Melbourne to Adelaide: 3-Day Great Ocean Road Grampians Tour

Great Ocean Road and Grampians 2-Day Overland Adventure from Melbourne to Adelaide

This 2-day overland tour from Melbourne to Adelaide suits travellers seeking nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences across southern Australia's coastal and mountainous regions.

Description

Explore the Great Ocean Road, Great Otway National Park, and Grampians National Park on a scenic journey combining dramatic coastlines, ancient rainforests, native wildlife, and rugged mountain landscapes.

Day 1: Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

Depart Melbourne early to the Surf Coast with morning tea at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie. Drive along the famed Great Ocean Road, stopping at the Memorial Arch and coastal towns. Take a guided rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park at Melba Gully or Maits Rest to see ancient trees and lush vegetation.

In the afternoon, visit the Shipwreck Coast including Loch Ard Gorge, and view the Twelve Apostles. Watch for koalas and kangaroos en route. In the evening, travel inland to Halls Gap in the Grampians to relax and have dinner.

• Meals: Lunch (Apollo Bay Bakery), Dinner (Flying Horse Bar & Brewery or similar)
• Accommodation: Gariwerd Motel (private ensuite) or Grampians Eco YHA (shared facilities)
• Driving Distance: Approx. 520 km
• Hiking Distance: 1–2 km

Day 2: Grampians to Adelaide

Begin the day with bird sounds and visit Boroka Lookout, Reeds Lookout, and The Balconies for panoramic mountain views. Spot kangaroos, emus, and wallabies. Hike to MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls, and learn about the Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali Aboriginal heritage.

Travel west through open plains, passing Dimboola’s Pink Lake before crossing into South Australia. Arrive in Adelaide by early evening.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: None
• Driving Distance: Approx. 520 km
• Hiking Distance: ~2 km

Includes

• One-way transfer from Melbourne to Adelaide
• 1 night accommodation with private ensuite or budget shared rooms in Halls Gap
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner (guest participation)
• All National Park entry fees
• Guided bush walks (~4 km, adjusted to fitness level)
• Opportunities to see Australian wildlife in the wild
• Experienced driver-guide hosting
• Air-conditioned small-group bus travel
• Comprehensive local commentary
• Melbourne inner-city pick-up and Adelaide city drop-off

Excludes

• Meals not specified in the itinerary (options available to purchase along the route)
• Hotel transfers before or after the tour to nominated pickup points
• Personal travel insurance (recommended)
• Spending money for personal items

Important Information

• Booking details: Passenger information including date of birth, food allergies, title or gender for rooming, and contact phone number required at booking
• Fitness level: Moderate fitness needed for walks up to 2 km on steep, rocky, and sunny sections; walks conducted at guide’s discretion for safety. Participants over 75 require a doctor’s certificate 30 days prior.
• Age restrictions: Children 6–17 must be with an adult and stay in private twin rooms. Not suitable for infants or children 5 and under.
• Guest participation: Involvement encouraged for meal prep, cleanup, unpacking, and luggage handling

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 14 days before departure for a full refund.

Book early for preferred departure dates. Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera to capture wildlife and landscapes.