Tour Description
Great Ocean Road
(Combined Departure)
Six Days: 6th–11th November 2024
Twin Share: $2679 per person. Sole Use: $3069 per person.
- Home pick-ups & set downs (most metro areas – please contact us for details)
- Picnic-style morning teas & all meals
- All accommodation & admissions to all attractions
- Experienced & informative tour driver/guide.
Join us on a captivating journey along Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road, where scenic vistas and historical sites meld into an unforgettable exploration. Discover the rugged cliffs of the Twelve Apostles, delve into the rich maritime heritage of Warrnambool, and experience the natural beauty of the Otways. As we travel through charming towns and serene national parks, enjoy carefully curated stops for delightful meals and insightful tours. This tour is a perfect blend of natural wonders and regional culture, designed to create lasting memories.
Day One – WEDNESDAY 6 NOVEMBER 2024
Begin your journey along the iconic Great Ocean Road with a scenic drive from Adelaide. After convenient morning pickups via chauffer cars, our first pause is at Tailem Bend for morning tea, offering a moment to stretch and enjoy the riverside views.
We then continue our journey through the heart of the Tatiara district, passing through the charming towns of Coonalpyn, Tintinara, and Keith, before arriving in Bordertown for a light lunch.
In the afternoon, our route takes us into the Victorian countryside, offering views of the Grampians rugged landscapes as we near Horsham.
The day’s travel concludes in Stawell, where we check into the Magdala Motor Lodge (Ph: 03 5358 3877) for the night.
Here, unwind and refresh before gathering for a communal dinner, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.
Day Two – THURSDAY 7 NOVEMBER 2024
After enjoying breakfast at the motel, we embark on our journey to the coast, marking the beginning of our spectacular drive along the Great Ocean Road.
Renowned for its scenic beauty, this iconic road was built to commemorate the sacrifices of World War One servicemen and women and stretches over 300 kilometres of stunning Australian coastline.
Our route takes us through Lorne, the first Victorian locale designated as an area of Special Significance and Natural Beauty. Here, we take some time to explore the charming town and its surroundings. We will enjoy our lunch here in Lorne before we continue our scenic drive.
We proceed to Apollo Bay and a short distance on, find ourselves in Skenes Creek. Here we check into the Ocean Road Motel (Ph: 03 5237 7862). Nestled in the heart of this coastal haven and ideally located opposite the ocean, the motel will be our home for the next two nights.
The evening concludes with a relaxing dinner, where we can share stories and prepare for the adventures that await.
Day Three – FRIDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2024
Today’s exploration begins with a captivating guided tour of the historic Cape Otway Light Station. Perched on the southern tip of Victoria’s picturesque coastline, this beacon has guided sailors since the 1800s.
After delving into its rich history, we enjoy a refreshing morning tea complemented by the vast, serene views of the Southern Ocean stretching into the horizon.
From here we venture to Otway Fly Treetop Adventures, renowned for hosting the world’s longest and highest canopy walk. Our adventure starts with an easy 300-metre walk to the Visitor Centre through lush, green pathways.
Here, we’ll refuel with a delicious lunch at the café, perfectly timed before ascending into the treetops. For convenience, buggy-style transportation is available to effortlessly transport guests to the canopy’s entrance. As we ascend the walkway, the spectacular panoramic views over the dense Otway Ranges offer a unique perspective of the region’s flora and fauna.
Concluding the exhilarating treetop journey, we return to the comfort of the Ocean Road Motel. The evening provides a perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on the day’s rich experiences over a shared dinner.
Day Four – SATURDAY 9 NOVEMBER 2024
This morning, after bidding farewell to our hosts, our journey continues west along the spectacular Great Ocean Road.
As we traverse the western side of the Otway Ranges, the road hugs the coastline along the Port Campbell National Park. Today’s highlight is the iconic Twelve Apostles, magnificent rock stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, offering unmatched photographic opportunities.
Our exploration includes a visit to Loch Ard Gorge, named after the 1878 shipwreck tragedy where only two survived out of more than fifty people. We’ll also visit the remnants of London Bridge, famously collapsed in 1990, which once stood as a natural arch over the tumultuous sea.
Further along, we encounter the serene Bay of Islands, providing a unique vista and perspectives of Australia’s rugged southern coastline. We’ll enjoy our picnic lunch amidst these breathtaking settings.
The day’s journey concludes as we arrive in Warrnambool, where we will spend the night at the Mid City Motel Warrnambool (Ph: 03 5562 8866), resting and reflecting on the stunning vistas we’ve witnessed.
Day Five – SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2024
Today begins with an immersive exploration at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village in Warrnambool, where we are transported back in time to experience a 19th-century coastal port. This living museum vividly recreates the era with its detailed architecture, engaging activities, and historical exhibits, offering insights into Australia’s maritime heritage through well-preserved artifacts and vessels.
Following this enriching historical journey, we proceed to the Tower Hill State Game Reserve. This unique geological feature, formed by ancient volcanic activity, now serves as a thriving nature reserve. As we meander through this serene landscape, we’ll encounter an array of Australian wildlife in their natural habitat, including kangaroos, koalas, and vibrant waterbirds, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
Lunch is served in the quaint town of Port Fairy at the Caledonian Inn Hotel, where the town’s rich maritime history and charming colonial architecture enhance the dining experience. Port Fairy is renowned for its beautifully preserved Victorian buildings and a vibrant arts scene, offering a glimpse into its storied past.
The day’s adventure concludes as we make our way to Mount Gambier. Upon arrival, we check into the Presidential Motel (Ph: 08 8724 9966), our accommodation for the night.
This evening provides an opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s journey, sharing stories and experiences with fellow travellers, as we prepare for the conclusion of our unforgettable tour along the Great Ocean Road.
Day Six – MONDAY 11 NOVEMBER 2024
Day six marks our final day on tour the conclusion of our enchanting journey along the Great Ocean Road.
As we start our return to Adelaide, our day begins with a leisurely morning break, giving us one last moment to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the region. Making our way west, we travel towards Keith, where lunch is savored at the Keith Hotel.
As we travel back, we reflect on the stunning landscapes, the majestic coastline, and the shared experiences that have enriched our journey.
Arriving in Adelaide, we close our holiday with unforgettable memories from the spectacular sights along the Great Ocean Road.