Follow the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to the Twelve Apostles, then climb the sandstone ridges of the Grampians on this compact 3-day overland tour. Expect coastal lookouts, an extinct volcanic wetland, nightly stays in Warrnambool and Halls Gap, and active hikes up to 3 km.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the coach before dawn and Melbourne slides away — a ribbon of city lights gives way to the salt-sweet breath of the Southern Ocean. The Great Ocean Road unfolds like a slow-motion reveal: basalt cliffs drop into wind-stiff surf, seabirds ride the updrafts, and the road itself hugs the coast for a breathless 180 km between Torquay and the Twelve Apostles. Over three days this overland tour stitches together shoreline drama, extinct volcano country and the folded sandstone ridges of the Grampians, with nightly stops in Warrnambool and Halls Gap.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (approx. 72 hours)
Fitness Level
Moderate to high — comfortable walking on uneven, steep trails for up to 3 km and standing at viewpoints
Wildlife
History
The Great Ocean Road was built by returned WWI soldiers and is now a heritage-listed coastal drive; Tower Hill is an Aboriginal cultural landscape set in an extinct volcanic crater.
Conservation
Park entry fees support maintenance and habitat protection; stay on marked trails, don’t feed wildlife and follow ‘leave no trace’ guidance to protect fragile coastal and montane ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Melbourne to Adelaide 3 Day Southern Coast Overland Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring 1–2 L of water
Hydrate between coach stops — walking sections can be exposed and there are limited services on remote stretches.
Wear sturdy footwear
Trails include steep, rocky steps and uneven boardwalks; ankle-supportive hiking shoes reduce blisters and slips.
Pack sun protection
Bring a hat, sunglasses and broad-spectrum SPF; coastal glare and high-altitude sun in the Grampians are intense.
Limit large luggage
Storage is restricted on this overland coach — stick to one checked bag (23 kg) and a 5 kg daypack.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky ascents like The Pinnacle and uneven boardwalks.
Daypack (5–10 L)
Carry water, snacks, camera and a light layer during hikes and viewpoints.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Coastal glare and exposed ridgelines increase UV exposure, even on cool days.
summer
Light waterproof shell
Protects against sudden coastal showers and wind-driven spray during boardwalk visits.
winter