

Driving along, I realize that it is not only the ocean but also the rock formations that offer breathtaking views. One of my favourites is the London Bridge, which has collapsed and is now called the London Arch. The natural bridge, I learn, had given way leaving a couple of tourists stranded on it who apparently had to be rescued by a helicopter! These days, it seems to be a choice spot for wedding photography as couples love having their photograph taken against the azure waters and the broken bridge.

Another of my beloved destinations is called the Grotto. It is absolutely spectacular. I climb a flight of steps that takes me down to a pristine beach with virgin sands. The rocks curve and arch but the ocean is a distinct blue. As the breeze blows, I sit there wondering how much beauty there is in the world to see.

Two columns of rock seem to come from either part of the shore to meet in the ocean. I am at the Lock and the Gorge. In this beautiful landscape is a tinge of melancholy. The gorge takes the name of the ship, Loch Ard, which was shipwrecked here with just two survivors, Tom Pearce and Eva Carmichael many years ago. Even today the two rock pillars are called Tom and Eva.

And finally the twelve apostles. A three-minute drive from the Lock and Gorge and I am here gazing at the most photographed view of the Great Ocean Road. Formed by erosion, these limestone stacks off the shore soar up to 45 meters high. It starts drizzling as I stand there lost in the haze around the ocean. It was once called Sow and Piglets but it was later renamed as The Apostles. My last stop, a small detour off the Great Ocean Road, is the Cape Otway Lighthouse that stands as a lone beacon on the coast. Standing here, I take in the views of the ocean as it change colour in front of my eyes. I stand there for as long as I can until the road beckons again.
Written By : Lakshmi Sharath