Port Fairy to Adelaide Road Trip | Scenic Stops
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Melbourne to Port Fairy to Adelaide, one of the world's most spectacular coastal drives. Charming seaside towns, stunning coastal vistas, and rugged landscapes await you at every turn. Whether you're a seasoned motorhome traveller or a first-time caravan adventurer, this journey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
From the windswept beaches of Victoria's Great Ocean Road to the sun-kissed hills of South Australia's wine regions, this Port Fairy to Adelaide itinerary is more than just a trip—it's an invitation to embrace the open road, discover hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. This five-day (or more!) itinerary covers around 600 kilometres, with a few options for alternative routes. And, of course, you can always reverse the journey if you're travelling from Adelaide to Port Fairy.
Itinerary highlights:
Twelve Apostles
Blue Lake
Coonawarra Wineries
Mary MacKillop Penola Centre
Coorong National Park
Goolwa
Murray River mouth
Victor Harbor
World-class wineries
Kangaroo Island
Days 1 & 2: Melbourne to Port Fairy
Melbourne to Lorne: 141 kilometres, 1 hour 50 minutes
Lorne to Port Fairy: 235 kilometres, 3 hours 30 minutes
Departing from Melbourne, hit the Great Ocean Road, which has some of Australia's most dramatic coastal scenery. Leisurely make your way to Torquay, a haven for surfers and beach lovers. Visit iconic Bells Beach and enjoy the scenic Surf Coast Walk. Then head to Lorne and explore Erskine Falls, stroll along Lorne Pier, and enjoy the panoramic views from Teddy's Lookout.
Stay overnight in Lorne, then on Day 2, travel through Apollo Bay, Port Campbell and Warrnambool. On the way, soak up the breathtaking Twelve Apostles. This glorious natural landmark features towering limestone stacks sculpted by powerful winds and waves rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Their rugged beauty is a must-see, especially at sunrise or sunset. After a magical day, stay the night in Port Fairy and wake up refreshed for the next leg of your incredible coastal journey.
Day 3: Port Fairy to Coonawarra or Robe
Port Fairy to Coonawarra: 215 kilometres, 2 hours 30 minutes
Port Fairy to Robe: 285 kilometres, 3 hours 15 minutes
You've got a couple of options for this day's travel. For both, your first recommended stop is the city of Mount Gambier, which is built on the site of an extinct volcano. Blue Lake is situated within the crater and is famed for its striking cobalt-blue hue during the warmer months. After Mount Gambier, continue north towards the historic town of Penola, home to St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who co-founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Several minutes down the road is the Coonawarra wine district, renowned for its fine wines, particularly red wine varieties. An overnight stay here is highly recommended as there are more than 20 cellar doors to visit!
Alternatively, from Mount Gambier, travel along the coast to the historic fishing ports of Beachport and Robe. Beachport is a tranquil lobster-fishing town, and Robe is a picturesque village beside a lovely sheltered harbour. Indulge in the fresh seafood from the region, explore the stunning surf beaches, and then settle in for a peaceful night's sleep, ready for tomorrow!
Day 4: Coonawarra or Robe to Victor Harbor
Coonawarra to Victor Harbor: 380 kilometres, 4 hours 30 mins
Robe to Victor Harbor: 330 kilometres, 4 hours
Departing Coonawarra, visit the impressive World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves with their delicate calcite formations and a 350,000-year-old fossil bed. After a two-hour drive, cross the majestic Murray River at Wellington on the car ferry. From here, you can travel to the historic town of Strathalbyn on the Fleurieu Peninsula, which boasts idyllic towns, stunning coastlines, and abundant wildlife. Explore the town's rich heritage at the National Trust Heritage Museum and discover unique antiques along High Street before you settle in for the night at the local caravan park.
For those driving from Robe, the highway skirts the Coorong National Park, a long, narrow stretch of shallow lagoons separated from the ocean by a long peninsula, which will give you a different scenic outlook. Follow the highway through Meningie to Wellington, where you can cross the Murray River to Strathalbyn. Head towards the coast, visiting the heritage river port of Goolwa and the popular seaside town of Victor Harbor. Visit the South Australian Whale Centre to learn about marine life before another peaceful night's snooze.
Day 5: Victor Harbor to Adelaide
Victor Harbor to Adelaide: 84 kilometres, 1 hour 30 minutes
Spend the day exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join a river cruise at Goolwa that will take you to the mouth of the Murray River. Or spend a leisurely morning exploring the coastal towns or the picturesque wine regions of McLaren Vale, Langhorne Creek and Currency Creek before heading to Adelaide, which has festivals, fine wines, and stunning beaches.
After more amazing off-shore adventures? Catch the passenger and vehicle ferry to Kangaroo Island (caravans are permitted, but you'll need to book ahead). This natural paradise boasts pristine beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, and wildlife like koalas, sea lions, and kangaroos. It offers unforgettable encounters in untouched landscapes, so why not extend your journey and really make the most of this beautiful part of Australia?
Day 5+: Adelaide
Adelaide, the cosmopolitan capital of South Australia, is a city full of culture, charm, and natural beauty. Known for its parklands, wide boulevards, and historic architecture, it offers a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle. The city hosts world-class festivals like WOMADelaide and the Adelaide Fringe, showcasing music, art, and creativity. Food and wine lovers are drawn to its thriving culinary scene and proximity to famed wine regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Beautiful beaches, such as Glenelg and Henley, are just minutes away. With wildlife encounters, museums, and a welcoming atmosphere, Adelaide truly offers something for every type of RV traveller.
References:
southaustralia.com (2025), Melbourne to Adelaide Self Drive, southaustralia.com article, accessed 15 May 2025