3 Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour

The 3 Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour from Melbourne is a fantastic way to slow down and truly appreciate two of Victoria’s most spectacular landscapes in one well-paced adventure. You’ll follow the winding curves of the famous Great Ocean Road for three days before venturing inland to explore rocky mountain ranges, waterfalls, and the natural habitats of native wildlife.

This isn’t a quick trip. It’s a multi-layered journey through surf beaches, towering limestone stacks, sandstone peaks, and ancient woodlands. It’s the kind of experience that lets you immerse yourself in the landscape and create lasting travel memories.

Highlights

  • Travel along the National Heritage Listed Great Ocean Road, including the famous Memorial Arch

  • Enjoy a rainforest walk through Great Otway National Park

  • Take in sweeping coastal views at the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

  • Visit Tower Hill Conservation Wildlife Reserve, known for its rich Aboriginal history and abundant wildlife

  • View native animals in their natural habitat, including kangaroos, emus, echidnas and koalas

  • Explore the rugged landscapes of Grampians National Park

  • Visit major lookouts such as Reed’s Lookout, Boroka Lookout, and The Balconies

  • Complete a rewarding hike to the Pinnacle Lookout

  • Unwind beside the cascading waters of Mackenzie Falls

Itinerary Map

Itinerary

Day 1 – Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

Begin the tour with a scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road, passing surf beaches and coastal viewpoints. Look for wild koalas before stopping in Apollo Bay for lunch. Continue with a guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park, then visit the dramatic landscapes of the Shipwreck Coast, including the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

Overnight in Warrnambool.

Meals: Dinner (The Flying Horse Bar & Brewery or similar)

Accommodation: Warrnambool Motel (Private ensuite or shared facilities) or similar

Driving Distance: 375 km

Day 2 – Great Ocean Road to Grampians

The 3 Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Tour from Melbourne is a great way to slow down and really appreciate two of Victoria’s most beautiful landscapes in one well-paced trip. You’ll follow the bends of the famous southern coastline for three days before travelling into the interior to see rocky mountain ranges, waterfalls, and the area where local animals live.

This isn’t a quick trip. It’s a tour with many layers via surf beaches, tall limestone stacks, sandstone peaks, and old woodlands. It’s the type of trip that lets you take it all in and remember where you’ve been.

You may spend three amazing days visiting the famous Great Ocean Road and the stunning landscapes of Grampians National Park. This long trip showcases some of the most beautiful places in the area, including the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Mackenzie Falls, Halls Gap, and more. After a great three-day trip, the group returns to Melbourne in the early evening.

Day 3 – Grampians to Melbourne

Today begins with a visit to Tower Hill Conservation Wildlife Reserve, an extinct volcanic crater that is significant to Aboriginal culture and home to many animals, including emus and kangaroos. The trip goes north to the Grampians, where you’ll trek to the famous Pinnacle Lookout in the afternoon. From there, you can see a lot of the national park. At the conclusion of the day, you will have a classic Australian BBQ at your hotel in Halls Gap.

Breakfast at the Beach Café and dinner at the Aussie BBQ

Gariwerd Motel (private ensuite), Grampians Eco YHA (shared), or similar for lodging.

Driving Distance: 190 km

Where to Meet

Central meeting point: Outside the Immigration Museum, corner of 400 Flinders St & Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35 am.
The bus will board from the Market St side.

Additional Pickup Points:
(Please arrive 5–10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time)

  • 6:50 – Pullman Albert Park – 65 Queens Road, Albert Park
  • 6:55 – Pegasus Apartments Hotel – 206 A’Beckett St
  • 6:58 – Brady Apartment Hotel Hardware Lane – 388 Lonsdale St
  • 7:00 – Melbourne Marriott Hotel – Exhibition St & Lonsdale St
  • 7:00 – Nomads St Kilda Beach – 17 Carlisle St, St Kilda
  • 7:05 – Space Hotel – 380 Russell St
  • 7:10 – Grand Hyatt Melbourne – Russell St entrance
  • 7:15 – Windsor Hotel – 111 Spring St
  • 7:20 – Adina Apartment Hotel – 189 Queen St
  • 7:20 – Mercure Melbourne Southbank – 9 Riverside Quay
  • 7:25 – The Savoy Hotel – 630 Little Collins St
  • 7:25 – Crown Towers – 8 Whiteman St, Southbank
  • 7:30 – Pan Pacific Melbourne – 2 Convention Centre Pl
  • 7:30 – The Great Southern Hotel – 44 Spencer St
  • 7:35 – Immigration Museum – 400 Flinders St (corner Market St)
Know Before You Book

What is a suitable age for this tour?

This experience is designed for travellers aged 6 years and over. Due to the walking requirements and overall pace, it isn’t appropriate for infants or children under 5. Travellers aged 6 to 17 must stay in standard private accommodation and be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian for the duration of the trip.

How fit do I need to be for this tour?

A moderate level of fitness is essential to participate comfortably. Some walks are up to 3 km and often involve uneven ground, steep sections, and full sun exposure. Your guide will assess conditions and guests’ ability on the day to ensure everyone’s safety. Travellers over 70 years must provide a doctor’s certificate at least 30 days before departure confirming their suitability for the tour.

Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

Yes — simply let us know when you book, or at least a few days before departure, and we’ll make arrangements where possible. Please also share any relevant medical conditions so our team can prepare accordingly.

What type of food do we eat on tour?

Meals are mostly prepared by the guide and feature hearty, camp-style dishes. In some locations, meals will be provided by the accommodation hosts. Travellers are encouraged to pitch in with meal prep, packing, and clean-up — it’s a great way to bond with your group.

Where do we stay overnight?

Accommodation options are limited in these regions, and groups may occasionally be split between nearby properties depending on the room types selected.
Guests choosing a Basic Dorm Bed will be paired with other solo guests, typically of the same gender, where possible (though not guaranteed).

Below are the properties commonly used (or a comparable alternative):

  • Night 1 – Downtown Motel – Dormitory Beds (GG3-B) and Private Double/Twin/Single Rooms (GG3-S, GG3-P)
  • Night 2 – YHA Grampians Eco – Dormitory Beds (GG3-B)
  • Night 2 – Gariwerd Motel – Private Double/Twin/Single Rooms (GG3-S, GG3-P)

Are National Park fees included in the tour cost?

Yes. Your tour price includes access to all required National Parks, covering Grampians National Park, Great Otway National Park, and Port Campbell National Park. These passes are available exclusively to guests travelling on our tours and cannot be purchased individually.

What kind of vehicle do we travel in for this tour?

We travel in comfortable 24-seat Mitsubishi Rosa mini-buses, designed for safe, smooth touring, with high-back seats and wide windows for excellent visibility.
The tour operates with up to 23 passengers; a minimum of 8 guests is required for a guaranteed departure.

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

Please bring only a small soft bag up to 15 kg plus a personal day bag. Storage is limited, and large suitcases cannot be taken on the vehicle. Most hotels will hold excess luggage while you travel.

Do I require travel insurance in Australia?

While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended, as the tour explores remote areas with limited medical services. Autopia Tours cannot provide advice on specific policies — please consult your travel agent or preferred insurance provider for guidance.

What is the temperature like in Victoria?

The weather in Victoria can shift quickly, with noticeable differences between regions and seasons. Please check the average temperatures for your travel dates and pack appropriate clothing. Tours proceed in most conditions, and only severe weather or safety concerns will prompt itinerary changes or cancellations.

What is your Vaccination Policy?

Under current Government regulations, vaccination is no longer required to join this tour. However, we continue to recommend staying up to date with vaccinations for overall health and safety.

What to bring

Weather-appropriate clothing, Your sense of adventure, Waterproof rain jacket, Water bottle &/or Camelbak (2L minimum), Comfortable walking or hiking shoes, Swimmers and beach towel, Hat and sunscreen, Torch or headlight, Snacks for the bus in your day bag

What's Included

Return transport from Melbourne

Return transport from Melbourne

2 nights’ accommodation

2 nights’ accommodation (private ensuite or budget shared options: Warrnambool & Halls Gap)

2 x Breakfasts, 2 x Dinners

Group meals included.

National Park entry fees

All park fees paid.

Guided bush walks (~6.5 km)

Scenic guided mountain treks.

Professional driver-guide

Expert driver and guide.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Cool, comfortable group travel.

Melbourne pickup/drop-off

Convenient central meeting points.

Informative local commentary

Engaging local stories shared.

What's Not Included

Meals not listed

Specific meals not included.

Transfers to/from pickups

Fixed central meeting locations.

Travel insurance

Personal coverage highly recommended.

Personal expenses

Individual spending not included.

Limited dietary options

Personal snacks highly recommended.

Customer Photos

FAQ

Is the schedule acceptable for those going to Australia for the first time?

Yes, this trip is perfect for anyone who wants to see two of Victoria’s most famous natural sights without worrying about transportation, accommodations, or getting around. Everything you need is there.

Will I still enjoy the trip even if I'm not a good hiker?

The excursion includes some moderate walking on rough ground. You don’t have to be an excellent hiker, but you should be able to walk a few km at a steady pace.

Do cancellations because of the weather happen often?

Most of the time, tours proceed regardless of the weather. The agenda will change only if inclement weather or dangerous track closures occur. If feasible, alternative activities will be planned.

Can those travelling alone join this trip?

For sure. Solo travellers are welcome and may choose between shared dormitory accommodations and private rooms, subject to availability.

How much money do I need to bring?

Most major expenses are covered, but you should set aside funds for meals, snacks, beverages, and any personal purchases. In some locations, ATMs may be difficult to access.

Start
Melbourne
(7:35 am)
Finish
Melbourne
(5:35 pm)
Duration
3 days
Style
Coastal
Age
From 6 years
Bus
Up to 24 passengers
AUD $695
Best price guarantee

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