Summary
Trip Length
6 days / 5 nights
Price
from USD$ 1,278
Details >
Outline
Start in Melbourne
1 night Apollo Bay
1 night Port Fairy
2 nights Glenisla
1 night Padthaway
End in Adelaide
Starts
Melbourne
2006-2008
Daily, year round
Accommodation
Superior (boutique inns, homesteads and B&B’s)
Options & Upgrades
Add the Adelaide or Melbourne “Find Your Feet” package
Great Ocean Road and Vineyards Luxury Trip
During your visit to Australia, a drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road is a must and this vacation is perfect for those who want to travel between Melbourne and Adelaide to see the best of the south. Winding along the coast of Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives, with long stretches of unspoiled beaches and laid-back resort towns. You’ll also experience the rugged beauty of Grampians National Park, and the historic Padthaway wine region.
Day 1 – Melbourne to Apollo Bay (130 miles, 210 km)
Pick up your rental car today and begin your self drive vacation. Travel south along the Surf Coast Highway to the surfing capital of Torquay. It’s here that the Great Ocean Road begins, and where you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery. Today’s destination is Apollo Bay, known as “Paradise by the Sea.” Spend the rest of the day exploring the rainforests of Otway National Park, relaxing at the beach or visiting Bass Strait Shell Museum, which features a comprehensive display of shells from all over the world. To complete your day, head up to Mariners Lookout and enjoy panoramic views of the town and coast. Overnight in Apollo Bay at a boutique contemporary bed & breakfast in the heart of Apollo Bay.
Day 2 – Apollo Bay to Port Fairy (120 miles, 190 km)
This morning take a short drive to Cape Otway, the most southerly point on the Great Ocean Road. The cape is home to one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia and guided and self-guided tours are available. Continue along the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell National Park. Be prepared for a feast for the eyes as you’ll see some of the most dramatic rock formations shaped from millions of years of strong wind and wave erosion. Highlights include the giant sea stacks of the Twelve Apostles, as well as Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, The Grotto, The Arch, and Thunder Cave just to name a few. Overnight is in Port Fairy in a boutique waterfront inn, overlooking the marina.
Day 3 – Port Fairy to Glenisla (70 miles, 109km)
Depart from the charming fishing village of Port Fairy and travel northwest to Grampians National Park. Make a stop along the route at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, which is one of Australia’s leading art galleries. Continue to Glenisla, a small farming community that is well-known for its fine Merino Wool production. The rest of the day is free to explore the rugged cliffs and canyons of the Grampians or feel free to participate in the farm activities at your homestead. Overnight is in Glenisla on a historic homestead farm adjacent to the national park and offering luxurious colonial-style accommodation. Guests are welcome to participate in farm activities.
Day 4 – Glenisla and Grampians National Park
You have the full day at leisure to relax at the homestead and journey through Grampians National Park. Consisting of four rugged sandstone ridges running north to south and spectacular wildflower displays, the Grampians is an entire world in itself. There are numerous hiking trails and scenic roads that you can explore by car, including Boroka Lookout. Visit the Brambuk National Park and Culture Centre where the culture of local aborigines comes to life. Be sure to visit the incredible rock formation of the Balconies and the majestic MacKenzie Falls. Overnight is in Glenisla.
Day 5 – Glenisla to Padthaway (140 miles, 220 km)
Today you will leave the rugged Grampians behind and travel to the rolling hills and wineries of the Padthaway region. Take a short detour to the Naracoorte Caves on the Limestone Coast and join a guided tour into Blanche Cave, Alexandria Cave and Cathedral Cave. See the delicate stalactites and stalagmites decorating the caves. Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing your journey to the Padthaway wine region, renowned for its fine Chardonnay wines. Go on a wine tasting tour and discover the landscaped gardens and vineyards of the Padthaway Estate. Overnight is in Padthaway.
Day 6 – Padthaway to Adelaide (230 miles, 365 km)
Your self drive vacation takes you northwest past the towns of Keith, Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge to the festival capital of Adelaide. This vibrant city is home to Haigh’s Chocolate Factory, the famous Adelaide Central Market and the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal artifacts at the South Australian Museum. Your package comes to an end as you drop off your rental car.
2006-2008 Package start dates
Daily departures, year round
| Dates | USD$ | CAD$ | ||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | |
| Apr 1 - Mar 31, 2007 | 1,278 | 2,013 | 1,278 | 2,013 |
| Apr 1 - Mar 31, 2008 | 1,429 | 2,251 | 1,429 | 2,251 |
Options & Upgrades
Add the Adelaide or Melbourne “Find Your Feet” package
Price Notes
• Prices are per person, twin share basis
• Double means two people sharing
Included
• 5 nights accommodation in superior character-filled boutique hotels and homesteads
• 5 breakfasts and 2 dinners
• 6 days mid-sized sedan car rental
• Loss or Damage Cover, a standard liability charge applies to each claim.
• Compulsory Third Party (CTP) which covers the renter for liability for injuries sustained to other persons/passengers in an accident. Note cover does not cover the driver of vehicle for any injuries. Optional protection against injuries sustained by the driver is available
• Unlimited kilometers
• Complete driving instructions and info package to help you make the most of your vacation
• Support of our 24-hour customer service hotline
Not Included
• International or domestic airfares
• Fuel
• Government tax on vehicle rental
• Airport pickup fees
• Vehicle Registration Recovery Fee & optional Renter Protection
• Portage, Gratuities or items of a personal nature
• Travel & medical insurance
