2-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour Roundtrip from Melbourne

Planning a trip from Melbourne and tired of the same old city sights? This 2-day Great Ocean Road and Grampians tour offers a scenic escape packed with breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a taste of Australia’s wild side. It’s a popular choice among travelers, with glowing reviews and a consistent 5-star rating, and for good reason.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the well-organized itinerary that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, and the value offered by including accommodation, park fees, and meals in the price. But, keep in mind, it is a long and active two days, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels and an appetite for adventure.

One potential consideration is the bus time—there’s quite a bit of it—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this may not be your ideal fit. Nevertheless, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-paced, and memorable road trip, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Victoria’s stunning coast and rugged mountain landscapes in just two days.

Key Points

• Stunning sights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are highlights.
• Overnight stay in Halls Gap in the Grampians offers a restful break amid nature.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and wildlife spotting tips.
• All-inclusive package covers transport, park entry, two meals, and accommodation.
• Comfortable small group experience enhances the trip’s intimacy and flexibility.
• Good value for money considering the scope of sights covered and inclusions.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Day 1: From Melbourne to the Iconic Coastline

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from Melbourne’s Immigration Museum at 7:35 am, setting the stage for a full, sightseeing-packed day. The first stop is the Twelve Apostles, the show’s star limestone stacks towering out of the ocean. Several travelers mention the opportunity to do a scenic helicopter flight over the formations, which is an optional upgrade that’s well worth considering if you’re after that bird’s-eye view.

After soaking in the views, the tour continues along the Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. The route offers plenty of photo opportunities at places like Loch Ard Gorge, where you’ll learn about the tragic shipwreck story that gives the gorge its name. Reviewers have appreciated the way guides share stories and history, making the stops more meaningful.

Next, it’s time to look for koalas in the wild—a highlight for wildlife lovers. The guides are praised for their knowledge about the local fauna, often pointing out animals like kangaroos and emus in their natural habitat. The trip then moves on to the charming seaside town of Apollo Bay, perfect for a snack or a quick exploration.

In the afternoon, you’ll venture into Otway National Park, home to some of the tallest trees in the world. The walk through this ancient rainforest is gentle but invigorating, giving travelers a chance to experience Australia’s lush plant life. Reviewers note how peaceful and awe-inspiring this part of the journey is—a true highlight for nature lovers.

The day ends with a relaxed check-in at Halls Gap, where your accommodation is already arranged. Many guests comment on the convenience of having this pre-booked stay and how it allows them to unwind after a long day of travel and sightseeing.

Day 2: The Majestic Grampians and Wildlife Encounters

Waking up in the Grampians, you’ll likely be greeted by kangaroos hopping about—an experience many find unexpectedly charming. The area is not only a stunning natural landscape but also a hub for Aboriginal culture, with stories and legends that guides often share during walks.

The morning begins with a visit to Boroka Lookout, which offers panoramic views over the mountains and valleys—a truly breathtaking scene. Many reviewers mention how the guides’ insights help bring the landscape and its cultural significance to life.

Next, the tour takes you to Mackenzie Falls, one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the region. The hike to view the falls is manageable (~2 km total), and visitors love the power and beauty of the cascading water. Alternatively, Silverband Falls offers a quieter, equally scenic experience for those interested in a shorter walk.

The second day’s pace is active but rewarding. As you explore, keep an eye out for native wildlife—many guests have shared stories of spotting emus, kangaroos, and koalas in their natural environment, thanks to the guides’ expertise.

The tour concludes back in Melbourne, arriving in the evening, with plenty of memories and photos to cherish.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the Price

• Accommodation in Halls Gap: A comfortable overnight stay in the heart of the Grampians.
• All park entry fees: No hidden costs at the stops.
• Two meals: Usually breakfast on day 2 and possibly dinner or lunch, depending on the itinerary.
• Guided bush walks (~2 km): Perfect for those with moderate fitness.
• Expert driver-guide: With live commentary, sharing insights into the sights and wildlife.
• Small group experience: Usually no more than 23 travelers, making it more personal.

Not Included

• Meals not specified in the itinerary—plan to bring snacks or buy in towns.
• Personal expenses—souvenirs, extra snacks, or optional activities like helicopter rides.
• Over-sized luggage could have restrictions, so pack light if possible.

The Experience: Value and Real-World Tips

Many reviewers have emphasized the value of this tour, especially considering the inclusions. For around $390 AUD, you’re getting transport, accommodation, park fees, and guided commentary, which would cost more if arranged independently. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience and easier access to viewpoints and wildlife.

The transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, which is a relief after long hours on the road. The guides are consistently praised—one, named Al, is noted for his knowledge and friendly manner. They often share stories about the local wildlife, encouraging respectful observation, which reviewers appreciated.

While the itinerary is quite full, it’s designed to maximize what you see without feeling overly rushed. The early start means you’ll get the best lighting at the scenic spots, especially at sunrise or sunset, perfect for photography.

Practical tips:

• Dress in layers; weather can change quickly in the mountains and along the coast.
• Bring a good camera or smartphone with extra batteries—views like the Twelve Apostles and Boroka Lookout are picture-perfect.
• Prepare for some walking; the hikes are manageable but expect uneven terrain.
• If you’re interested in helicopter rides, book early as they are optional add-ons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day trip suits travelers wanting a rundown of Victoria’s coastal and mountain landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple day trips. It’s perfect for those interested in wildlife, scenic vistas, and cultural stories delivered by knowledgeable guides.

The tour offers a balance of active exploration and comfortable travel, making it ideal for those with moderate fitness levels. If you’re eager to see iconic sites like the Twelve Apostles and experience Australia’s rugged beauty firsthand, this tour will probably tick all your boxes.

However, if you prefer slow-paced, leisurely travel, or have physical limitations, the long driving hours and active walks might be less suitable. It’s also a great choice for photographers looking for stunning landscape shots, given the numerous viewpoints and stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Pickup is at 7:35 am from Melbourne’s Immigration Museum, giving you a full two days of exploring.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transport, accommodations in Halls Gap, park entry fees, two meals, and guided bush walking.

Is there an option for scenic helicopter flights?
Yes, the Twelve Apostles stop offers an optional scenic helicopter flight, which many guests find worthwhile for the views.

How many people are in each group?
The tour has a maximum of 23 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

What should I bring?
Dressing in layers is recommended, along with a camera, snacks, and comfortable walking shoes.

Can I bring oversized luggage?
Luggage restrictions may apply; it’s best to check with the operator in advance if you have large items like surfboards or bikes.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, the pace is moderate, and the walks are manageable, making it suitable for families with children and older travelers with moderate fitness.

Final Thoughts

The 2-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians tour from Melbourne offers a solid mix of iconic sights, wildlife encounters, and scenic landscapes, all wrapped in an easy-to-book package. The well-thought-out itinerary, combined with the expertise of guides like Al, ensures travelers leave with a deeper appreciation of Victoria’s natural beauty. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a memorable, value-packed adventure that combines coastal drama with mountain majesty.

While the long days and active walks require a bit of stamina, the payoff is well worth it. This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, stunning vistas, and storytelling—ready to see some of Australia’s most photogenic spots in just two days.

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated, fun, and engaging small-group experience that hits all the major highlights, this tour is a solid choice. It balances value, adventure, and comfort, making it a great way to explore Victoria’s wild side without the stress of planning.