Loch Ard Gorge - Great Ocean Road

Wander * Explore * Discover
Nov 19, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Jan 19

Loch Ard Gorge - Great Ocean Road

Loch Ard Gorge is one of the most breathtaking and historically significant stops along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. This beautiful sandy cove is framed by towering 30-metre-high limestone cliffs, sculpted caves and striking rock formations that tell a powerful story of nature, time and survival. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the iconic Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge is an unmissable destination.

Visitors can admire the gorge from the clifftop lookouts or descend the steps to the beach, where the scale of the cliffs and the drama of the Southern Ocean truly come to life.

A Shipwreck That Gave the Gorge Its Name

Loch Ard Gorge is named after the clipper ship Loch Ard, which tragically ran aground here in June 1878 after a long voyage from England to Melbourne. The ship had been at sea for three months and was nearing the end of its journey when it struck the rugged coastline.

There were 54 passengers and crew on board, but only two survived the wreck—a reminder of how treacherous this stretch of coast once was, earning it the name the Shipwreck Coast.

A Remarkable Story of Survival

The two survivors were Tom Pearce, a 19-year-old sailing apprentice, and Eva Carmichael, a 19-year-old Irish girl travelling with her family. After being thrown into the ocean, Tom washed ashore onto the sandy beach below the cliffs. Hearing cries for help, he realised Eva was still alive and managed to swim back out through the rough seas to rescue her. Together, they sheltered overnight in one of the caves at the gorge.

The following day, Tom courageously climbed the steep cliffs in search of help, eventually reaching a nearby homestead. Eva spent several months recovering before returning to Ireland, while Tom continued his life at sea. Their incredible survival story is a poignant part of Australian maritime history.

Exploring the Gorge and Its Natural Features

Descending the steps to Loch Ard Gorge Beach is a memorable experience. The enclosed nature of the cove, combined with the pale limestone cliffs and turquoise water, creates a dramatic and almost otherworldly setting. From the beach, you can explore fascinating caves and rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and waves. Conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to stay well back from the water and be mindful of tides and swell.

Scenic Walks and Lookouts Nearby

The Loch Ard Gorge area offers several short, well-marked walks that showcase the raw beauty of the Shipwreck Coast. From the carpark, you can easily access:

Geology Walk - 900m return · Level track on crushed rock and bitumen · Lookouts at The Razorback and Island Arch
Loch Ard Wreck Lookout - 600m return · Undulating sealed path from the main car park to the headland lookout
Wreck of the Loch Ard Walk - 1.4km · Bitumen and crushed rock with gentle inclines · Narrow sections near the cemetery · Connects towards Mutton Bird Island Lookout
Thunder Cave - 1.1km · Sealed path · Part of the Living on the Edge Trail
Living on the Edge Trail - 3.2km · Bitumen and crushed rock with inclines · Do not cross the Sherbrooke River mouth due to changing river and ocean conditions
Mutton Bird Island Lookout - 100m · Level crushed rock path to upper viewing platform · Steps to lower platform

Each lookout provides a different perspective of the rugged coastline and is well worth the time to explore.

Visitor Information and Facilities

The Loch Ard Gorge carpark is well set up for visitors, with ample space for cars, buses and caravans.

Parking: Plenty of standard, bus and caravan parking bays
Toilets: No toilets available on site
Dogs: Not permitted, as Loch Ard Gorge is within a National Park

It’s best to bring water, wear sturdy footwear, and check weather conditions before visiting.

A Must-See Stop on the Great Ocean Road

Loch Ard Gorge is far more than just a beautiful beach—it’s a place where natural beauty and powerful history intersect. From the dramatic cliffs and sculpted rock formations to the moving story of survival that unfolded here, this is one of the most memorable stops on the Great Ocean Road.

Whether you’re chasing stunning coastal photography, interested in maritime history, or simply want to experience one of Victoria’s most iconic landscapes, Loch Ard Gorge is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.