3D2N Great Ocean Road to Grampians Tour in Victoria | Australia

While it's possible to drive a portion of the Great Ocean Road in one day, a multi-day trip is highly recommended to fully appreciate its stunning landscapes and attractions. A 2-day or 3-day itinerary allows for a more relaxed pace, offering ample time to explore key sites like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the rainforest sections, as well as venturing inland to Grampians National Park for hiking and wildlife encounters. This extended duration provides a richer and more immersive experience, allowing you to discover hidden gems and avoid rushing through iconic viewpoints.

The iconic Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park. Due to natural erosion over millions of years, the number of stacks visible from the viewing platforms has changed. Currently, there are seven of these magnificent limestone stacks remaining, with the last collapse occurring in 2009. Despite the changing number, their majestic presence continues to be a highlight of the Great Ocean Road, showcasing the powerful forces of nature.

The Great Ocean Road can be visited year-round, but the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months generally offer the most suitable weather conditions. During these periods, you can expect milder temperatures, fewer crowds compared to summer, and clearer skies, which are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (December to February) is popular but can be hot and crowded, while winter (June to August) brings cooler temperatures and more rain, though it also offers dramatic scenery and potential whale watching opportunities along the coast.

The Great Ocean Road is located in Victoria, Australia, stretching along the southeastern coast. It officially begins in Torquay, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, and extends westward to Allansford, near Warrnambool. Along its length, significant landmarks include the famous Memorial Arch, the striking Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge formations, and charming coastal towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay. Further inland, the Grampians National Park, with its diverse wildlife and waterfalls like Mackenzie Falls, is often visited in conjunction with the coastal drive.

A comprehensive multi-day tour along the Great Ocean Road and to Grampians National Park typically includes a diverse range of attractions. Along the coast, you'll visit iconic sites such as the Memorial Arch, the dramatic Twelve Apostles, and the historical Loch Ard Gorge. As the journey continues, tours often venture to the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve for wildlife spotting and to the Grampians National Park, where highlights include breathtaking views from Boroka and Reed's Lookout, hiking to the Pinnacle Lookout, and experiencing the majestic Mackenzie Falls. These tours offer a blend of coastal scenery, wildlife, and rugged mountain landscapes.

While it is technically possible to drive a round trip of the Great Ocean Road in a single day, it involves a very long day of driving (often 12-14 hours) with limited time at each attraction. A one-day trip typically allows only brief stops at major landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. It often means rushing through scenic viewpoints and missing out on deeper explorations of places like Loch Ard Gorge, rainforest walks, or any inland diversions to areas like the Grampians National Park. For a more relaxed and immersive experience, a multi-day tour is highly recommended.

Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, situated within an inactive volcanic crater, is an excellent location for observing Australia's native wildlife in its natural habitat. Visitors often encounter kangaroos grazing in open fields, emus wandering freely, and koalas perched in eucalyptus trees. The reserve is also home to a variety of birdlife, including swans, pelicans, and wattlebirds. It provides a unique opportunity for close-up wildlife viewing amidst a distinctive geological landscape, making it a memorable stop for nature enthusiasts.

Grampians National Park, known for its rugged mountains, wildflowers, and waterfalls, offers several unique natural features for exploration. Visitors can marvel at the impressive Mackenzie Falls, one of Victoria's largest and most spectacular waterfalls. The park also boasts stunning panoramic views from Boroka Lookout and Reed's Lookout. For those seeking adventure, hiking trails lead to iconic spots like the Pinnacle Lookout, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding ranges and valleys. The park's diverse landscapes include sandstone ridges, dense forests, and ancient Aboriginal rock art sites.