Autopia Tours: Great Ocean Road to Grampians 2 Day Original Tour (Private Double/Twin Ensuite)
Duration:
This fare price is a (Per Person) suitable for Adults or Children in a Double/Twin Share Room. Children aged between 6 to 17 years old, must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times.
TOUR CODE: GG2-S — Private Motel Accommodation (Double/Twin Room)
OPERATES: Mon, *Fri (Nov to Apr) / *Mon (May to Oct) *fortnightly
TOUR DURATION: – 2 Days / 1 Night
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Immigration Museum – 400 Flinders St, corner Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35AM
HIGHLIGHTS:
- A brilliant overnight escape to two of Victoria’s most popular regional getaways.
- Travel along the famous National Heritage Listed Great Ocean Road coastlines.
- Visit the pristine surf beaches, chocolate, and quaint seaside townships overlooking the Southern Ocean.
- The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway provides a great photo opportunity
- Cool off in the ancient Great Otway National Park.
- Be blown away by the 12 Apostles rock formations & rugged shipwreck cove of Loch Ard Gorge.
- See an abundance of Australian native flora and fauna.
- Explore the rugged landscape of the Grampians National Park, bush hikes, and wilderness trails.
- Discover the panoramic views from Reeds, Boroka, and The Balconies lookouts and wonder at Mackenzie Falls.
ITINERARY:
Experience the stunning scenery on this two-day journey through a diverse range of natural wonders. From the wild shipwreck coastline of Loch Ard Gorge to limestone cliffs at the Twelve Apostles. Or ancient mountain views in Grampians National Park, in search of wildlife, waterfalls, and that Australian bush landscape rich in Aboriginal culture.
Day 1: Melbourne to Great Ocean Road
Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Great Ocean Road and discover the remarkable rock formations of the iconic 12 Apostles. Stop by the Surf Coast, for morning tea at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and sample some sweet treats. You will discover some of the world’s tallest trees as you explore the ancient and beautiful rainforest of the Great Otway National Park. Learn about the tragic tale of the shipwreck coast, visit the hidden beach of Loch Ard Gorge and the iconic 12 Apostles. During our journey, we will stop to see native Australian wildlife. Arriving late at night, we then settle into our accommodation for the night.
- Meals: Lunch (Apollo Bay Bakery), Dinner (The Flying Horse Bar & Brewery) or similar alternative
- Accom: Gariwerd Motel Private Rooms (with ensuite) or Grampians Eco YHA Shared Accommodation (with shared bathroom) or similar alternative
- Driving Distance: 520km
- Hike Distance: 1-2km
Day 2: Grampians to Melbourne
Our day begins early in the morning with a visit up to Boroka Lookout, Reeds Lookout/Balconies, which has excellent views of the rugged terrain of the Grampians National Park. An area rich in Aboriginal culture as well as beautiful bushland teeming with Australian wildlife, such as emus and kangaroos. Besides the many hiking trails that are available, there are majestic waterfalls that are sure to leave you with lasting memories. In the afternoon, we make our way back to Melbourne, after an incredible 2 days exploring the coastline and inland mountain ranges, arriving sometime after 5:30 in the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accom: N/A
- Driving Distance: 340km
- Hike Distance: 2km
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to infrastructure road works.
INCLUSIONS:
- Melbourne to Melbourne overnight escape
- 1 Nights Accommodation: Private ensuites rooms available (Halls Gap)
- Includes 1x Breakfast, 1x Lunch, 1x Dinner (guest participation)
- All National Park pass entry fees
- Guided bush walks (~4km, subject to fitness level)
- Australian flora and fauna sightings
- Hosted by an experienced driver-guide
- Air-conditioned small-group bus travel
- Comprehensive local tour commentary
- Selected Melbourne inner-city pick-up/drop-off points
EXCLUSIONS:
- Any meals not indicated within the itinerary – plenty of opportunity will be provided to purchase food along the way or dine out with the group
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point
- Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
- Personal expenses
WHAT TO BRING:
1L refillable water bottle, hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, comfortable walking shoes with tread (closed shoes), appropriate all-weather clothing, overnight bag 15kg & small day pack 5kg, insect repellent, flashlight, headlamp or torch, money for snack and meals, camera to capture every moment!
CHILD POLICY:
This fare price is a (Per Person) suitable for Adults or Children in a Double/Twin Share Room. Accepts children 6 to 17 years old and must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian. Not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under. Accommodation upgrades are subject to availability and on request only.
WEATHER:
Please be aware that weather conditions can vary throughout the year in Victoria. While we endeavour to operate our tours as planned, there may be occasions when rain or inclement weather affects our itinerary. Rest assured, your experience will still proceed unless you are directly contacted by the tour provider. To ensure you’re prepared for the weather, please check the average temperatures for your travel dates and pack accordingly. Comfortable clothing suitable for varying weather conditions is recommended.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, title or gender for rooming configuration, and a contact phone number.
- Dietary Requirements: While we endeavour to cater to most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements when booking. There are limited options once the tour departs, so prior notice is essential.
- Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. Guests must be able to walk unaided for 1 to 2 hours at a time.
- Fitness Level: A moderate level of fitness is required for walks, which can be up to 2km in length over steep and rocky sections, often in direct sunlight. Walks will be conducted at the guide’s discretion to ensure guest safety. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 75 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
- Age Restrictions: Children aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times and are required to stay in private twin rooms. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 5 and under.
- Fare Type Accommodation Options: Private Double/Twin Room (GG2-S) is for Adults and Children, staying in a double or twin room with ensuite bathroom and must be purchased by Qty2 people staying together.
- Mobility Considerations: This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
- Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 15 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. We ask that large suitcases/backpacks be stored at your accommodation in Melbourne whilst on tour.
- Itinerary Variations: Itineraries and touring routes may change to adapt to seasonal conditions, park closures and changes in road conditions. Safety is our top priority, and we plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
- Guest Participation: Guests are encouraged to participate in meal preparation, cleanup, unpacking, and loading luggage into the vehicles. This collaborative effort allows everyone to relax together after a day of touring and fosters connections among travellers.
- Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 03 9393 1333.
- Private Tours: Private charters services are available on request at charters@gltg.com.au.
SUITS
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Really good tour of the Great Ocean Road! Really good tour with a lot of stops and activities included. Our guide Anthony explained much about the history and the wildlife of the Great Ocean Road which was very interesting. Even got to see Koalas and Kangaroos!
Great experience It was a great experience seeing penguin parade, koalas and some of other wild lives.Our driver Joel was very friendly.
Thank you very much!!
Great. Thanks Fiona. Thanks Fi! Awesome trip and we had a good time
Penguin & Koala Day Trip Great day out with an informative friendly guide (Joel😃)
Good tour and great guide! The guide is very kind and nice, he care for all of members.
Great Tour Anthony is a very passionate and clear-speaking guide. Even though the weather wasn’t great, he still tried his best to give us a wonderful experience. We’re really glad to be part of this tour. Highly recommended!
A great outing made better with a great guide Had a great day out with our Driver and Guide, Fiona. Expert and safe driver who showed a true enthusiasm to give information, ensure we all had a great time, she was accessible, personable, informative, and truly wanted us all to enjoy ourselves as much as possible. She was a delight to spend time with, and I would recommend her to anyone. We had a great time at the koala reserve and at thepenguin parade, despite a brief downpour of rain. Everything went great and her ability to get us all back to our best drop- off in rainy weather was very much appreciated. My photos do not include any of the penguin parade as photos are not allowed in order to observe the penguins privacy and natural behavior
Koalas and penguins Thanks Fiona for a nice and informative trip about penguins and koalas
A day out with Joel The tour covered all the said points very well. All the tourists could capture beautiful pictures and memories for life.The coffee was served as committed. It's a DIY coffee where they keep hot water, coffee, sugar, milk etc and make your own. Alongwith Tim Tams. The sandwich for lunch was tasty and filling. I opted for veg and the veggies inside it were so fresh n crunchy. I didn't feel hungry till evening. I saw the veg sandwich bigger than the non veg ;)
Special credits to our tour guide Joel. He did a fab job telling us about the points, history of the places. Sweet person to spend the day with. He made all the tourists comfortable, co and waited patiently incase we were late.
Joel- Thanks and love from India.
Great guide - Joel, nice trip Great adventure with Joel. Highly recommended
Highly recommend! This guide was a larger one then expected however Fiona was great - super high energy as a solo traveller she made me feel as if I had a friend on the tour. I can only recommend doing this tour - and trying to get Fi as your guide. She had all the answers!
Wonderful time It was amazing and special experience in Fiona's bus.
1 day coastal tour - worth it ! Joe took us on a great tour along the coast.The had been the perfect guide shared interesting stories and information in an entertaining way. Thanks for a wonderful day!
Awesome day at Great Ocean Rd! Had a full day out doing Great Ocean road and other various stops, a really full day but it was very worth it! Joe the guide was fab, funny and knowledgeable about all the places he took us to. Favourite stops were 12 apostles, the razorback and apollo bay. We had lunch included which was nice, and coffee/timtams were also provided on our first stop at Colac. Also saw some koalas and kangaroos along the route! Awesome day :)
Penguin Tour Coco was an amazing tour guide. Full of information, helpful suggestions, clean directions and delicious restaurant rec at Masala Bay. Highly recommend asking for him to be your guide!
Coco did a fantastic job today! Coco did a fabulous job of taking care of everyone on the bus and ensuring all stops and tours were explained very well. I would definitely recommend this tour for anyone wanting to attend the Penguin Parade!
Great excursion Enjoyed seeing koalas up close. And got great view of the little penguins. Unfortunately penguin numbers down this time of the year but still loved seeing the little guys. Our driver/guide was good did his best to keep us on time and informed.
Great experience with Kiwi! Great experience! Bath are a nice relaxing experience. Chris alias Kiwi did a wonderful job with extra stops to see around a little.
Helpful friendly kind caring staff Joel was great throughout the full day. Very friendly and helpful with his passengers whenever they had any queries or questions.
Penguin Plus is worth it! Both the Koala Conservation Center and Penguin Parade with PLUS were absolutely wonderful, The koalas were quite active and up-close right next to the viewing platforms for some great pics/vids. As for the Penguin Parade, we were able to see them up close as well with the penguins walking right in front of us. Our driver Joel was very friendly. Only issue was with the bus microphone whiz was a bit difficult to understand at times. But the bus was comfortable on the long drive.
Philip island visit Terrible guide with poor voice projection and information ability.In spite of telling him a few times we couldn’t hear, he continued with low voice projection and stated mic was not good. The itinerary was not very good for the money spent. Thanks goodness we upgraded our tickets to premium, we were at least able to watch several penguins waddle around out of the water. Nobbies was without any fur seals and very crowded on boardwalks. I won’t recommend this tour to anyone, Autopia guide / driver wasn’t good, late for pick up, poor information and insufficient instructions.
HIRE A CAR AND DRIVER Simply put: I would hire a car and driver rather than take this tour. The advertisement was a bit deceptive. The bus (coach) was not small - it was 41 passengers. The seats were small and uncomfortable for that long a journey. The PA system in the bus did not work well. The driver often just spoke without the PA — resulting in only the first 3 rows of people actually hearing him. The supposed "knowledgable guide" at the Nature Preserve was only the driver with no real knowledge. And, it really was not a nature preserve — it was a Koala pen with 5 captive Koala’s. However, the penguins were really great. Paying for the Penguins Plus ticket was the only action for which real value was received. Again; hire a car and driver or spend the night near the island — the bus is a painful way to spend a day.
Lovely Daytrip I really enjoyed the tour. Our lovely tourguide Fiona did an amazing job. She gave us valuable tips and was very courteous. On every spot we had enough time. The whole tour was very relaxed and we still could experience a lot.My highlight was definitely Nobbies Lookout and of course the penguins.
Highly recommen- great tour and day out to see the penguins Had a great time yesterday on the tour. We got a good amount of time to see each of the stops and everything ran to schedule. Our favourite part of course was the Penguin Parade.
Great tour Craig was a fantastic tour guide, he was very knowledgeable about each of the spots we stopped at and helpful when we had any questions. He made the spots more interesting to see by giving us the history of many of these spots. Lovely tour and one of my favorite tour guides
Chill and friendly trip A wonderful experience with a knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. Excellent commentary along the way and even a stop for koala pictures! Very accommodating for all walks of life. We had a magnificent time, deffo recommend.
UNSAFE & Misleading Conduct : Received less than 50% of the Tour for 165 AUD – think twice before booking AUTOPIA TOURS! UNSAFE & Misleading Conduct : Received less than 50% of the Tour for 165 AUD – think twice before booking AUTOPIA TOURS!My experience on the Reverse Great Ocean Road Tour (Booking: 122799) was a catastrophic failure of service, hygiene, and basic safety. This tour is NOT worth the premium price of AUD $165.
MAJOR FAILURES:
• CORE PROMISE BROKEN: The driver was over an hour late, ensuring we arrived at the 12 Apostles with massive crowds, completely nullifying the 'Reverse Tour' promise.
• ITINERARY OMITTED: We only stopped at 2 out of 5 major promised sites. The driver intentionally skipped 60% of the itinerary, including the guaranteed rainforest walk.
• HYGIENE : The 'picnic lunch' was served standing up next to the bus from a cooler box. Furthermore, the restrooms at the morning tea stop were in a shockingly unsanitary state, forcing me to avoid using them for hours.
• SUBSTANDARD SERVICE: The vehicle was dirty and loud (not 'modern and comfortable'). Onboard Wi-Fi and USB charging were unavailable. The same individual served as both the driver and the guide. He provided commentary while actively driving on long, winding roads. This was extremely stressful for passengers as his focus was repeatedly diverted from the road, creating a serious safety risk throughout the tour. Moreover, the 'guided tour' existed only inside the bus; when we stopped at sites, the driver/guide never joined the group to provide explanations.There were no promised "Guided walks", no rain forest walk, nothing. We stopped for only 15 minutes for restroom in the forest!
This company failed to provide the service they advertised and showed a profound disregard for customer welfare!
Fab day out. Excellent day out. Great pick-up and informative driver - Dom. Spectacular views from Arthur’s Seat on a short detour.
Hot spring tour We had a great time on the Peninsula Hot Springs tour! Our tour guide Dom was super friendly and really made the trip enjoyable — he loves to crack jokes and kept everyone in a good mood the whole day. Thank you, Dom, for also taking us to the lookout to enjoy the amazing views. Highly recommend this tour!
Phillip Island with Penguins Our tour guide, Fiona, was really enthusiastic, informative, and fun. Each place that we visited was an amazing experience, especially the penguin plus viewing.
Great, but long, day. Awesome guides. Happy customer! Excellent stops. The penguins were obviously the highlight of a long day, however the guide James went through a lot of effort to make sure we were all comfortable and OK. A few challenging customers were dealt with so professionally and positively. We all got loas of infomration, but not too much.
Kiwi was FANTASTIC Kiwi was AMAZING. He was so knowledgeable. So smart. Very patient. Loved his energy and humor. I would do this anytime with him. I loved it!!!!!!!
Our great guide Chris made the tour! The most memorable day out with the best guide! Chris’ amazing knowledge and enthusiasm just made the trip incredible- against the majestic backdrops and natural scenery. It’s long day but well timed stops and it fits in everything you need to see (and photograph!) in the time you have! Thank you for an unforgettable trip!
Amazing trip The day trip is amazing. We got to see the main sites and enjoyed the little places along the way as well. Lunch and morning tea was lovely which was provided by the tour service. Kiwi is an awesome driver and knowledgeable guide! Both my dad and I enjoyed the journey:)
Best trip ever! Loved every minute, and there are a lot of them. So worth the time seeing this beautifully diverse country. You cover a lot of ground and every bit of it is fascinating. Kudos to Kiwi the guide, so knowledgeable and professional!
Koalas and Penguins (also Wallabys) oh my! Kiwi was a great tour guide. He was full of insightful information and gave all the best tips. Smaller tour group was also key to the enjoyment of the day.
Great Small Tour with Entertaining Guide Very nice small tour with guide Kiwi. He was very informative about Australian history and facts about penguins and koslas
Can’t miss the penguins and koalas! Penguins are adorable, koalas are going to be 10 yards/meters from you, as long as you bring warm sweater and a windbreaker (and a hat too) you’ll have a great time. Kiwi the guide was great
Penguin Parade Tour was very well planned out with respect to the amount of time at each stop. Our tour guide did a very good job narrating each stop. The penguin parade was outstanding.
More fitness Bec JanetFormidable trip de 3 jours de Melbourne à Adélaïde , malgré lire 📖 rt du car, (peu de place à bord, pas de panier bagage ni de tablette, pas prises de charge USB. ) et les réveils matinaux ( 5 à 6am)
Oui le parcours est très bien conçu, une remorque pour les bagages de nuit. de très nombreux arrêts. ( panorama, pt de vue, toilettes, repas) les hébergements sont de qualité et variés, un peu de folklore avec le BBQ et un BF ( que l’on fait sois même) dans une auberge de jeunesse ou l’on lave et essuie ses couverts.
Toutes les marches, randonnées, que ce soit en forêt, en montagne ou dans le bush sont accessibles et renforcent les mollets, pour nous s’il y a bien trop de marches à gravir (+ de 300) on trouve une alternative.
Janet. Notre chauffeur/ guide est exceptionnelle de compétence, érudition et convivialité.
Conduite fluide et sans ácoups.
Son animation dynamique: musicale et humoristique est un vrai bonheur . Ce parcours de 850km de car et 8,5 km de marche/jours de moyenne, que je craignais pour sa densité est plus efficace pour le corps et l’esprit qu’un stage de fitness!!!!
Bravo. Nous recommandons vivement.
Catyah et Jean ( pour mémoire Jean a 80 ans)
850km de car en 3 jours
A tour to remember. This was a great trip, well organised and interesting. We saw amazing landscapes and plenty of wildlife at various locations. Janet was in charge; she is friendly and caring, informative, and a fantastic driver - she definitely helped make the trip very memorable. And our group was great, with nice people from a variety of countries, an aspect I really enjoyed. I highly recommend this tour.
























































