2025 Port Campbell Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Melbourne Road Trip Day 6 (8/11) The Twelve Apostles The epic and majestic Twelve Apostles, shaped by years of coastal erosion, now only feature seven standing limestone stacks. This is my third time in Melbourne, but previous trips were group tours that lacked depth. This time, I came specifically for the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, and it was absolutely worth it! 😍😍😍 P.S.: Having a travel buddy with great photography skills is truly important, haha 🤣

#summervacay A summer day trip to Port Campbell National Park offers a stunning mix of rugged coastline, iconic landmarks, and rich history. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles, the dramatic Loch Ard Gorge, and the beachside beauty of Gibson Steps. Visitors can explore several natural rock formations like London Bridge and The Grotto, all within short driving distance. The weather is ideal in summer—warm and breezy—and the views are best at sunrise or sunset. The park is well-maintained with good access. With an early start from Melbourne, this trip is a perfect coastal adventure packed into a single, unforgettable day.

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal drives—an absolute must-do. The winding roads hug the cliffs, offering dramatic ocean views, lush rainforests, and iconic stops like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Great Otway National Park. Every turn feels like a postcard. There’s plenty to explore, from seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay to hidden beaches and waterfalls. Best enjoyed over a couple of days if you can, though even a day trip is unforgettable. Be sure to start early, pack snacks, and give yourself time to soak in the scenery—it’s pure magic. #beachlife #thingstodo #travel #seascapes #Australia

🌟【Melbourne Great Ocean Road Day Tour】Check in at the opposite peak time! The beautiful sunset at the Twelve Apostles🌄 💡Why choose the main line? 👉🏻Avoid the crowds! Go directly to the Twelve Apostles in the morning and take the empty fairy seat 👉🏻 Arrive at the Little Red Riding Hood Lighthouse before sunset, orange sunset + white lighthouse = movie-level picture 👉🏻The 13-person Mercedes-Benz small group is comfortable and not crowded, and the Chinese tour guide explains the whole process very considerately 📸Must-take photo spots 1️⃣Twelve Apostles Rock (11:00AM) Helicopter experience is highly recommended! $165/person to overlook the "Hidden Disciples" on the seabed (the pilot's Chinese explanation is super surprising) 2️⃣Lock Ard Gorge (11:55AM) The shock of waves crashing against the cliffs, standing on the observation deck to take pictures of the same blockbuster as "Pirates of the Caribbean" 3️⃣Apollo Bay (13:50PM) Half-moon Bay + seafood lunch! Recommend Scorched fish and chips 🍟 4️⃣Wild koalas (15:20PM) Kennett River eucalyptus forest, we found 5 in our car! 🐨 5️⃣Little Red Riding Hood Lighthouse (16:50PM) A fairytale lighthouse with red and white stripes. The silhouette shot against the light is absolutely amazing 🚐 Itinerary Easter Egg ✔️Free pick-up from downtown hotels (B&Bs need to go to the meeting point) ✔️The tour guide will help you take photos of the "floating rocks" ✔️Motion sickness medicine + charging cable are available on board ✔️Don’t make the mistake as the departure times are different in winter and summer time! 🎒 Essential list▫️ Physical sun protection three-piece set: sunglasses + hat + mask ▫️ Australian dollars in cash (some coffee carts on the observation deck only accept coins) ▫️ Portable tripod (amazing time-lapse photography) ▫️ Motion sickness medicine (recommended to be taken 30 minutes before departure)

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Australia, filled with breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This comprehensive guide has everything you need to plan your perfect Aussie adventure! Let's get started! -- 🛫Itinerary: Day 1: Fly from Guangzhou to Brisbane, kicking off your Australian adventure! Day 2: South Bank Parklands – Kangaroo Point – Queensland Museum – New Farm Park – Surfers Paradise Explore Brisbane's natural beauty and urban culture, and experience the energy of Surfers Paradise. Day 3: Paradise Country – Labrador Pelican Feeding – Gold Coast beaches Get close to nature, experience farm life, and then head to the Gold Coast to soak up the sun and sand. Day 4: Great Ocean Road Walk – Twelve Apostles – Apollo Bay – Loch Ard Gorge Stroll along the spectacular Great Ocean Road and admire the unique natural scenery. Day 5: Federation Square – Hosier Lane – Bendigo Tramways – St. Patrick's Cathedral – Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – National Gallery of Victoria Delve into the heart of Melbourne, experiencing the fusion of art and nature. Day 6: Sydney Harbour Ferry – Watsons Bay – Sydney Opera House – Sydney Fish Market – Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney – Darling Harbour Enjoy a day trip to Sydney, taking in the harbor views and the city's vibrant atmosphere. Day 7: Blue Mountains National Park – Three Sisters – Leura – Hyde Park – St Mary's Cathedral Explore the natural wonders of the Blue Mountains and then return to Sydney to experience its history and culture. Day 8: Fly from Sydney back to Guangzhou, marking the end of your delightful Australian journey!🛬 -- Must-See Attractions: ✨ Sydney Opera House: Admire the iconic white shell-shaped structure, a harborside art sanctuary and world-class performing arts center. 🌳 Blue Mountains National Park: Journey through primeval eucalyptus forests, experience the mystique of the rainforest, and marvel at stunning natural waterfalls. 🌊 Darling Harbour: Sydney's shining jewel, offering picturesque waterfront views by day and transforming into a dazzling city of lights by night. 🪨 Twelve Apostles: Witness the millennia-old wonder of the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, a group of rock stacks sculpted by the relentless waves, a testament to the power of nature. -- Essential Travel Tips: - Traveling to Australia in February offers pleasant weather, with warm, comfortable days and slightly cooler evenings. Remember to bring a light jacket.🧥 - Australia boasts a rich culinary scene. Don't miss out on the seafood🦞, steaks🥩, and famous Australian lobster and Vegemite sandwiches! - Upon arrival at the airport, you can choose from taxis🚕, buses🚌, or trains🚆 to reach the city center, thanks to the convenient transportation options. - Ensure you have obtained your Australian visa before departure for a worry-free trip!🛫 -- 🌟Don't forget to like and save this guide. Take it with you and embark on your dream Australian adventure!

Hey, travel lovers! Don't miss this guide to exploring Australia in just 2 days. This top-secret guide will help you make the most of your trip! . Australia, located between the South Pacific and the Indian Ocean, boasts a unique indigenous culture and a rich colonial history. This land is known as the country that rides on the back of a sheep, 🏞️ with stunning landscapes like the Great Barrier Reef. It's a dream destination for adventurers! . Must-visit attractions: 🪨 Twelve Apostles: Millennia-old stone pillars on the Great Ocean Road, standing tall against the waves, with unique scenery. 🌊 Apollo Bay: A crescent-shaped bay, a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, with breathtaking views. 🏞️ Loch Ard Gorge: Experience the charm of the strange rocks in the sea at close range. The gorge's rocks are majestic and spectacular. 🚶‍♂️ Great Ocean Road Trail: Enjoy the stunning coastal erosion landforms along the way, and the charming beach will let you enjoy the gifts of nature. 📷 Gibson Steps: Want to capture a beautiful photo of the two giant rocks in the Twelve Apostles? This is your ideal shooting location. . 🧳 Travel checklist: Essentials for your Australian trip 📞 Get a phone card to stay connected and search online. 🔌 Don't forget a plug adapter, as the plug specifications in Australia are different. 🪪 Make sure you have all your documents, including your visa and passport. 👕 The weather in Australia is moderate in February, so bring some spring and autumn clothes. 🔋 Bring a charger and a power bank to avoid running out of power during your trip. . Traveling in Australia is so wonderful and colorful. Come and explore! 🌟

Explore the wonders of Australia's forests on an 8-day in-depth tour. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the country's forests and discover hidden gems. Collect this private guide and start your journey! -------------------- 🌏 Itinerary: DAY1: Arrive in Melbourne and start your Australian adventure! DAY2: Fitzroy Gardens – Federation Square – Flinders Street Station – Hosier Lane – Captain Cook's Cottage – St. Patrick's Cathedral Wander through Melbourne's city center, enjoy the tranquility of the gardens, the bustle of the square, the historical charm of the train station, and the artistic vibe of the alley. DAY3: Free time in Melbourne Enjoy a full day of free time in Melbourne and explore the city's unique charm. DAY4: Great Ocean Road – Twelve Apostles – Loch Ard Gorge Follow the scenic Great Ocean Road, admire the natural wonders, and experience the grandeur and mystery of nature. DAY5: Art Gallery of New South Wales – Royal Botanic Garden Sydney – Mrs Macquarie's Chair – Sydney Opera House A cultural journey in Sydney, from the Art Gallery to the Royal Botanic Garden, to the iconic Sydney Opera House, experience the harmonious blend of art and nature. DAY6: Blue Mountains National Park – Sydney Zoo Explore the magical scenery of the Blue Mountains and experience the wonders of nature. Then head to the zoo and get up close with adorable animals. DAY7: Free time in Sydney Enjoy a full day of free time in Sydney and explore the city's international charm. DAY8: Depart from Sydney and end your wonderful Australian adventure, head home! -------------------- Suggested attractions: Sydney Opera House ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000 Opening hours: 09:00-19:30 Duration: 1-2 hours The white shell-shaped opera house stands beside the harbor, and is the world's top performing arts center. Blue Mountains National Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: New South Wales, Australia Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 Duration: 1-2 days Here you will find dense eucalyptus forests, magical tropical rainforests, and spectacular waterfalls, each of which is a masterpiece of nature. Twelve Apostles ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Great Ocean Rd & Booringa Rd, Princetown VIC 3269, Australia Opening hours: 09:00-17:00 Duration: 1-2 hours The unique group of rock pillars eroded by the sea, each of which is like a work of art, telling the story of time. -------------------- Small tips: * Visa information: To travel to Australia, you need to apply for a visa in advance. Please prepare the required documents to avoid delays.😊 * Local products: Want to buy Australian local products? It is recommended to compare prices at local supermarkets and markets for better deals!🛍️ * Airport transportation: Sydney and Melbourne airports are conveniently located, and you can choose between taxis and subways.🚖🚇 * Seasonal selection: Avoid peak season to enjoy a more peaceful travel experience and save money.🍃 * Local customs: Respect local culture and customs to better integrate into Australian life.🌍 -------------------- Australia, waiting for you to explore more unknown beauty! Are you ready for a spontaneous trip?

Family trip to Australia: Don't miss the University of Sydney and the wildlife park! The academic atmosphere and natural wildlife will let your kids learn while having fun. It's an amazing experience! -------------------- Australia is a dazzling gem in the Southern Hemisphere 💎, with a unique geographical location and rich history and culture 📜. From the sailboat shape of the Sydney Opera House 🛶 to the magnificent underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef 🐠, there are beautiful sights everywhere, and every step is a new experience. It is known as the country on the back of a sheep and the country on a minecart. -------------------- 🛤️ Itinerary: Day 1: ✈️ Arrive in Sydney - Hotel Rest Arrive in Sydney, head to the hotel to rest and adjust, and get ready to start your exciting trip to Australia! Day 2: Sydney Opera House -> Sydney Harbour Bridge -> Royal Botanic Garden Sydney -> Circular Quay -> Darling Harbour -> Bondi Beach One-day tour of Sydney city center: visit the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, visit Circular Quay and Darling Harbour, and finally head to Bondi Beach to feel the sea breeze. Day 3: Blue Mountains National Park -> Scenic World Head to Blue Mountains National Park to admire the magnificent natural scenery and explore the wonderful landscapes of Scenic World. Day 4: Hyde Park -> Australian Museum -> Art Gallery of New South Wales -> Sydney Fish Market Sydney cultural tour: visit Hyde Park, the Australian Museum, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales, and enjoy fresh seafood at the Sydney Fish Market. Day 5: Puffing Billy Steam Train -> Phillip Island Take the Puffing Billy Steam Train to experience the charm of retro transportation, then head to Phillip Island to explore the island scenery. Day 6: Great Ocean Road -> Twelve Apostles -> Gibson Steps -> Loch Ard Gorge -> London Bridge Self-drive tour of the Great Ocean Road: admire the spectacular Twelve Apostles, challenge the Gibson Steps, and explore the natural wonders of Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. Day 7: Hosier Lane -> St Paul's Cathedral -> Chinatown -> Carlton Gardens -> National Gallery of Victoria -> Shrine of Remembrance Melbourne city tour: wander through the street art of Hosier Lane, visit St Paul's Cathedral, stroll through Chinatown to experience exotic culture, visit Carlton Gardens and the National Gallery of Victoria, and finally head to the Shrine of Remembrance to learn about history. Day 8: 🛫 Hotel - Airport Transfer End your wonderful trip to Australia, enjoy the private airport transfer service, and look forward to seeing you again! -------------------- Tips: - Specialty prices: Australia has many specialties with different prices, so it's recommended to compare prices before buying 🛍️. - Food: Don't miss the unique Australian food experience of kangaroo meat and seafood platters 🦞! - Visa information: You need to apply for a visa in advance to go to Australia to ensure a smooth trip 📖. - Airport transportation: Sydney and Melbourne airports have convenient transportation, with taxis and subways to choose from 🚖🚇. -------------------- That's the end of the trip to Australia. I hope these guides will make your trip more exciting. See you next time!

#naturalscape #100 ways to travel A must-visit attraction on a day trip to Melbourne's Great Ocean Road, the Loch Ard Gorge is like a mysterious place in a movie. It was named in memory of the Loch Ard shipwreck that occurred here. Adehu Gorge is also known as #shipwreckcoast. Due to strong waves erosion, the rock wall collapsed and formed a gap. After the seawater poured in, it continued to erode, and over time, an inner bay was dug out. The sea water pours in from the gates formed by the tall cliffs on both sides, forming a deep blue emerald pool, forming a strange scene with a double wall surrounding it and a bay in the gorge. With the fjord rock walls as the background, taking photos on the beach in the bay is particularly majestic! The Great Ocean Road itinerary of the one-day tour group will arrange the Adelaide Gorge and the adjacent #Twelve Apostles together, allowing tourists to enjoy the wonders of sea erosion and weathering. #AustraliaFree Travel #Melbourne #Port Campbell National Park #Ad Lake Gorge #Twelve Apostles #Great Ocean Road

#visitmelbourne It’s my first time visiting Melbourne, and I had a really great time in enjoying all sorts of fresh seafoods (🦀🦞🦐 and of course not mentioning the 🦪). You may check out the price from South Melbourne Market as I find it slightly cheaper than others. The beef is so fresh in Australia and I would like to recommend ‘YOMG’ - Yo My Goodness to all, and the burger is super yum and very filling. The Best 🍔 burger I have had so far😋 #nomnom

The Twelves Apostles is a famous natural landmark along the Great Ocean Road in Australia. It’s a collection of limestone rock stacks that stand majestically off the southern coast of Australia. Originally formed through erosion over millions of years. Due to relentless forces of wind & ocean waves, the softer limestone layers got eroded away, leaving behind the impressive stacks we see today. The Twelves Apostles offer a breathtaking sight, especially during sunrise & sunset timing. There are several viewing platforms & walking trails to enhance the viewing experience here. The Twelves Apostles are located within Port Campbell National Park, and is also walking distance to another landmark - Gibson Steps. #wecreate #australia #darwintravel

Lovely scenery and great weather…😍😍 The Twelve Apostles are located in Victoria, Australia. It’s about 4.5 hour drive from Melbourne along the Great Ocean Road to the wondrous 12 Apostles. There are many activities you can do while enjoying the scenery and make the most of your wonderful holiday there. From walk to Loch Ard Gorge until visiting Port Campbell National Park. You will enjoy the amazing nature scenery.#awesomepic #beachlife #nationalpark

You may have heard of Great Ocean Road’s Twelve Apostles, but located just 12 minutes drive away is the Loch Ard Gorge - a hidden gem. Take the stairs down to the shore and stand between the enormous cliffs while getting a clear view down from the gorge. It is truly a surreal feeling to be standing where historical tragedies and miracles happen. And of course, the stunning views of the clear water are simply mesmerising. Address: Great Ocean Road Port Campbell, VIC 3269 #bucketlistreboot #nationalpark #beachlife #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport #2023travelwish

#newyearadventure Address - Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia Ambiance - Chill and refreshing Highlights - Mesmerising the wonder of nature, The Twelve Apostles Avg. Price per Person - $20 to $50 Rating - 4.8 to 5.0 stars Have your New Year adventure driving down the most scenic road in Australia, the Great Ocean Road, chasing after the sunset is the best experience one can get. Looking at the wonder of nature like The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, etc and feeling the sun and wind. Best experience that you should try at least once! #victoria #greatoceanroad #australia #roadtrip #sunset

#celebratewithtrip the next stop of my great ocean road road trip wad actually the razor back. honestly this was one of my favorite attractions because the rock just looks so beautiful and pretty. the sharp edges are actually quite mesmerizing and in the deep blue sea it looks really good. would highly recommend to come here during your road trip as well. only have to walk a straight route and there is no steep slope or whatsoever from the car park hence very manageable and easy for people of all ages. take some nice and memorable photos here. not a lot of people too and not crowded hence can take a nice shot.

#celebratewithtrip the next must visit during your great ocean road road trip would be the loch ard gorge. this is also one of my personal favorites. the good thing about this is you are up close and can take so many nice pictures over here. love the colors of the sea. it is quite sandy though so would suggest taking your shoes off if possible when walking. apparently there are a lot of tourists during the weekdays as well so it is quite impossible to take a picture without having someone in the background. nevertheless it is still nice and the picture turns out great. would recommend visiting and admiring this natural wonders.

#celebratewithtrip One of the attraction when come to great ocean road in Australia. Its a next stop after 12 apostle. Beautiful erosion over million years by the sea, wine and sand! Great views with excellent picturesque opportunities. 100 meters walk from car park and then there's steep steps leading down to the gorge. The view is great. The cliff, ocean view, the warm sand. It’s just so relaxing. #melbourne

#bucketlistreboot The Loch Ard Gorge is one of the best-loved stop-off points along the Great Ocean Road. It’s situated in the Port Campbell National Park and is just three minutes from the world-famous formation of the Twelve Apostles. The picturesque gorge is home to a smooth, pearlescent bay and an inlet of clear, blue water. It’s flanked by two yellow-washed cliff faces and tufts of vibrant greenery. Though it looks like something out of a storybook, Loch Ard isn’t just a pretty face. In fact, it has an interesting and colourful history that spans back hundreds of years. It was here that the Loch Ard, probably Victoria’s most famous shipwreck, was smashed against Muttonbird Island in 1878 with only two young survivors.

The Loch Ard Gorge is one of the popular stop-off points when driving down the Great Ocean Road. It is situated in Port Campbell National Park. In 1878, there was a shipwreck in Port Campbell and there were only 2 survivors who were washed ashore. The ship’s name was Loch Ard and that is how Loch Ard Gorge got it’s name. There are a few walking tracks which you can take to fully enjoy the beautiful nature settings at Loch Ard Gorge. I recommend the Loch Ard Wreck Lookout and the Mutton Bird Island Lookout for exceptional views and don’t miss out on the Wreck of the Loch Ard trail to learn more about the region’s history. #momentssg #nationalpark #australia

I'm going to reminisce about Australia, a long time ago. The Great Ocean Road is still the number one travel destination in my heart, even though I've traveled to many cities since then. It's a place full of beauty that's hard to describe in words. #AustraliaTravel #SoloTravel #GreatOceanRoad

The scenery here is really stunning! ! The beauty that you see with your eyes cannot be captured by your phone! I feel so happy and lucky standing here that I can see such a beautiful scenery with my own eyes♥️ #Overseas Travel #Overseas Travel

Loch Ard Gorge is only about 2 km from the 12 disciples of the Great Ocean Road. So after 12 tourers, don't forget to continue westbound. A few hundred meters walk from the parking lot, you can overlook the canyon, and the huge rock stands in the sea, which is very shocking. But don't think that's all. Just follow the trail to the beach and feel the magnificence of the rock up close. Moreover, the beach here is particularly delicate, and the surge in the bay is not very large. Consider swimming in the sun. But there will be snakes in the nearby grass, or be careful, try not to go inside the grass.

#hellohalloween #october2025 #aussie 🌊 Great Ocean Road Adventure Embarking on the Great Ocean Road from Geelong Waterfront is a journey through some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. Starting with the peaceful bay views of Geelong, the drive unfolds into winding seaside cliffs, charming surf towns, and panoramic ocean vistas that seem to stretch endlessly. The highlights begin with the majestic Loch Ard Gorge, where turquoise waters meet golden limestone cliffs — a place steeped in both beauty and tragic shipwreck history. Just nearby, the Razorback formation stands tall and rugged, shaped over centuries by the fierce Southern Ocean winds. A short distance away, The Bakers Oven arches gracefully over the sea, its natural bridge a stunning display of nature’s craftsmanship. Every stop along this route is a masterpiece of raw Australian coastal power. Whether it’s the scent of the sea breeze, the roar of waves crashing below, or the endless horizon — this drive is more than a road trip; it’s an unforgettable journey through nature’s grand design.

Cloudy Coastal Drama at the 12 Apostle Photo Area 🌊🌧️ Experience nature’s raw artistry on the Great Ocean Road’s most iconic stop—the 12 Apostle Photo Area near Port Campbell. Even under cloudy September skies and a sprinkle of rain, the dramatic sea stacks emerge with moody vibes perfect for outdoor and nature-vision lovers. Recommended Route: Start early and walk the officially marked trails near the photo area; find vantage points at both the main lookout and smaller offshoots for diverse perspectives. The weather might be broody, but don’t let that stop you—cloudy days bring out rugged contrasts that make your photos pop! Must-Do Experiences: - Gaze out at the towering limestone stacks while stormy seas crash below. - Wander along viewing platforms for close-up scenes, especially right after a rain—pavement sparkles and wildflowers show their true colors. - Listen for the roar of the ocean; it’s louder and more dramatic on rainy days. Top Photo Spots: - The main platform delivers classic panoramic shots of the apostles against the churning sea. - Try a wide-angle lens or phone in “panorama” mode for the full sweep of coastline. - Zoom in on wildflowers nearby for close-up nature shots with the cliffs softly blurred in the background. Practical Tips: - Opening hours: 09:00-17:00, year-round. - Weather changes fast—bring a waterproof jacket rather than an umbrella (the wind is no joke!). - Sturdy shoes recommended: Paths can be muddy and slippery after rain. Key Precautions: - Stay behind barriers for safety—cliffs are unstable. - Watch your step when stopping for flower close-ups; wet grass can be slick. #GreatOceanRoad #12Apostles #PortCampbell #CloudyAndRainy #NatureVision

🎥 Day 1 – Melbourne to Apollo Bay “Hi everyone! Day 1 of our Great Ocean Road trip 🚗✨ We started from Melbourne City and made our first stop at Geelong, before heading down the coast. Along the way, we passed Torquay and stopped at the beautiful Split Point Lighthouse. Next was the famous Memorial Arch, and at Kennett River we spotted a koala – but it was fast asleep 🐨💤. By evening, we checked into Apollo Bay for our first night, enjoying the ocean views.” 🎥 Day 2 – Apollo Bay to Port Campbell “Day 2 was all about nature and coastal wonders. We began with a walk through the lush Maits Rest Rainforest, then explored the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse. Continuing west, we were blown away by the iconic Twelve Apostles. We also stopped at Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, and London Bridge before ending the day at Seafoam Villas in Port Campbell, our cozy stay for the night.” 🎥 Day 3 – Port Campbell to Melbourne “On our last day, we visited the dramatic Bay of Islands, then drove inland through Colac before heading back towards the city. Our final stop was the colorful Brighton Bath Boxes 🌈 – the perfect photo finish to our 3-day Great Ocean Road adventure!”

#mytraveldiary #september2025 #greatoceanroad Standing before The Razorback, you’re not just looking at a rock formation — you’re gazing at millions of years of nature’s artistry, shaped by the relentless power of wind, rain, and sea. This jagged limestone stack, with its sharp ridges and rugged profile, feels almost alive, as though frozen mid-battle with the Southern Ocean. 🪨 How It Came to Be The Razorback tells a geological story etched in stone: • Wind-blown spray hardened patches of limestone, protecting them as softer rock around eroded away — leaving the spiky “razor” ridges along its back. • Wave energy, striking every 14 seconds, carved deep, smooth grooves just above sea level, wearing away at its base year after year. • Rainwater seeped into vertical cracks, widening them until massive blocks collapsed into the sea, reducing what was once a much larger stack to the dramatic rock shelf seen today. ⚡ Why It Inspires Awe What makes The Razorback so compelling isn’t just its shape, but its sense of impermanence. Each jagged edge and groove is a reminder that this landscape is constantly evolving. What you see today is a fleeting chapter in its story — a story of collapse, resilience, and rebirth. 💡 Tip: From The Razorback lookout, it’s an easy walk to other nearby formations such as Thunder Cave, Broken Head, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Together, they make for one of the most unforgettable coastal walks in Australia.

Located near the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is said to resemble the hideout of the protagonist in Studio Ghibli's film 'Porco Rosso.' In the past, a ship named 'Loch Ard' sailed near this area. On a foggy day, the ship collided with the rocky terrain and sank. Out of the 54 passengers and crew aboard, only two survived. These two survivors washed ashore at Loch Ard Gorge. Surrounded by steep cliffs, the two survivors reached the gorge. To call for help, one of them climbed the cliff to seek rescue. During this time, they carved the name of their ship and their own names into the cliff to mark their presence. In the past, visitors could descend to the sandy beach via stairs, but as of March 2025, the area is closed off, and access to the beach is no longer possible. Visitors now view the gorge from the walking trail above. From the top, many inscriptions can be seen, as numerous visitors have imitated the original carvings. While it's difficult to identify the authentic markings, they can be examined closely using a camera. Walking further along the trail leads to the entrance of the gorge. The waves crashing against the rocks evoke the dramatic events of the past. 📍 Loch Ard Gorge ⏱ Approximately 20 minutes 👀 A site commemorating the Loch Ard shipwreck 🎞 Said to resemble the hideout of the protagonist in 'Porco Rosso' ♬︎•*¨*•.¸¸♬︎•*¨*•.¸¸♬︎•*¨*•.¸¸♬︎

#mytraveldiary #september2025 #australiatrip A beautiful site not to miss, Thunder Cave is more than just a viewpoint — it’s a raw encounter with the power of the Southern Ocean. Standing at the lookout, you’ll hear the deep, echoing booms as waves surge into the hollow chamber, creating the “thunder” that gives the cave its name. On wild days, the sound rolls through the cliffs like nature’s own drumbeat, both exhilarating and humbling. What makes this spot even more fascinating is its story. Around 20 million years ago, this entire coastline was a deep ocean floor. Layers of sand, plants, and marine life compacted over millennia, forming the sandstone and limestone cliffs we see today. Relentless erosion sculpted arches and caves — Thunder Cave being one of its most dramatic results. Originally, an archway framed this site, but when it collapsed, massive chunks of limestone fell into the sea, now lying about 15 metres below the surface. Each crashing wave rolls over these submerged boulders before surging into the cave, amplifying that signature thunderous roar. ✨ What to See Nearby: 🌊 Broken Head – Another dramatic headland that showcases the raw beauty of erosion. 📸 Panoramic Clifftop Walks – Trails connect these formations, offering breathtaking coastal views perfect for photos. 💡 Tip: Visit during high tide or after storms for the loudest “thunder” effect, but take care on windy days. Sunset adds golden light to the cliffs, making the scenery even more dramatic.