2 Days and 1 Night Great Ocean Road (Melbourne Chinese Tour)

Planning a trip along Australia’s famed Great Ocean Road? You’re in luck—there’s a 2-day, small-group tour from Melbourne designed specifically for Chinese-speaking travelers, offering a mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and local charm. While this tour doesn’t include accommodation, it provides a detailed itinerary packed with must-see landmarks and lesser-known gems that make the experience worthwhile.

We love the way this tour balances comfort with authentic exploration. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxing ride through spectacular landscapes, while the driver-guide’s local knowledge makes each stop more meaningful. Plus, the small group size (up to 15 travelers) fosters a more intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer personalized attention. The highlights—like the Twelve Apostles and Cape Patton Lookout—are complemented by hidden spots like Castle Cove Lookout, adding a touch of adventure. One potential consideration? Since the tour is conducted entirely in Mandarin, non-Chinese speakers might find it less accessible unless they’re comfortable with the language. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, culturally tailored experience without sacrificing scenic grandeur.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: With a limit of 15 travelers, expect a more personal experience and friendly interactions.
• Bilingual Guidance: The tour is entirely in Mandarin, making it ideal for Chinese-speaking visitors.
• Flexible Accommodation: You can choose your own place to stay in Apollo Bay, tailoring your comfort and budget.
• Iconic & Hidden Spots: From the Twelve Apostles to Cape Patton, plus secret lookout points, the itinerary offers diverse scenery.
• Value for Price: At around $225, the tour covers transportation, guide service, and entry to major sights—great value for a detailed two-day trip.
• Timed Stops: Each location allows enough time for photos, exploration, and soaking in the views without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: From Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Morning Pickup & City Tour
Your adventure kicks off early, around 8:30 am, with a pickup from Melbourne’s city center. The journey begins with a short stop in Geelong at around 10 am, where you can appreciate the town’s artistic seaside vibe, highlighted by colorful puppet bollards from the old port era. This stop isn’t just scenic—it’s also an opportunity to glimpse local craftsmanship.

Anglesea & Lighthouse Views
Next, around 11:20 am, you’ll arrive in Anglesea. Its main beach is popular for surfing and swimming, with Rodney Point Roadknight Beach being especially family-friendly. The leisurely 40-minute break here allows you to relax and possibly dip your toes in the water.

Split Point Lighthouse
At roughly 12:15 pm, your group visits the iconic Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet. Standing 34 meters tall, this white tower with its red cap offers picturesque views and photo opportunities. Known affectionately as The White Queen or Little Red Riding Hood Lighthouse, it’s a favorite for its storybook charm.

Great Ocean Road Memorial & Lorne
Around 1:10 pm, the tour hits the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway, a poignant tribute to the workers who built this legendary route. Just before lunch, at 1:45 pm, you’ll arrive in Lorne—a classic Australian coastal town with boutique shops, cafes, and scenic waterfalls. This relaxed stop is perfect for a quick walk, a hot chocolate, and some photos.

Kennet River & Koalas
In the late afternoon, at Kennet River, you’ll be treated to sightings of wild koalas lazily hanging in the eucalyptus trees. Several reviewers have noted how easy it is to spot these adorable creatures here, sometimes crossing the road or lounging near the river. It’s an authentic wildlife encounter that many travelers cherish.

Cape Patton Lookout & Arrival in Apollo Bay
Your day winds down at Barton Point Lookout, about 4:40 pm, where expansive ocean vistas await. The dramatic cliffs and roaring waves set the tone for the next day’s adventures. By approximately 5:20 pm, you’ll arrive in Apollo Bay, where you’re free to find dinner and settle into your chosen accommodation.

Day 2: Exploring the Coast & Iconic Landmarks

Morning Departure & Mait’s Rest
Starting around 9 am, the second day features an 800-meter rainforest walk at Mait’s Rest. With dense ferns and towering Myrtle Beech trees over 300 years old, it offers a lush contrast to the coastal scenery. If luck is on your side, you might see native wildlife like possums, wallabies, or even fireflies at night, as one reviewer mentioned.

Castle Cove & Gibson Steps
Next, around 10 am, you’ll visit Castle Cove Lookout, a lesser-known spot offering sweeping views, perfect for a quiet moment away from crowds. By 11 am, the famous Gibson Stairs beckon—an 86-step descent into the ocean, originally built by the Aboriginal Kirrae Wurrong tribe as a hunting route. Today, it’s a popular photo spot and an excellent way to connect with the rugged coastline.

The Twelve Apostles & Loch Ard Gorge
At around 11:30 am, the star attraction—the Twelve Apostles—comes into view. These towering limestone stacks have been carved by millennia of ocean erosion and are truly awe-inspiring. One traveler described them as “huge broken rocks” that resemble biblical apostles, and the experience of seeing them up close is unforgettable.

Following that, Loch Ard Gorge offers a dramatic landscape of cliffs, blue pools, and the famous ‘Shipwreck Coast’ history. The scenery here is jaw-dropping, with a deep emerald pool surrounded by towering rock formations. It’s one of the most photogenic spots on the trip.

Lunch & Coastal Landmarks
Around 1:30 pm, your group stops in Port Campbell for a meal, giving you the chance to relax and soak in small-town charm. After lunch, the journey continues with visits to London Bridge and Cave Rock, where natural arches and sea caves showcase the power of nature.

Reefs & Islands
The final scenic stops include the Thousand Islands, a collection of reefs scattered across the bay, and the scenic town lookout overlooking Port Campbell. These sites add variety and allow you to appreciate the coast’s geological diversity.

Return to Melbourne
By 4:10 pm, the group heads back to Melbourne, arriving before 8 pm. This reasonable schedule means you’ll get a full day of sightseeing without feeling exhausted, and the comfort of a coach makes the return trip relaxed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfort & Convenience
Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives pleasant, especially given the tight schedule. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and share the experience. The tour’s start and end points are flexible within Melbourne, so it’s easy to fit into your wider travel plans.

Authentic and Less Crowded Spots
While the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are tourist staples, this tour also includes lesser-known viewpoints like Castle Cove Lookout and Mait’s Rest. These quieter spots let you enjoy nature without the crowds and get some unique photo angles.

Expert Local Guide
Though not explicitly named, the driver-guide is praised for their knowledge, safety skills, and ability to navigate the sometimes tricky coastal roads. One reviewer mentioned that the guide knew “every bump and potential traffic hazard,” which reassures travelers about safety and smooth riding.

Flexibility in Accommodation
Since the tour doesn’t include hotel stays, you can choose a place in Apollo Bay that suits your style and budget. Whether you prefer cozy B&Bs or boutique hotels, this flexibility allows you to tailor your overnight stay.

Price & Value
At approximately $225 per person, this tour covers transportation, guide service, and access to all the major sights on both days. Considering the extensive itinerary and the inclusion of expert guiding, this offers excellent value—especially for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for Chinese-speaking travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to see the Great Ocean Road’s highlights. It suits those who enjoy small-group interactions and prefer a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. If you’re comfortable with Mandarin and appreciate authentic wildlife encounters—like spotting koalas—this tour will resonate.

However, non-Chinese speakers might find the language barrier a bit limiting unless they’re familiar with Mandarin. The tour also appeals to those who want to choose their own accommodation in Apollo Bay, giving extra flexibility for various budgets or styles.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day, small-group tour of the Great Ocean Road offers an accessible way to experience Australia’s most iconic coastal scenery. The carefully curated stops balance world-famous attractions with quieter spots, giving you a more rounded adventure. The guide’s local insights and the comfort of air-conditioned transport are definite highlights, making the journey enjoyable and educational.

If you’re looking to explore the rugged beauty of the coast without the stress of self-driving or navigating a large tour, this experience delivers good value and authentic moments. It’s especially well-suited for Chinese travelers who want a culturally tailored guided tour that hits all the highlights and some hidden gems.

For travelers seeking a scenic, comfortable, and well-organized adventure along the Great Ocean Road, this tour checks most boxes and offers a memorable journey through one of Australia’s most stunning landscapes.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers between stops.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Mandarin?
This tour is conducted entirely in Mandarin, so familiarity with the language is recommended. It’s best suited for Chinese-speaking travelers.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have time in Apollo Bay and Port Campbell to find your own food.

Is accommodation included?
No, accommodation is not part of the package. You’re free to choose where to stay in Apollo Bay based on your preferences.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 20 to 90 minutes, allowing enough time for photos, exploring, and relaxing.

What are the highlights of the tour?
Major attractions include the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Cape Patton Lookout, and the wildlife at Kennet River.

Is this suitable for children or families?
Yes, particularly given the short walks and scenic stops. However, always consider your child’s comfort with long drives.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a camera, some snacks, and perhaps a hat and sunscreen for outdoor stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a guided tour, customization isn’t usually available. However, the flexible accommodation in Apollo Bay allows for some personal adjustments.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking around 24 days in advance is typical, ensuring you get your preferred date and spot.