GREAT OCEAN ROAD & GRAMPIANS (SIGNATURE 3-DAY TOUR)
TRACE THE RUGGED COASTLINE OF THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD THROUGH TO THE DRAMATIC SANDSTONE MOUNTAINS OF THE GRAMPIANS NATIONAL PARK. DIVERSE SCENERY, WILDLIFE, PLUS INCREDIBLE FOOD & WINE
DAY ONE: MELBOURNE - PORT CAMPBELL
Meet your local guide at 08:00am at your nominated Melbourne hotel then commence your journey tracing 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, semi-temperate rainforest featuring ferny gullies, moss-covered timber, and freshwater cascades. Enjoy a rainforest walk in the Great Otway National Park before arriving at the scenic highlight of the Great Ocean Road – the iconic Twelve Apostles. Battered by the fierce waves of the Southern Ocean, the dramatic coastline has been relentlessly carved into limestone towers, gorges, and caves. Stroll cliff-edge boardwalks for the perfect vantage point with the option to view from above with a short helicopter flight.
Check into your accommodation for the evening, Anchors Villas located overlooking the charming maritime village of Port Campbell. Your guide can transfer you to a relaxed dinner (own expense) at a classic Australian pub where you may meet some of the locals and sample the regions produce.
DAY TWO: PORT CAMPBELL - DUNKELD
After a restful sleep, rise early for an unforgettable sunrise viewing at the Twelve Apostles (optional). Enjoy breakfast before exploring some of the less visited but equally breathtaking natural wonders of the Port Campbell National Park.
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 environmental initiatives and get up close and personal with endangered native Australian animals.
For dinner this evening (own expense), the Royal Mail features two restaurants, the esteemed fine dining Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel (Wed – Sat), and the more casual diner Parker Street Project (Daily).
DAY THREE: DUNKELD - MELBOURNE
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast then don comfortable walking shoes as we tackle one of the northern Grampian’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.
Departing the Grampians National Park, visit one of Australia’s most celebrated producers of Shiraz, Mount Langi Ghiran Winery, considered the jewel in the crown of the esteemed Grampians wine region. Join your host for a structured tasting of their fabulous wines before the return to Melbourne.
INCLUSIONS
Private tour hosted by an expert local guide
Luxury vehicle with bottled water & travel snacks
Dunkeld captive breeding program tour
Mount Langi winery tastings
MEALS
Morning or Afternoon tea (Daily)
Lunch with beverages (Daily)
Breakfast (Day 2, Day 3)
ACCOMMODATION
Night 1: Anchors, Port Campbell (Villa)
Night 2: Royal Mail Hotel, Dunkeld (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.
