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From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Discover one of Australia’s most legendary coastal routes on this immersive self guided cycling trip along the Great Ocean Road. From windswept cliffs and the towering Twelve Apostles to rainforest trails and rich volcanic landscapes, this trip offers a true taste of Victoria’s wild southwest.
The trip begins inland on the volcanic plains of Camperdown, where two connected rail trails, the Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail and the 12 Apostles Trail, take you through a mix of open farmland, native bush and quiet country towns. As you cycle towards the coast, the route joins the iconic Great Ocean Road, offering dramatic ocean views and sweeping descents through the Great Otway National Park.
While there are a few sustained climbs, you’ll be rewarded daily with spectacular scenery, local produce, and excellent coffee stops in towns like Port Campbell and Lorne. The trip ends with a coastal ride to the Memorial Arch, a fitting conclusion for one of Australia’s great cycling stretches.
This itinerary is ideal for confident road cyclists who enjoy a mix of backroads, bike paths and coastal road cycling. All with the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own time, with the comfort of knowing that all logistics have been taken care of for you.
28kg of CO2-e PP per day
(167kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Camperdown
Make your way to the historic country town of Camperdown, easily reached by train from central Melbourne (approx. 2.5–3 hours). Nestled in Victoria’s volcanic plains region, Camperdown is known for its grand heritage buildings and sweeping views of crater lakes and volcanic cones. After checking in, spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace. A highly recommended option is the short walk to the summit of Mt Leura, just 500 metres from your accommodation. From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views across the Western District's unique volcanic landscape. At the base of the mountain is an important shelter with interesting information about indigenous heritage. Back in town, you might like to visit the Clock Tower, explore the local shops and cafés, or stop by the Visitor Information Centre to learn more about the area’s geology and pioneer history. Overnight: Camperdown
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Cycle on two joined Rail Trails through to Port Campbell (61km)
This morning your bikes will be delivered to the hotel, with an in-person bike fitting, and you will begin the day cycling towards Timboon and on to Port Campbell. The Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail, once called the Crater to Coast Rail Trail, begins among ancient volcanic craters and lakes, winding towards the Shipwreck Coast. While its official name is now Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail, many still refer to it by its former name. The trail stretches between Timboon, Glenfyne, Cobden, Naroghid, and Camperdown, offering views of tall forests, historic bridges, and dairy farmland. Some sections of the trail are currently open, allowing visitors to explore overgrown timber bridges in lush rainforests, scenic woodlands, and cattle farming areas. Timboon is a great place to stop for lunch or to enjoy one of their famous ice creams. From Timboon you will join the The Poorpa Yanyeen Meerreeng Trail that continues to Port Campbell (previously known as the 12 Apostles Trail). This trail leads cyclists to Port Campbell with stunning views. Walkers can also reach the coastal town via steps and a $3.5 million suspension bridge over Port Campbell Creek. You will pass through rainforest, woodlands and farming country, enjoying magnificent views along the way. When you arrive in Port Campbell be sure to head down to the coastal lookouts. These are especially worth a visit to watch the sunset. Overnight: Port Campbell. Cycling distance: 63km, ascent:420m, descent: 577m
Day 3
Cycle past the 12 Apostles and on to Lavers Hill then to Beech Forest (68km)
Today’s ride is a true highlight of the trip, showcasing some of the most iconic scenery along the Great Ocean Road. We recommend setting off early to make the most of the day’s sights and stops. Your route takes you along the spectacular coastline to the Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles, some of Australia’s most photographed natural landmarks. As you cycle along the coast you will come to the path that takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, an enclosed beach framed by dramatic cliffs and steeped in shipwreck history. Continue a little further along and then park your bike at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre and take a short walk along the trail to the windswept viewing platforms, where you’ll get front-row views of the towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean. Take time to explore the walking trails and admire the natural amphitheatre before continuing inland toward Lavers Hill. We suggest stopping for lunch at The Perch at Lavers Hill (open 11am–2:30pm), a relaxed spot with excellent local fare and scenic surrounds. After lunch, you’ll be transferred back to Port Campbell, where you can revisit any coastal walks you may have missed or simply unwind and enjoy the local food and atmosphere. Overnight in Port Campbell. Cycling distance: 68km, ascent: 766m, descent: 251m
Day 4
Continue to Apollo Bay (34km)
Your day begins with a transfer back to Lavers Hill, where you'll continue your journey with a scenic detour off the Great Ocean Road. From here, you’ll follow a stretch of the Old Beechy Rail Trail, a historic path that winds through farmland and forest. It’s a peaceful and rewarding section, offering a glimpse into the region’s timber railway past. Not far from Beech Forest, a long descent takes you to the Otway Redwoods, an impressive grove of towering Californian redwoods planted in the 1930s. The short forest walk here is a trip highlight, offering a complete contrast to the open coastal views of the previous day. From the redwoods, continue on an unsealed road through the lush landscape toward the coast. Rejoining the Great Ocean Road, your ride ends in the laid-back town of Apollo Bay, nestled between the Otway Ranges and the sea. Treat yourself to a visit at the Apollo Bay Bakery – their scallop pies are legendary. Overnight: Apollo Bay Cycling distance: 34km, ascent: 374m, descent: 893m
Day 5
Continue cycling to Lorne (48km)
Today you continue along Great Ocean Road, enjoying the spectacular views from your saddle, with dramatic cliffs on one side and dense, verdant rainforests on the other. The route winds through the picturesque Otway Ranges, offering a blend of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. Along the way, you'll pass through tranquil beaches, charming coastal towns, and scenic lookout points, making it a perfect adventure for nature lovers and cycling enthusiasts. There are several waterfalls that you can stop at along the way. You can also stop in at the Kafe Koala, a delightful little general store where you may spot koalas in the trees nearby. The day concludes in Lorne, a swish seaside town with a lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, providing a perfect spot to relax after the ride. *The cycling today is along the road generally in an 80km/h zone although there are many twists and turns along the way which will slow the cars done. Much of the road has a verge for cycling on but high visibility clothing is a must. Starting out early is advisable. Overnight Lorne. Cycling distance: 48km, ascent: 555m, descent: 528m
Day 6
Optional loop cycle from Lorne to either Erskine Falls or Aireys Inlet (34km)
You have a couple of choices for your cycle today - or if you are still feeling energetic you will have time for both. From Lorne you can take on the steep ascent to Eskine Falls (20km round trip). Or to finish the trip on a iconic note, cycle to Airley's Inlet and pass through the classic Memorial Arch. This is a 34km round trip. Your bikes will be collected this afternoon. Overnight in Lorne.
Day 7
Trip concludes
The trip concludes this morning in Lorne. From Lorne you can take the bus to Geelong and then the train back to Melbourne.
Cycle past the 12 Apostles and on to Lavers Hill, transfer back to Port Campbell (50km)
Today’s ride is a true highlight of the trip, showcasing some of the most iconic scenery along the Great Ocean Road. We recommend setting off early to make the most of the day’s sights and stops. Your route takes you along the spectacular coastline to the Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles, some of Australia’s most photographed natural landmarks. As you cycle along the coast you will come to the path that takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, an enclosed beach framed by dramatic cliffs and steeped in shipwreck history. Continue a little further along and then park your bike at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre and take a short walk along the trail to the windswept viewing platforms, where you’ll get front-row views of the towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean. Take time to explore the walking trails and admire the natural amphitheatre before continuing inland toward Lavers Hill. We suggest stopping for lunch at The Perch at Lavers Hill (open 11am–2:30pm), a relaxed spot with excellent local fare and scenic surrounds. After lunch, you’ll be transferred back to Port Campbell, where you can revisit any coastal walks you may have missed or simply unwind and enjoy the local food and atmosphere. Overnight in Port Campbell. Cycling distance: 50km, ascent: 622m, descent: 177m
Transfer to Lavers Hill, continue to Beech Forest and Apollo Bay (50km)
Your day begins with a transfer back to Lavers Hill, where you'll continue your journey with a scenic detour off the Great Ocean Road. From here, you’ll follow a stretch of the Old Beechy Rail Trail, a historic path that winds through farmland and forest. It’s a peaceful and rewarding section, offering a glimpse into the region’s timber railway past. Not far from Beech Forest, a long descent takes you to the Otway Redwoods, an impressive grove of towering Californian redwoods planted in the 1930s. The short forest walk here is a trip highlight, offering a complete contrast to the open coastal views of the previous day. From the redwoods, continue on an unsealed road through the lush landscape toward the coast. Rejoining the Great Ocean Road, your ride ends in the laid-back town of Apollo Bay, nestled between the Otway Ranges and the sea. Treat yourself to a visit at the Apollo Bay Bakery – their scallop pies are legendary. Overnight: Apollo Bay Cycling distance: 52km, ascent: 524m, descent: 973m
What's included
What's not included
You will be provided with a Marin 86 mountain bike or similar. Along with a helmet, lock, repair kit, rear carrier and a waterproof pannier. You can also hire an electric bike for a supplement where you will receive an e-mountain bike.
There are large portions of this trip where you will be cycling on the Great Ocean Road where the speed limit is 80km per hour. About 60% of the time there will be a shoulder to cycle on. In many sections the route is quite windy and traffic will generally slow down. On day 2 there is about 10km on a quiet road where the speed limit is 100km per hour. You will need to be confident and comfortable cycling on the road with cars. We recommend starting your cycling early each day to avoid as much traffic as possible.
There are are some stretches of dirt road, and at times these dirt roads can be rutted.
The first day of cycling is largely on rail trails. The trail is primarily constructed of compacted earth and coarse gravel.
You’ll spend 6 nights in clean and comfortable 2-3 star hotels. The rooms are spacious, clean, double/twin rooms, most of which have ensuite facilities. The hotels are well located, close to town and the cycle route. In Lorne you will spend 2 nights at the Mantra for a touch of extra comfort after some big cycling days.
This self guided trip involves 5 days of cycling over varied terrain. Daily activity is usually between 5 and 7 hours but some days might be longer depending on your overall pace. Being a self guided trip you determine the pace and schedule. You will need an excellent level of fitness and good health and be a very confident and capable cyclist to complete the distances. Daily ascents range from 420m to 622m each day, with descents of up to 577m. There are large portions of this trip where you will be cycling on the Great Ocean Road where the speed limit is 80km per hour. About 60% of the time there will be a shoulder to cycle on. In many sections the route is quite windy and traffic will generally slow down. On day 2 there is about 10km on a quiet road where the speed limit is 100km per hour. You will need to be confident and comfortable cycling on the road with cars. We recommend starting your cycling early each day to avoid as much traffic as possible. While the vast majority of the route is on sealed roads there are some stretches of dirt road, and at times these dirt roads can be rutted. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions which can also add to the timing and comfort of a trip, for example riding into a head wind will take more time than when the wind is behind you. High visibility clothing is essential. If you use an electric bike, the grading on this trip is moderate. As of July 2025 a couple of bridges are being replaced on the Camperdown to Timboon Rail Trail so short detours over dirt trails are required.
Per Person, Twin Share
Yes, you need to be a capable cyclist. You will cover up to 61km in a day, often in hilly areas, and you will need to be confident cycling on roads. There is lots of cycling on the road in this trip. Including on roads where the speed per hour is 80km.
Yes, you can use your own bike if you prefer. Let us know at the time of booking and a small discount will be applied. If you are electing to bring your own bike, it is important that you have a bike fit for purpose.
You can drive from Melbourne which will take about 2.5 hours, or take the train which take around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The trip ends in Lorne. From Lorne you can take a bus to Geelong and then a connecting train to get back to Melbourne. The journey time will be around 3.5 hours. Alternatively we can arrange a transfer back from Lorne to Camperdown for an extra cost. Please speak with us for details on pricing.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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As the pioneers of self guided active travel in Australia you can expect a seamless experience. Our quality tour notes and logistical expertise sets us apart and ensures a quality experience for you.
Our team is passionate about cycling and their extensive knowledge and experience means you get the very best advice - every time. We will help you tailor the right cycling itinerary for you.
Expect first-class and flexible support both on and off the trail. We've sourced the highest quality bikes and most authentic accommodations so you can enjoy a stress free cycling trip.
By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.
Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.
Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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