From Melbourne: 2-Day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Escape

Day 1

Say goodbye to Melbourne for the next 2 days as you drive over the Westgate Bridge to the Great Ocean Road. Begin where the builders started construction in 1919, and wind your way along this iconic road with spectacular views the entire journey. Stop for morning tea shortly after you join the road before making your way to Memorial Arch (The Great Ocean Road Sign) for a cheeky snap underneath. Continue to wind along through several seaside townships along the way. Along this stretch, your guide will get you out of the bus and help you spot wild koalas and native bird life among the trees, before stopping for lunch in the town of Apollo Bay with time to relax on the main beach, or try out some super flavors of ice-cream!

After lunch the road leaves the coastline, then you're immersed in the ancient Otway rainforest. Breath in the crisp fresh air as your guide takes you on a guided walk through this magical wonderland. A little further along the road, you'll meet the ocean again on the Shipwreck Coast.  Marvel at the limestone monoliths known as the 12 Apostles and the rugged coastline that formed them. Hear the story of Loch Ard, and step down into this remote and isolated beach gorge that's been carved over one hundred years of erosion. A little further down the coast you will see the remains of London Bridge before driving into the heart of the Grampians National Park for your night's accommodation.

Day 2 - (B)

Wake up in the quaint town of Halls Gap to bounding kangaroos, and laughing kookaburras along with the calls of magpies and currawongs. Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before driving into the mountain ranges that form this spectacular national park. Be captured with panoramic vistas at every possible view point starting with Borkoa. Lookout as you look over the western plains of Victoria and down on your night's accommodation. Make your way to the geological icon of the Balconies for views into the Victoria Valley and to the most southern tip of the park. Walk down a series of over 250 stairs to the base of the majestic Mackenzie falls before learning about the rich Aboriginal culture of the Grampians (Gariwerd) at Brambuk Cultural Center. After stopping for lunch in Halls Gap, begin the journey back to Melbourne for a late afternoon arrival.