless things to do here. You could also delve into their wine collections, explore cellar doors, hop into some local cuisine and shop their local farm produce. If you prefer outdoor adventure, then discover its many hiking and scenic walking trails.

Must Read | Explore five of the finest McLaren Vale’s wine trails and scenic walks

Apart from the normal things to see & do in this wine region, there are two main attractions which you shouldn’t miss at any cost – Down The Rabbit Hole  and  d’Arenberg Cube . These newly introduced attractions are notably worthwhile. To find out more, read this guide.

Book Excursion | McLaren Vale and Glenelg Wine Tasting Tour

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

We hope the above detailed road trip stops gave you a comprehensive idea of all the must-see places. However, its a hassle to plan and compile them into one single itinerary. To help you out with this, we created a custom sample itinerary of Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. This sample includes all the places, attractions & experiences listed in our above section.

Sample Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

Depart Melbourne Melbourne to the Great Otway National Park Overnight at park of Apollo Bay

Leave early morning from Otway Explore Port Campbell & the Twelve Apostles Head to Warrnambool Overnight at Warrnambool/ Port Campbell

Early morning checkout from Port Campbell Drive to Mount Gambier Exploration & sightseeing at Mount Gambier Overnight stay

Drive towards Robe Spend a relaxing day at this surfing town. Overnight stay

Head to Fleurieu Peninsula Explore McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor & other places Overnight stay

This custom curated five day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary is perfect for all age-groups. The plan ensures that you visit all the top-rated attractions of Victoria and South Australia. If you need to check out a seperate itinerary for Great Ocean Road, then read this guide .

Popular Guided Tours & Excursions

Explore a range of vast activities, experential tours, and niche guided exursions with GetYourGuide . Our partnership with them brings amazing tours which can compliment your road trip well. With easy availability & affordable pricing, you can be sure of booking the right activity at the right price.

Further Readings & Resources

Love Australian road trips? Here are a couple of in-depth guides:

Great Ocean Road : The Ultimate Great Ocean Road Itinerary for 2 Days Whitsundays : Whitsundays Itinerary 7 Days: Ultimate Guide (+ Sailing Ideas, Tips) Airlie Beach: 3-Day Airlie Beach Itinerary | How to Spend 3 Days in Airlie Beach Flinders Ranges: The Ultimate Guide to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Explore Fleurieu Peninsula with us:

Experiences : Best Things to Do in the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia Where to Stay : 10 Gorgeous Places to Stay on the Fleurieu Peninsula Coastal Towns : 10 Unique Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula of South Australia

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The Ultimate 1-Week Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary

A Melbourne to Adelaide road trip is arguably one of the best coastal drives in Australia. If you take the longer route via the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and Limestone Coast in South Australia, you’ll be treated to dramatic sea cliffs, world class surf breaks, pretty coastal towns, and long stretches of uninterrupted beach.

I’ve driven between Melbourne to Adelaide several times now, and I always try to have time to take this coastal route. While it’s not as common as a road trip up the NSW South Coast , the variety in coastal landscapes makes the trip between these two cities a worthwhile drive to take your time.

If you have a week, then I highly recommend you follow this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary to see the best of the southeast coastline of Australia. In this guide, I outline all the best things to see on the way and where to stay each night.

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Quick Overview of a Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

• Overall distance: 1,100 km
• Time: 7 days

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne

Day 2: lorne to port campbell, day 3: port campbell to port fairy, day 4: port fairy to mount gambier, day 5: mount gambier to robe, day 6: robe to victor harbor, day 7: victor harbor to adelaide.

How Long to Spend Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide

The quickest route for driving between Melbourne to Adelaide is inland via the National Highway A8. This drive is around 740km and takes about 9 hours in one go, passing through Ballarat, Horsham, Bordertown, and Murray Bridge.

However, with this itinerary, I highly recommend taking the more scenic coastal route . You can drive this way in as little as 2-3 days if you’re limited on time. But, as you’ll see below, I recommend a week minimum to drive from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road and Limestone Coast.

If you have more time, then I also suggest adding on a couple of side trips to the Grampians National Park and the Fleurieu Peninsula , which I’ll outline below.

Tips for Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

• Don’t forget roadside assistance and/or travel insurance as you never know what might happen along the way
• Download Petrol Spy or similar app to find the cheapest fuel on the way, as some of the fuel stations charge a lot more on the coast
• Distances between towns are not as vast as the  Adelaide to Darwin road trip , so driving times are generally pretty short each day allowing for more sightseeing
• If you do this road trip during summer, be prepared for plenty of crowds on the coast and campgrounds are often booked out well in advance, so plan ahead
• Avoid driving at night as this is the most dangerous time to drive, especially with so much wildlife on the road. Ensure you reach camp or a town before sunset
• Be aware that free camping is strictly prohibited along the Great Ocean Road and beach carparks are often patrolled at night. You’ll have much more luck with free camps in South Australia, use the Wikicamp app to find spots

Where to Stay Along the Way

As you drive the coastal route between Melbourne and Adelaide, there are plenty of accommodation options. If you’re taking a campervan or car camping setup, then you’ll find some incredible campgrounds in national parks and at caravan parks. Download  WikiCamps  to find the best spots.

Otherwise, there’s accommodation for all budgets, from cheap motels to apartments with sea views. You’ll find some of my recommendations below under each stop.

Read next: 15 Best Campsites on the Great Ocean Road

Road Trip Essentials

• Reusable coffee cup
• Reef safe sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Refillable water bottle
• Walking shoes
• Healthy snacks

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary: Day by Day Guide

If you have a week to drive from Melbourne to Adelaide, then this itinerary suggests all the best places to stop and things to do on the way. From pretty coastal towns to expansive golden beaches, you’ll be able to see the best of the Great Ocean Road in Victoria and the south east coast of South Australia within a week.

Distance: 140 km Time: 2.5 hours

Leave Melbourne and drive southwest through Geelong and towards the famous Surf Coast of Victoria. On your way to Lorne, make sure you stop in Torquay , the official start of the Great Ocean Road. It’s most well-known for being the home of Australian surfing making it a must-see town.

Hit the shops at  Surf City Plaza on the Surf Coast Highway. This precinct is home to flagship stores of Australia’s iconic surfing brands including Rip Curl, Roxy and Oakley. However, the real appeal lies down the side streets where you can find factory outlets selling seconds and last season’s clothes at discounted prices. 

Stop for a coffee at Ginger Monkey Cafe , located amongst the Surf City Plaza, or if it’s lunch time already, then head to Fisho’s Torquay on the Esplanade for some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever have.

As you leave Torquay, make a detour to Bells Beach . Arguably the most famous surf beach in Australia, it is home to the annual Rip Curl Pro surf contest taking place on the Easter long weekend. Outside of this weekend, you’ll find local surfers out in the water all day long. There are several lookout points and observation decks to watch the pros at work.

You’ll then drive through Aireys Inlet , home to the iconic Split Point Lighthouse and beautiful Fairhaven Beach. Not long after that, you’ll drive under the Memorial Arch , officially signalling the beginning of the Great Ocean Road.

Another 15 minutes drive and you’ll finally make it to Lorne . As the trendiest town on the Great Ocean Road, Lorne has become a popular weekend getaway from Melbourne. The main street is filled with boutique shops and fancy cafes. While, the beach in front is a great spot to relax on the sand or try surfing.

For sunset, head up to Teddy’s Lookout , a short drive above Lorne town. At the end of George Street, take a short walk to a viewing platform offering a beautiful panorama across where the St George River meets the ocean with the Great Ocean Road snaking around the coastline. It’s easily one of the best and most popular viewpoints in the region.

Stay in Lorne | Lorne Bush House Cottages and Eco Retreats or Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park

Read more: 12 Best Things to Do in Lorne

Distance: 140 km (add another 55 km for the side trip to Beauchamp Falls and Hopetoun Falls) Time: 2.5 hours (add another hour of driving for the side trip to the waterfalls)

The next day, continue on the Great Ocean Road and through the Otway National Park to Port Campbell.

The first stretch of the drive from Lorne to Apollo Bay is the most scenic of the whole Great Ocean Road, so be prepared for stunning coastal views along the left side of your vehicle. You might also want to make a quick stop at Kennett River . You can go for a wander up Grey River Road and spot wild koalas in the trees.

Read more: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide to the Great Ocean Road

Then, you’ll reach Apollo Bay , another surfer town on the Great Ocean Road. Beautifully situated on a sandy bay with a long beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbaking. A 15-minute drive out of Apollo Bay is Maits Rest . The short 800m boardwalk here takes you through the dense Otway rainforest, with lush ferns and giant trees that are up to 300 years old. Despite it being short, it’s one of the best walks to do on the Great Ocean Road .

Continue driving through the beautiful forest as you move a bit away from the coast. Once you reach Lavers Hill, take a short detour to your right on the Colac-Lavers Hill Road to a couple of waterfalls.

Around 20 minutes down the road, you’ll come to a turnoff to Binns Road. This dirt road leads to Beauchamp Falls and Hopetoun Falls , two of the most spectacular waterfalls of the Great Ocean Road . You can also explore the Otway Redwood Forest while you’re there too.

Then, head back to Lavers Hill and continue on the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell . This small coastal town is a pretty spot to spend the night. It’s also the main base from which to explore the most famous attractions of the Great Ocean Road, including the Twelve Apostles.

Just before you come into Port Campbell, you’ll pass Gibson Steps, Twelve Apostles, and Loch Ard Gorge . If you time it well for the late afternoon and sunset, stop at all three spots for some spectacular photographs as the golden light hits the sea stacks.

Stay in Port Campbell | Sea Foam Villas or Port Campbell Recreation Camping Reserve

Read more: 8 Best Sunset Spots on the Great Ocean Road

Distance: 92 km Time: 1.5 hours

If you’re feeling up to it, I suggest getting up before the sun rises and driving back to the 12 Apostles. Sunrise is arguably the best time to witness the incredible limestone stacks and it’s far less busy at this time too.

Once you’re ready to leave Port Campbell and continue to Port Fairy, there are several stops and photo ops to get ready for. I suggest stopping at the following:

• London Bridge
• Bay of Martyrs
• Bay of Islands
• Childers Cove (this one requires a detour off the Great Ocean Road)

Then, you’ll finally come into Allansford, which is technically the end of the Great Ocean Road. From here, you can drive through Warrnambool and continue to Port Fairy for the night. This small coastal community has often been called Victoria’s prettiest town, so there’s no surprises that it’s a popular destination.

For dinner, head to The Wharf @ Port Fairy for fresh seafood or Oak & Anchor Hotel for a more classy gastro pub.

Stay in Port Fairy | Oak & Anchor Hotel or Gardens Caravan Park

Read more: A Weekend Guide to Port Fairy

Distance: 167 km Time: 2 hours

On the drive from Port Fairy to Mount Gambier, you’ll pass through Portland and Nelson, before finally crossing the border into South Australia. There’s not a whole lot to see in between these two towns, so you could spend the morning exploring Griffiths Island Reserve and the Port Fairy Lighthouse before departing Port Fairy.

Once you cross the border into South Australia, you can either head directly to Mount Gambier, or if you have some time, make a detour to Port MacDonnell , via Eight Mile Creek Road. This tiny fishing town has some stunning coastal scenery and is also the southernmost point of South Australia.

Simply drive west of town to Cape Northumberland and admire the views before driving up to Mount Gambier . As one of South Australia’s largest towns, it’s the main base for exploring the Limestone Coast. The town is also known for its unique sinkholes, crater lakes and ancient volcanoes.

Before coming into Mount Gambier, take the short detour down to the Little Blue Lake . This has become a popular Instagrammable location and is a natural sinkhole and swimming spot.

As you arrive in Mount Gambier town, take the scenic drive around the Blue Lake , stopping at some of the viewpoints to see this stunning turquoise crater lake. Once in town, it’s worth checking out the Umpherston Sinkhole, Engelbrecht Cave and Cave Garden .

Stay in Mount Gambier | Old Mount Gambier Gaol or Pine Country Caravan Park

Read more: 10 Best Things to Do in Mount Gambier

Add: Grampians National Park

Distance (from Port Fairy to Halls Gap): 156 km Time: 2 hours

Instead of continuing west to South Australia, I recommend adding on a side trip to the Grampians National Park if you have more time for this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary. I’d recommend allowing 2-3 days for the Grampians National Park, but it all depends on how much time you have. If you like hiking, you could easily spend much longer with plenty of great walks to do in the Grampians .

Halls Gap is the most central town to the national park and a great base from which to explore the various walks, waterfalls and lookouts. Things you need to add to a three day itinerary for the Grampians include:

• Sunset at Reeds Lookout and The Balconies
• MacKenzie’s Falls, one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls
• The Pinnacle walk, 2 hours return (moderate)
• Mount Abrupt hike near Dunkeld, 2 hours return (steep)
• Wine tasting at Seppelt Wines
• Brunch at Livefast Cafe
• Drive up to Mount William and walk to the highest peak (easy)

Then, from Halls Gap it’s a 220 km or 2.5-3 hour drive to Mount Gambier over the border to link back up with the rest of this itinerary.

Stay in Halls Gap | DULC Eco Cabins or Plantation Campground (free camp)

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to the Grampians National Park

Distance: 130 km Time: 1.5 hours

From Mount Gambier, explore more of the Limestone Coast as you take the coastal route to Robe. Robe is the trendiest town on this stretch of coastline, so it’s a nice place to stay the night. But, you could easily decide to stay in Southend, Beachport or Kingston SE for something more secluded and quiet.

Just after you leave Mount Gambier, stop in at the Tantanoola Caves , an incredible underground world of geology and one of the country’s most impressive caves. You can take a tour with SA Parks which you can book ahead of time to secure your place.

Then, drive to Millicent and take the Southern Ports Highway which will take you near Southend and Beachport and eventually onto Robe. Beachport is a nice little town to stop for lunch and a surf.

Once you’re in Robe, head out to Robe Obelisk and take the coastal walk to Robe Lighthouse. Robe Obelisk is also a good spot to be for sunset.

Stay in Robe | Guichen Bay Motel or Discovery Parks – Robe

Distance: 330 km Time: 4 hours

From Robe, continue on the Southern Ports Highway until it connects back up with the Princes Highway in Kingston SE. You’ll then drive right along Coorong National Park , famous for its fishing, sand dunes and wetland area (mostly explored by 4×4 only). Then, you’ll head inland and around Lake Alexandrina towards Victor Harbor .

Victor Harbor is the main town on the Fleurieu Peninsula and a vibrant holiday destination. Located on Encounter Bay, it has some pretty impressive coastal properties and stunning views across the ocean.

If you find yourself there in the winter, you might also catch the migratory Southern Right Whales on their way along the southern coast of Australia. You can head to the South Australian Whale Centre in town to find out where they are on their journey. 

Stay in Victor Harbor | Anchorage Seafront Hotel or Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park

Alternative: Robe to Hahndorf

Distance: 310 km Time: 3.5 hours

If you don’t want to detour down to the Fleurieu Peninsula, you could head to Hahndorf instead. Located in the Adelaide Hills outside of the city, it’s considered as one of the prettiest towns in South Australia.

Settled by 19th-century Lutheran migrants, it’s known for its original German-style architecture and artisanal food . Plus, there are numerous wineries nearby offering tours and tastings.

It’s a popular weekend getaway from Adelaide and must for foodies and anyone interested in boutique stores, wine and artisanal food.

Stay in Hahndorf | Amble at Hahndorf or Discovery Parks – Hahndorf

Distance: 84 km Time: 1 hour

It’s only an hour from Victor Harbor to Adelaide, but you can make a few stops along the way easily enough. Take a detour to Sellicks Beach and Aldinga Beach, two of the most beautiful beaches in the state. Sellicks Beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and having hard packed sand that even 2WD vehicles can drive onto the beach.

Around McLaren Vale , you’ll find a small but underrated wine region. Some of the most popular vineyards to head to include  Down the Rabbit Hole  (with great food and wine and a retro old bus),  d’Arenburg (famous winery known for it’s unique 5-storey cube building) and  Paxton Wines  (family-owned and known for its organic and biodynamic wine).

Then, just on the outskirts of the city, stop in at Onkaparinga River National Park . A peaceful place with a few walks and cycling trails to do, I recommend the  Sundews Ridge Hike  which is 4km and  Punchbowl Lookout Walk  which is 2km.

A short drive north of there and you’ll finally be in Adelaide ! Adelaide is an underrated city, with beautiful beaches, waterfalls, gardens, and vineyards all within a short drive from the CBD.

Stay in Adelaide | Hotel Richmond on Rundle Mall or Adelaide Caravan Park

Add: Fleurieu Peninsula 

If you have a couple of spare days, then I recommend heading south of Victor Harbor and exploring more of the Fleurieu Peninsula before heading to Adelaide. You can spend 2-3 days or more visiting hidden coves, camping amongst the coastal bush, and walking to hilltop lookouts.

Highlights of the region to add to a 2-3 day itinerary include:

• Deep Creek National Park (plenty of walks, campgrounds, and beaches to explore)
• Second Valley (stunning coastal landscapes)
• Rapid Bay Campground (right on the beach)
• Sellicks Beach (a drivable beach)

Read more: 10 Best Places to Visit on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Where to Next After Adelaide?

• Complete Guide to Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park
• Best Things to Do in Quorn and the Southern Flinders Ranges
• Complete Guide to the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park

Want More Epic Road Trips in Australia?

• Ultimate Adelaide to Darwin Road Trip Itinerary
• Ultimate Red Centre Way Road Trip Itinerary
• Melbourne to Sydney Road Trip Itinerary: 2 Week Coastal Route

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Melbourne to Adelaide Drive

A Melbourne road trip to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road can be done over 5 days, easily seeing the best of the Ocean Road highlights.

Our self-drive itinerary includes driving via Robe and Victor Harbour though a side trip to include The Grampians could be included.

This guide will help you plan a holiday between Melbourne and Adelaide over 5 days, but can easily be adapted to spend more time along the way.

Melbourne to Adelaide Distance & Drive Times

Page Contents

The drive times listed below do not include the many viewpoints and stops that can be made along the way but provide a realistic daily travel plan to follow as a guide.

Day 1 Melbourne to Apollo Bay or Cape Otway

The drive from Melbourne to Apollo Bay is just over 3 hours, there is a lot to see along the way though. The first town on the Great Ocean Road is Torquay, home to a number of surf outlet shops as well as the National Surfing Museum.

Use our map of the Ocean Road route to find plenty of stops to make along the way. Go on a virtual journey, watch our videos of the drive along the Ocean Road.

• Visit Bells Beach, home of the Rip Curl Surf competition since 1963.
• Drop into the Chocolaterie and indulge.
• Visit Split Point Lighthouse or go for a horse ride perhaps.
• Stop in Lorne for lunch.
• See Koalas at Kennett River, between Lorne and Apollo Bay.

An extra night could be included by staying in the lively town of Lorne and then onto Apollo Bay the next day as there are plenty of things to do in the area, such as bushwalks and waterfalls.

Apollo Bay Accommodation

Apollo Bay is an awesome little town with a wonderfully long, safe, beach. It is the second-largest along the Great Ocean Road, but small enough to still feel relaxing and with a large selection of accommodation to choose from.

If you prefer the idea of staying away from a town, Cape Otway is a perfect alternative. The historic lighthouse has accommodation and nearby Bimbi Park is a fab little campground where koalas hang out in the trees above campers. Find accommodation in Cape Otway.

Day 2 Apollo Bay to Port Campbell & The 12 Apostles

Not far from Apollo Bay and before the Cape Otway turn off, is Maits Rest Rainforest Walk. It is only a short stroll but gorgeous with really old Myrtle Beech trees.

The drive from Apollo Bay to Port Campbell National Park, home of the famous Twelve Apostles rock stacks, goes through tall forest and farmland before climbing up to the highest point of the Great Ocean Road at Lavers Hill. It is then less than an hour to the 12 Apostles where there is plenty to see.

Waterfalls and Rainforest Drive

If you have time and an extra day to spare, from Lavers Hill, turn right to visit Triplet Falls, The Otway Fly Tree Top Walk and a number of other waterfalls and bushwalks. Find more info on the Otways and waterfalls area here and browse accommodation if you want to stay a night in the area.

• As an alternative to the direct drive from Apollo Bay to Lavers Hill, you can also follow Skene’s Creek Road and Turton’s Track through the Otways. It is a really good drive, though has a lot of winding road and some unsealed sections.
• There are a f ew free campsites up in the area near the waterfalls too.

Accommodation in Port Campbell

The little fishing village of Port Campbell has more choices of accommodation that anyone might expect. Luxury apartments, backpacker hostel, and camping. Find the best accommodation to stay here.

Day 3 Port Campbell to Port Fairy

Maybe start the day by watching the sunrise at the 12 Apostles before heading off to Port Fairy. Once you leave Port Campbell, there are still a few more sights to see before the Great Ocean Road ends near Allansford.

• The Arch – Another good spot to stop, see the slow erosion of the limestone coast.
• London Arch – formerly known as London Bridge before an arch collapsed, unexpectedly, into the sea in January 1990.
• The Grotto – Definitely worth a stop, one of my favorite spots.
• The Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands.

Once the Great Ocean Road drive has ended, there is still a lot to see and do before reaching the sweet little fishing town of Port Fairy.

• Warrnambool – Whale watching season is a great time to be here. See the Facebook page for whale spotting.
• Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.
• Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve

Port Fairy Accommodation

Port Fairy is a really pretty town and a lovely place to spend a night or two. One of our favorite places to stay is the family-friendly Belfast Cottages . The gorgeous little self-contained cottages cater to all travelers and the indoor pool plus playground area will keep kids happy for hours.

Find more choices of accommodation in Port Fairy and the best prices.

Day 4 Port Fairy to Robe

Mt Gambier is on the way to Robe and is definitely recommended as a place to visit. Maybe stop for lunch by the famous ‘Blue Lake’ or at the Umpherston Sinkhole.

Alternative Route – Visit Naracoorte Caves

The Naracoorte Caves are part of the 800,000-year-old Naracoorte East Range. They are South Australia’s only World Heritage-listed attraction and an important fossil site.

Rather than drive direct to Robe from Mt Gambier, a diversion to the caves might be of interest too.

Accommodation in Robe

Robe is a really popular seaside holiday town. Great fishing, lovely beaches, and more than 80 historic buildings make Robe an ideal place to stay a night.

• The Caledonian Inn is a lovely place to stay. The pub was built by a Scotsman in 1859 and the rooms all have a lovely character about them. Check prices and availability.
• Search other places to stay in Robe and find the best prices.

Day 5 Robe to Adelaide via Victor Harbour

Last day on the road trip, unless you have time to spare and maybe want to cross the water to Kangaroo Island!

From Robe the road follows close to the coastline and passes the Coorong National Park , setting for the movie ‘Storm Boy’ and a beautiful region.

Victor Harbor, perhaps best-known for the horse-drawn carriage that crosses the causeway to Granite Island, is another visit-worthy town in South Australia.

• Heritage Steam Train rides
• South Australia Whale Centre
• Historic Walks
• Boat cruises
• Find out more about things to do in Victor Harbor .
• Maybe stay a night in Victor Harbor and linger for a while…

Victor Harbor to Adelaide

The drive from Victor Harbor to Adelaide is only 1 hour 15 mins, it goes across the Fleurieu Penninsula where there is certainly more to do and discover including wineries, beaches…

Adelaide Accommodation

Often referred to as the City Of Churches, Adelaide has more of a large country town feel to it.

Find somewhere to stay before the next part of your adventures…

An Awesome Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip

A beautiful drive from Port Phillip to St Vincent Gulf, the road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is a laid-back adventure through Australia's stunning landscapes and famous national parks. This journey is dotted with coastal beauty, lush vineyards, and fascinating wildlife, setting the perfect backdrop.

You can do this 1,150 km road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide in 14 hours 30 minutes. On the way, you can visit Torquay, Great Otway National Park, Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, Warrnambool, Kingston, Naracoorte Caves and Grampians National Parks.

You'll have the drive of a lifetime between two of Australia's most iconic cities. Read on below to learn more about our recommended routes, the best places to stay the night, best seasons to travel, and the best things to see and do on the way.

Where is Adelaide and how far is a road trip from Melbourne?

The Melbourne to Adelaide road trip offers a journey through some of Australia's most spectacular landscapes, taking you from the cultural richness of Melbourne to the coastal energy of Adelaide.

You have two incredible routes to choose from: the scenic coastal Great Ocean Road Route or the inland Grampians National Park Route. Both are perfect if you want to experience breathtaking natural scenery, charming local communities, wineries, and panoramic views.

Along the way, each route offers its own unique detours and highlights, from the iconic surf spots on the Great Ocean Road to the rich Aboriginal heritage in the Grampians.

The Great Ocean Road Route spans approximately 1,150 kilometres, taking you through Australia's stunning southeastern coastline. On the other hand, the Grampians National Park Route covers around 800 kilometres, weaving through majestic mountain landscapes and serene natural wonders.

Depending on how much you want to see and do, we recommend taking 3 to 5 days to complete your drive. This will give you plenty of time to soak up all the adventures and highlights that both routes offer.

How long is the road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, and how many days will it take?

What is the best road trip route from melbourne to adelaide.

There is no best route for a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. That being said, this is how our two routes stack up against each other, looking at some factors that might influence your decision.

Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide via The Great Ocean Road

On this route, you will set out on an unforgettable journey along the iconic Great Ocean Road. This iconic drive takes you through a landscape of dramatic ocean vistas, surf towns, and lush forests, capturing the essence of Victoria's stunning coastline.

Starting from Melbourne, endless coastal views and the Great Ocean Road will stretch out before you. This road is well-maintained and signposted, making it easy to navigate.

As you drive, you'll pass through a series of charming towns and villages, each offering a variety of amenities. From local cafes and seafood to charming boutiques and galleries, there's no shortage of places to explore and enjoy.

Towns like Torquay, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell not only provide necessary stops for fuel and food but are also hubs of local culture, history, and fun.

The Great Ocean Road is famous for its natural landmarks, including the surf at Bells Beach, the tranquil beauty of Apollo Bay, and the majestic Twelve Apostles. These natural wonders are perfect for photography and exploring on foot.

One of the route's most captivating features is its ever-changing scenery. You'll witness a dynamic landscape, from pristine beaches and rugged cliffs to rainforests and serene bays. Each mile offers something new and exciting.

While the Great Ocean Road is a joy to drive, it's popular with tourists and can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Traffic is heavier around major attractions like the Twelve Apostles. Start your day early to avoid the crowds and fully enjoy the sights.

Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide via Grampians National Park

The Grampians National Park Route will take you through the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of one of Australia's most cherished national parks. From rugged mountains to lush forests, the Grampians Route is a nature lover's dream.

The route primarily follows well-maintained roads, making navigation straightforward. While major highways connect the key towns, the smaller country roads that lead you through picturesque farmlands are a major highlight.

This route is dotted with towns with amenities like restaurants, gas stations, and local shops. Along the way, you can explore charming country towns, each with its own character and stories to tell.

One of the highlights of the route, the Grampians National Park, features outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and observing Aboriginal rock art. The park's diverse ecosystem is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

While this route is less congested compared to the coastal roads, it's wise to be prepared for traffic, especially during holiday seasons and weekends. The roads through the Grampians can be winding and require careful driving, especially in areas where wildlife crossings are common.

Driving Route from Melbourne to Adelaide

Read on below to learn more about what to expect while driving on our recommended routes.

Driving The Great Ocean Road Route

Begin your journey from Melbourne, taking the M1 towards Geelong. As you approach Geelong, merge onto the B100. In Torquay, explore the town's famous beaches, surf culture, and perhaps visit the Australian National Surfing Museum.

Continue along the Great Ocean Road along the dramatic coastline to Lorne. Here, you can explore beautiful waterfalls like Erskine Falls and enjoy the local art and cafe scene.

Your next stop will be Apollo Bay. You can sample fresh local seafood and enjoy beach activities in this charming town. Apollo Bay also serves as a gateway to the Great Otway National Park, which features rainforest walks and waterfalls.

Continuing west, you'll reach the iconic Twelve Apostles near Port Campbell. These magnificent limestone stacks, best viewed from the Port Campbell National Park Visitor Centre, are a photographer's dream.

Past the Twelve Apostles, the route leads to Warrnambool, a larger town that marks the end of the Great Ocean Road. From Warrnambool, head northwest on the picturesque A1, Princes Highway, towards the South Australian border.

Crossing into South Australia, continue to Mount Gambier, known for its stunning Blue Lake. From Mount Gambier, continue northwest through small towns like Millicent. This last stretch offers a smooth drive through the wine regions and rolling hills of South Australia.

Finally, merge onto the M1, South Eastern Freeway, as you approach Adelaide.

Driving the Grampians National Park Route

Start your drive by heading west on the M8, Western Freeway, towards Ballarat. Ballarat offers the first major stop where you can explore the open-air museum of Sovereign Hill before continuing to Ararat.

From Ararat, your journey takes you further west towards Halls Gap, the gateway to the Grampians National Park. The Grampians present a dramatic change in landscape with rugged sandstone mountains, rich Aboriginal heritage, and abundant wildlife.

Leaving the Grampians, head west through the town of Edenhope towards Naracoorte in South Australia. Naracoorte Caves National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring caves and ancient fossils.

Continue your journey northwest towards Padthaway, where wineries and serene landscapes await. Here, you can indulge in wine tasting in the picturesque vineyards.

Travel north on the A8, passing through the towns of Keith and Tintinara before arriving at Murray Bridge, famous for its riverside and the Murray Bridge Regional Gallery. Finally, head northwest to the heart of Adelaide.

Where to stop overnight on a road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide

The road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is an adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming towns. To fully enjoy this journey, we recommend staying in one of the beautiful destinations below.

Admire the volcanic landscapes of Mount Gambier

On The Great Ocean Road Route, Mount Gambier is a perfect stopover known for its stunning Blue Lake and volcanic formations. About halfway through the journey, it's the perfect place to unwind and explore.

We suggest staying at the Delgattie Estate , a historic mansion offering luxury accommodation. This elegant estate combines old-world charm with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

You'll enjoy the hotel's friendly vibes and Australian charm. Not to mention, your rooms are fully equipped and full of comforts to enjoy after your long drive.

Spend your evening exploring the local attractions, such as the Umpherston Sinkhole, or enjoy a relaxing walk around the Blue Lake. Delgattie Estate, with its majestic setting and exquisite service, provides a touch of luxury for you to enjoy between your drive.

Explore the famous caves of Naracoorte

If you're travelling via The Grampians National Park Route, Naracoorte is a must-stop. Famous for its World Heritage-listed caves and fossils, Naracoorte offers a unique blend of nature and history.

For your stay, we recommend staying at the luxurious and highly-rated Avenue Inn . Located conveniently in the heart of Naracoorte, it provides a cosy space to relax after a long drive.

This charming inn is known for its friendly service and comfortable rooms, making it an excellent choice for rest and relaxation. You'll also love the hotel's amazing amenities, such as the two restaurants that serve delicious meals.

After a day of exploring the Naracoorte Caves National Park or enjoying the local wine at nearby vineyards, the Avenue Inn is the perfect place to recharge before continuing your journey.

Our favourite place to stay near Adelaide

When you reach Adelaide, the historical capital of South Australia, treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Eos By Skycity . This contemporary hotel, located in the heart of the city, offers opulent lodging and stunning views.

Eos By Skycity is truly an experience, with its spa, fine dining restaurants, and rooftop bar. Explore Adelaide's cultural scene, visit the Central Market, or simply enjoy the luxurious amenities of the hotel.

After days of driving, Eos By Skycity is the perfect place to indulge in some well-deserved pampering. You'll love its amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, room service, and fitness centre.

Nearby the hotel are Adelaide's top sights and experiences. You're just a short walk away from the Adelaide Botanical Garden and downtown's nightlife.

Best time to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide on a road trip

Australia's southeastern coast is dynamic, and weather changes depending on the season. Whether you're taking The Great Ocean Road Route or The Grampians National Park Route, each season brings its own unique experience.

Below are our recommendations for the best times to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide, along with their benefits and drawbacks.

Travelling to Adelaide from Melbourne in summer

On the Great Ocean Road Route, you'll experience warmer weather and longer days in the summer, perfect for beach activities and coastal walks. The ocean breeze keeps the climate enjoyable, especially in coastal towns like Torquay and Apollo Bay.

However, expect higher traffic and crowded tourist spots. Accommodation prices also tend to be at their highest.

On our alternative route, the Grampians National Park is ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities in summer. Wildlife is abundant, and the landscape is green and beautiful.

Like the coastal route, summer can bring more visitors to the Grampians, especially around popular spots like Halls Gap. It's the perfect time if you enjoy a lively atmosphere and don't mind a bit of company on the trails.

Travelling to Adelaide from Melbourne in winter

As you might expect, winter brings cooler temperatures, which can be quite pleasant for outdoor activities and cheaper for accommodation. You might even see occasional snow on the Grampian region's mountains.

On The Great Ocean Road, winter means fewer crowds and a more serene driving experience. However, the ocean can be rough, and some beach activities may not be possible.

Travelling to Adelaide from Melbourne in the shoulder seasons

Spring and autumn are arguably the best times on either route. The weather is mild, and the changing seasons bring a stunning transformation in the landscapes.

In spring, the Grampians burst into life with wildflowers, and wildlife is active. Along The Great Ocean Road, the spring bloom adds a burst of colour to the coastal vegetation.

Autumn offers fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. The vineyards along The Great Ocean Road, especially near Adelaide, are picturesque during this season.

For those interested in cultural events, planning your trip to coincide with local festivals in either spring or autumn can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your road trip. If you visit Adelaide in autumn, you can enjoy Adelaide International Kite Festival in March-April.

The best things to see and do on a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide

There's so much to experience and explore along both routes on this drive from Melbourne to Adelaide. Below are our top destinations so you can plan your ultimate drive.

On the Great Ocean Road Route

Torquay: Known as the surf capital of Australia, Torquay is famous for its beautiful beaches, surf culture, and as the starting point of the Great Ocean Road.

Point Addis Cliffs: Stunning coastal cliffs offering panoramic views of the Southern Ocean, popular for walks and marine life observation.

Great Otway National Park: A diverse park with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, offering numerous trails for hiking and exploration.

Hopetoun Falls: A picturesque waterfall in the Great Otway National Park, cascading into a lush fern-filled valley, accessible via a scenic viewpoint.

Twelve Apostles: Iconic limestone stacks rising majestically from the Southern Ocean, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunset.

The Razorback: A natural rock formation near the Twelve Apostles, known for its unique, razorback-like shape eroded by wind and waves.

Thunder Cave: Dramatic coastal cave where you can hear the thunderous sound of waves crashing against the rocks.

Mutton Bird Lookout and Island Arch Lookout: Scenic spots offering spectacular coastal views, including the collapsed Island Archway and thriving muttonbird colonies.

Childers Cove: A serene and less crowded beach near Warrnambool, known for its clear waters and picturesque setting.

Warrnambool and Logan's Beach: Warrnambool is a city famous for whale watching during the breeding season.

Port Fairy and Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve: A charming historic town, Port Fairy is near the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a haven for native wildlife within an extinct volcano crater.

Mt Gambier and Umpherston Sinkhole: Mount Gambier, known for its unique Blue Lake, and the nearby Umpherston Sinkhole, a beautifully landscaped sunken garden.

The Big Lobster: An iconic roadside attraction in Kingston, famously known as 'Larry the Lobster,' showcasing the region's lobster fishing heritage.

Robe: A historic seaside town offering beautiful beaches, a charming main street with boutiques and cafes, and a rich maritime history.

Cape Jaffa: Known for its lighthouse and tranquil beaches, Cape Jaffa is a peaceful coastal spot ideal for relaxation and fishing.

Coorong National Park: A stunning national park featuring long, shallow lagoons, diverse birdlife, and beautiful, remote beaches.

On the Grampians National Park Route

Melton Botanic Garden: A tranquil oasis showcasing native and drought-tolerant plants from Australia and around the world, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Ballarat Wildlife Park: An interactive wildlife park offering close encounters with a variety of Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and reptiles.

J Ward Museum, Ararat: A museum set in a former psychiatric hospital and prison, offering insight into Victoria's past.

Mackenzie Falls: One of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the Grampians, with a series of cascades flowing over enormous cliffs.

Grampians National Park: A nature reserve known for its stunning sandstone mountains, rich Aboriginal history, and diverse array of wildlife and wildflowers.

Billimina Shelter and Rock Art Site: A significant Aboriginal rock art site in the Grampians, showcasing ancient drawings that offer a glimpse into Indigenous history.

Rocklands Reservoir: A large, picturesque reservoir ideal for fishing, boating, and camping, surrounded by a serene natural landscape.

Harrow and Harrow Discovery Centre: A historic town with a discovery centre that narrates the region's past, including the story of Australia's first Aboriginal cricket team.

Naracoorte: A charming town famous for its Sheep's Back Museum and Regional Art Gallery, celebrating the region's wool industry and artistic talent.

Naracoorte Caves National Park: A World Heritage site renowned for its extensive fossil record and captivating cave tours showcasing ancient natural history.

Padthaway Estate Winery: A premier winery set in the lush Padthaway region, offering tastings of exquisite wines in a picturesque vineyard setting.

Landrover on a Pole: An iconic landmark in Keith, featuring a Land Rover perched high on a pole, symbolising the region's agricultural heritage.

Boothby Rocks: Impressive granite rock formations near Bordertown, offering a unique natural attraction and a great spot for photography.

Bordertown and Clayton Farm Heritage Museum: Bordertown is home to this museum, which preserves the area's farming history with a collection of vintage machinery and historic buildings.

Ngarkat Conservation Park: A vast natural reserve offering rugged wilderness experiences, bushwalking, and birdwatching in a pristine environment.

Old Tailem Town Pioneer Village: An authentically recreated pioneer village near Tailem Bend, showcasing over 100 buildings and artefacts from the early 1900s.

Pangarinda Botanic Garden: A botanical garden near Wellington, specialising in Australian native plants and serving as a sanctuary for birdlife and nature lovers.

Monarto Safari Park: One of the world's largest open-range zoos, offering an African safari experience with a range of exotic animals in a natural setting.

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Home » Oceania » Australia » Best Road Trips: Melbourne to Adelaide (Insider Guide for 2024)

Best Road Trips: Melbourne to Adelaide (Insider Guide for 2024)

Seeing as you’ve wound up here, we guess you’re planning a trip to South Australia’s laid-back capital. Now, all you need to do is suss out how to get there.

Oz is mammoth – so there is a lot to see. There’s a dramatic coastline flanked by plunging coastal cliffs and incredible limestone towers. Further inland, you’ll discover vast national parks peppered with waterfalls. It’s also a gateway to some of Australia’s most scrumptious vineyards.

There’s only one way to truly appreciate this natural wonderland, and that’s by creating the ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary. Don’t worry if you don’t know where to start – we’ve got you covered! We’ve mapped out two of the best road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide, all you need to do is pick one!

Or, if you’re not so good at making decisions – make it a double! Take one route to Adelaide, then return with the other to Melbourne for the ultimate road trip experience.

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Why Roadtrip from Melbourne to Adelaide?

Driving from melbourne to adelaide, the great ocean road, the inland alternative , what to pack for a road trip in melbourne to adelaide, insurance in melbourne and adelaide, final thoughts on the best road trips from melbourne to adelaide.

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Did you know that if you drive non-stop, you could get from Melbourne to Adelaide in merely eight hours? As much as that’s the case, you’d be crazy not to turn the outing into a proper adventure. 

But let’s get specific. Here are five reasons why taking road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide is our favourite way to travel between the two cities:

• Travel at your own pace. The scenery of Australia is incredibly diverse (it’s much more than oceans and desert). In our opinion, van travel gives you more opportunities to take it all in and linger in the places you love.
• Rad surfing. Well, this is Australia, after all. If you take the Great Ocean Road route, you get to surf in the official Aussie Surf Capital, Torquay. Time your road trip right, and you could even watch the annual Rip Curl Pro surf contest at Bells Beach. 
• Gorgeous scenery. When you start planning a road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, you’ll see that these states are scenic dreamlands. Highlights range from the iconic Limestone Coast to the vast wilderness of the Grampians and the cenotes of Mount Gambier.
• Trekking: As much as you can appreciate the above from your cushy driver’s seat, nothing beats giving the limbs a stretch. Whichever route you pick, break up the drive with hiking. If you’ve got some spare cash, there are bountiful other outdoor activities to try. During the summer months, throw a tent in your boot and save some dollars at a cheap (or free) campground. 
• Wonderful wildlife. The best road trips from Melbourne to Adelaide give you the chance to spot some of Australia’s incredible native fauna. Whales, fur seals, koalas, and kangaroos – we’ve got all the tips on where to find them.

Sealed and well-maintained, the roads between Melbourne and Adelaide are a doddle for road trippers. You will notice more congestion on the roads over the Christmas holidays, especially along the Great Ocean Road strip and its lookouts. The roads are quieter over winter, but be prepared for wetter and windier conditions.

As with pretty much any city in Australia, renting a vehicle for your road trip from Melbourne is easy as pie. There are plenty of rental companies in Melbourne to choose from, so we recommend shopping around for the best price.

Renting a Vehicle from Melbourne to Adelaide

You can rent a regular car, 4X4, or campervan for your road trip adventure. A 4X4 isn’t necessary unless you’ve got your heart set on a beach drive or some off-roading.

In order to pick up your vehicle in Melbourne, you will need a valid driver’s licence from your home country. Some rentals will ask to see your passport, too. Subject to your nationality, you might also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 

The one drawback to renting a car in Melbourne is the expenses. To avoid surprises, bear the following costs in mind when planning your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide:

• Age surcharge: Drivers must be aged at least 21 to rent a vehicle anywhere in Australia. But if you’re under 24, in most cases, you’ll need to pay an age surcharge.
• Bond/deposit: You will need to pay a deposit (bond) to cover your rental against any damage. The figure varies depending on the vehicle and the rental agency, but it usually ranges between $200 – $1000.
• Additional drivers: Planning to split the driving? Make sure you add any additional drivers to your rental agreement. Worst case – your insurance won’t cover you if an accident happens while an unregistered driver is behind the wheel.
• Insurance:  Most likely, all rental companies will try to sweet talk you into purchasing their insurance. But if you’re a broke backpacker, it’s worth shopping around and getting insurance with a third party. This way, you have some spare cash to put towards your other road trip essentials.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Melbourne and Adelaide

Before you plan your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide, familiarise yourself with local road rules. Aussie cops aren’t the kind to take bribes if you’re caught breaking one! If you’re not a native Aussie, remember that each territory and state follows its own road laws.

As your road trip takes you through Victoria and South Australia, here are a few to get you started:

• No reckless honking. Australia has a nationwide ban on unnecessary honking, so only use it if you really have to. The fine is AU$300 in Victoria.
• Don’t pick up any hitchhikers until you reach South Australia. Hitchhiking is illegal in Victoria and can land you with a $30 fine. 
• Being overtaken? Let them go ahead. Increasing your speed while being overtaken is another big no-no.
• Mind the gap in Melbourne. If you step more than 3 metres away from your car your windows can’t be open any more than 5 centimetres, and your vehicle needs to be locked. Which is common sense, really.
• Keep your foot down, but not too much. You can receive fines for speeding as well as driving too slowly across the entire country. 

Don’t forget the obvious ones, like driving without your seatbelt fastened or texting behind the wheel. And we probably don’t need to tell you what Aussie police think of driving under the influence. On popular backpacker routes like the Great Ocean Road, it’s not uncommon to get pulled over for on-the-spot tests. 

Alright, alright…enough of the rules. Let’s check out our two ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip ideas. One follows a fairly famous road that we’ll bet you a packet of Tim Tams you’ll have heard of. Meanwhile, our alternate option weaves you through the Aussie outback.

The Great Ocean Road – 5 days

The inland alternative – 4 days.

First up, you guessed it – it’s  that  ocean drive. 

• From: Melbourne
• To: Adelaide
• Total Distance: 1,121 km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Torquay, Lorne, Great Otway National Park, 12 Apostles, Logan’s Beach, Mount Gambier

You can’t put ‘Australia’ and ‘road trip’ in the same sentence and not have the Great Ocean Road spring to mind. This legendary route spans Torquay to Allansford, and is popular with backpackers, holidaymakers, and Aussies alike year-round. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone travelling around Melbourne.

 During summer the route buzzes with fellow road trippers – especially in the high season of January and February. If you can, we recommend this option in the shoulder season (February/March or October/November) when it’s warm but less busy.

Despite its popularity, it’s not one of those places that’s overhyped. There’s no shortage of surfing spots, hikes, climbs, and more. You could even pause for a Great Ocean Road skydive ! The coastal views are great from the car window but even better with 360-degree visibility from 15,000 feet.

Our road trip covers the full length of the route, plus a few other scenic treats.

Road trip highlights:

• Drive the fabled 243 kilometres that make up the Great Ocean Road
• Catch a wave in Torquay – the Surf Capital of Australia
• Cruise the Limestone Coast and see the 12 Apostles and other iconic landforms
• Spot whales off Logan’s Beach (between May and October) and look for wild koalas munching eucalyptus at Kennett River
• Explore a subterranean world beneath the volcanic town of Mount Gambier

Pssst! Need a cheap place to crash in Melbourne before you start your road trip? Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Melbourne!

Day 1: Melbourne to Lorne (2 hours)

Before you begin your trip, we really recommend staying at one of Melbourne’s awesome Airbnbs to recharge and get ready for your adventure. Nothing’s worse than being unprepared and having a nice place to sort out all the little details is essential! Before you set off and sit on your ass in a car, take advantage of one of Melbournes sunset kayaking tours along the Yarra River with a seriously picturesque backdrop of the city lights. Give your arms the right to hang at your sides for hours! You even get to reward them by having a fish n’ chips meal from inside the kayak for the most authentic on-the-water dinner ever.

Less than 90 minutes of driving will bring you to Torquay, where the Great Ocean Road officially begins. Australia’s Surf Capital is home to surf brands Quiksilver and Rip Curl, plus, obviously – some cracking waves at Bells Beach. Surf newbie? Try Front Beach for milder waves. We can tuck into fresh seafood at Aireys Inlet before hitting the surf a second time at Fairhaven.

Once in Lorne, check out a couple of the local waterfalls (there are ten nearby) and chill in Victoria’s answer to Byron Bay. Lorne is an awesome place to stay along the Great Ocean Road , although accommodation can be on the pricier side. If you’re camping however, there are a few free campsites around.

• Best stops: Torquay, Bells Beach, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven Beach, Phantom Falls, Erskine Falls
• Where to eat: Torquay Larder (Torquay), A la Grecque (Aireys Inlet), Cuda Bar and Restaurant (Lorne)
• Where to stay: Allenvale Mill Campground (free), Sunny Seaside Studio ($$$), The Sandridge Motel ($$$)

Day 2: Lorne to Great Otway National Park (1 hour)

Not too much driving today, but it’s a beautiful stretch of road with lots of stops. While following the Great Ocean Road, you’ll have endless sea to the left and ancient bush to your right. Take your time to check out waterfalls and viewpoints before arriving at the national park; Apollo Bay is a great stop-off for some kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Peer up at the gum trees in Kennett River for your chance to spot some wild koalas.

Lace-up your bush boots and explore the rugged hinterland of Great Otway. Watch the sunset at the oldest lighthouse in Australia, and round up the day wandering among the glowworm studded Melba Gully.

• Best stops: Sheoak Falls, Kennett River, Apollo Bay, Marriner’s Lookout, Great Otway National Park, Triplet Falls, Cape Otway Lighthouse, Melba Gully
• Where to eat: Kafe Koala (Kennett River), Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op (Apollo Bay), Lightkeeper’s Cafe (Cape Otway)
• Where to stay: Aire Crossing Campsite (free), Bimbi Park – Camping under Koalas ($), Bimbi Park – Standard Cabin Shared Bathroom ($$)

Day 3: Great Otway National Park to Port Fairy (2 hours 10 minutes)

Keep your camera poised – today is the pinnacle of the Great Ocean Road. Follow the Shipwreck Coast, so-named for the countless ships that sunk to their watery graves off the coast. You’ll see those iconic limestone peaks that form the 12 Apostles, as well as the other landmarks of the marine park.

If you’ve been stashing your farming dollars, why not splash out on a helicopter tour for a birds eye view of the towers. Look for whales at Logan’s Beach before settling down for the night in Port Fairy.

• Best stops: 12 Apostles, Gibson’s Steps, London Bridge, Lord Ard Gorge, Logan’s Beach, Warrnambool Botanic Gardens, Port Fairy Lighthouse
• Where to eat: 12 Rocks Beach Bar Cafe (Port Campbell), Fishtales Cafe (Warrnambool), The Hub at Port Fairy (Port Fairy)
• Where to stay: Port Fairy YHA ($), Gardens Caravan Park ($$), Retro on the River ($$)

Day 4: Port Fairy to Robe (3 hours 10 minutes)

Now you’ve completed the Great Ocean Road leg of the journey, you’ll continue to Adelaide along the Limestone Coast and into South Australia. Day 4 is packed with wildlife sightings and natural landscapes.

Follow the 2.5km Cape Bridgewater seal walk or book a cage dive to snorkel with the local fur seal colony. Allow plenty of time for volcanic Mount Gambier – home to crater lakes and cenotes. Divers can book a magical underwater tour of the Engelbrecht Caves, hikers can trek around the Blue Lake.

 Once in the pretty seaside town of Robe, kick back with some locally made wine and fish ‘n’ chips.

• Best stops: Point Danger, Cape Nelson Lighthouse, Cape Bridgewater Seal Walk, Petrified Forest, Mount Gambier, Umpherston Sinkhole
• Where to eat: Portland Strawberries (Bolwarra), Presto Eatery (Mount Gambier), Adventurous Spoon (Robe)
• Where to stay: Robe Haven Motel ($$), Sea Vu Caravan Park ($$), The Sugar Shack – be amazed ($$)

Day 5: Robe to Adelaide (3 hours 40 minutes)

If you’re in a 4X4, you can take it for a hair-raising spin on the dunes of Long Beach. Later, stretch your legs with a short hike along the saltwater dunes of Ocean Beach in the Coorong National Park. Look out for wombats, penguins, kangaroos, and local birdlife. Before or after, enjoy a scenic lunch of pastries from the Meringue Bakery on the lakeside.

Take a detour via Port Elliot for our last surf of the trip and mooch along the waterfront in Victor Harbour. By dusk, kick back and toast the end of a stellar road trip in some of Adelaide’s best accommodation .

• Best stops: Coorong National Park, Meningie, Victor Harbour, Port Elliot
• Where to eat: Meningie Bakery (Meningie), Jelly Cafe (Port Elliot), Sparkke at the Whitmore (Adelaide)
• Where to stay: Backpack Oz ($), Frewville Motor Inn ($$) CBD Deluxe Studio Penthouse with Square View ($$$)

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

• Total Distance: 865 km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Ballarat, Grampians National Park, Wartook Valley, Coonawarra, Murray Bridge

Already tackled the Great Ocean Road? Or would you rather not get your fancy rental all sandy? In that case, you’ll want the sister road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide. The Inland Alternative meanders through tousled mountain vistas and roaring waterfalls. Plus, you’ll cross through one of Australia’s best wine regions.

This option includes a full day to soak up the glorious Grampian park. But, if you’re pressed for time, you can do a whistle-stop tour and condense this one to three days. While not as famous as the coastal drive, we love this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip itinerary just as much. And why, you wonder? Here are five reasons.

• Explore the tumbling waterfalls, fern gullies, and Aboriginal art of the Grampian National Park
• Sip some of Australia’s most cherished red wine in the Coonawarra vineyard region
• Meet the White Kangaroos of Bordertown (they’re Western Greys, not albinos)
• Stroll through historic towns from the Gold Rush era. Besides a few Coffee Clubs, they’ve not changed much
• Fulfil your fantasy of skydiving over the glittering South Australia coast

Day 1-2: Melbourne to Halls Gap (3 hours)

Grab a brew from your favourite Melbourne coffee fix and hit the road before the city wakes up. Take a quick gander back to 1852 at Sovereign Hill – this is quite literally a time capsule of Aussie’s wealthy heritage where  you’ll see costumed folk roaming the streets. You can even visit a mine while you’re there. If you’re in the market for something scarier, you can go meet the crocs and Tasmanian Devils down the road at Ballarat Wildlife Park .

Halls Gap is the gateway to the magical Grampians, and it’s worth spending the whole second day here to explore. This epic national park is home to numerous hiking trails, Aboriginal rock art, the MacKenzie Falls, and natural waterslides. The Balconies viewpoint is the best spot for sunset before settling in for the night.

If you only have three days for your road trip from Melbourne, skip the second night, and just leave in the morning.

• Best stops: Ballarat, Sovereign Hill, Grampian National Park, The Balconies, MacKenzie Falls, Venus Baths
• Where to eat: Little Lucky Cafe (Bacchus Marsh), Forager’s Cafe (Ararat), Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co (Halls Gap)
• Where to stay: Borough Huts Campground ($), Grampians Eco YHA ($), Heavenly Escape: Simply a Lovely Secluded Getaway ($$$)

Day 3: Halls Gap to Coonawarra (2 hours 30 minutes)

As you head north out of the national park, you can indulge in your second fix of mountain vistas in the Wartook Valley. If you fancy doing something adventurous, you can go horseback riding, rock climbing, or take a quad bike tour through the craggy wilderness.

Once at Coonawarra, you’ll see it’s one giant cluster of wineries. So park up the rental (safety first, kids), hire some bicycles and make an afternoon of it. If wine isn’t your thing, you can nip up the road to explore the Naracoorte Caves. Alternatively, you could even take a drive over to the seaside town of Robe.

• Best stops: Wartook Valley, Naracoorte Caves, Coonawarra winery trail, Mount Gambier or Robe
• Where to eat: The Wander Inn (Wartook Valley), The Coffee Shop (Edenhope), Balnaves of Coonawarra (our pick for your cellar door if you’re on a budget)
• Where to stay: Eco Planet Green Camping #1 ($) Glamping Bell Tent w/ power, king and electric blanket $$), Coonawarra Units ($$$)

Day 4: Coonawarra to Adelaide (4 hours 30 minutes)

Hit the road early and plough north through the Victorian wine plains. Head out of Coonawarra and make a detour via the Bordertown Wildlife Park – home to a friendly mob of White Kangaroos. Turn off just before Tailem Bend if you want to squeeze in a cheeky skydive over the sand-swept Coorong National Park. Why not say hello to the  life-sized rhino and giant olive sculpture in Tailem Bend, too?

Time permitting, stop off at the languid Murray Bridge where you can cool down with a peaceful paddle along the Murray River by kayak. From here, it’s only an hour to your final destination – Adelaide!

With so many things to do in Adelaide , we recommend you spend a couple of days here to make the most of what this city has to offer. 

• Best stops: Naracoorte Caves, Bordertown, Tailem Bend, SA Skydiving, Murray River
• Where to eat: Soul Cafe (Bordertown), Little Local Co (Tailem Bend), Gin Long Canteen (Adelaide)
• Where to stay: Tequila Sunrise Hostel ($), The Outback Studio – some SA outback in the city ($$), Adelaide Backpackers & Travellers Inn ($$)

Active Roots Money Belt

I never hit the road without my security belt. This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off. This is hands down the best way to hide your cash.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress is both a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Active Roots Microfiber Towel

It’s always worth packing a proper towel. Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every backpacker should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl Actik Core rechargeable headlamp – an awesome piece of kit! Because it’s USB chargeable I never have to buy earth polluting batteries.

Active Roots Camping Hammock

Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere. Right now, I’m rocking an Active Roots parachute hammock – it’s light, colorful, and tough.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organize your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

There you have it – two fabulously scenic road trips between two of Australia’s most exciting cities! While you’re mulling over which route to take, we want to remind you about nobody’s favourite topic: insurance. We know it’s not the most riveting, but it’s still one of those road trip essentials that requires some thought. We hope you never need to use it, but it’s best to have it there as a safety net and peace of mind.

While driving in any Australian state or territory, it’s mandatory to have Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance. This is a third-party personal injury insurance policy, and it should be included in your rental by default. You might see it listed as ‘Green Slip insurance’.

Note that comprehensive (or full) car insurance isn’t mandatory in Australia. However, all car rentals will try to sell you something along the lines of an ‘Excess Waiver’, ‘Damage Liability Waiver’ or ‘Reduction Liability Waiver’. Basically, this surcharge brings the remaining excess on your rental to zero if you have an accident. In Oz, this usually amounts to $20 – $60 per day on top of your rental fee, which we’re sure you’d rather spend on other things.

That’s why we suggest you check out a couple of independent insurance companies instead. For example, get a quote from RentalCover.com . Their package works as a flat fee and includes a few added bonuses, like Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance. Regardless of who is to blame, they’ve got your back in the event of an accident. Your rental might still insist on taking your credit card details, but in a worst-case scenario, Rental Cover will reimburse any deduction made by your rental.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

And that concludes our Melbourne to Adelaide road trip ideas! (Plus all the other essentials you need to know to ensure your trip goes without a hitch)

We think both routes are equally rewarding, but they couldn’t be more different. On the one hand, you’ve got surfing and seafood; on the other, you’ve got wilderness and wine. That’s why we’d tell you to take one route from Melbourne, spend a few days exploring Adelaide , then head home on the other.

The things both of our road trip itineraries have in common is heaps of natural wonders and the chance to encounter Australia’s unique native wildlife.

We hope you’re able to pick the best road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide to suit your own adventure style. Now –  go book yourself a rental, and stock up on Cheezels.

Alexandria Zboyovski

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Travel Victoria – tourism blog

Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide

When you fly somewhere, it’s all about getting to your destination as quickly as possible. You step on a plane at one end and leave the plane at the other end. Whereas when you drive to your destination, you get to see and experience what is along the way, and maybe even take a detour or two.

When driving between Melbourne and Adelaide , there are a quite a few route options available, however we will cover three here – the most direct, along the coast and the route up north.

1. Direct route – Western Highway & Dukes Highway

The inland route is the quickest and shortest, thus it is also used by road transport operators moving goods between Melbourne and Adelaide.

Follow the Western Freeway out of Melbourne, and maybe get off the freeway and visit Ballarat – Victoria’s third largest city which has a rich history dating back to its prosperous days during the Gold Rush era.

Nature lovers will want to turn off the Western Highway at Ararat and detour to Halls Gap which lies within the famous Grampians National Park. There are waterfalls to discover, challenging hiking trails, stunning mountain views, lots of native wildlife and rich Aboriginal heritage that dates back many thousands of years.

Approximately 440 kilometres from Melbourne, the Western Highway crosses the state border into South Australia and the road becomes known as the Dukes Highway.

Follow the Dukes Highway to Tailem Bend – an attractive road junction town which overlooks the lower reaches of the mighty Murray River.

Follow the Princes Highway to Murray Bridge – also set on the Murray River and home to a large fleet of houseboats.

A 75 kilometre drive along the South Eastern Freeway will then take you into Adelaide, concluding the 726 kilometre road trip.

2. Along the coast – Great Ocean Road

Water lovers with time to spare should take the coastal route to Adelaide. It adds about 300 kilometres to the journey and significantly extra time due to some section of windy roads and passing through many coastal towns.

Follow the Princes Freeway out of Melbourne to Victoria’s second largest city of Geelong , which overlooks Corio Bay. From there, head south to Torquay which is the official start of the internationally recognised Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road is a spectacular coastal drive where you can enjoy panoramic coastal scenery, see stunning rock formations such as the 12 Apostles, explore lush rainforests and visit seaside communities which welcome travellers and holidaymakers.

The Great Ocean Road ends at the city of Warrnambool . Head west along the Princes Highway to the historic fishing village of Port Fairy and onto the deep sea port of Portland which was the site of Victoria’s first permanent settlement. Leave the highway at Portland and follow Portland – Nelson Road to the town of Nelson – a small village set on the majestic Glenelg River, within a stone’s throw of the state border with South Australia.

Follow Glenelg River Road across the border and to the large regional city of Mount Gambier . This geological hotspot is famous for its Blue Lake and stunning sinkholes. Take a 28 kilometre detour down to the coast to Port MacDonnell – once a busy shipping port, but now a quiet and charming village.

After leaving Mount Gambier, turn off the Princes Highway at Millicent and travel along the Southern Ports Highway to explore the coastal holiday towns along South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Check out Beachport, the ever popular holiday town of Robe and also Kingston SE with its Big Lobster.

Rejoining the Princes Highway, the coastal route traverses the Coorong National Park – internationally recognised wetlands with salty lagoons and gorgeous sandy beaches. Pass through Meningie , which is set on the shores of Lake Albert, before reaching the Murray River at Tailem Bend and completing the final leg of the journey to Adelaide.

3. Up north – Calder Highway & Sturt Highway

In complete contrast to the coastal route, the northern route traverses the more remote parts of Victoria and South Australia, adding around 200 kilometres to the journey.

Follow the Calder Freeway out of Melbourne and through the Macedon Ranges to Bendigo . Like Ballarat, this city thrived during Victoria’s Gold Rush days, leaving a lasting legacy of opulence and wealth.

Heading out of Bendigo on the Calder Highway takes you through a number of rural communities and through Victoria’s vast Mallee region which is home to huge farms that grow grain and other crops.

The Calder Highway ends in the far north-west corner of Victoria at the city of Mildura . Set on the Murray River and one of the warmest spots in the state, Mildura is a popular holiday destination, particularly for those who enjoy water activities on the river, and it is surrounded by vast wineries and fruit farms.

From Mildura, head west along the Sturt Highway, across the state border into South Australia, arriving at Renmark. Renmark is the gateway to South Australia’s Riverland region , with its Mediterranean climate creating a rich fruit growing area with irrigation provided by the Murray River. Visit the attractive river-front towns of Berri , Loxton and Waikerie .

The Sturt Highway continues west and passes through the northern section of the Barossa Valley at Nuriootpa . The Barossa Valley is, of course, one of Australia’s most famous wine region where you will find the biggest names in the wine industry.

From Nuriootpa, it is a 72 kilometre drive to Adelaide, however you may want to take the more scenic route along Barossa Valley Way through the charming grape growing towns of Tanunda and Lyndoch .

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2 responses to “Driving from Melbourne to Adelaide”

which one safe and fast route to adelaide

The fastest and shortest route is the inland direct route via Ballarat. The road between Melbourne and Ballarat is mainly of freeway standard, and there are long duplicated stretches of highway between Ballarat and Ararat. This is the major transport route between Melbourne and Adelaide.

Alternatively, if you want to travel from Melbourne to Adelaide without driving, but you want to see the scenery along the way, consider travelling on The Overland train from Melbourne to Adelaide.

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7-Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean Road

Melbourne and Adelaide are two of the most liveable Australian cities. Built along the coast, both Melbourne and Adelaide offer easy access to incredible beaches. With the world-renowned Great Ocean Road located between these two capital cities, a coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide is among one of the most scenic road trips in Australia.

A drive between Melbourne and Adelaide via the inland route takes only 8 hours. However, a drive between Melbourne and Adelaide along the south coast can take up to 12 hours. Note: Estimations based on a non-stop drive with no traffic & regular breaks are suggested to avoid driving fatigue.

To allow adequate breaks and to visit the popular attractions along the south coast, 3-day is the minimum for a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip via the Great Ocean Road. For the best experience and to fully discover the south coast, 7-day is the ideal duration for a coastal drive between Melbourne and Adelaide.

In this article, I have put together a detailed 7-day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary via the Great Ocean Road . Suggestions on where to eat & where to stay are also provided for your convenience. Hope you can find this itinerary useful in your trip planning process.

If you are time restricted & only wish to visit the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, you may wish to check out this article on: ‘ Great Ocean Road One Day Itinerary ‘.

Day 1: Melbourne to Torquay via Geelong

Torquay is located at the eastern end of the Great Ocean Road. With only a 1 hour and 20 minutes drive from Melbourne CBD, many people will choose Torquay as the first stop of their Melbourne to Adelaide road trip.

However, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are also very scenic and well worth a visit in their own right. They are conveniently located along the drive between Melbourne and Torquay. Hence, I highly suggest visiting them before heading off to Torquay. If you do not wish to spend a whole day in this area, I suggest at least checking out the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula when driving by.

For more detailed information on visiting Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, you may wish to also check out this article on: ‘ One Day Itinerary in Geelong & the Bellarine Peninsula ‘.

• Melbourne to Geelong : A drive between Melbourne and Geelong takes just over 1 hour on average & this drive is relatively straightforward.
• National Wool Museum : The only wool museum of this scale in Australia. A visitor information centre is also conveniently located on the ground floor of the National Wool Museum, which you may also wish to check out.
• Geelong Bollard Trail Walk : The most famous and popular walking trail in Geelong, featuring over 100 timber bollards dotted along Geelong’s waterfront area. These bollards are sculptures of iconic figures from Geelong & a great way for visitors to learn Geelong’s history.
• Geelong Botanic Gardens : Although small, Geelong Botanic Gardens is extremely picturesque & a great place to relax.
• The Dell & Clifton Springs : A beautiful former mineral spring site overlooking the incredible Port Philip Bay.
• Portarlington Pier : Located at the northern end of Bellarine Peninsula, Portarlington Pier is the best place for a sunset walk in the Bellarine Peninsula.

Where to Eat

• Breakfast : The Hardware Societe in Melbourne for a mouthwatering French breakfast.
• Lunch : Cafe Francisco Geelong for a delicious kebab and a quick meal.
• Dinner : The Gypsy’s Lunchbox in Torquay to satisfy your burger cravings.

Where to Stay

Geelong and Torquay are only a 25-minute drive away from each other. Hence, you can stay in either Geelong or Torquay for the first night of this road trip.

Since Geelong is bigger and more urbanised than Torquay, there are much more accommodations, shops, and eateries in Geelong . In addition, since Torquay is a popular holiday destination for people visiting the Great Ocean Road, in general, accommodations are more expensive in Torquay .

For more detailed information on accommodation options & pricing, you may wish to check out:

Day 2: Torquay to Apollo Bay

On the second day of this road trip, you will officially start to explore the extraordinary views along the Great Ocean Road.

From here on, you will drive past countless pristine beaches and breathtaking lookouts . You will likely have the urge to stop at every single one of them, but you do need to control this urge to some degree. Otherwise, it will take you way over 7-day to complete this coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide.

For more information on attractions along the Great Ocean Road, you may wish to check out this: ‘ Great Ocean Road One-Day Itinerary ‘.

• Bells Beach : An internationally renowned surf beach with soft sand and a striking view. You may wish to bring a surfboard along as well.
• Point Addis Beach Lookout : For another outstanding view of the beautiful Bells Beach.
• Loveridge Lookout / Anglesea lookout : For an impressive view of the remarkable Anglesea Beach.
• Split Point Lighthouse : A charming lighthouse next to a rugged coastline. There is also a short walk from the lighthouse for visitors to further explore this coastline.
• Memorial Arch at Eastern View : One of the most popular landmarks along the Great Ocean Road. It was erected to commemorate the WW1 soldiers who helped to build the Great Ocean Road.
• Teddy’s Lookout: A sensational lookout near Lorne, with an amazing view of the Southern Ocean.
• Sheoak Falls : A short drive west of Lorne. From the carpark, there is a 30-minute return walk (depending on fitness level) through a gorgeous woodland to visit the stunning Sheoak Falls.
• Mount Defiance Lookout & Cape Patton Lookout : There are various lookouts along the Great Ocean Road, all showcasing the spectacular coastline along the Southern Ocean. Mt Defiance Lookout & Cape Patton Lookout are two of my favourites between Lorne and Apollo Bay.
• Marriner’s Lookout (Apollo Bay ): After arriving at Apollo Bay, make sure you drive up the hill to check out Marriner’s Lookout for a sweeping view of the marvellous Apollo Bay.
• Apollo Bay Back Beach & Apollo Bay Harbour : Enjoy a sunset walk along Apollo Bay’s beautiful waterfront.
• Morning Tea : Great Ocean Road Chocolate & Ice Creamery for some delicious chocolate treats and ice cream.
• Lunch : The Lighthouse Tea Room  near Split Point Lighthouse for a light lunch.
• Dinner : Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op for their freshly caught Southern Rock Lobsters.

Apollo Bay is the mid-way point between Torquay and Warrnambool (the two ends of the Great Ocean Road). Therefore, Apollo Bay makes the perfect overnight stop during a road trip along the Great Ocean Road.

You can also stay at Lorne or Port Campbell for the night, but you may need to alter this itinerary a bit to suit your plan.

From my experience, Apollo Bay also offers more options and better value , in comparison to the accommodations in Lorne and Port Campbell. There are more shops and eateries to be found in Apollo Bay as well.

For detailed information on accommodation options & pricing of these 3 locations, you can also check out via:

Day 3: Apollo Bay to Warrnambool

The drive between Apollo Bay and Warrnambool is arguably the highlight of the entire Great Ocean Road Drive .

From Apollo Bay west along the Great Ocean Road, you will first drive through a serene rainforest , then be presented with the famous Gibson Steps & 12-Apostles . From the Gibson Steps onwards, you will find countless impressive off-shore rock stacks dotted along this rugged coastline.

For more information on attractions along the Great Ocean Road, you may wish to check out this article on: ‘ Great Ocean Road One-Day Itinerary ‘.

• Maits Rest Rainforest Walk : A 30-minute loop walk (depending on fitness level) in a tranquil rainforest in the Great Otway National Park. It is a relatively flat and easy walk but can be wet and slippery in certain spots.
• Gibson Steps : The lookout platform at Gibson Steps offers a spectacular view of the rugged coastline along the Great Ocean Road. From the lookout platform, there is also a set of narrow steps to the pristine beach under the cliff.
• 12 Apostles : The most well-known Great Ocean Road attraction. Although many people believe it is overhyped, you will still be better off taking 20-30 minutes out of this trip to check it out and take a photo of this site.
• Loch Ard Gorge : An impressive cluster of lookouts and walking trails to discover the remarkable Shipwreck Coast. For the best experience, plan for at least 2 hours to explore Loch Ard Gorge.
• London Bridge : An impressive off-shore stack along a remarkable coastline.
• The Grotto : A serene spot with captivating rock formations. It is one of my favourite spots along this drive.
• Bay of Martyrs to Halladale Point Walk : A stunning 30-minute walk to discover the beauty of Bay of Martyrs.
• Bay of Islands Beach : A pristine beach with a breathtaking view of the Bay of Islands.
• Breakfast: Check out the freshly baked scallop pies from Apollo Bay Bakery.
• Lunch : Forage on the Foreshore in Port Campbell for a quick lunch & a stunning view of the Port Campbell waterfront.
• Dinner : MADALA 134 in Warrnambool for some quality Thai food.

Warrnambool is located at the western end of the Great Ocean Road. It is also the largest town along the Great Ocean Road. With a decent range of accommodations, eateries, and shops to choose from, Warrnambool makes a great stop during a Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip.

Day 4: Warrnambool to Portland via Port Fairy

Although not as famous as the Great Ocean Road Drive, the coastal drive between Warrnambool and Portland is as scenic (if not more) as the Great Ocean Road Drive . Since most visitors tend to finish their road trips before arriving at Warrnambool, the journey between Warrnambool and Portland can be much more enjoyable than along the Great Ocean Road, especially during the peak seasons.

Since there is so much to discover between Warrnambool and Portland, I highly suggest splinting this section of the road trip over 2-day, if time allows.

For more detailed information on visiting Warrnambool & Portland, you can also check out the articles on:

• ‘ Things to Do in Warrnambool ‘
• ‘ Things to Do in Portland, Victoria ‘
• Stingray Bay to Thunder Point Lookout : Start the day with a relaxing coastal walk in the gorgeous Thunder Point Coastal Reserve between Stingray Bay and Thunder Point Lookout in Warrnambool.
• Logans Beach Whale Watching Platform : Check out Logans Beach for your chance to spot the impressive Southern Right Whales between June and August .
• Myojil / Point Ritchie : Head off to Point Ritchie for a stunning ocean view and a range of impressive rock formations after your whale watching at Logans Beach.
• Griffiths Island & Port Fairy Lighthouse : Under a 30-minute drive from Warrnambool, you can find the secluded Griffiths Island in Port Fairy. Following the well-maintained walkway from the carpark, you will eventually arrive at the picturesque Port Fairy Lighthouse . During the winter months, whales can also be spotted around the lighthouse.
• Yellow Rock Coastal Park (Portland): A rugged coastline and a tremendous amount of unique yellow-coloured rock formations. A great spot for surfing as well.
• Cape Nelson Lighthouse : One of my favourite spots along this drive. It features a stunning ivory-white lighthouse against the rugged coastline & the deep blue ocean. If you haven’t spotted a whale by now, Cape Nelson can be your best chance for spotting whales all year round ( Southern Right Whales during the colder months & Blue Whales during the warmer months) .
• Portland Town Centre : Finish the day with a leisure walk around Portland Town Centre to check out its over 200 historic buildings.
• Breakfast: Bohemia Cafe & Bar in Warrnambool for an amazing breakfast in a quirky Bohemian cafe.
• Lunch : Bank St + Co in Port Fairy (name on the door is Toby’s Estate – confusing, but apparently the same place) for a light lunch and an amazing coffee to recharge the day.
• Dinner : Check out Ric’s Pizza Bar in Portland for a pizza night.

Day 5: Mount Gambier

On day 5 of this coastal road trip between Melbourne and Adelaide, you will be crossing the Victorian and South Australian border & start to discover South Australia’s famous Limestone Coast .

Mount Gambier is the most well-known area along the Limestone Coast. In addition to its impressive coastline , Mount Gambier is also renowned for its unique limestone sinkholes .

For more information on the attractions around Mount Gambier, you can also check out this article on: ‘ Things to Do in Mount Gambier ‘.

• South Australia’s Southernmost Point : Check out the breathtaking coastline and remarkable rock formations at South Australia’s Southernmost Point – Cape Northumberland.
• Mount Shank : Take a short hike to visit a dormant volcano at Mount Shank in Mount Gambier.
• Little Blue Lake : Cool off after your hike in a picturesque crater lake, the Little Blue Lake.
• Blue Lake : One of the most famous crater lakes in Mount Gambier. Take a short walk around the lake to appreciate the captivating views of this tranquil blue lake.
• Centenary Tower : Take a walk up Centenary Tower for a sweeping view of Mount Gambier and its surrounding areas.
• Umpherston Sinkhole : One of the prettiest sinkhole gardens in Mount Gambier. A walk within this beautiful sinkhole garden is indeed a walk in a fairytale!
• Cave Garden : A small sinkhole garden located in the middle of Mount Gambier town centre. It also runs a nightly light show for everyone to enjoy.
• Breakfast: The Lido Larder in Portland for an awesome selection of baked goods and delicious coffee.
• Lunch : Pack a picnic to enjoy with a view of the stunning Blue Lake in Mount Gambier .
• Dinner : Check out Natural Born Grillers in Mount Gambier for a succulent burger.

Mount Gambier is one of the largest regional towns in South Australia. With a range of accommodations, eateries, and shops to suit different needs, Mount Gambier is the perfect location for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Mount Gambier to Robe via Beachport

After exploring the Mount Gambier region, we will head further west along the south coast to visit the beautiful Beachport and Robe town.

Beachport is a small coastal village between Mount Gambier and Robe. With stunning coastal views and access to essential facilities, Beachport makes a great stopover between Mount Gambier and Robe.

Robe is a gorgeous coastal town along the Limestone Coast. It features a rugged coastline with remarkable limestone formations. It is also home to the Southern Rock Lobsters in South Australia & make sure you try them out when visiting Robe.

For more information on visiting Beachport and Robe, you may wish to check out these articles on:

• ‘ Top 5 Attractions in Beachport ‘
• ‘ Robe Road Trip Itinerary ‘
• Beachport Jetty : Take a relaxing morning stroll along South Australia’s second-longest jetty, Beachport Jetty, after arriving at Beachport from Mount Gambier.
• Bowman Scenic Drive : From Beachport Jetty, follow the signage to check out the spectacular views along Bowman Scenic Drive. Numerous parking bays are available along Bowman Scenic Drive for visitors to park safely before enjoying the views.
• Beacon Hill Lookout : For a panoramic view of Robe, its magnificent coastline, and the surrounding reserves.
• Robe Obelisk : The most iconic Robe landmark & one of the most scenic spots in Robe. Make sure you check it out too!
• Robe Coastal Walk : From Robe Obelisk, follow Robe Coastal Walk towards Robe Lighthouse to better appreciate Robe’s spectacular coastline.
• Glass Beach : Finish your coastal walk at the peaceful Glass Beach, with a view of Robe Lighthouse in the distance. If lucky, you can also find some colourful sea glasses around Glass Beach.
• Long Beach : A long stretch of sandy beach near Robe. It is also one of Robe’s prime 4WD beaches.
• Town Beach : A beautiful beach in the centre of Robe town. Perfect for a sunset walk.
• Breakfast: Bay Blue Espresso Bar in Mount Gambier for a quick coffee and breakfast to start the day.
• Lunch : Enjoy a delicious lunch at Adventurous Spoon in Robe .
• Dinner : Check out Sails at Robe for their famous grilled Southern Rock Lobster with garlic butter sauce.

Robe is a great place to base yourself for the night.

Alternatively, you can also stay in nearby Kingston SE , but the accommodation and dining options in Kingston SE are much more limited in comparison.

For a detailed list of accommodation options, you may wish to check out:

Day 7: Robe to Adelaide

On the last day of this 7-Day road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road, you will get to explore the stunning Kingston SE, check out the famed Coorong National Park, take a walk along the beautiful Lake Albert, and arrive at the wine capital of Australia, Adelaide .

For detailed information on the attractions between Robe and Adelaide, you may wish to check out here on this: ‘ Adelaide to Robe Road Trip Itinerary’ .

For visiting Adelaide, you may also wish to check out these articles here:

• The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Adelaide
• 3-Day Adelaide Itinerary Without a Car
• Adelaide Hills Day Trip Itinerary
• Kangaroo Island 2-Day Road Trip Itinerary
• Victor Harbor Day Trip Itinerary
• Port Adelaide Day Trip Itinerary
• Best Adelaide Beaches to Visit
• 10 Best Day Trips from Adelaide
• Barrosa Valley v.s McLaren Vale
• Kingston Jetty : Take a relaxing walk along Kingston Jetty to enjoy Kingston SE’s stunning waterfront.
• The Big Lobster : Stop by The Big Lobster, Larry, for a photo with this 17-metre-long fibreglass lobster sculpture.
• Jack Point Observation Deck : Take a short walk from the car park to visit Jack Point Observation Deck for a taste of the wonderful Coorong National Park.
• Meningie : Stop by Meningie for a walk along the tranquil Lake Albert.
• Pink Lake : Check out the Pink Lake near Meningie for a surreal lake view. Note: the pinkness of this lake increases as it dries out during the warmer months.
• Murray Bridge : Take a break at Murray Bridge along the beautiful River Murray.
• Adelaide Hills : If time allows, you may wish to check out the picturesque Adelaide Hills before heading down to Adelaide.
• Breakfast: Drift Cafe in Robe for a light breakfast to start the day.
• Lunch : Check out the delicious baked goods, especially the meat pies, from Meningie Bakery .
• Dinner : Windy Point Restaurant in Adelaide for a meal with the best view of the Adelaide skyline.

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Melbourne to Adelaide Fun 5-Day Road Trip

Looking for an epic road trip to do in Australia? Check out this 5-day journey from Melbourne to Adelaide! Starting in the cultural heart and soul of Victoria, this route winds its way from Melbourne, past the beauty of the Great Ocean Road, alongside the grandiose Umpherston Sinkhole in Mt Gambier, via the salty Pool Of Siloam and many other top Australian attractions, before finishing in the charming city oasis of Adelaide. Traversing over 1100 km in five days, this itinerary is full of beautiful scenery, top Australian attractions, and plenty of places to stop and eat along the way!

Whether you are backpacking in a campervan , solo travelling or simply just excited to try a little van life, this five-day adventure is the perfect Victoria to South Australia itinerary to experience it all. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

How long does it take to drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along the Great Ocean Road?

While a direct route may be slightly shorter, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, making it the perfect addition to this itinerary. The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide along the Great Ocean Road takes about 10 hours. As such, if you want to really experience all that the Great Ocean Road has to offer, five days is the perfect amount of time to experience it all.

Melbourne to Adelaide

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All year round

• Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre
• Bells Beach
• Umpherston Sink Hole
• Coorong National Park

The Journey

Tourism Australia Image Gallery

Day 1 Melbourne to Lorne

Distance 141km - driving time 2 hours 15 minutes.

Once you have arrived in Melbourne, your first stop is to pick up your campervan from the Mighty Melbourne branch . There is plenty to see and do in Melbourne, so if you like, spend a few hours exploring the city before hitting the road. Then, it's time to head west! The first leg of your trip takes you along the Great Ocean Road to the seaside town of Lorne. This scenic drive is one of Australia's most popular, and for good reason. The first stop along the way is in Geelong for a wander and check out the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre , where you can learn about Aboriginal history in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

Next up, make a little stop in Torquay. This charming little seaside town is best known for its laid-back charm, great eateries and the famed Bells Beach . While you’re here, be sure to jump in and enjoy the surf, or simply marvel at the surfers down below from the cliffside platforms - it's quite a sight. Once you’re back on the road, all that's left to do is to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along the first stretch of the Great Ocean Road. If you are still feeling energised once you arrive in Lorne, hit the beach for a paddle or head to Jebbs Pool Swimming hole for a dip. Then settle in at camp for the night.

Where to stay: Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park.

Day 2 Lorne to Port Fairy via the Great Ocean Road

Distance 230km - driving time 3 hours 35 minutes.

Wake up and grab a bite to eat at the popular Bottle of Milk cafe in Lorne. This little hole-in-the-wall offers a range of delectable breakfast options, from goat's cheese-stuffed mushrooms and pancake stacks to quick bites and coffee. Once you have had your fill, it’s time to get on the road. The first stop on the itinerary today is to explore the Great Otway National Park . Tucked away a little north of the coast, this stunning park is home to waterfalls, rainforests and plenty of wildlife. While here, be sure to stop by the iconic Redwoods Forest . This remarkable forest is filled with the world's tallest tree species - the Californian Redwoods - that tower at a staggering 60 meters above these fertile soils!

After a bite to eat for lunch, jump back in your campervan and wind back towards the coastline for the ultimate iconic Great Ocean Road stop: the 12 Apostles . These huge limestone stacks are a must-see in this region. Along this stretch, you will also find the infinite beauty of Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge and Gibson Steps - all offering a unique angle and perspective of these precariously balanced rock formations.

End the afternoon by driving to Port Fairy. Here you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the wharf and check out the Griffiths Island Lighthouse before checking into your campsite for the night.

Where to stay when you arrive: Gardens Caravan Park.

Day 3 Port Fairy to Beachport

Distance 250km - driving time 2 hours 55 minutes.

After a restful night's sleep in your van, you'll be ready to hit the road again and continue your travels crossing into South Australia. After leaving Port Fairy, the next stop on your road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide is the quaint coastal town of Beachport. On the way, stop and stretch your legs in Mt Gambier at the Umpherston Sinkhole . This limestone cavern is a beautiful natural wonder that you won't want to miss. Filled with stunning greenery, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture this unique landmark. While in town, you can also enjoy a hike to the famous Blue Lake , where you'll get sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and marvel at the vivid blues of this lake.

Once you arrive in Beachport, spend some time exploring its stunning beaches and crystal blue waters. Take a stroll along the jetty or relax by the Pool Of Siloam . This unique pool is said to be seven times saltier than the sea and provides a very buoyant experience - no floaties required!

Where to stay when you arrive: Beachport Caravan Park .

Day 4 Beachport to Victor Harbour

Distance 398km - driving time 4 hours 25 minutes.

Looking for a unique travel experience on your road trip through Australia? Then buckle up for day four of this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! After enjoying a leisurely breakfast in your campervan, it's time to hit the road. Along the way, stop at Coorong National Park along the way from Beachport to Victor Harbour. Located just a few hours' drive away, Coorong National Park is home to some of Australia's most stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches and sand dunes to marshes and wetlands.

Next, stop in at Langhorne Creek and try some of the local wines. With its warm climate and fertile soil, this region produces some of Australia's best vintages, perfect for pairing with a delicious meal at one of the local wineries. Once you arrive in Victor Harbor, explore the area by taking a ride on the scenic horse-drawn tramway or visiting the penguin colony along Granite Island. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there truly is something for everyone in this beautiful coastal town.

Where to stay when you arrive: NRMA Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park.

Day 5 Victor Harbour to Adelaide via Cape Jervis

Distance 167km - driving time 2 hours 20 minutes.

Today marks the last day of this road trip and so be sure to make the most of it. Get an early start to the day with a drive to take a walk around Deep Creek National Park . Just 40-minutes from Victor Harbour, this stunning natural oasis is home to some of the region's most breathtaking views of Kangaroo Island. An early start will ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic walk along the park's trails through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls. As you make your way through the park, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas - there are plenty to be found! Then it’s time to drive north into the vibrant city oasis of Adelaide.

Once you arrive in Adelaide, be sure to check out the city's bustling Adelaide Central Market . This is one of the largest undercover markets in the southern hemisphere and a must-do! Here you'll find everything from local crafts and artisanal foods to hand-painted artwork, and local produce. Then, spend the afternoon checking out the city's many museums, art galleries, botanic gardens, beaches and shopping experiences.

From here you can choose to end your trip and return your camper to the Adelaide Mighty branch . Not quite ready to end the trip? Why not loop back to Melbourne and take an inland route or keep exploring north towards the Northern Territory or across the bite towards Western Australia? The opportunities are endless.

Does this campervan itinerary look good to you?

So there you have it, the ultimate Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! Five days is the perfect amount of time to explore everything this great region has to offer. From world-famous wine country and stunning coastal drives to unique cultural experiences, this is easily one of the best road trips from Melbourne. And what better way to experience all this than in a comfortable and convenient campervan?

Ready to experience this iconic road trip for yourself? Book your Mighty campervan today and start planning your own adventure! For more tips on your upcoming campervan trip, such as top tips for a cheap campervan trip , check out the Mighty blog .

• Questions? Talk to us now

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – An Epic 8 Day Itinerary

There are very few road trips in the world that pack in quite as much amazing variety as a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. In the space of 8 days you will traverse pristine beaches, ancient rainforest, dramatic mountains, volcanic landscapes and fertile wine regions.

Of course while you are at it you’ll also be ticking off one of the world’s most famous drives, the Great Ocean Road . This is a trip everyone should do once in their lifetime.  The below itinerary covers all the best highlights of the Melbourne to Adelaide drive over a period of 8 days.

If you’re in a rush you can remove the detours to Grampians National Park and/or Beachport to take the time down to 5 days. Conversely, those with more time won’t regret spending an extra night or two at each of the stops.

The Great Ocean Road lives up to it’s name

Table of Contents

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – Overview

Recommended stops.

• Great Otway National Park – 2 nights
• 12 Apostles
• Warrnambool
• Grampians National Park – 2 nights
• Mount Gambier – 1 nights
• Beachport – 1 night
• Naracoorte Caves National Park
• Hahndorf – 1 night
• Mount Lofty and Cleland Conservation Park
• Adelaide – 1+ nights

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Summary

Day 1 – Leave Melbourne early in the morning and drive 2 hours to Lorne. Spend the morning seeing amazing waterfalls and hilltop views of the Great Ocean Road. If you want more excitement then test your courage at the Live Wire Park.

Explore Cape Otway and spot koalas before settling in for the night.

Night 1 – Cape Otway

Day 2 – Spend the day exploring the stunning Great Otway National Park.

Night 2 – Great Otway National Park

Day 3 –  Jump back on the Great Ocean Road and check out the famous 12 Apostles and surrounding attractions. After this you’ll follow the road to Warrnambool where you can visit the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

Head north in the afternoon to Halls Gap in the Grampians National Park. Check in to your accommodation and have a well earned drink.

Night 3 – Halls Gap

Day 4 –  Explore the epic peaks and lookouts of the Grampians.

Night 4 – Halls Gap

You don’t even have to leave your car to see wildlife!

Day 5 – Leave the Grampians in the morning and drive 2.5hrs to Mount Gambier. Welcome to South Australia! Spend the day exploring the many highlights around this area.

Night 5 –  Mount Gambier

Day 6 – After all the hiking thus far you’ve earned a day at the beach. Drive one hour to Beachport for a taste of the beautiful beaches of the Limestone Coast.

Night 6 – Beachport

Day 7   – You’ll have to go cross country for an hour to get back to the main highway. A little over an hour’s drive will take you through the beautiful vineyards of the Coonawarra wine region, ending at the Naracoorte Caves.

Spend a couple of hours exploring the awesome caves and other attractions here before jumping back in the car. It’s a solid 3 hours and 20 minutes drive this afternoon but the end point of Hahndorf is well worth it!

Night 7 – Hahndorf

Day 8 – Spend the morning exploring the unique town of Hahndorf. When you’re ready to move on, an easy 15 minute drive will take you to Mount Lofty. Explore the beautiful botanic gardens and take in the amazing views of Adelaide from the summit.

Night 8 – Adelaide

Final Day –  You’re in Adelaide! What you do from here will depend on your time and circumstances. You can explore the CBD in a day before returning to Melbourne but you ideally need 3 days in Adelaide  to explore it properly.

If you’re on a longer trip and heading towards W.A then make sure to check out our Perth to Adelaide Road Trip (It’s the wrong way around for this scenario but just as amazing to do backwards!).

Total Driving Time

15.5 hrs – Melbourne to Adelaide, one way

Longest Stretch of Driving

4hrs 40mins, Day 8, Beachport-Naracoorte-Hahndorf

Total KM Covered

Melbourne to adelaide road trip highlights.

• The stunning waterfalls of the Great Otway National Park
• Winding mountain roads lined with lush ferns and huge trees
• Driving the Great Ocean Road
• The 12 Apostles
• Standing atop the epic peaks of the Grampians National Park
• The vivid blue crater lake in the middle of Mount Gambier
• The historical German town of Hahndorf
• The amazing array of wildlife at Cleland Conservation Park

Exploring the amazing Grampians National Park

How Long Will I Need?

To complete this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Itinerary as written, you will need at least 10 days. If you additionally want to explore Adelaide properly you should add another 2 days to this.

It is possible to complete this road trip in a week or less . Removing the Grampian National Park and Beachport stops will save 3 nights and streamline the journey.

Accommodation

There are plenty of accommodation options available throughout this trip. If you have an RV or caravan then there are some great camp sites and caravan parks too. In each section we will list our recommended accommodation and the best areas to stay.

Best Time of Year To Go

Late spring is the best time to do this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip. You have a lot of sunny days on average plus there is still a lot of water coming down the falls. Add to this the stunning new growth and flowers that abound at this time of year.

Of course you can also complete the trip any time over summer. The weather is fairly mild along most of this route and the large amount of sunny days will mean less chance of rain putting a damper on things.

There is a lot to see around the 12 Apostles

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip Tips

• Save Money:  Make use of free campsites using the  WikiCamps app . We will list some of the best camp sites along the route however some do not allow tents so make sure to double check.
• Get up early for the 12 Apostles:  Given the direction of the lookout to the rock formations, the sun will be rising behind you in the morning. This will give you amazing morning light shining onto the rocks and making for the best photos.
• Don’t drive at night: Always plan your drives during daylight hours. There is a lot of wildlife along parts of this route.
• Check your route before you drive:  The Otways have some pretty crazy mountain roads and large RVs/caravans may not be suitable. We will point this out in the Otways section. Driving Beachport to Naracoorte offers several routes, make sure to pick the one going through Coonawarra.

►Check out our full list of all of the best  Australian road trip tips  you must know before hitting the road!

The Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

If you are travelling to Australia from overseas then make sure you have good travel insurance before hitting the road. We use  Heymondo  when we travel as it’s perfect for adventures such as hiking, surfing, road tripping etc.

For peace of mind while abroad, Heymondo is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and basic medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered.

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Hiring a Car

If you don’t own a car then you can search for the perfect hire car below. We always use rentalcars.com to find the best price between various operators. There is an option to include full insurance with no excess, which is always highly recommended. Use the form below to check out the various options.

Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip – One of the Best Drives in Australia

Don’t miss a photo op at this iconic sign

This amazing road trip doesn’t make you wait to start seeing stunning sights. You’ll begin the day with your first taste of the Great Ocean Road, driving about 2 hours south-west to the town of Lorne.

If you’re a surfer then you might want to start the day nice and early so you can make a stop at Torquay. This seaside town is the home of the famous Bells Beach and also has a small surf museum which is well done.

If you don’t want to have an early surf or swim then continue on to Lorne (there is also a nice beach here). Make sure to stop at the ‘Memorial Arch at Eastern View’, this is a classic photo spot on the Melbourne to Adelaide drive.

Lorne is home to some really beautiful waterfalls . It is up to you how many you see as there are even more tomorrow. The best falls to see here are the Erskine Falls, the road is quite steep so leave any caravans behind.

Erskine Falls are one of the best in Victoria

Other falls in town are Henderson, Sheoak and Phantom Falls. They are all nice but the ones in the Otways tomorrow are better so it’s up to you how much time you spend here.

The Blanket Leaf Picnic Area on the way back to town makes a beautiful morning tea stop. Right before you reach town you will also see the Live Wire Park . This is a forest amusement park consisting of high ropes courses, zip-lines and other exciting activities.

One of the best views of the Great Ocean Road can be had in the hills above Lorne. Head up to Teddy’s Lookout and take in sweeping views of the forest covered mountains dropping away into the sea.

Cape Otway – Great Otway National Park

The destination for the afternoon is Cape Otway. This is part of the Great Otway National Park which is an absolute highlight of this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip. The stretch of the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay is very scenic and arguably the best part.

Spot wild koalas on Cape Otway

The main town in this area is Apollo Bay, you can stay here but we recommend to stay out on Cape Otway tonight. Make sure to stock up on anything you need if planning to stay out of town.

Cape Otway is an amazing place to spot wildlife, especially Koalas. The Wildlife Wonders sanctuary is located 5 mins outside of Apollo Bay and offers guided nature walks . You’ll get a set of binoculars and walk a 1.4km trail through a range of landscapes, spotting all sorts of creatures along the way. The best part is that all proceeds go towards conservation efforts of endangered species.

For the last stop of the day head out to the Cape Otway Lightstation . This is the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Australian mainland and was built in 1848. You can explore the surrounding heritage buildings and climb the lighthouse for dramatic views of the coastline. Check the website for current hours and prices.

Catch a clifftop sunset at Cape Otway Lightstation

Where to Stay in Cape Otway

Bimbi Park –  Located only 8 minutes from the lighthouse, this park offers a range of beautiful cabins. The park itself is a huge highlight, with trees full of wild koalas. Another great perk is that you are close enough to watch an amazing sunset from the lighthouse grounds.

Caravanning/Camping

Bimbi Park – The above mentioned park also offers caravan and camp sites.

Camp Grounds – There are several highly rated camp grounds around this area. Parker Hill, Aire River East and Johanna Beach are all amazing spots. Use the link to browse all sites on a map and book with Parks Victoria.

Great Otway National Park

This itinerary devotes an entire day to exploring this park, which is one of the top highlights of Victoria. You have a couple of options for accommodation tonight which you may have to think about in advance. There is free camping at a stunning site near the main attractions however it is not suitable for large RVs or caravans.

Beauchamp Falls Reserve is a great campsite

If you want to be best positioned for sunrise at the 12 Apostles tomorrow then you will want to find accommodation closer to there. Lastly, you can remain on Cape Otway which will be about a 50km drive to the attractions on today’s list. See below for the best accommodation options.

The main activity to do here is walking through pristine rainforest to get to spectacular waterfalls . There are several of them here and this is one activity that never gets old. The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is blessed with a number of the best waterfalls in Australia.

Our favourites in order were Beauchamp Falls, Hopetoun Falls and Triplet Falls. Near to Hopetoun Falls you can also visit ‘The Redwoods Otways’. This trial plantation of California Redwoods was planted in 1936 and left to grow. They are thriving here next to a pretty creek and it such an amazing experience to be able to walk through this scene in Australia!

The Otway Fly Treetop Walk is a highlight

The top highlight however is seeing the forest from another perspective. Otway Fly Treetop Adventures has a 600m elevated walkway and tower. The kids and young at heart will love the ziplining through the forest and the enchanted forest walk.

Where to Stay in Great Otway National Park

As stated above it is possible to stay in your accommodation in Cape Otway. If you want to be closer to the 12 Apostles for amazing sunrise shots then check out the below.

12 Apostles Cottages – These beautiful self-contained cottages have amazing ocean views and are only a stones throw from the 12 Apostles.

If you have a large RV or caravan it is probably not advisable to take it to the waterfalls/campground however you can reach the Otway Fly parking lot.

Beauchamp Falls Reserve –  This is a free campground only a short walk from the falls. There are only 6 sites however and it is unpowered. There are toilet facilities, fire-pits and amazing views down a forested valley. Unfortunately there has been recent forestry works around the site but the views are still great.

Princetown Recreation Reserve – This cheap site is perfect if you have a caravan or large RV. They offer powered or unpowered sites only 10 minutes drive from the 12 Apostles.

Walking amongst the giant redwoods is magical

12 Apostles/Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

The 12 Apostles lookout point is the iconic image of the Great Ocean Road. The lookout faces roughly west and so the morning light provides amazing photographic opportunities.

If you have stayed close to the lookout at one of the properties above then you won’t have to get up too early for the magical golden hour. If you have made a beeline for this lookout then when you are done you will need to backtrack a short distance. Gibson Steps wind down the cliff face and access the beach where you can admire the huge cliffs and sandstone pinnacles up close.

Jump back on the road and continue heading west. After a short distance you will come to the turnoff for Loch Ard Gorge. This is well signposted and another highlight on the Great Ocean Road . In this same area are several other great sights like the Tom and Eva lookout and Thunder Cave.

Sunrise at the iconic 12 Apostles

Continue down the Great Ocean Road past the town of Port Campbell. Between here and Warrnambool are several great photo stops. The first is ‘London Bridge’, closely followed by ‘The Grotto’. The final recommended stop before the road heads inland is the ‘Bay of Islands’.

That’s the Great Ocean Road completed and your next stop is going to be the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool. This complex houses a great museum about the settlement of Victoria as well as a living history village. It’s a lot of fun walking the streets here and visiting all the shops decorated with antique items.

Volunteers sometimes walk the village and work the shops in period costumes. The weekends have the most happening but it is a great visit any day of the week. Close by the village are several other attractions if you have the time, remembering that there is 2 hours to drive to get to Halls Gap.

Loch Ard Gorge is another great stop

Stingray Bay is a very nice beach near to the Maritime Village. In this same area you can also find the ‘Deep Blue Hot Springs’, which are a great way to relax after walking around the village. During whale watching season (June to September) there are several whale watching lookouts that are worth checking out.

Once you have finished exploring Warrnambool you will need to drive 157km to Halls Gap. This takes about 2 hours so make sure to leave enough time to reach here before dark as there are a lot of animals. It’s better to stay in town and make the drive in the morning if you run out of time.

The fun and informative Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

Where to Stay in Halls Gap

Halls Gap Log Cabins – This accommodation is right near town and features wood fires. Some cabins also have spa baths to ease those sore legs after all the hiking.

►Browse more accommodation options in Halls Gap

BIG4 NRMA Halls Gap Holiday Park – A full featured caravan park in walking distance to the Halls Gap town centre. They even have a heated swimming pool!

Smiths Mill Campground – This is a great campsite situated right near MacKenzie Falls. It has both vehicle and tent sites and must be booked in advance. It has drop toilets and the shower listed is just a bucket on a rope with a faucet. This site is at the top of a pretty full on mountain road so may not be suitable for large caravans and RVs.

Grampians National Park

You’ll have the whole day to explore the Grampians which is just enough to leave you wanting more. There is way too much to see here to fit into one day but you will be able to see the main highlights.

MacKenzie Falls has an amazing flow year round

The main attractions all sit along the Mt Victory road, which is where you should concentrate your efforts today. The following recommended attractions are listed in the order that you will come across them when driving from town.

For the first stop you should enter ‘Wonderland Carpark’ into your navigation system. This is the starting point for the Pinnacle Lookout hike which is a huge highlight of the Grampians. There are several attractions and amazing viewpoints along this hike. Splitters Falls is a separate hike from the carpark but not too long (although very steep). This only flows nicely in the wetter seasons so don’t bother in summer/autumn.

To reach the next stop at Boroka Lookout you will have to make a right turn onto Mt Difficult Road. This is a pretty steep road but the lookout at the top is well worth it. This is arguably the best lookout in the Grampians National Park.

The Pinnacle Lookout is worth the effort!

Head back to the main road and continue a short distance to the turnoff for ‘The Balconies’. This is another stunning viewpoint offering views over a different aspect of the park. The photogenic rock ledges provide a great subject for your shots.

The final stop along the road is the phenomenal MacKenzie Falls. There are quite a lot of steps down to the bottom but boy is it worth it. The falls flow year round and the thunder and spray of the water can be experienced from up close. If you’re brave you can even go for a dip, but it’s pretty chilly!

This is definitely enough to fill a whole day but if you don’t hike or are just super efficient there is plenty more. Check out the official website for a full list of sights to see in this park.

The Balconies are an amazing lookout point

Mount Gambier

Welcome to South Australia! Mount Gambier sits right in the south-east corner of the state, only 2.5 hours from Halls Gap. This town is a bit of a hidden gem, with some amazing scenery and interesting things to do. It’s also home to several of South Australia’s best natural landmarks .

If you leave the Grampians reasonably early then you should have plenty of time to explore the main highlights. The most interesting sights are right in town or close by.

The first attraction you’ll come across as you enter town is the Umpherston Sinkhole. There are numerous sinkholes around the Limestone Coast, most formed by collapsed caves. This particular one was converted into a garden all the way back in 1886 by a Mr James Umpherston.

It’s a truly unique sight and descending down into the beautiful garden makes for a lovely short walk. The sight is open from dawn to dusk and sunset makes for a particularly nice visit.

Umpherston Sinkhole Garden from above

The next must-visit attraction in Mount Gambier is the Blue Lake. This incredible lake sits inside a huge volcanic crater and is vibrant blue in colour. The best time to view the lake is on a sunny day but it is still quite impressive even when overcast.

There are several lookouts around the lake which are all worth visiting. The best one is along the narrow cliffside stretch of road on the north-west side of the lake. From here you can walk up a steep trail to a viewing platform that offers an amazing perspective.

Speaking of great perspectives, you can head up to the Centenary Tower for the best view of the surrounding countryside. Accessed by a trail from the ‘Lions Lookout’, this 1904 tower sits at the highest point in this area.

The deep azure waters of the Mount Gambier crater lake

The final site that you should check out today is the Engelbrecht Cave system . This network of caves actually runs underneath the town and is accessed from right near the town centre. They offer guided tours and you can even scuba dive flooded sections of the cave if you are qualified.

There is plenty more to do in and around town if you still have time left over. Check out this list on Tripadvisor if you have energy left for more exploration. Otherwise settle in to your accommodation for some well earned relaxation.

Where to Stay in Mount Gambier

Colhurst House – This beautiful heritage mansion is packed full of old world charm. The rooms are beautifully presented and they have hot-tubs and bathrobes, need I say more?

The Old Mount Gambier Gaol – This is a super unique accommodation option to match the attractions around town. This gaol from 1866 has been converted into a range of rooms while still retaining a lot of the old features of the gaol.

►Browse more accommodation options in Mount Gambier

Pine Country Caravan Park – This park is slightly out of town but worth the small extra drive. It’s a beautiful park with spacious sites. The huge flocks of cockatoos in the evenings are delightful to watch.

After all the sightseeing thus far you’ve earned a day at the beach. South Australia has some fantastic beaches and the best ones are possible found right here on the Limestone Coast.

This is a bit of a detour in the wrong direction so if beaches aren’t really your thing or the weather is terrible then you can save yourself a day and not make the trip.

The Beachport Jetty

If you do choose to come here then you won’t be disappointed. The pristine beaches and clear water make for a great day swimming and sunbaking. It is quiet enough that you can often have a large area of beach to yourself.

The best thing to do here is just relax and take a break from the busy schedule. A good tip is to take the Bowman Scenic Drive (which you shouldn’t miss) out to the family friendly Salmon Hole beach. The shallow water here is great for swimming and snorkelling.

The Beachport Jetty is also a great walk, it stretches a really impressive distance out in to the sparkling ocean as you can see above! If you are a sucker for sightseeing then check out the official list of all the things to do around town.

Spend the night here and try to get an early one as it’s a big day tomorrow!

The beautiful Bowman Scenic Drive

Where to Stay in Beachport

Bonnies of Beachport – Stay beachfront in Beachport. These spectacular apartment offer ocean views and are walking distance to the town centre.

►Browse more accommodation options in Beachport

Southern Ocean Tourist Park – This park offers large grassy sites and clean amenities only a short walk to the beach. It is also right in town so you can take advantage of the restaurants and shops.

3 Mile Bend Campground – This campground is located 3km out of town and features drop toilets. It is suitable for tents or caravans. Bookings must be made via the link provided and it costs $16 per night.

Naracoorte Caves/Hahndorf

Today is the longest stretch of driving on the trip at 445km. There is some great scenery and a fantastic stop along the first 180km so they fly by quite easily.

After leaving Beachport, the first stop is the Naracoorte Caves. Google maps plots several different routes to get there so make sure you select the one that heads east to Penola before continuing north on the main highway.

The drive will first take you through Coonawarra, which is known for producing some fantastic red wines. The beautiful scenery of endless vineyards begins around here and continues for a large part of the drive to Padthaway.

Exploring one of the fantastic caves at Naracoorte

The first stop is the Naracoorte Caves National Park. These caves are around 800,000 years old and numerous fossils of extinct creatures have been found here. They offer some great tours and there is a small but really fun museum. You can choose from a number of different experiences including adventure caving, fossil filled caves and a bat observation centre. Click here for more information.

Following your visit to the caves it’s basically a straight shot to the town of Hahndorf. It’s a little over 3 hours more driving and so you might be arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll have the morning tomorrow to explore this town so don’t stress about sightseeing today.

Hahndorf has some great restaurants and pubs so you should definitely make the most of them tonight! Check out the German Arms or the Hahndorf Inn for a great German style pub experience.

The Hahndorf Inn has operated as a pub/hotel since 1863

Where to Stay in Hahndorf

Manna by Haus – These clean and comfortable rooms are situated right in the heart of Hahndorf. They offer free parking and it’s a great place to stop after a long day of driving. You will be walking distance to all the best pubs in town.

►Browse more accommodation options in Hahndorf

Discovery Parks Hahndorf Resort – There is only one option in town but don’t worry because it’s a great one. This is a lovely park with great facilities. It’s a little outside town but still only a short walk away and the bus stops right outside.

Hahndorf/Mount Lofty

The first half of today can be spent exploring all the cute little shops and sights around Hahndorf. There are some great places for breakfast and it is worth eating out for the ambiance provided. Check out Café 1839 for some of the best décor.

The main thing to do here is browsing the shops and finding hidden away photo spots down alleys. Around town are some fabulous wineries like Hahndorf Hill Estate, Shaw + Smith and Nepenthe. Don’t feel rushed as the next stop is only a short drive away, as is Adelaide.

Café 1839 is a great spot for breakfast

When you have finished exploring Hahndorf, jump in the car and enter Mount Lofty Botanic Park into the navigation. This is a beautiful garden set into a steep slope. Only a short distance further up the road is the Mount Lofty summit. Here you will have an amazing view over Adelaide and the surrounding area. There is a café at the top and also some walking trails.

If you have time left over in the day then consider visiting Cleland Wildlife Park. This is right near the summit and one of the best wildlife parks in Australia. There are a huge range of native animals to see and interact with. If you can’t make it then don’t stress, it can easily be done in a day trip from Adelaide .

After exploring Mount Lofty you can wind your way down the scenic mountain roads to Adelaide. Head to your accommodation and put your feet up, you’ve just completed this Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip!

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

Where to Stay in Adelaide

The Palms Apartments  – Situated on the north-east corner of the CBD, this is perfectly located within walking distance to some of the top attractions. The rooms are clean and spacious with great amenities like free Wi-Fi and a dishwasher.

Stamford Grand Adelaide  – This building is an iconic part of the Glenelg beachfront. It is equally beautiful inside and out and has an amazing indoor pool to relax in after a day of sightseeing. You will be right near the tram line for easy access to the city.

►Browse more accommodation options in Adelaide◄

Adelaide is unique in having plenty of great caravan parks right in the city. For easy access to the CBD check out Adelaide Caravan Park or Levi Adelaide Holiday Park .

For beachfront stays (but further from the attractions in the CBD) check out BIG4 West Beach Parks or Discovery Parks Adelaide Beachfront .

Although you’ve reached your destination, the trip definitely doesn’t have to end. Hopefully you’ve put some time aside to explore Adelaide as there are a lot of great sights to see. There are also many amazing day trips from Adelaide if you have longer to spend.

Lovers of wine will know South Australia as a wine mecca. Check out this list of the best wine tours from Adelaide , there is something for everyone here, from casual fan to connoisseur.

Historic buildings in Port Adelaide

For those who are lucky enough to be travelling onward, you will have plenty of time to explore further afield. Check out these weekend getaways from Adelaide for some ideas of places to visit.

Once you’ve finished exploring South Australia, your next stop will be the Nullarbor Plain and then onward into W.A. This road trip from Perth to Adelaide is the best itinerary to follow to not miss any of the sights. (You’ll have to do it in reverse but it’s just as good that way round!).

I hope you have an amazing time on this Melbourne to Adelaide road trip! Safe Travels.

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

Welcome to my journey 🙂

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The 10 best stops on a Melbourne to Adelaide road trip

Posted January 09, 2024

The 725-kilometre Melbourne to Adelaide journey can be tackled in around eight long hours, plus regular driver breaks. However, a leisurely coastal road trip soaking in the best sights and attractions is far more rewarding.

As one of Australia’s most scenic drives, the coastal journey connecting Melbourne to Adelaide wows with its charming beach towns, historical sites, ample adventures, and delectable food and wine. Add in the iconic Twelve Apostles and abundant wildlife-spotting opportunities, and you’re in for a spectacular road trip, be it with friends, family, or a special someone.

Before you set out, pack your emergency car kit , and ensure your Emergency Roadside Assistance is active with the level of breakdown assistance that meets your needs.

• The Great Ocean Road
• The Otway Ranges
• The Twelve Apostles

Warrnambool

• Naracoorte Caves 

Victor Harbor

Mclaren vale, towns and attractions between melbourne and adelaide, great ocean road.

Starting from Melbourne, head southwest to begin your journey along the Great Ocean Road . Considered one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road starts in Torquay, an hour’s drive from Melbourne, ending at the small community of Allansford near Warrnambool. Along Victoria’s most famous route, the spectacular landscape commands your attention at every vantage point.

The alternating scenery that lines the 243-kilometre route – from dramatic cliffs to pristine beaches to lush forests – affords a sense of ever-changing adventure. Whether you’re a nature-lover, gourmand traveller, history buff or seeking life’s thrills, the Great Ocean Road has something for everyone.

The drive from Melbourne to Adelaide is full of beautiful vistas and rest stops like Bells Beach. Image: Visit Victoria

Torquay is the official starting point of the Great Ocean Road. Known as Australia's surfing capital, Torquay’s wild waves and beautiful beaches attract visitors from around the world. Bells Beach is Torquay’s most legendary surf spot, thanks to its big swells and offshore winds.

You don’t need to be a surfer to enjoy this laidback town, however. The tasty cafes and restaurants, surf-inspired boutiques, patrolled beaches, coastal nature trails, and luxury resort accommodation all appeal.  So does the Australian National Surfing Museum, offering fascinating insights and displays.

Don't miss the Australian National Surfing Museum at Torquay. Image: Visit Victoria

Apollo Bay is a picturesque coastal town halfway along the Great Ocean Road that’s famed for its rugged coastline, bushland activities, and stunning beach. Nestled between the verdant Otway Ranges and welcoming Southern Ocean waters, Apollo Bay charms with its natural beauty and mellow atmosphere and is the area’s fresh seafood hub. Spend time at the harbour, laze on Apollo Bay Beach, or walk the nearby nature trails.

Apollo Bay also offers fun water-based activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.  

Apollo Bay is a great seafood destination on the way to Adelaide. Image: Visit Victoria

Otway Ranges

The Otway Ranges’ diverse ecosystem is sure to impress. Over 100,000+ hectares and an estimated 30 million years old, it’s home to ancient temperate rainforests, towering eucalypts, giant ferns and spectacular waterfalls. Triplet, Beauchamp, and Hopetoun Falls are spectacular.

The Great Otway National Park covers a large percentage of the Otway Ranges, with 20 immersive trails and walks. These include scenic viewpoints, lakeside walks, and cascading falls. Maits Rest Rainforest Walk is a perfect introduction to the park’s unique flora and fauna, as is the 30-metre-high rainforest canopy walkway and ziplining activities.

While visiting the Otway Ranges, stop by the historic Cape Otway Lightstation. It’s mainland Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and great for whale watching during the migration season (May to September).

Maits Rest is a beautiful walk in the Otway Ranges. Image: Visit Victoria

Twelve Apostles

The highlight of any Great Ocean Road drive is to stand in awe at the Twelve Apostles. Shaped by millions of years of erosion, these towering limestone formations create a striking tableau against the choppy Southern Ocean.

While a quick peek from the viewing platforms is possible if you’re short on time, there are more immersive ways to experience these geological wonders. On foot, take the coastal walking trails or head to Loch Ard Gorge for the fascinating shipwreck and geology walk.  

There are two rewards if you time your visit with sunset at the London Bridge viewing platform. The first is the magical golden hue that hits the limestone towers as the sun disappears below the horizon. The second is the sight and sound of witnessing 800+ fairy penguins return from the sea as the light fades.

The Twelve Apostles are a must-see on the Great Ocean Road. Image: Visit Victoria

For an introduction to the region’s maritime heritage, head to Warrnambool. The Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is a living museum that has gone to great creative lengths to connect visitors to the town’s seafaring past.

Also known for its prime whale watching, Warrnambool sees whales pass between May and September. Designed to maximise your chances to see southern right and humpback whales, the Logan Beach platform is the best spot in town.

Warrnambool other activities include walking the Foreshore Promenade, exploring the picturesque Thunder Point Coastal Reserve, and enjoying the diverse plants – and tranquillity – at the Botanic Gardens.

Nearby, the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve hosts a range of Australian critters and creatures, including koalas, emus, kangaroos, and native birds. 

Warrnambool is the perfect mix of city and beach. Image: Visit Victoria

Head further west to the charming seaside town of Port Fairy, where historic 19th-century buildings, including bluestone cottages, former whaling warehouses, and the historic lighthouse, transport you to another era. To see the 164-year-old lighthouse, stroll around Griffiths Island.

The Belfast Coastal Reserve is another top spot to enjoy Port Fairy’s coastal spoils. Take one of the scenic walking trails, relax on the near-secluded beaches, and watch for the 20+ shorebird species, including the threatened hooded plover.

To get close to the region’s migrating whales, book a Port Fairy boat tour from May to September.

Port Fairy is full of gorgeous walking trails. Image: Getty

Naracoorte Caves

Change things up when you head inland to visit the Naracoorte Caves National Park. This underexplored UNESCO World Heritage site combines natural beauty, geological wonders, and fossils of great historical interest.

Naracoorte Caves’s fossils are enthralling. The remains of Australia’s prehistoric fauna from the Pleistocene epoch include the bones of giant marsupials and ancient reptiles, some more than 500,000 years old. Learn about the park’s ancient ecosystems at the Wonambi Fossil Centre.

The extensive Naracoorte Caves network is equally impressive. The 26 caves open to the public are only a fraction of the complex web of underground formations. Guided tours best reveal the cultural and historical significance of everything uncovered here.

Naracoorte Caves are a wonder to behold. Image: Getty

While there is a more direct route to Adelaide from the Naracoorte Caves, a detour to Victor Harbor won’t disappoint. Located on the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula, Victor Harbor offers visitors craggy cliffs, broad beaches, and fascinating wildlife encounters.

The most unusual wildlife excursion is swimming with southern bluefin tuna in an eco-friendly netted enclosure. Known as the Ferraris of the Ocean, they tip the scales at a hefty 200 kilograms and yet can still zip through the water at 70 km/hr.

You’ll also want to hop aboard a short horse-drawn tram ride to meet the friendly little penguins and sea lions who call Granite Island home. Make time for Granite Island’s scenic walking trails, spectacular views at the Bluff, and the informative Southern Australian Whale Centre.

The horse-drawn tram is a highlight at Victor Harbor. Image: Getty

McLaren Vale’s pretty landscapes, world-class vineyards, top-rated dining, and creative endeavours make for an enticing final stop before Adelaide.  

World-renowned for its premier wines, McLaren Vale has around 160 wineries and 74 cellar doors, leaving visitors spoilt for choice. Wirra Wirra, Coriole and d’Arenberg are stand-outs, with the latter also impresses with its d'Arenberg Cube, a five-level Rubik-cube-like structure housing wine tastings and art. McLaren Vale wineries, restaurants, and cafés offer gastronomic delights with fresh seasonal local produce the star on the plate.  

For active road trippers, rent a bike or walk the 8-kilometre Shiraz Trail. Following a disused railway corridor, this (mainly) flat route passes wineries and cafés. Explore the region’s diverse art scene at a range of galleries and shows, often amid the vines.

From McLaren Vale, drive 45 minutes to reach South Australia's capital. Once in Adelaide, check out the ultimate guide to the Festival City , the top five destinations and must-see South Australian locations to add to your road trip itinerary.

McLaren Vale's d'Arenburg Cube houses wine tastings and art. Image: Tourism SA

To return to Melbourne, why not head inland? Ideal stops include the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley , the gold mining town of Ballarat , and the Grampians . The latter impresses with its lush mountain ranges, gushing falls, and Aboriginal rock art.

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Related reading

Ultimate Great Ocean Road itinerary: Torquay to Warrnambool

Torquay: Where to eat, drink, stay and play

The ultimate guide to Adelaide

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Flying Scots Girl

Cat thomson, 18 stops to make on a road trip from melbourne to adelaide.

A road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide packs in plenty of the best places in Australia with some of the country’s most iconic drives and sights along the way including the Great Ocean Road, Kangaroo Island and McLaren Vale with plenty of hidden gems to discover as well. Hire a camper van or motorhome to enjoy the full road trip experience and spend your lunch stops with beautiful beach views, hopping in and out when you see somewhere exciting plus you can unpack all your things despite being on the road!

Free Camper Advice (and deals!!!)?! Yes please 🙌 A van life trip was one of my must do things in Australia and it’s on plenty of people’s bucket lists when they visit. If you’re finding that searching for a van is pretty intense, you don’t know what to go for and need some advice then you should contact RatPack Travel. In Australia & New Zealand they’re the best travel agency for booking campers with because they’ll talk you through it all, give you plenty of options (they’re connected to all the best camper companies) and have access to direct availability. Not only is their service FREE but you’ll also get some great deals through them as well! It made booking a camper so much easier for me because they actually know what they’re looking at and can scan through all of the vans at once. When I was looking myself I had too many tabs open looking at individual companies and on the comparison sites the availability was never accurate. So what are you waiting for? Get started here .

1. Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia’s coffee & foodie capital with plenty of cafes, bars & restaurants to keep you eating out for days (and days) on end so make sure you allow enough time at the start of your road trip to explore the city and its food scene. Read my post 10 things you must eat and drink in Melbourne for some tasty inspiration! If you’re short on time you can probably tick off the big hitter locations in 1 full day but if you have the time then allow 2-3 full days and include visits to Philip Island (to see the little penguins at dusk) and the Mornington Peninsula (to relax at the hot springs) on your itinerary.

For art lovers, make sure you give an hour or two to the NGV which holds the likes of Monet, Picasso & Turner within its walls then head to Hosier Lane & AC/DC Lane for graffiti street art. Enjoy the colours and smells of a city park like the Botanic Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens or Queen Victoria Gardens. Hire a boat and motor down the Yarra River. Stroll through the historic streets of Melbourne’s CBD and admire the architecture, stop in at the State Library to gaze at the Dome Library.

If you’re a coffee fan then you MUST order your drink of choice here because every coffee I’ve had in Melbourne (and I reckon I’ve had 6/7) has been excellent. Try a ‘Magic Coffee’ if you like it strong – a type of coffee specific to the city. Queue for the ‘world’s best croissant’ from Lune Croissanterie (the pain au chocolate was delicious) for breakfast and head to the Queen Victoria Market to make a picnic lunch to enjoy in a city park. Don’t miss the hot jam doughnuts from American Doughnut Kitchen.

Great Ocean Road

As you leave Melbourne to the west, you’ll be heading down to the Great Ocean Road. This drive is one of the best in the world and one of the top attractions in all of Australia so it’s worth giving it the time it deserves but also note that quite a few stops are a case of jumping out, grabbing a photo and hopping back in your camper! I would recommend picking up your camper as early as possible on your first morning so you can enjoy a full day on the GOR with it. We unfortunately left Melbourne pretty late (about 1pm by the time we’d made our way to the rental shop, unpacked & picked up our Coles shop) and so we didn’t see all of the sights we would have liked to on our first day. Missing from this list is a stop at Angelsea, Torquay and / or Apollo Bay, all of which are said to be lovely GOR towns with great little cafes and beaches.

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2. Bells Beach

Our first stop along the GOR was at Bells Beach which is the best beach in Australia for surfing so if you’ve brought your board (and you’re an experienced(!!) surfer) then head out on the waves. If you’re a beginner, a lesson in Torquay or Angelsea is a better choice with much safer surfing conditions. The dramatic cliffs here are the first taste of the GOR coastline that you’ll drive along and the lookout at the car park is a great spot to watch the waves crashing and any surfers that are out.

3. Kennett River & Kafe Koala

A must stop if you want to spot a koala in the wild is at Kennett River. Park at Kafe Koala and after a coffee or ice cream, take a walk up Grey River Road ( here ) and look up into the branches. It’s one thing seeing these huggable marsupials at an animal sanctuary or koala hospital and it is quite another seeing them in their natural habitat, high up a eucalyptus tree snoozing. We spotted two within a five minute walk of the cafe although I must admit we did have someone else point them both out to us!

4. Teddy’s Lookout

As you drive along the Great Ocean Road there are so many spots that you can pull over and admire the view. Luckily, the GOR is popular with camper road trips so there are plenty of parking spaces for your longer vehicle and with views at every corner, you might even have a fair few to yourself! I’ve named Teddy’s Lookout because it’s one that you’ll head off the main road to find but the view is so stunning. On your left there are incredible coastal views which turn into mountainous forest on your right – amazing to see both of these in one spot!

Our first overnight stop was at Apollo Bay where we booked a powered site at Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve.

5. maits rest rainforest walk.

After Apollo Bay, the GOR hits Cape Otway National Park. You could very easily spend a road trip just exploring this section of the GOR or if you have an extra day to play with between Melbourne and Adelaide you could give some more time to the waterfalls, redwoods & walks of the Park. If, however, you’re flying through like we were then a short stop at Maits Rest Rainforest Walk should be enough to stretch your legs as well as appreciate the beauty of this rainforest section of the coast.

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6. Gibson Steps

The next stretch of the road trip features a number of the iconic GOR locations that you’ve likely seen on postcards or travel brochures. There’s a lot of short drives and jumping in and out of the camper so make sure your camera is handy! First up is Gibson Steps. I’m pretty sure I had thought that photos I’d seen in the past of here were just at the base of the 12 Apostles so I was pleasantly surprised to find it was a whole other formation!

At Gibson Steps you can walk down the 86 steps to feel incredibly small as the dramatic cliffs rise up behind you and the limestone structures of ‘Gog’ & ‘Magog’ rise out of the sea in front of you. The only problem is getting back up the steps 😉

7. Twelve Apostles

I was not prepared for how amazed I would be at this world famous spot. Despite the number of Apostles now standing somewhere between 6 & 8 (I can’t find a consistent answer online!) this sight is spectacular. You can only see them from the viewing platform but the jaw dropping cliffs and stacks are really something else.

8. Loch Ard Gorge

Next along the GOR is Loch Ard Gorge. In 1878, a ship called Loch Ard was wrecked on nearby Muttonbird Island (this stretch of coast is called the Shipwreck Coast) and the only two survivors found safety when they made it onto the beach at the gorge which was then named Loch Ard Gorge. The calm blue waters at the bottom conceal the dangers that lie beyond.

9. London Bridge

It really is one incredible rock formation after another along this section of the GOR and you’ll soon be stopping again, this time at London Bridge. Sadly, the nursery rhyme is correct and London Bridge is falling down! In 1990, one of the arches collapsed to leave the second arch (and a couple of tourists) stranded in the sea. The spot is still beautiful and you really can marvel at the forces of nature that have carved out these wondrous scenes we enjoy today.

10. Bay of Islands

A little further along the GOR from London Bridge, you’ll find the Bay of Islands. You can either stop at the lookout or Bay of Islands beach to enjoy this place from two different vantage points. The tide was right in when we got here so we couldn’t really get down on to the beach but I can imagine this being pretty spectacular if you can walk further out onto the sand. To me, the Bay of Islands was a rather dreamy spot, you can very much imagine a film being set here and there’s something about the way the islands rise out of the calm water that gives a rather romantic and ethereal feel to this spot. This sense was probably helped by it being considerably quieter than the stop offs above.

11. Port Fairy & Griffiths Island

Port Fairy is a sweet little coastal fishing village situated just after the end of the Great Ocean Road so it’s a great spot to finish this section of your road trip. Before we set up our camper at Port Fairy Holiday Park (which had by far and away the best toiler / shower facilities) we made a stop at a beach and had a walk around Griffiths Island. It was a very windy evening but this little slide of wild paradise had been recommended to me so I was keen to enjoy it. We were rewarded with windswept views, a lovely lighthouse and 3 super cute black wallabies which are resident on the island!

South Australia

The next section of the journey heads into South Australia and begins with a long day of driving. After the large number of visitors you’ll have likely encountered along the GOR, SA in comparison feels considerably more remote and quiet. Most road trippers will probably turn around and head back to Melbourne but there’s so much to see if you continue the journey! On our early morning drives (7-8am) we saw so many wallabies and kangaroos along the roads which was pretty amazing and the landscape is just so different as you head deeper into SA. One thing to note is that there is a quarantine station as you enter SA where you’ll have to bin most fruit / veg (check the gov website for details) so hopefully you’re reading this before your trip or at least before you did a supermarket shop! Sadly we made this mistake and had to get rid of quite a bit of the food we had with us.

12. Mount Gambier

Between Port Fairy & Victor Harbor there isn’t a huge amount to see but you absolutely must stop off at Mount Gambier even if it is only around an hour and a half into the journey on this day. The landscape around the city is otherworldly with craters, caves, sinkholes and lakes to explore. In fact, there’s so much here you might want to add in some more time to your trip to make sure you see everything. The Umperston Sinkhole Garden is likely what you may have seen from Mount Gambier so take some time to wonder at this beautiful spot. Also in town is the Engelbrecht Cave which can be explored with a guide. Head out of Mount Gambier and discover the Blue Lake & Little Blue Lake which turn the most incredible bright blue colour and are popular swimming spots on a hot day.

13. Victor Harbor

Victor Harbor is a great next camp stop and it feels well deserved after a long drive through Coorong National Park. We did stop off in Robe for lunch which was a nice stop but not necessarily somewhere you’ve got to visit! The main attraction at Victor Harbor is the horse drawn tram which takes riders across to Granite Island. Once you’re there hike around the island and lookout for wildlife playing in the sea such as seals, dolphins and if you’re there in the right season, whales 🐋

14. Kangaroo Island

If Kangaroo Island isn’t already on your Australia bucket list then get it on there! It’s one of the most amazing places I’ve visited here. Pristine white sandy beaches meet crystal blue water on one side and lush green forest on the other. Sadly, the island was very badly hit by the 2020 wildfires and much of the western tip was consumed by fire. It is rather eerie driving towards and through Flinders Chase National Park as you can see evidence of the fires on any tree you pass, so many that are just dead. But happily, there is much lush green to be seen at 1m level and growth is on the way.

Ideally we would have spent at least one night, if not two here and if you can then do! Make sure you book the ferry in advance as there are limited places for longer vehicles, the ferry isn’t big! Instead, we packed as much as we could into our 8hr window, whizzing along the straight roads.

During the evening, you’ll be treated to kangaroos and wallabies. During the day, head to Seal Bay and Admirable Arch to spot (you guessed it) seals! At Seal Bay, you can either join a guided tour to venture down onto the beach with the sleepy Australian Sea Lions here or you can view them from the boardwalk instead. At Admirable Arch there are lots of fur seals frolicking in the water and sunbathing on the rocks 🦭 The wildfires decimated the koala population on Kangaroo Island, however you may be able to try your luck and spot one along the walking trail along Cygnet River at Duck Lagoon. Stop off at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park for.a much better chance of seeing one. The Park was featured in Zac Efron’s latest series (2) of Down to Earth and he showcased the work the team have done supporting the wildlife of KI after the fires.

On the way from Seal Bay to Flinders Chase NP stop at Vivonne Bay General Store and if your vehicle allows admire the view at this stunning bay as well as the glorious Rockpool (we didn’t make it sadly!). In Flinders Chase NP you’ll find Admirable Arch (above) as well as the Remarkable Rocks. Kangaroo Island is also home to Australia’s best beach for 2023 chosen by Tourism Australia. Stokes Bay is breathtaking. From the car park you are wondering if this could really be it but as you follow the signs for ‘beach’ and weave through a rock maze, you come out the other side blown away. The water is just stunning and so calm, the sand super white and absolutely pristine. A perfect spot to end our time on KI before heading back to the ferry!

15. Carrickalinga Beach

As you make your way up the Fleurieu Peninsula towards Adelaide there are a number of beaches that will be calling your name. One of the best is Carrickalinga Beach as it has lovely white sand, gorgeous crystal clear blue water and best of all, very few other people! Spend a morning here with a good book or enjoy a beach stroll. Afterwards, head to Valley of Yore cafe in Myponga for one of the best brownies I’ve ever tasted and an excellent cup of coffee.

16. McLaren Vale

Before you head into the beach suburbs of Adelaide, make sure you stop off at a local McLaren Vale winery to pick up a bottle to enjoy on your last night with your camper. If you’re not driving then you can stop for a little while longer and enjoy a glass of wine right at its source in a vineyard garden.

We went to Fox Creek Winery and bought a crisp bottle of Sauvignon Blanc which we very much enjoyed with the sunset that evening 🍷

17. Port Noaralunga

Port Noaralunga is still just south of Adelaide and it was a fabulous final stop for us before we spent our last night at Christies Beach. At the Onkaparinga River Lookout there’s a splendid view to enjoy and spaces to park with the camper and have a break. Head down to the beach for a swim, there’s a fantastic reef at the end of the jetty and it’s popular with divers and snorkelers 🐠

18. Adelaide

Our last stop was in Adelaide where we stayed for a night after handing our camper back again. On our last morning we enjoyed a break with some sunbathing and reading at gorgeous Brighton Beach. Adelaide, like most of Australia’s cities, is a beach city with plenty of sandy stretches within easy reach of the CBD so you don’t need to choose between city or beach break!

In Adelaide CBD, there’s plenty to do with the Art Gallery of South Australia for art lovers and the South Australian Museum for those interested learning more about this state’s history. Take a stroll through the streets of the city centre to enjoy wonderful architecture and along Rundle Mall for some more art as there are a number of sculptures along here. Pick up delicious local fresh produce at the Adelaide Central Market and then take it to a park to enjoy a lovely picnic. Try the Botanic Gardens, Veale Gardens or Grundy Gardens. If you’re visiting in Summer, treat yourself to tickets to the outdoor cinema and enjoy an old classic or a new release in beautiful surrounds. We watched The Notebook and it was so much fun on the big screen under the stars 🎞

Since you’re in Australia, where you’re more likely to have a brunch plan than a dinner plan, then make sure to have a lazy morning enjoying brunch in one of Adelaide’s best spots. We went to Peter Rabbit which was as cute as the name suggests and the food very tasty 😋

Hopefully this has inspired you to plan your own south coast road trip and there’s no better way to do it than in a camper! Make sure you get in touch with RatPack to guide you through the process of booking and to find the best vehicle for you (as well as a GREAT deal!).

For more Australia road trip inspiration take a look at these other posts that I’ve written for you 🚐

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3 thoughts on “ 18 stops to make on a road trip from melbourne to adelaide ”.

Thanks for this. My group lands in Adelaide, so we’ll be doing this the opposite direction. If we skip Kangaroo Island, are 3 days enough to see the highlights?

How exciting! It’ll be pretty rushed because you do want at least one full day to do the Great Ocean Road (if not a little more) which will mean quite a lot of driving. If you miss Victor Harbor this will reduce your journey time down by 1.5hr which would probably be good. The day we went from Port Fairy to Victor Harbor was a long driving day! It depends if you want to spend much time in Adelaide as well and explore the areas around!

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Melbourne to Adelaide drive

Melbourne to adelaide road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Melbourne to Adelaide. If you're planning a road trip to Adelaide, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Melbourne drive for about 1.5 hours

12:23 pm   Ballarat stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:23 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:06 pm   Grampians National Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:06 pm drive for about 49 minutes

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Horsham (Australia) drive for about 51 minutes

10:51 am   Nhill stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:51 am drive for about 54 minutes

12:45 pm   Bordertown stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:45 pm drive for about 2 hours

3:46 pm   Murray Bridge stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:46 pm drive for about 58 minutes

5:43 pm  arrive in Adelaide

day 2 driving ≈ 4.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Ballarat   (5 answers)     questions about Ballarat:         what are the places of interest around ballarat Grampians National Park   (4 mentions) Horsham (Australia) Nhill Bordertown Murray Bridge

What are some things to do in Adelaide?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Adelaide. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Adelaide.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Adelaide to Melbourne drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Melbourne to Adelaide . Or get a full Melbourne to Adelaide flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Melbourne well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Melbourne!

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Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip: Route Planning Made Easy

From walking along the shores of a pink lake to spotting wild koalas in trees, we loved our Adelaide to Melbourne road trip. What could have been a long eight-hour drive in Australia became a fascinating adventure.

Starting in Adelaide, we drove through a German town, discovered murals painted on silos, explored a cave, one of the world’s last remaining stick sheds, and so much more.

As we have driven the region more than once, we are able to provide you with first-hand experience on the two main alternatives. One that cuts inland, enjoying sites like a pink lake and others not found in many places. The second is often simply referred to as the Adelaide to Melbourne Great Ocean Road, a coastal route with some of the most magnificent scenery I have ever seen.

In a perfect world, you will be making a loop and can therefore, take both routes, but if not, below we offer all our tips and suggestions to help you choose the right way for you.

Key stops on your Adelaide to Melbourne road trip

Whether you choose the inland route or the Adelaide to Melbourne Great Ocean Road route, we recommend the same initial road, which we are calling segment one.

• Segment one (purple on map) Hahndorf, Monarto Safari Park, Coonalpyn, Naracoorte Caves, Coonawarra
• Inland option (red on map) Pink Lake, Dimboola, Horsham, Murtoa, Silo Trail (Rupanyup and Sheep Hills), Grampians, Ararat, Ballarat, Melbourne
• Coastal option (yellow on map) Penola, Mount Gambier, Portland, Port Fairy, Great Ocean Road to Melbourne

Adelaide to Melbourne road trip map

The interactive map provides three route sections/options that can be individually selected by clicking the expand / collapse icon in the upper left corner of the map. All are initially active.

• Direct route: Adelaide to Melbourne road trip The total drive time with no stops is 8 hours, and this shorter/direct/less scenic route is not on our map.
• All Stops on the inland route If you choose the inland route, the total time in the car from Adelaide to Melbourne will be about 12 hours.
• Adelaide to Melbourne Great Ocean Road route If you choose the coastal route, the time will be the same, with a total time in the car from Adelaide to Melbourne of about 12 hours.

Car hire (rental)

Unless you are using your own vehicle, you will need to hire a car. We always rent from RentalCars. They offer a comprehensive list of multinational and local rental car agents, ratings on specific car types, and agency ratings. Importantly, they often have lower prices than going direct.

Whether you rent from them or not, it’s still the perfect place to begin your search.  Click here to compare options and check availability at RentalCars.com

Starting city: Adelaide

Nestled along Australia’s southern coast, Adelaide is a city that effortlessly marries history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its laid-back charm and vibrant arts scene, Adelaide beckons travellers with its wide boulevards, green parklands, and its friendly attitude.

As the capital of South Australia, this coastal gem boasts a rich heritage that’s seamlessly woven into its modern identity. It’s the starting city of our Adelaide to Melbourne drive.

Suggested activities : We have detailed all our favourite things to do in the city here , but the three that top our list are exploring Rundle Mall, the Art Gallery of South Australia, and the Botanic Gardens.

Segment 1 of our Adelaide to Melbourne road trip: Adelaide to Coonawarra

We chose Coonawarra as a segment break because it is here that you will need to decide if you want to continue inland or along the coast. Our key stops are: Hahndorf, Coonalpyn, Naracoorte Caves, and Coonawarra

Strolling through the German-settled town of Hahndorf reminds me of my time as an exchange student in Germany. We explored this area on foot.

Even at midday, we found it easier to get a pint of beer than a coffee, a bratwurst than a hamburger, and fudge over any other sweets. But Hahndorf isn’t only about food and drink. There are plenty of crafts and gift shops, art galleries, massage and spa services, and gardens intermixed with the historic buildings.

One of the best ways to discover what’s here is with a guided tour. Our top pick is this 2-hour Strudel and Stroll Walking Tour , where you learn how to make your own strudel, as well as go on a tour.

Even if you are not going to Melbourne, Handorf is a wonderful day trip from Adelaide .

As we had just completed the public silo trail in Western Australia , we couldn’t drive past the five impressive 30-metre-tall portraits painted on silos in Coonalpyn. The internationally acclaimed artist Guido van Helten depicted local school children as a symbol of the town’s vibrant future.

And, of course, once we got out of the car, we enjoyed a treat and a coffee at a local cafe.

Naracoorte Caves

The next stop along our Adelaide to Melbourne drive is Naracoorte Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site that beckons with its subterranean marvels. The park is home to a number of fossil caves and a wide variety of fossils, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fish. It contains some of the most important fossil records in the world, with most dating from 530,000 years ago.

The “Victoria Fossil Cave” was a standout, offering a glimpse into ancient megafauna that once roamed the region.

Coonawarra is the stop for enthusiasts of fine wines. The terra rossa soil of the area lends itself to producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon with multiple tasting opportunities.

It’s at this point that we had to confirm our decision to either travel inland through the Grampians on take the Adelaide to Melbourne Great Ocean Road.

Decision Time >> Inland or Coastal Route? If inland continue If Great Ocean Road, jump to here

Adelaide to Melbourne road trip inland option

Our Adelaide to Melbourne road trip through the Grampians and these additional gems was nothing short of extraordinary. From the wonder of a pink lake to the engineering in Murtoa and the historical allure of Ballarat, each stop added a unique thread to the rich tapestry of our journey.

The Pink Lake Reserve near Dimboola was a vivid surprise that left us in awe. It’s another reminder to stay focused not only on the road, but also on the signage. We spotted it first on one of those signs that let you know the upcoming distance to given locations. Right in the corner, it read, Pink Lake 42. Noting the current kilometres on the car, we remembered to start looking for it at about 40km, and even with that missed the narrow pull-out and had to turn back. 

But, it was worth it. We were there at about 6pm, and there was no question that the salt was pink. The water, not so much at this time of day. But, we have been told at midday the lake’s unusual pink hue, caused by a combination of algae and high salinity, creates a surreal and captivating sight against the backdrop of the surrounding landscape.

We took a leisurely stroll along the lake’s edge and found walking on the wet water’s edge was like stepping into a strawberry slushy. 

If you are making the trip in two days (or three if you are including the Great Ocean Road), Horsham is not a bad choice for a place to stay. Just remember that on weekdays, just about all the kitchens close by 8.15 pm, so if you want a late dinner, KFC or MacDonald’s may be your only options. 

We stayed at the newly renovated Comfort Inn May Park, a simple accommodation that is clean, comfortable, and from what we could find, probably the best in town.  Reserve your stay at the Comfort Inn here .

Murtoa (Stick Shed)

In Murtoa, we headed straight to the Stick Shed , an immense structure built during World War II to store grain. In fact, it’s the only remaining emergency grain store built during that time.

We included Jeff in the photo above to help give you some perspective as to just how large this place is. There are grain remnants on the concrete floor that remind us of its intended use.

Its intricate design is a testament to human ingenuity and the growth and strength of the Australian wheat industry.

Silo Art Trail

This Silo Art Trail stretches 200 kilometres and links several Victorian country towns, and included one of our favourite street artists (Matt Adnate), so we had to follow a bit of it, but not too much, as we had just completed a longer public silo trail through the Wheatbelt of Western Australia.

The first silos we visited are in Rupanyup and painted by Russian artist Julia Volchkova. While smaller in physical size than the silos we had previously seen, they didn’t lack in talent. 

Next to Sheep Hill to see the work of Melbourne-based artist Matt Adnate, who we had met the prior week in Perth when we stayed at the Accors Art Series Hotel that is his namesake, “The Adnate.”  

Grampian National Park is a perfect base for exploration. Comprised of rugged sandstone mountain ranges and forests, there seems to be plenty to do here. In fact, we barely touched on all the things to do in the Grampians and could have easily stayed a lot longer.

Some of our highlights included the Boroka lookout’s impressive 180-degree views of Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield in Western Victoria. We did the short hike to Broken Falls, but in retrospect, I regret not also doing the longer hike to MacKenzie Falls, as it’s the largest waterfall in Victoria.

And we also visited the Brambuk Cultural Centre, an interpretation centre that highlights both the park and the local Aboriginal culture.

Ararat is a town that beckons with its rich history and the echoes of the gold rush era. As we approached Ararat on our Adelaide to Melbourne road trip through the Grampians, Jeff and I had two of the areas top sites on our radar: J Ward and Gum San.

• J Ward We took a fascinating tour of this former lunatic asylum for the criminally insane. ( See our full review and images ). The buildings and grounds are intriguing, but it’s the stories that bring this place to life. Having closed in 1991, there are locals that were either employees or inmates at one time still in the town today. My one regret was missing the  night ghost tour .
• Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre This fascinating museum highlighted the incredible history and difficulty of the Chinese immigrants who came to work in the goldfields.
• Aradale This was the main psychiatric hospital for 126 years after opening in 1864. Unfortunately, it was closed when we visited Ararat.

Our journey through time continued in Ballarat, a city steeped in gold rush history. We opted to skip the popular Sovereign Hill, a living museum transporting visitors to the 1850s with its meticulously recreated streets, workshops, and characters in period costumes.

We did take time to explore the city’s modern offerings, from local markets to contemporary galleries, classic architecture, and a charming cafe for a lovely afternoon tea.

If you took the inland route, your next stop is Melbourne. If you are not interested in reading about the coastal route, skip over it here .

Adelaide to Melbourne Great Ocean Road option

After Coonawarra, you either turned inland and followed the itinerary just above, or you headed to the coast. On our full Adelaide to Melbourne road trip, we headed inland, as we had already driven the stunning Great Ocean Road a year or so earlier. It’s one of my favourite drives I have been on anywhere, making it a tough choice of which way to go.

However, if you choose to go this way, here are our suggested stops. We missed the first three as we turned inland at Port Fairy on our last trip.

Penola : Penola is a charming historic town with well-preserved architecture. It’s also known for its connection to Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint.

Mount Gambier : The highlight here is the Blue Lake with its vibrant cobalt hue.

Portland : If you’re looking for a coastal detour, consider heading to Portland. This coastal town boasts beautiful beaches, a maritime history, and the iconic Cape Nelson Lighthouse. It’s a great place to soak in some sea air and explore the local culture or spend the night .

Port Fairy : The start of the Great Ocean Road, outlined here in detail . We listed the key stops below, but we recommend reading the other page for more photos and an itinerary.

• Loch Ard Gorge
• The Twelve Apostles
• Cape Otway Lightstation
• Great Otway National Park
• Erskine Falls and Teddy’s Lookout
• Memorial Arch at Eastern View
• Split Point Lighthouse
• Point Addis Marine Reserve
• Bells Beach

Ending city: Melbourne

Melbourne is one of my favourite overseas getaway cities. Just a 3.5-hour flight from Auckland, it is an eclectic mix of vibrant and relaxing. We tend to stay at the Langham in South Bank, which year after year wins top hotel awards for the Australasian region. Perhaps it influences us, but I think the city stands on its own. Reserve your stay at the Langham Melbourne here.

Suggested activities : We have detailed all our favourite things to do in Melbourne here , but the three that top our list are enjoying the coffee culture at laneway cafes, spotting penguins in St Kilda, and exploring the truly impressive Melbourne Street art .

Don’t want to drive yourself back? Check out this tour

Here’s a chance to see it all on the way back, with someone else at the helm. This highly rated tour from Melbourne to Adelaide takes four days, includes three nights’ accommodations, and takes the Great Ocean Road option.

If you are making it a loop, you would hire a car in Adelaide with drop-off in Melbourne. On the way, you would do the inland path above but skip the Naracoorte Caves unless you want to see them twice.

Best of all, it’s never rushed, even viewing the 12 Apostles twice, in both the afternoon and again in the morning light. Reserve your 4-day Melbourne to Adelaide tour here .

Continue your Australia discovery

Here are a few more itineraries that we have enjoyed.

• 4-Day Perth to Albany Road Trip via Stunning Coastal WA
• 13 Stops on WA’s Public Silo Trail: A Unique Outdoor Gallery

Cairns to Paronella Park – See Waterfalls, Platypus, Ruins, & More

Read more about Australia’s coastal cities

Save on your Australia trip with these resources

These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.

• Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
• Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), VRBO (self-contained), or Hostelworld (budget).
• Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
• Motorcycles : we have heard good things about BikesBooking .
• Campervans or Motorhomes : we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
• Activity discounts : we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
• Private guides : we often find the best option is to hire a private guide .
• Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.

Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel.

Save for later

If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.

Where will you stop on your Adelaide to Melbourne road trip?

More from Australia you might like …

Brisbane in a Day: Our Cruise Port Visit

Things to do in Sydney for Free: Walkable from the Waterfront

J-Ward: Inside a Lunatic Asylum for the Criminally Insane

Photo Credits:

All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos .

About Rhonda Albom

Capturing the essence of travel through photography, Rhonda Albom is the primary author and photographer at Albom Adventures. She is an American expat based in New Zealand. She travels the world with her husband.

Reader Interactions

Sharyn McCullum

April 21, 2024 at 1:24 pm

I’m just about to do this road trip (the inland route) but am starting in Melbourne and ending in Adelaide. Thanks for all the great tips and best places to stop. I’m taking 5 days to drive this so will be able to visit many of the stops you mention. Can’t wait.

April 21, 2024 at 5:00 pm

It is a fun drive. Five days is a good amount of time to see it all.

August 29, 2023 at 1:53 pm

I’m moving to Australia in a month and this will be so helpful for when i go! This is amazing.

A Capone Connection

August 28, 2023 at 6:30 am

I want pink lakes and koalas to happen to ME! How have I not heard more about all of this sooner? It’s a LONG flight from the US but you have definitely made me feel like it’s worth it. Thank you!

August 28, 2023 at 12:59 am

I would love to get to Australia one day. This would be an awesome road trip!

August 27, 2023 at 5:58 pm

One of my fondest travel memories was my first road trip in Australia. I did the coastal drive from Melbourne to Adelaide and it was magical.The first time I ever saw a koala was during that trip and it was crossing the road!

Gabby Leopard

August 27, 2023 at 5:46 pm

Pink Lake looks really pretty!

August 27, 2023 at 5:18 pm

This looks like an amazing road trip! I’ve only been to the canola fields in Perth but the this one in Melbourne looks stunning! Thanks for sharing your road trip experience!

rowan_flora

August 27, 2023 at 4:55 pm

The countryside looks so beautiful!

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Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip – 3 Scenic Driving Routes

Embarking on an Adelaide to Melbourne road trip is an incredible way to explore the diverse beauty of South Australia and Victoria.

Whether you take the coastal route to view the magnificent scenery of the Great Ocean Road and the rocky limestone stacks that comprise the Twelve Apostles or head inland to stunning national parks and through lush, rural landscapes filled with quaint small towns is up to you.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the adventure, exploring the different routes from the capital of Southern Australia to the capital of Victoria. We’ll highlight the must-see attractions, and best activities to do with kids along the way.

So get your travel planner app ready, and let’s get going!

What is the Distance Between Adelaide to Melbourne?

How long is the drive from adelaide to melbourne, best time of year for the adelaide to melbourne drive, 1. m8/a8 – most direct route adelaide to melbourne, 2. dimboola detour – adelaide to melbourne drive via bendigo, 3. princes highway/great ocean road – adelaide to melbourne, more tips for road tripping adelaide to melbourne, where to next more aussie road trip adventures.

If you were to drive Adelaide to Melbourne via the most direct route, it would take you approximately 8 hours non-stop to cover the 750 km distance. Doing this will take you through the heart of rural Victoria and South Australia.

Alternatively, you could detour at Dimboola in Victoria, eventually leading you to the historic town of Bendigo before heading into Melbourne via the A79 and then M79. Going this way will add about 15 minutes to a non-stop drive time.

If you want to stick to the magnificent coastal route of the Princes Highway and Great Ocean Road, a non-stop drive will take at least 10 hours. Although probably longer, because you are sure to want to slow down to enable you to observe the spectacular views.

While you can complete a road trip from Adelaide to Melbourne in a day via the National Highway route, you should factor at least two or three days into your schedule to make the most of it. Doing so will allow you to experience some of the journey’s main highlights.

At the same time, if you plan to go from Adelaide to Melbourne via Great Ocean Road, you could easily spend a week taking in the delights of the Victoria and South Australian coastlines.

Essentially, whichever way you go, the more time you can set aside for the journey, the better.

• Before you leave Adelaide, make sure you’ve tried some of these sensational road trips in South Australia

With children in tow, the best time of year to drive from Adelaide to Melbourne is during autumn ( March to May ) and spring ( September to November ). The summer months are the most popular but also the most crowded and expensive.

During spring or autumn, the weather is milder and more pleasant, and there is less risk of extreme heat or cold weather. Most children locally are also in school, so hotel prices are lower, and traffic on the road is less.

Additionally, it’s a great time to enjoy the changing landscape colours as the leaves turn from green to varying shades of gold, red and orange.

If you go during these times, be mindful that weather conditions can still be unpredictable, so taking different layers of clothing with you is always a good idea.

Best Stops on an Adelaide to Melbourne Road Trip

It’s a long drive from Adelaide to Melbourne, so you may need to stop at some point during your journey. Here are some of the best places you should visit depending on which route you take.

If time is of the essence and you want to take the most direct route along National Highway A8 be sure to stop at the following places:

• Make sure you’ve ticked off all the best things there are to see and do in Adelaide with kids before you set off!

Murray Bridge

Although Murray Bridge is only an hour’s drive from Adelaide, it is worth stopping overnight as it provides some of the best opportunities for stargazing in the country.

Blessed with a stunning natural landscape, the Murray Bridge Riverside Caravan Park is one of the best spots for stargazing in the area. It has a terrific platform within its serene, open-air setting to enjoy a stargazing adventure.

The kids will no doubt be wowed by the night sky’s clarity, enabling them to see various stars and constellations. For those living in urban areas with more light pollution, it is an exhilarating experience. Visitors can also attend the Murray Bridge Astronomical Society’s public stargazing events, where experienced astronomers provide a guided night sky tour through telescopes and binoculars.

During the day, take the kids to the Murray Bridge Swimming Centre . It has a 50-metre pool as well as shaded children’s pools. Monarto Safari Park is also worth visiting. The largest safari park outside of Africa, it has lions, giraffes, cheetahs, black rhinoceros and the Tasmanian Devils to see!

Grampians National Park

Crossing over into Victoria, The Grampians National Park is a fabulous place to visit for active families with children.

For those into hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching, there are plenty of opportunities to partake in these activities – in fact, we’d allow a few days if you can!

Children will be fascinated by the ancient rock formations within the park and keen to learn more about its rich Aboriginal history. Some of the easier walks to undertake with kids include Venus Baths and The Balconies Lookout.

You can also take scenic drives to see more of the park’s stunning landscape, enjoy picnics, and go camping.

On a warm summer’s day, there are several swimming pools where you can take a dip, some of which are at the foot of waterfalls. You will also see lots of kangaroos bouncing around on the grasslands!

Nearby, the lovely town of Halls Gap has a beautiful adventure playground for kids to enjoy and there are lots of bakeries and cafes to feed your little ones along your journey.

If you’re making it an overnight stop, try Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park or The Lodges are superbly located in the centre of town.

Ballarat in Victoria is a historic destination that offers plenty to see and do for those with children.

One of its main attractions is Sovereign Hill , which offers visitors the chance to step back in time to the 1850s and experience life as a gold miner.

Kids can watch blacksmithing, candle making, and traditional cooking demonstrations, providing a fascinating living history lesson. They can also pan for gold and keep anything they find!

Another big draw is the Ballarat Wildlife Park , where you can see many native Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, and emus. Kids can even feed and pat some of the animals.

Additionally, the Eureka Centre is also worth a visit. There you can learn about the historic Eureka Rebellion and its role in shaping Australian democracy. You can also browse for souvenirs at its gift shop.

Again, if your itinerary permits, we’d spare at least 2 night stopping in Ballarat as there’s plenty for kids to see and do. We suggest Sovereign Park Motor Inn is a good choice for families with in indoor pool,

From Ballarat to Melbourne, it is only around a 90-minute drive to complete your journey.

If you take the detour at Dimboola and then eventually get to Melbourne via the A79 / M79. Taking this route, you will visit historic Bendigo.

Bendigo is renowned for being a terrific destination for a family holiday. One of the main things to do there is visit the Central Deborah Gold Mine , where you can take an underground mine tour and learn about the history of gold mining in the area.

Another terrific activity is riding on the Bendigo Tramways , which involves journeying on a vintage tram through the city streets.

Your kids should also love exploring the Bendigo Botanic Gardens , which has a children’s playground and a scenic lily-covered lake. 

Picturesque Lake Weeroona is also a lovely spot for a day out in nature. You can enjoy a picnic, paddleboat ride, swim or play ball sports in its grassy areas. In fact, Bendigo is a treasure trove of kids playgrounds!

For those wanting a spot of culture, the Bendigo Art Gallery presents several exhibitions throughout the year.

Make a stop here overnight before continuing the last leg of your journey through the Macedon Ranges. A great spot to stop is at the Woodend Bakery – a must! – before you reach Melbourne.

Although the coastal route takes a little longer, the fact you get to drive Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road is the huge drawcard of making this detour.

Top Tip: With an extra day at least in your itinerary, we’d head to the Fleurieu Peninsula first, take in the Maclaren Vale Wine Region for some cellar door tastings and the Limestone Coast. Longer again, you could also fit in a few days at Kangaroo Island.

Mount Gambier

Just before you reach the border of Victoria, you will come to Mount Gambier . It is worth stopping at this picturesque city as it offers plenty for families with kids.

One of its main drawcards is its stunning natural wonders, which include the Blue Lake and the Umpherston Sinkhole.

The Blue Lake is especially impressive during the summer when the water turns a bright turquoise colour – hence its name. At this time, you can swim, sunbathe and picnic here, and there is plenty of space for little ones to run around safely.

Kids should also enjoy exploring the limestone caves at the Tantanoola Caves Conservation Park and the Engelbrecht Cave . The Mount Gambier Railway Lands is another excellent family-friendly destination, boasting playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

After the best part of five hours of driving, head to the Mount Gambier Marketplace and Main Corner Complex, which offer several shops and entertainment options for the whole family.

Drive the Great Ocean Road

Driving the Great Ocean Road to see the Twelve Apostles will surely be the major highlight of your road trip Adelaide to Melbourne.

The scenic drive starts from the beautiful fishing village of Port Fairy, and the coastal road hugs the Southern Ocean through to Torquay, a renowned surfing destination in Victoria.

Port Fairy & Warrnambool

Before embarking on this stretch of the drive, it is worth stopping at Port Fairy . It has some terrific beaches, parks and the iconic Griffiths Island Lighthouse to check out, which offers spectacular views of the ocean and the town.

As you drive the Great Ocean Road, make sure you stop at some of the small coastal towns along the way. One of the best of them is Warrnambool, home to The Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground – a must-visit attraction for those with kids, offering a range of activities like mini-golf, giant slides, and flying foxes.

It also has a lovely beach and between June and September you may even get lucky with spotting Southern Right Whales on their migratory journey.

Other notable towns to pop into include Peterborough and Port Campbell (another cool little playground!). Loch Ard Gorge is also an unmissable stop along the rugged coastline, as is London Bridge (London Arch).

Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

Your next stop must be at the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park on the Great Ocean Road.

As its name suggests, it is home to the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations (of which there are only actually seven left!).

To see these magnificent limestone rock formations, various hiking trails in the park provide fantastic views and prime photography spots of them and the more expansive coastline.

Children can also enjoy spotting unique wildlife species such as echidnas, kangaroos, and bird species. Plenty of fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities exist on its various beaches.

Once you’ve had your fill of taking in the Twelve Apostles, make sure you head to the nearby visitor centre. There you will find fascinating educational exhibits on the park’s history and ecology, making it an ideal spot for kids to learn more about the natural world.

Great Otway National Park

Another great place for families to visit on the coastal route from Adelaide to Melbourne is the Great Otway National Park .

It features a diverse range of landscapes covering over 100,000 hectares of land, including rugged coastlines, towering forests, and picturesque waterfalls that you’ll find captivating.

Kids will love exploring the park’s many hiking trails, which wind through beautiful forests and lead to stunning lookout points. Some popular trails include the Triplet Falls Walk , the Beauchamp Falls Walk , and the Cape Otway Lightstation Walk . Each showcases the park’s spectacular landscape differently, presenting fantastic opportunities to spot koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies.

For those with teenagers looking for adventure, the park also offers activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and canoeing, allowing your family to enjoy a sensational day out in nature.

Nearby Apollo Bay is a quaint town at the foothills of the Otway Ranges, with several good cafes and eateries catering to families. There is also a nice playground there for children to enjoy and makes the ideal stopping point along a Great Ocean Road trip.

We’ve only touches on the highlights of the Great Ocean Road here, stay tuned as next month we’ll be sharing our complete Great Ocean Road itinerary, including fabulous stops at Lorne, Erskine Falls, Airey’s Inlet, Split Point Lighthouse, and Torquay.

Just over an hour before you get to Melbourne, you’ll hit upon the vibrant city of Geelong. Although you may be keen to head on to ‘The Settlement’, it is worth exploring what Geelong offers for tourists with children.

One of the best places to visit is the Eastern Beach Reserve , which offers beautiful views of the bay and has a variety of play areas for children to make the most of.

For those who want to stretch their legs, the Geelong Botanic Gardens is another attractive option, as it features a stunning sensory garden and a greenhouse with several plant species. Alternatively, if your children have more energy to burn, a few hours at the Adventure Park – one of the biggest water parks in Victoria –  should do the trick. There you’ll find several water slides and pools.

Animal lovers should head to the Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary , where kids can see and learn about various native Australian animals. Geelong also has excellent skate parks, basketball courts and panic rooms if your kids are into those activities.

From Geelong, you are a little over an hour away from your final destination, Melbourne!

• Pop over here next for our complete guide to exploring Melbourne with kids – including tips for getting about in the centre of town and suggested areas to stay
• The twists and turns of the road from Adelaide to Melbourne on the Princes Highway and Great Ocean Road are quite sharp. So, pay particular attention to the speed limits and drive sensibly as you approach them – and passengers who suffer from motion sickness may want to be prepared!
• When visiting national parks, be mindful of the native wildlife as you drive. Kangaroos and wallabies are known to hop in front of your vehicle without warning!
• For the same reason, we recommend avoiding driving around dusk in country Australia as this is when ‘roo strikes are most likely to happen.
• Make sure to pop over to our Australia road trip planning guide for all our top tips on driving through country Australia.

Don’t miss our complete collection of Aussie city guides for families:

ADELAIDE | BRISBANE | CAIRNS | CANBERRA | DARWIN | GOLD COAST | MELBOURNE | PERTH | SYDNEY

Once you’ve completed the drive from Adelaide to Melbourne, you may also be interested in:

• Easy journeys from Melbourne by car – escape the big smoke and check out these day trip and weekender ideas around the state of Victoria
• Driving from Melbourne to Sydney – we take you on both the inland route up the Hume Highway and the more scenic coastal route, past beach towns including Lakes Entrance and Jervis Bay.
• Drive to the country’s capital on this scenic Melbourne to Canberra road trip through country Victoria and southern New South Wales.
• Hop on the Spirit of Tasmania and cross the Bass Stright to take an incredible self-drive holiday through Tasmania .

© Family Road Trip 2024

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Honest tourism information about Australia

Melbourne to Adelaide drive: Road trip route via the Great Ocean Road

• David Whitley
• Practicalities

The driving time from Melbourne to Adelaide is just over eight hours if you take the fastest, dullest inland route. Go on a road trip itinerary via the Great Ocean Road, Limestone Coast and Coorong, and the Melbourne to Adelaide drive should take 13 to 14 hours.

The quickest driving route between Melbourne and Adelaide is one that hardly any tourists will ever take. The most direct path between the Victorian and South Australian capitals goes inland through Sovereign Hill , Ballarat and the outskirts of the kangaroo and scenic lookout -crammed Grampians National Park. After that, there’s a whole lot of agricultural country and not a lot else.

Adelaide brings food tours of the fabulous Central Market, Torrens River cruises , swimming with dolphins and the chance to walk across the roof of the Adelaide Oval. To book Adelaide accommodation, step this way . For a full range of Adelaide tours and experiences, explore here .

Pick your perfect Adelaide day trips

• Barossa Valley tours : 1. Wine-tasting with lunch 🍷. 2. Food and wine tour . 3. Small group wine tour with exclusive VIP tastings.
• Kangaroo Island in a day – including sea lions 🦭, koalas 🐨and national parks.
• Adelaide Hills tours : 1. Sights plus Murray River lunch cruise combo . 2. Small group cheese, chocolate & wine tour with Hahndorf German village.
• McLaren Vale tours : 1. Small group wine tour with lunch. 2. Hop-on hop-off wineries tour 🍷. 3. Food and wine indulgence tour , including the gloriously weird d’Arenberg Cube.
• Victor Harbor and southern highlights tour – including the Granite Island horse-drawn tram.

The Melbourne to Adelaide drive covers 727km along the A8 and M1. Sticking to the speed limit here, the driving time from Melbourne to Adelaide is just over eight hours without stops. This is difficult to manage without at least some night driving .

Unless you’re in a real rush, it would be absolutely senseless to take this route. Especially as the coastal alternative takes in one of Australia’s great driving routes – the Great Ocean Road .

👇 7 great day trips while you’re in Melbourne 👇

• Great Ocean Road tour – with koalas 🐨.
• Brighton Beach, Moonlit Sanctuary and Phillip Island tour – with penguins 🐧.
• Yarra Valley wine tour – with gin, cider and cheese 🍷.
• Grampians National Park tour – with bushwalks and LOADS of kangaroos 🦘.
• Mornington Peninsula tour – with hot springs bathing 🛀.
• Wilsons Promontory tour – with all manner of native wildlife 🦘🐨.
• Dandenong Ranges steam train ride – plus wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary and chocolate-tasting in the Yarra Valley.

Why not BROWSE THE BEST DEALS – with instant confirmation and hassle-free, mobile-friendly tickets?

Melbourne to adelaide road trip via the great ocean road.

Largely following the coast, the driving time from Melbourne to Adelaide is more like 13 to 14 hours, covering nearly 1,100km . But given you’ll probably stop for a few nights on the way and turn it into a road trip, there’s no need to be daunted by it.

Your Torquay checklist

• Skydive from 15,000ft – see the Great Ocean Road from above and get the thrill of your life.
• Learn to surf – get standing on your board by the end of a beginner’s surfing lesson .
• Book your Torquay accommodation .

Highlights of the Great Ocean Road section of the journey include the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay and kangaroo-spotting at the Anglesea Golf Club . Next up is the Round The Twist lighthouse in Aireys Inlet , before beach town Lorne offers rainforest walks in the Great Otway National Park and prime views from Teddy’s Lookout .

3 great experiences to try in Lorne

• Learn to surf – with a beginner’s surfing lesson at Lorne Beach.
• Swing, clamber and balance through the tree tops – on the Live Wire Park super circuit .
• Travel through the trees at 40km/h – on the Shockwave Zip Coaster .

Then you can go kayaking with seals from Apollo Bay , find koalas in the Otway Ranges, surf at Johanna Beach and see the Twelve Apostles rock formations on a scenic helicopter flight . The Great Ocean Road weather is best in the Australian summer. Pick a squally winter day, and you’ll barely see a thing.

Next section: The end of the Great Ocean Road .

• Travel blog

Best Things To Do This Winter in Adelaide

19 APR 2024

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From exploring winter wonderlands, to indulging in hearty feasts, there’s so much to do in Adelaide this winter. 

Adelaide comes to life in winter with incredible restaurants, bars, cellar doors, festivals and a myriad of activities. Wondering how to spend winter in Adelaide? Let us draw you out of hibernation with our guide to the best things to do in Adelaide come the cooler weather.

WINTER WEATHER IN ADELAIDE

Winter in Adelaide is mild compared to the likes of Melbourne or Hobart. South Australia experiences cooler weather between from June to August, with Adelaide’s temperature in winter ranging from an average of 8 degrees Celsius in the chilly mornings and nights, to a comfortable 15 - 16C during the day. The season is marked by clear, crisp skies interspersed with occasional rainfall that brings the landscape to life - providing a lush backdrop for outdoor activities. Whether it's strolling through the vibrant Central Market, savouring a warm cup of coffee in one of Adelaide’s cosy cafes, or exploring the natural beauty of the Adelaide Hills and nearby wine regions, winter in South Australia has a unique charm.

1. GET CULTURED AT OUR ART GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS 

While we do get to enjoy a milder winter compared to most of the world, we aren’t immune to one predictable weather pattern – rain. Looking to escape the downpour? Head indoors and explore the galleries and museums that line Adelaide’s cultural boulevard, North Terrace. Kick off at the  Art Gallery of South Australia , housing one of Australia’s best art collections and a range of exhibitions. Duck next door to the South Australian Museum , renowned for its world-class natural history and cultural collections. Next, head across the road and step into the future at the University of South Australia’s MOD , an innovative science and technology museum with quirky, ever-changing exhibitions displayed over two floors.

2. EXPLORE ADELAIDE’S BARS AND LANEWAYS 

Warm up at some of Adelaide’s best bars this winter. With small speak-easy style bars tucked away underground, swanky watering holes perched above the city skyline, laneways packed with cocktail lounges and quirky bars hidden behind unassuming walls, Adelaide's bar scene is booming. Sip your way around the laneways of Leigh St, Peel St and Gilbert Place or drink in the boozy goodness of Adelaide's East End. Our top spots for a tipple or two include Pink Moon Saloon , Leigh Street Wine Room , Maybe Mae , Udaberri , NOLA  or Clever Little Tailor. For more bar inspiration, check out our guide to the best bars in Adelaide .

3. SNUGGLE UP IN A COSY WINTER HIDEAWAY 

Surrounded by orchards, vineyards, bushlands and a patchwork of rolling green hills, get your cottage-core fix with a stay at Ode to the Orchard . Less than an hour out of the city, deep within the Adelaide Hills, lies this idyllic Airbnb. Imagine snuggling up inside this cosy cottage next to a roaring fire and glass of wine in hand, while nestled in the quiet surrounds of nature. 

4. BASK IN A WINTER WONDERLAND IN THE ADELAIDE HILLS 

From waterfalls to wildlife, the cooler months are the perfect time to head for the  Adelaide Hills  and explore  Mount Lofty Botanic Garden’s 97 hectares of lush, green paradise. With meandering paths through some of South Australia’s most beautiful and diverse plant-life, flowing streams and camellias in full bloom, you’ll be walking in a winter wonderland bursting with the colours of autumn. Best of all? All of this natural beauty is less than 30-minutes drive from Adelaide and makes for the perfect day trip from the city.

5. INDULGE IN A WINTER FEAST 

With delicious collaborations between internationally renowned chefs and an abundance of incredible South Australian produce, a winter in Adelaide is incomplete without dining at one of our award-winning restaurants. From African-inspired diners like Africola or fine-dining in historic cellar doors at Penfolds Magill Estate – loosen your belt buckle as you sample your way around the city with our guide to Adelaide's best restaurants.

6. INDULGE IN A SPA DAY 

Relaxation comes naturally when you check into Gatekeeper’s Day Spa , set high above the Piccadilly Valley, in the Adelaide Hills. Located within a historic cottage on the Mount Lofty Estate, this spa is an extension of Sequoia Luxury Lodge. Offering an enchanting wellness experience, select from a range of relaxing rituals or gentle beauty treatments. After a rejuvenating experience retire to the cottage garden for some extended time in heaven, or continue the relaxation with a night’s stay at Mount Lofty or Sequoia Lodge. 

7. DRINK RED WINE BY A ROARING FIRE

Be enticed out of hibernation and into some of South Australia’s cosiest cellar doors. Spend your day tasting award-winning wine and watch the rain and mist settle in over postcard perfect scenery, from the warmth of your fireside chair. Sip Clare Valley wine at Skillogalee by the crackle of a fire, warm up while sipping cool climate wines in the Adelaide Hills at Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard or nestle in at Hentley Farm in the Barossa with a glass of shiraz in hand. Embrace the colder months by exploring the serene beauty and rustic elegance of South Australia's wine country. We’ll save you a spot by the fire. 

8. ILLUMINATE ADELAIDE 

Late nights and bright lights, winter in South Australia marks the return of Illuminate Adelaide. A city-wide spectacle, immerse yourself in the luminescent Adelaide Botanic Garden , enjoy a mulled wine by the fire at cozy pop-up bars, or discover captivating installations scattered across iconic city landmarks. Choose from a mix of free and ticketed events from local and international companies and enjoy a program of art, light, sound and imagination each winter. 

9. ADELAIDE CENTRAL MARKET TOUR 

Home to the largest undercover market in the Southern Hemisphere, the Adelaide Central Market is not just an excellent place to stock up on nibbles or stop for lunch—it's also a must-visit gourmet destination on the world map. Discover huge pans of paella, mountains of locally-made brie and even unique offerings like green ant gin, all within this bustling foodie hub. Wander the laneways or sign up for a market tour to fill both your tote bag and your tummy with the delights of the Adelaide Central Market.

10. TASTING AUSTRALIA 

Step beyond a standard food festival as Adelaide, Australia’s official wine capital, comes to life with Tasting Australia Presented by RAA Trave l. Reward your curiosity and discover hole-in-the-wall bars, indulge in full-day degustation or board a plane for a unique regional dining experience like no other. Every winter in Adelaide, witness the magic when local legends are joined by some of Australia’s best talents, as South Australia transforms into a foodie haven. Hungry yet? With over 150 events across all 12 regions, prepare your palate and start planning. 

GET OUT THIS WINTER

Looking for more things to do this winter in Adelaide? The weather might have cooled down, but this winter our events calendar is hotter than ever . Check out our guide to the best events in winter in Adelaide. 

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• Travel Deals

Virgin drops EOFY mega sale to dream domestic and international holiday destinations

Virgin Australia has launched a major sale to some of the globe’s top holiday destinations, including Cairns, Fiji and Tokyo.

‘Run, dont walk’: $25 Kmart item lands

Qantas discounts 1 million seats in huge sale

Qantas slashes fares on premium seats

Virgin Australia has launched a mega end-of-financial-year sale on flights to some of the globe’s top holiday destinations.

Travellers can purchase discounted flights to some of Australia’s favourite holiday hotspots including the Sunshine Coast, Cairns and the Gold Coast as well as international destinations such as Fiji, Tokyo and Bali.

One million fares are up for grabs for as little as $49 across the airline’s entire network.

Virgin Australia chief commercial officer Dave Emerson said the sale would help Australians set their next vacation in motion without “breaking the bank”.

“With sale fares starting from just $49, coupled with tax-return season, Aussies can book their next holiday without breaking the bank,” he said.

The fares are available to purchase now until midnight AEST Monday, July 8, 2024, or unless sold out prior, for select travel dates between July 30, 2024 and June 3, 2025.

Domestic sale fares, valid in both directions

Ballina (Byron Bay) Sydney from $49*

Melbourne Launceston from $59*

Sydney Sunshine Coast from $69*

Sydney Gold Coast from $69*

Melbourne Hobart from $75*

Brisbane Proserpine (Whitsundays) from $75*

Melbourne Adelaide from $79*

Sydney Melbourne from $99*

Brisbane Cairns from $99*

Melbourne Gold Coast from $99*

Melbourne Canberra from $105*

Sydney Hamilton Island from $115*

Melbourne Uluru from $119*

Brisbane Uluru from $119*

Sydney Cairns from $119*

Brisbane Melbourne from $119*

Melbourne Darwin from $199*

Brisbane Hobart from $125*

Melbourne Hamilton Island from $129*

Melbourne Cairns from $135*

Brisbane Adelaide from $159*

Sydney Perth from $215*

Melbourne Perth from $229*

International sale fares, valid in both directions

Melbourne Queenstown from $405*

Sydney Queenstown from $435*

Gold Coast Denpasar (Bali) from $449*

Sydney Nadi (Fiji) from $499*

Brisbane Queenstown from $515*

Melbourne Denpasar (Bali) from $519*

Sydney Denpasar (Bali) from $519*

Brisbane Nadi (Fiji) from $549*

Brisbane Port Vila (Vanuatu) from $565*

More Coverage

Melbourne Nadi (Fiji) from $599*

Brisbane Apia (Samoa) from $609*

Cairns Haneda (Tokyo) from $679*

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The popular Aussie retailer has just come out with a handy travel gadget and shoppers can’t wait to get their hands on it.

Ending the financial year with a bang, the airline has discounted nearly one million fares across all of Australia.

High rollers rejoice, Qantas has launched the first stand-alone sale for business and premium economy seats since the pandemic.