Bask in the breathtaking scenery of Victoria's south-west coast

Day One

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic tourism routes, set along the south-west coast of Victoria. Bask in the breathtaking scenery and take in the sights over a weekend. Departing from Melbourne, the M1 will take you to Geelong in a little over an hour. As Victoria’s largest regional city, Geelong has no shortage of things to do.

For the perfect balance of culture, community, shopping and cafes, stretch your legs by taking a stroll up Pakington Street. Looking for a bite to eat? Winter’s Café is an institution. If time is on your side, how about spending an evening in Geelong? If you’re travelling with kids, Eastern Beach Reserve is a kid’s playground paradise. There’s also a ferris wheel, ice cream shops and hundreds of retailers at Westfield, all within a 1km radius. Date night? Why not check out Wah Wah Gees – a popular Asian-fusion restaurant on the waterfront. The bao buns are a must have! Geelong also has a number of up-market wine and cocktail bars. The 18th Amendment is our favourite.

Day Two

After a restful night’s sleep at Quest Geelong – your own little home away from home – we recommend you hit the road bright and early and jump on the Princes Highway, where you’ll head through Winchelsea, and Colac before arriving to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Facility near Port Campbell. Here you can park the car and marvel at the spectacle of one of the world’s most incredible seascapes. Now make your way up the Great Ocean Road, heading towards Warrnambool. The journey should take about an hour. Perhaps stop off at the Bay of Islands along the way for another breathtaking vantage point.

Back on the Great Ocean Rd, heading towards Warrnambool, Logan Beach just a few minutes shy of the city is known to be on of the best whale watching areas in Australia. The viewing platform is the perfect place to wait it out and see what you can spot. A big day’s driving sure does take it out of you! Call it a day and check into Quest Warrnambool. There’s no shortage of great fish and chip shops around town, all serving the daily catch.

Day Three

After a big day of exploration, you might be keen for a sleep in. Take your time and consider a late checkout, before making your way towards Portland. Stop off for lunch and a walk along the beach in Port Fairy – a quaint little fishing town, with lots of boutiques, cafes and more to meander for hours on end.

Quest Portland is located in a quiet side street and is only 100m from the heart of this thriving seaside town. Once you’ve checked in and dropped off your bags, you’ll be free to spend the remainder of the day exploring. Why not see the incredible sea life by joining a 45 minute boat tour with Seals by the Sea. If you’re lucky, you might even sport dolphins, whales and sharks. Now that’s a weekend away!