Great Ocean Road Running Festival

Saturday, 15 May 2027
Apollo Bay, VIC
Marathon, Half Marathon & Ultra
Melrose
Official Website

About This Event

Experience Australia’s most stunning marathon along the Great Ocean Road, with breathtaking coastal views, live music, yoga, and a vibrant festival atmosphere in Apollo Bay.

Events

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Saturday 15 May

  1. 60km
    Start TBA
  2. Marathon
    Start TBA
  3. Half Marathon
    Start TBA
  4. 14km
    Start TBA
  5. 12km Trail Run
    Start TBA
  6. 6km
    Start TBA
  7. 1.5km Kids’ Gallop Kids
    Start TBA

Quick Facts

Date
Saturday, 15 May 2027
Terrain
Road/Trail
Location
Lorne and Apollo Bay, Victoria
Entry Fee
Check official website
Difficulty
Challenging
Start Time
Check official website
Good for Beginners
Yes - multiple distances available including 1.5km Kids’ Gallop

Free training

Training for Great Ocean Road Running Festival?

Race day is Sat 15 May 2027, 28 weeks away. Free training plans start up to 20 weeks before race day, so a plan for it can start from 28 December. Save it now; until then, 12 weeks of building is a good start.

Free with a MyRaceHub account. Saves the race to your races and opens training setup.

Event Details

Date Saturday, 15 May 2027
Location Apollo Bay, VIC
State VIC
Organizer Melrose

Course Description

The Great Ocean Road Running Festival offers a scenic and challenging course from Lorne to Apollo Bay, with panoramic ocean views, coastal trails, and a mix of road and trail terrain. Runners will enjoy the unique atmosphere of Apollo Bay, with opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the Southern Ocean and the surrounding wilderness.

Getting There

The event takes place in Lorne and Apollo Bay, Victoria. Travel via the Great Ocean Road, with parking available at event start lines. Public transport options are limited, so it is recommended to arrive early and plan for a full day of activities.

Where to Stay

Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.

We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.

Weather & What to Pack

In May, Apollo Bay experiences autumn conditions with daytime highs around 16°C and overnight lows around 10°C. Runners should prepare with warm clothing, layers, and hydration in mind for cooler temperatures and potential wind.

Race details last updated 4 Oct 2026

Ready to run Great Ocean Road Running Festival?

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register for the event now?

Registrations are not yet open. Join the waitlist to be the first to know when entries go live.

What are the start times for each event?

Start times vary by event and are listed on the official website. Check the event page for specific details.

Are there accommodation packages available?

Yes, accommodation packages will be released to waitlist members prior to registration opening.

What is the terrain like on the course?

The course includes a mix of road and trail running, with scenic coastal views and some challenging sections.

Are there activities for non-runners?

Yes, the festival includes live music, yoga, a kite festival, and other family-friendly activities.