Great Ocean Road & Goldfields Explorer
Days:
8 Days
Activity:
3. Active Moderate
Transport:
Fly
$3,795.00
Tour description
Tour dates: 11th March – 18th March, 2026
Our adventure begins in Victoria’s second-largest city, Geelong — home to a beautiful waterfront, delightful cafés and the much-loved Baywalk Bollards. From here, we set out along one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives: the Great Ocean Road. Stretching 250 kilometres along Victoria’s southern coast, this iconic route features some of the most breathtaking scenery imaginable.
From the seaside charm of Lorne and Apollo Bay to the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles and dramatic cliffs of Loch Ard Gorge, this journey is filled with unforgettable ocean views and remarkable natural wonders.
Tour Departure
This tour departs from Sydney. Guests travelling from Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide are welcome to book and can have alternative departure arrangements organised at an additional cost.
Other departure cities may also be available on request — simply contact our friendly team for a personalised flight quote.
Itinerary
We fly from Sydney to Melbourne and continue on to Geelong, where we enjoy lunch before stepping back in time with a guided visit of the historic Geelong Gaol. Later, we explore the National Wool Museum, gaining insight into Australia’s rich wool heritage. The day offers a fascinating mix of history and culture, setting the tone for the journey ahead. We settle into our hotel for the evening and enjoy dinner together.
Overnight: Holiday Inn Geelong
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Today we journey along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road. We pause for morning tea in Lorne before continuing to Apollo Bay for lunch. Our drive through the lush Otways leads us to the iconic 12 Apostles and the coastal charm of Port Campbell, where we take time to admire these natural wonders. By evening we arrive in Warrnambool, ready to relax after a day of unforgettable scenery and experiences along Australia’s most famous coastal drive.
Overnight: Deep Blue Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
We begin at Cheeseworld, where exhibits and tastings showcase the dairy traditions of the region. Then it’s off to Timboon, a small town celebrated for its artisan produce. We enjoy lunch before indulging in handmade ice cream at the quirky Sundae School, a treat that delights young and old alike. The afternoon takes us to Timboon Distillery, where we discover the craftsmanship behind small-batch whiskey, complete with tastings. Returning to Warrnambool, we enjoy dinner after a day of flavours and stories.
Overnight: Deep Blue Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, a guided town tour reveals Warrnambool’s colourful past and maritime heritage. At Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, we step back into the 1800s, exploring recreated streets and displays that bring shipwreck stories vividly to life. After lunch, we head to Tower Hill Reserve, a remarkable wildlife haven set inside a dormant volcanic crater. Surrounded by gum trees, we may spot emus, kangaroos, or koalas as we explore. Later, there’s time to relax at the hotel before gathering for dinner.
Overnight: Deep Blue Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We travel to the picturesque fishing town of Port Fairy, where a history tour introduces us to bluestone cottages, historic wharves, and stories of whalers and settlers. After morning tea, there’s time to browse the charming boutiques, art galleries, and scenic streets at leisure before enjoying lunch independently. In the afternoon, we journey inland to Ballarat, once Australia’s gold rush capital. We settle into our hotel and share dinner together after a day of coastal charm and inland discovery.
Overnight: Sovereign Park Motor Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Dinner
Our exploration of Ballarat begins with a guided town tour, showcasing grand Victorian-era architecture that reflects the city’s gold rush prosperity. At Sovereign Hill, we step into a living museum where costumed characters and recreated streets immerse us in the 1850s. After lunch in the Botanic Gardens, we continue to the renowned Ballarat Art Gallery, home to Australia’s oldest regional collection. The afternoon allows for free time before returning to the hotel for dinner and reflection on the city’s heritage.
Overnight: Sovereign Park Motor Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We journey to Daylesford, famed for its mineral springs and artistic charm. At The Convent, a historic building turned cultural hub, we tour its galleries and gardens before enjoying Devonshire tea in serene surrounds. Arriving in Melbourne, we enjoy lunch on Southbank and free time to wander the riverside promenade. In the afternoon, a one-hour Ports and Docklands cruise offers a fresh perspective of the city skyline and waterfront. The day concludes with dinner at our hotel.
Overnight: Best Western Travel Inn Carlton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Dinner
Our final day begins with a highlights tour of Melbourne, exploring elegant boulevards and hidden laneways that give the city its unique character. We pause for morning tea in the Botanic Gardens before heading to the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground for a behind-the-scenes tour of this sporting icon. After lunch together, we transfer to the airport, carrying home wonderful memories of coastal landscapes, gold rush towns, and shared experiences that have made this journey truly special.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch
Activity Levels
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1. Easy
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2. Moderate
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3. Active Moderate
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4. Adventurous
Testimonials
Dear, Sir/Madam, I’ve recently returned from your Bright Autumn tour and was delighted to experience this. As usual, I speak highly of “On Course Tours” and I especially give appraisal to your tour leader named, John. He presented professionally, drove the bus in the same manner. He was always respectful, and very thoughtful, towards all his passengers. Thank you for a well organised tour.
Yours faithfully, Mrs B.
Re-trip to Dubbo and Mudgee. On behalf of the small group from our club. I would like to thank you for organising such a great five day tour. The accommodation was great with the staff at both. Venues very helpful. Our driver, Hans, as always, was extremely caring and helped to make everyone feel comfortable and part of a happy and friendly travel group. Look forward to future travel with On Course.
