THE AUSSIE EXPLORER: COASTLINE DRIVING PASSION

THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD IS HOME TO ONE OF VICTORIA'S GREATEST ADVENTURES. IT'S A PERFECT BLEND OF FABULOUS SEASCAPES AND EXOTIC WILDLIFE.

BY: Fernando de Mello Pimentel

Located in the great state of Victoria, Australia, between the cities of Geelong and Warrnambool, lies a sinuous and adventurous path in memory of all those Australians who served in World War I, also known as "The Great Ocean Road". This giant asphalt snake cuts through one of Australia's most beautiful and vibrant coastal landscapes, inviting drivers to keep the gas pumping and their wheels turning as to discover more of its wonders.

Throughout the extension of its 237 km, the "GOR" will give its guests many precious gifts to stare at - specifically the section between the cities of Anglesea and Apollo's Bay. However, the greatest thrill to the eye may take place near Port Campbell. That's where The Loch Ard Gorge, The Grotto, The London Arch, and the world famous 12 Apostles are located. Indulge your vision with a sample of mother nature's finest state-of-the-art geological aesthetics! Drivers, there's no need to worry!!! There are plenty of parking spaces along the way, so that you may pull over, stop and get some amazing sight-seeing time for yourselves! Contemplate these sandstone rock formations for as long as you can and be sure to photograph! Take your time and click all possible angles... Perhaps another picture with the sunset behind "The 12 Apostles"? Maybe you and your mates may team-up and ask another tourist for a helping hand to click that special moment. What do you think? Trust me, you'll be standing in awe and chances are you'll be clicking the same rocks several times. Nevermind! Be sure to have enough batteries and extra memory cards for your digital camera. If you're a traditionalist, be sure to have extra film...

Are you the daring type? There are paid helicopter tours which fly you over these magnificent beauties. Prices are located in the rental agencies. Don't hesitate to ask what are the different options availble.

MY TRIP:

My private adventure in The Great Ocean Road took place in December 23rd, 2007. This road trip was unique in many ways. My sister Pat, and my brother-in-law, Fábio, flew all the way from Brazil to visit my brother Guigo and I. It had been 6 months since the last time I saw them, and I really wanted to do something different to seize the moment.

Our trip began early in the morning, at the Car Rental Agency. We rented a compact car and hit the road at about 9:30 in the morning. Our first milestone would be the city of Geelong, home to The Cats - the 2007 AFL Champions. Reaching Geelong is quite simple because you pretty much just drive straight ahead on the same highway until you get there.

Once you reach Geelong, you drive around the city where you get an exit leading to the Great Ocean Road. Our first major stop for sightseeing was “Bell’s Beach”, the world famous surfing point. Although we hadn’t dipped a single toe into the ice-cold Pacific waters, we experienced a serious adrenaline rush just by contemplating the gigantic waves crashing on shore. Although we hadn’t brought boards and wet suits along, we were quite able to sense what surfing could’ve felt like.

Even though we were kind of frustrated for not having surfed, we continued our sacred crusade along the victorian coast. A couple of hours later, we were blessed by a gracious appearance: a Koala bear hanging on an eucalyptus tree. I pulled the car over and we all had a glimpse of this lazy marsupial. After taking several pictures of the sleepy creature, we all jumped into the car and got back to the road.

The Koala had redeemed our sour feelings for not having surfed that morning. We were feeling much lighter and enthusiastic about the other surprises that were yet to be discovered.

The climax of our trip took place when we reached “The 12 Apostles Marine National Park”. I had never seen something so overwhelming in my entire life. These ancient limestone formations, which rise from the sea, are one of God’s finest works. A group of 6 giant rock stacks that were sculpted over thousands of years of laggard erosion, adds charm and mystery to an already magnificent view.

For additional information visit: http://www.greatoceanrd.org.au/