Adelaide to Melbourne: Great Ocean Road self drive

Itinerary in brief:

• 2 nights Adelaide
• 1 night Mount Gambier
• 1 night Port Fairy
• 1 night Apollo Bay
• 3 nights Melbourne

Day 1: Arrive Adelaide

On arrival in Adelaide, you'll be met at the airport and driven into the city to check into your hotel for a couple of nights. Settle into your room or head straight out to explore the quaint streets of the city or even head down to Glenelg, Adelaide’s beach spot, and enjoy some lunch, take a stroll around the shops or walk to the end of the pier to enjoy lovely views across the ocean.

Included: Transfers, 4* hotel 

Day 2: Adelaide

With just a day to explore this friendly city, you’ll be spoiled for choice on how to spend your time. Why not head to the Oval to visit the iconic cricket ground – you can even walk along the roof on the iconic Roofclimb – if you’d like us to book this, just ask! Wander through the heritage architecture of Adelaide Central Market, stroll through the Art Gallery of South Australia or visit the National Wine Centre to taste some local vintages. We’ve included a short walking tour with a born-and-raised local, Katina, who will give you an orientation of the city, teaching a little about Adelaide’s history and showing off the best shopping areas and food spots.   

Included: Walking tour, 4* hotel 

Day 3: Drive to Mount Gambier

This morning you'll pick up your hire car before heading off along the road to Mount Gambier, around 5 hours drive. Stop in at Old Tailem Town, Australia's largest pioneer village that shows what was life was like for the early European settlers of South Australia, before heading down to the coast. Enjoy views of the saltwater lagoons as you drive along the road next to Coorong National Park before arriving Robe, the perfect stop for lunch. Enjoy the famous crayfish and a walk to the Obelisk Lighthouse before continuing on to Mount Gambier, where you'll check into your hotel for the night. 

Once you’ve checked in, head to the Blue Lake or visit the top of centenary towers to get the best scenic views of the surrounding town & country landscapes. 

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 4: Drive to Port Fairy

You have an almost 2-hour drive to Port Fairy today so leave Mount Gambier at your leisure. As you get close to Port Fairy there is so much to see and do - we always recommend a visit to the Crags, a wild coastal reserve with dramatic cliffs and a popular breeding place for seals. After checking into your hotel in Port Fairy you have the afternoon free to explore the town, visit the port to witness the local fisherman unloading their catch or take a stroll around the arts & crafts shops scattered throughout the town. Don't miss a visit to Port Fairy Lighthouse on Griffiths Island and a delicious afogato at Conlan's Wine Store.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 5: Drive to Apollo Bay

After breakfast this morning, its time to move onto your next destination, Apollo Bay, a 2.5-hour drive away. It’s up to you how you time your drive today, the Twelve Apostles are located along the route approximately an hour from Apollo Bay, these iconic rocks are an amazing place to stop and take some pictures and are even more special at sunset! We recommend avoiding the middle of the day as this is when crowds are at their peak. 

Stop in at Bay of Islands Coastal Park for views of the pretty rocks - it's often a lot quieter than the Twelve Apostles. In the evening you'll head out to Wildlife Wonders to enjoy a dusk wildlife spotting tour - looking for potoroos, bandicoots and pademelons as they wake up their day time snoozing. It's a fascinating insight into some of Australia's lesser known but just as adorable wildlife.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Days 6: Drive to Melbourne

You have your final driving day today, a 2.5-hour journey to your final destination, Melbourne. Spend the day exploring the Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula, a chamring mix of coastal towns, outdoors adventures and scenic wineries. Visit the unique art at Geelong Gallery, sip cold chardonnay at Terindah Estate and stop into Portarlington to try their famous mussels. On arrival drop your car off at the downtown depot before heading to your hotel, located in the city. 

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Days 7 & 8: Melbourne

You now have two full days to explore Melbourne. Wander through the Laneways as you hop between coffee shops, tasting Melbourne famous flat white. Sample local craft beers, drool over the array of boutique cake shops and head out to dinner to one of Melbourne incredible array of restaurants. Take a ride up the Eureka Sky deck to experience uninterrupted 360-degree views of the skyline, you can even enjoy a cocktail at the top! Explore Chinatown for delicious Asian food and stop into Queen Victoria Market for the iconic hot jam donuts.

We've included an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This area is culturally significant to the Kulin Nation, the local tribe and a First Nations guide will take you on a journey through rich history and thriving culture to discover the native plants in the Gardens. Learn about the traditional plant use and ongoing connections to Country.

Included: Aboriginal Heritage Walk, 4* hotel 

Day 9: Depart Melbourne

Enjoy a final brunch out in the cafes of Melbourne before being picked up and driven to the airport in time for your onwards flight.

Included: Transfers