Autopia Tours: Great Ocean Road Otway Discovery 2 Day (Basic Shared Accommodation)

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

OPERATES:  Sundays (Nov-Apr, weekly) / Sundays (May-Oct, twice a month)

TOUR DURATION: 2 Days / 1 Night

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

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Embrace the Great Ocean Road at your leisure and escape the crowds
• Take in the sunset splendor of the iconic 12 Apostles
• Visit landmarks along the Great Ocean Road that aren't seen on regular tours
• Explore an extinct volcano full of native Aussie wildlife
• Take a guided Aboriginal cultural nature walk
• Stay in a boutique Guesthouse (dorm share only) and try a delicious local brew (own expense)
• Walk along 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 some of the popular Surf Coast surf beaches
• Keep your eyes peeled for migrating whales (May-Sep)

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, and get close to some of Australia’s most iconic animals. 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), private rooms with shared bathroom facilities available - on request only. Driving Distance: 380km. Hike Distance: 2km.

DAY 2 - Port Campbell 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 7:00pm. Meals: Breakfast. Accom: N/A. Driving Distance: 300km. Hike Distance: 3km.

INCLUSIONS:

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

EXCLUSIONS:

• 12 Apostles scenic helicopter flights - payable onboard direct to the operator on arrival
• Any meals not indicated within the itinerary - breakfast/dinner.
• 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, beach 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 to capture every moment!

CHILD POLICY:

Private room accommodation fares apply to Adults and children 6 years and over. Single Rooms are for adults only. Children aged between 6 to 17 years old are required to stay in a private double or twin room and must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian. This tour is not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under.

WEATHER:

In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Mandatory passenger details are required at the time of booking: date of birth, and phone number.
• While we endeavor to cater to most dietary needs, passengers MUST advise their booking agent at the time of booking. The tour operator must also be notified of any food allergies or known medical conditions at the time of booking.
• A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. Walks can be up to 2-3km in length, often over steep and rocky sections and in direct sunlight. Walks will be at the guide’s discretion to ensure the safety of guests. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and a doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years (30 days prior to travel).
• Basic dormitory-style accommodation fares apply to Adults 18+ and over. Not suitable for infants or children 17 years old and under. 
• Private upgrade rooms available with shared bathroom facilities only, subject to availability, on request only. Limited capacity onsite.
• A similar alternative will be provided should any of our normal scheduled stops be closed for any reason. Itineraries may vary to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally park closures. As safety is our top priority we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour.
• This terrain is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers or strollers. Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag
• Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean up and vehicle unpacking/loading, so everyone can relax together after a long day touring. It’s also a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers
• Please re-confirm your tour details within 7 days prior to departure on 03 9393 1333.