GREAT OCEAN ROAD & GRAMPIANS (LUXE 3-DAY TOUR)
TRACE THE RUGGED COASTLINE OF THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD TO THE DRAMATIC SANDSTONE MOUNTAINS OF THE GRAMPIANS NATIONAL PARK. EXPERIENCE DIVERSE SCENERY, A SCENIC HELICOPTER TRANSFER, WILDLIFE, PLUS INCREDIBLE FOOD & WINE
DAY ONE: MELBOURNE - PORT FAIRY
Meet your local guide at 08:00am at your Melbourne hotel then set off to trace the length of one of the world’s most spectacular coastal touring routes, the Great Ocean Road.
From Torquay to Apollo Bay the road hugs forested coastal cliffs as it twists and turns past white sand surf beaches and through picturesque seaside villages. The hinterland of towering gum trees provides the perfect habitat for koalas, kangaroos, and colourful native parrots. Indulge in a lunch of locally sourced seafood in the quaint coastal township of Apollo Bay
The road then turns inland through lush green rainforests. Break for a walk amongst the ferny gullies, moss-covered timber, and freshwater cascades before arriving at the scenic highlight of the Great Ocean Road – the iconic Twelve Apostles. Battered by the fierce waves of the Southern Ocean, this dramatic coastline has been relentlessly carved into limestone towers, gorges, and caves. Stroll cliff-edge boardwalks for the perfect vantage point and venture down to the beach at Loch Ard Gorge to hear tales of tragedy and heroism.
Prior to sunset, board a private helicopter for a scenic transfer to the historic maritime village of Port Fairy. Soaring high above the Twelve Apostles and Port Campbell National Park, take in the views of the rugged coastline below before touching down and transferring to your boutique accommodation for the evening, Drift House.
Freshen up and relax prior to dinner at one of Port Fairy’s leading restaurants.
DAY TWO: PORT FAIRY - DUNKELD
After a restful sleep and breakfast at leisure, take time to explore Port Fairy. Follow one of the historic walking trails and discover charming, fully restored white-washed cottages built by whalers and seamen beside Georgian-style merchants’ homes and grand public buildings.
Departing Port Fairy, continue inland to the Southern Grampians National Park with a light lunch in the quaint rural town of Dunkeld. The mountainous beauty of the region is showcased to its fullest extent with an optional hike to the summit of The Piccaninny. This easy, gradual climb through open forest (with stunning wildflower displays during spring) culminates with jaw-dropping views of Mount Abrupt.
As dusk descends, kangaroos, wallabies and a myriad of birdlife enliven the dramatic surrounds of the Royal Mail Hotel, your accommodation for the evening. Join your host to learn about the hotels captive breeding program and get up close and personal with endangered native Australian animals.
Dinner this evening will be at Parker Street Project at the Royal Mail Hotel. Be treated to a multi course menu (beverages additional) prior to retiring to your room for the night.
DAY THREE: DUNKELD - MELBOURNE
Following a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to explore the sandstone grandeur of the Grampians National Park. Don comfortable walking shoes as we tackle one of the park’s breathtaking tracks suitable for the novice through to the experienced hiker. Take in arresting views of the rugged mountain range and the surrounding pastoral land. In spring, the region erupts in a dazzling display of wildflowers. Enjoy a casual picnic lunch at Mackenzie Falls, Victoria’s largest waterfall.
Regarded at one of Australia’s most celebrated producers of Shiraz, Mount Langi Ghiran Winery is a jewel in the crown of the esteemed Grampians wine region. Join your host for an exclusive tour and tasting before you return to Melbourne (Approx. 06:00pm).
INCLUSIONS
Private tour hosted by an expert local guide
Luxury vehicle with bottled water & travel snacks
Private helicopter flight (75-minutes)
Captive Breeding Program tour
Mount Langi Winery tour & tasting
(Note: Aircraft models include Eurocopter EC120 B and Eurocopter EC130 B4 / T2. Flight is subject to weather on the day along with accurate passenger weights being provided)
MEALS
Lunch with beverages (Daily)
Dinner with beverages (Day 1, Day 2)
Breakfast (Day 2, Day 3)
ACCOMMODATION
Night 1: Drift House, Port Fairy (Suite)
Night 2: Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld (Deluxe Mountain View Room)
(Twin-share occupancy with breakfast)
We welcome requests to tailor tour itineraries and inclusions to suit specific needs, interests and budgets, so please contact us to discuss options.
