2 Day Great Ocean Road Small Group Tour

Spotswood, Melbourne



Discover the diversity of one of the best touring roads in the world. Learn about the wildlife, history and unique stories of region while staying in fantastic ocean view accommodation.

Great Ocean Road 2-Day Small Group Tour from Melbourne

This small group tour departs from Melbourne, ideal for travellers wanting a personalized experience exploring the Great Ocean Road and surrounding natural attractions.

Highlights

  • Small and personalized group tour
  • Overnight stay in 4-star accommodation
  • Guided stories on the region and its history
  • Travel along the Great Ocean Road visiting Bells Beach, Apollo Bay, and Castle Cove
  • Visit the lesser-known Island Coastal Park

Description

On day one, guests are picked up from their Melbourne city hotel or Federation Square and cross the West Gate Bridge. The journey heads through volcanic plains to Geelong, where there is time to explore the waterfront before continuing to Torquay to begin the Great Ocean Road drive. Stops include Bells Beach and a scenic spot for morning tea.

The tour focuses on native wildlife, including observing Eastern Grey Kangaroos in the wild. The cliff-hugging Great Ocean Road route continues with stops such as the Memorial Arch, accompanied by stories about the road's construction. Lorne provides a lunch break with options to swim or shop at local cafes and restaurants.

After lunch, the tour proceeds to Kennett River to spot koalas and native birds, then visits Apollo Bay where guests check in at Chris's Beacon Point or Beacon Point Ocean View Villas. These private, self-contained villas are set on a hill overlooking the Southern Ocean, offering time to relax before dinner at the award-winning Chris's Restaurant next door, known for both its food and views.

On day two, after breakfast, the tour visits the Great Otway National Park for a guided 1-km walk through temperate rainforest to see tall flowering plants, prehistoric trees, ferns, and unique features like ‘yabbie chimneys’. The journey continues along the Shipwreck Coast, stopping at Castle Cove to learn about the area's Aboriginal heritage and its paleontological significance related to the Gondwana supercontinent.

The tour reaches the 12 Apostles at sunrise, allowing for photos and fewer crowds compared to afternoon visits. Guests learn about their formation, hold limestone samples, explore boardwalks, or optionally take a helicopter flight (at own cost). Next is Loch Ard Gorge, site of a famous 19th-century shipwreck, where visitors hear the story and view original artifacts.

Lunch takes place in Port Campbell, a small fishing village with several cafes and restaurants. The afternoon includes visits to London Bridge, Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, and Boat Bay, before returning inland and heading back to Melbourne, arriving around 18:00.

Includes

  • 1 night accommodation in 4-star property
  • 2-course à la carte dinner
  • Breakfast
  • Pickup and drop-off in Melbourne

Excludes

  • Lunch
  • Dinner drinks

Important Information

  • Full charges apply for no-shows and cancellations within 24 hours of departure
  • Single travelers receive their own villa/private room with a $100 gross supplement per night; two single travelers sharing must book as twin share
  • Group sizes range from 2 to 8 guests
  • Public holiday weekend bookings may involve alternative accommodation
  • Itineraries and accommodations are subject to change by the provider

Cancellation Policy

Full refund available for cancellations made at least 24 hours before departure.

For best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons and public holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes hotel pick-up, transportation along the Great Ocean Road, an overnight stay in 4-star accommodation, and guided visits to natural attractions like Bells Beach and Apollo Bay.
The tour departs from Melbourne city, with pick-up options from selected hotels or Federation Square.
Groups are small and personalized, typically accommodating fewer travelers to provide a more intimate experience.
Yes, the tour itinerary includes stops at famous natural landmarks along the Great Ocean Road, including the Twelve Apostles.
Yes, the tour includes an overnight stay in comfortable 4-star accommodation along the route.
The tour involves moderate walking at scenic stops, suitable for most fitness levels.
Yes, professional guides provide stories and information about the region's history, culture, and natural environment.
The tour is available year-round, but weather conditions can affect the experience; check the website for current availability and recommendations.
Yes, the tour includes drop-off back at Melbourne city hotels or Federation Square at the end of day two.

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