Autopia Tours - Victoria / New South Wales Williamstown North Overnight Experiences

TOUR CODE: GOR2-B --- Basic Hostel Accommodation (Shared Dormitory)

OPERATES:  Sun (Apr-Oct) / Sun, Wed (Nov-Mar) 

TOUR DURATION: 2 Days / 1 Night

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Immigration Museum - 400 Flinders St, corner of Market St Melbourne @ 7:35am.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Escape the crowds and enjoy the Great Ocean Road in a relaxed time frame
• See the 12 Apostles at sunset
• See iconic Great Ocean Road landmarks not seen on regular tours
• Explore an extinct volcano full of native Aussie wildlife
• Guided Indigenous history & bush tucker experience
• Stay in a boutique Brewery (dorm share only) and drink some of their delicious brews
• Walk a section of the Great Ocean Walk
• See the enormous limestone monoliths and coastline from beach level at Gibson Steps
• Instagrammable moments amongst the Redwoods of the Otways
• Visit popular Surf Coast surf beaches
• Search for whales (May-Oct)
• Try the only Zip Coaster in Australia (optional add-on)

ITINERARY:

Avoid the crowds as you explore and experience all the major attractions of the Great Ocean Road plus many more that most tours will miss in this relaxed and adventurous 2 day tour. Watch the sun set behind the 12 Apostles; stand amongst the two tallest tree species in the world; explore the inside of an extinct volcano; track down native Australian wildlife such as Koalas, Kangaroo, Emu and the elusive Echidna; walk a section of the Great Ocean Walk; stay in a brewery; experience the lifestyle of the Surf Coast and its famous beaches and we're only just scratching the surface of what this tour really offers.

DAY 1 - Melbourne to Port Campbell

We start this tour with a drive through the ancient lava fields of western Victoria on our way to the country seaside town of Warrnambool, making a detour to Tower Hill to explore Australia's most recently extinct volcano bursting with wildlife. Take a guided walk with Worn Gundidj learning about the traditional lifestyle of Australia's indigenous people, bush tucker and medicine. Drive the Great Ocean Road "backwards", starting with the Shipwreck Coast and its icons such as the Bay of Islands, The Grotto and London Bridge with time to explore the village of Port Campbell. Try some locally made beers from Sow & Piglets Brewery with dinner before finishing off the day at the 12 Apostles for sunset. Meals: Dinner. Accom: Sow and Piglets Guest House (formerly Port Campbell Hostel) or similar (6-8 bed dorm with shared bathroom facilities). Driving Distance: 340km. Hike Distance: 2km.

DAY 2 - Great Ocean Road to Melbourne

The second day starts off with a climb down the stairs onto the beach at Loch Ard Gorge well before the crowds begin for a unique take on this ever popular attraction. It's then off for a stroll along a section of the Great Ocean Walk and down to the beach level at the Apostles at Gibson Steps before retreating into the Otway rainforest. Hidden in a place most don't venture, the Redwoods of the Otways will simply amaze. The tallest and second tallest species of trees in the world, side by side. It's then back on the road to continue the breathtaking coastal drive with quality stops in the townships of Apollo Bay and Lorne to soak in the Aussie beach town lifestyle. Check out the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice-Creamery for some delicious treats and one of the most popular surf beaches in Australia before the trip back to Melbourne around 6:30pm. Meals: Breakfast. Accom: N/A. Driving Distance: 300km. Hike Distance: 3km.

INCLUSIONS:

• Overnight tour to/from Melbourne return
• 1 Nights’ hostel dorm accommodation - with shared bathroom facilities (Port Campbell)
• Includes: 1 x Breakfast, 1 x Dinner
• Aboriginal cultural experience
• All National Park entrance fees
• Guided bush walks included (~5km total)
• Guaranteed Australian wildlife in its natural habitat
• Hosted by experienced driver-guide
• Air-conditioned mini-coach travel
• Comprehensive tour commentary
• Select inner city pick up and drop off points

EXCLUSIONS:

• Any meals not indicated within the itinerary
• Travel insurance is 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 & small day pack, insect repellent, flashlight, headlamp or torch, money for snack and meals, camera.

CHILD POLICY:

This fare type applies to Adults 18+ and over. This tour is not suitable for infants or children 17 years and under. 

WEATHER:

In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.

THINGS TO KNOW:

• Basic dormitory style accommodation with shared facilities, fares apply to Adults 18+ and over. This fare type is not suitable for children 17 years and under. 
• A moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks
• Walks can be up to 2km in length, often over steep and rocky sections and in direct sunlight.  Length of walks may vary and will be at the guide’s discretion.
• A similar alternative will be provided should any of our normal scheduled stops be closed for any reason.
• Limited storage space on our buses, unable to accept wheelchairs or oversized suitcases
• Please limit baggage to 1 x 20kg travel bag and 1 small day bag
• Notify the provider of any dietary requirements, medical conditions, and your traveling contact number at the time of booking.