Head to head
Australia's coast or Australia's mountains?
Our pick is the Great Alpine Road.
Checked by the Drivers Atlas desk
Scored and written by the Drivers Atlas editorial desk, drawing on driven routes across the UK and Europe, mapping data and member road reports. Verdicts weigh road quality, scenery, traffic and how likely you are to actually enjoy the drive on the day. How we score roads.
Last reviewed 26 March 2026
The numbers
| Measure | Great Ocean Road | Great Alpine Road |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers Atlas rating | 9.3 | 9.3 |
| Driving score | 8.9 / 10 | 9.2 / 10 |
| Scenery score | 9.7 / 10 | 9.3 / 10 |
| Length | 243 km | 110 km |
| Where | Victoria | Victoria |
| Season | Landslips possible after storms | Snow chains may be required in winter |
Verdict
The Great Alpine Road is the better drive by some distance, with proper elevation, flowing corners and far fewer tour buses.
The Great Ocean Road has the Twelve Apostles and the coastline everyone comes for. Drive it midweek and early and it still works.