Cruise from cosmopolitan Melbourne to coastal Adelaide on one of Australia’s most scenic road trips. This guide provides a practical 7–10 day Melbourne to Adelaide road trip including the Great Ocean Road and into South Australia’s wine regions, with driving distances, top stops, camping tips and seasonal advice.
Estimated trip length: 7–10 days • Total distance: ~1,100 km • Best time: October–April (warmer weather and longer days)
Melbourne to Adelaide road trip is a journey through rugged coastlines, charming towns, and wine country. Whether you’re renting a campervan in Melbourne or looping back to Adelaide, this guide covers top highlights, daily route plans, and tips for campgrounds and must-see attractions along the way.
Trip Highlights
- Great Ocean Road: Surf beaches, Twelve Apostles, coastal cliffs
- Otway National Park: Rainforest walks and waterfalls
- Charming seaside towns: Lorne, Apollo Bay, Port Fairy
- Wildlife spotting: Koalas, kangaroos, emus and more
- Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole
- Coonawarra wine region tastings
- Adelaide Hills & Central Market food scene
Route Overview
Direction: Westbound from Melbourne to Adelaide via the Great Ocean Road, with inland detours through the Limestone Coast.
Approximate segment distances & driving times:
- Melbourne → Lorne: ~140 km / 2.5 hrs
- Lorne → Apollo Bay: ~45 km / 1 hr
- Apollo Bay → Port Campbell: ~100 km / 2 hrs
- Port Campbell → Port Fairy: ~90 km / 1.5 hrs
- Port Fairy → Mount Gambier: ~150 km / 2 hrs
- Mount Gambier → Coonawarra: ~60 km / 1 hr
- Coonawarra → Adelaide (via Hahndorf): ~400 km / 4.5–5 hrs
7–10 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Campervan Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Melbourne → Lorne (Great Ocean Road)
Begin the journey with a drive to Lorne via Torquay and Bells Beach. Walk along cliffside tracks and enjoy cafes by the ocean. Overnight in a holiday park near the beach.
Day 2: Lorne → Apollo Bay
Enjoy scenic driving through winding roads. Stop at Erskine Falls or take a walk in the Otways. Stay in Apollo Bay.
Day 3: Apollo Bay → Port Campbell
Visit Maits Rest rainforest walk, then continue west for photo stops at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibson Steps. Overnight at Port Campbell.
Day 4: Port Campbell → Port Fairy
Take a relaxed morning then drive to charming Port Fairy. Check out Griffiths Island lighthouse walk and spot wallabies. Stay at a coastal campground.
Day 5: Port Fairy → Mount Gambier
Cross into South Australia and explore Mount Gambier’s volcanic lakes and sinkholes. Visit the Umpherston Sinkhole and the Blue Lake. Overnight in town or nearby park.
Day 6: Mount Gambier → Coonawarra (Wine Region)
Short drive to Coonawarra, known for its premium red wines. Spend the day wine tasting and relaxing in the vineyards. Stay at a rural campground or farm stay.
Day 7: Coonawarra → Adelaide (via Adelaide Hills)
Long but scenic drive to Adelaide. Stop in Hahndorf or the Adelaide Hills for lunch and views. Arrive in Adelaide in the evening. Return your campervan or extend your stay.
Optional Add-ons for 9–10 Day Melbourne to Adelaide Road Trip:
- Extra day in Apollo Bay for Otway fly treetop walk or Cape Otway Lighthouse
- Stay longer in Coonawarra or add a detour to Robe for seafood and coastline
- Spend a day exploring Adelaide: Central Market, Glenelg Beach, museums
Camping, Parks & Facilities
- Holiday parks: Available in most towns with powered sites, hot showers and laundry facilities.
- National park campsites: Scenic but often unpowered. Book ahead during peak times.
- Free/budget options: Look for rest stops or donation-based sites via camping apps.
- Power access: Recharge your campervan battery every 1–2 nights at powered sites.
When to Go & Safety Tips
- Best time: October to April (spring through autumn) for mild weather and beach access.
- Driving: Great Ocean Road has winding sections—drive cautiously and avoid night driving.
- Wildlife: Watch for kangaroos and koalas near bushland, especially around dawn and dusk.
- Park permits: Some national parks require entry or camping permits—check local info signs.
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes, light jacket, and beachwear
- Camera, binoculars, power bank, charging cables
- Reusable water bottles, snacks, compact cooler
- Sun hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen
- First-aid kit, insect repellent, personal medication
Quick FAQs
How many days should I spend on this route?
7–10 days is perfect. Any less can feel rushed, especially along the Great Ocean Road.
Is the Great Ocean Road suitable for campervans?
Yes, but be cautious on narrow and winding sections. Take your time and pull over at designated stops.
Can I swim along the way?
Yes—many beaches are great for swimming, especially near Lorne, Apollo Bay and Robe. Always follow surf safety signs.
Do I need to prebook campsites?
It’s a good idea during school holidays or summer months, especially along the Great Ocean Road.
Plan & Book Your Campervan
Ready to hit the road? Use our Campervan Finder to compare campervan rentals from over 100 brands across Australia. Find the perfect vehicle and route your Melbourne to Adelaide road trip with ease.