Self-guided

OVERVIEW

With its breathtaking coastal scenery, magnificent forests, abundant wildlife and sheer diversity of landscape, the Great Ocean Walk bears the mantle of being one of Australia's most iconic walks.

As you walk you will meander your way through giant mountain ash forest, the tallest flowering plants in the world, and along some of the most remarkable pristine beaches in Australia.  Traverse the massive sea cliffs that have made this location famous. There's also ample opportunity to spot wildlife in their natural habitat, from kangaroos and echidnas to koalas and whales.

The breathtaking and deserted coastal landscapes, ancient Gondwana forests of Antarctic beech, shady wooded glades and heathland plateaus are the backdrop to a walk that will inspire, challenge and reward.

Highlights

  • Stunning coastal scenery en route to Castle Cove
  • High sea cliffs with breathtaking views and coastal forests
  • Spotting a koala or three!
  • Beautiful Milanesia Beach, only accessible by foot
  • The Gables lookout – spectacular views and super for whale watching
  • The imposing Twelve Apostles

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.

PRICE FROM
$ 2155

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
arrive apollo bay

If you arrive by public transport in Apollo Bay, you will walk a very short distance to your accommodation.  The walk starts at Cape Otway on the Great Ocean Walk tomorrow at 8:30 am.  If you’re arriving by a private vehicle, we will transfer you back to it at the end of your holiday. If you do arrive early, you can enjoy optional walks around Apollo Bay.

Walking: Optional walk around Apollo Bay

Accommodation: Apollo Bay in a hotel with ensuite rooms

DAY 2
CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION TO CASTLE COVE

We start our trek on the Great Ocean Road Highlights at the light station, hiking via Station Beach and an optional short trek to Rainbow Falls, where a spring cascades down to the rocky coastal platforms below. The track then leads you through some wind-sculpted sand dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits on the route to Castle Cove.

Walking: Moderate / 15.5km / 5 -6 hrs / optional 2km walk available

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: The Retreat or Chi Medicinal Farm in rooms with ensuites

DAY 3
MILANESIA BEACH TO THE GABLES

Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches people can’t get to if they are just driving the Great Ocean Road. It’s one of those beautiful places that we are rewarded with if we take the time to walk. From the beach, the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway Lighthouse. High sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests lead you to Moonlight Head. The reward for walking is not over as you walk from Moonlight Head to the magnificent views of the Gables via a lovely eucalypt forest.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 15km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: The Retreat or Chi Medicinal Farm in rooms with ensuites

DAY 4
THE GABLES TO THE 12 APOSTLES

Today’s first highlight is The Gables Lookout, perched on one of the highest sea cliffs in mainland Australia. This is a superb spot for whale watching between June and September. Continue through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where the remains of two shipwrecks can be inspected. Today’s walk finishes at the impressive Twelve Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 20.1km / 6 –7 hrs / optional extra 1km and 5km walks available

Meals: Breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Motel in Port Campbell in rooms with ensuites

DAY 5
PRIVATE TRANSFER BACK TO CAPE OTWAY OR CAMPERDOWN

After breakfast from Port Campbell, you will be transferred back to Apollo Bay (where you started if you arrived by car) or to Camperdown for public transport connections.

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Waves Restaurant

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Five-day pack free walking holiday
  • The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
  • Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • Luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating much more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All of the accommodations are more than comfortable, and all rooms have ensuites. Your first night will be spent in Apollo Bay. Apollo Bay is a lovely seaside town and offers many opportunities to take a stroll or even walk up to the top of Mariner’s Lookout.

Finish your experience off with a Lodge/ Retreat and then a small neat Motel in Port Campbell. All the properties are conveniently located near the track and have beautiful bush settings right on the edge of the national park. The Motel in Port Campbell is in the centre of the quaint town.

We sometimes have to swap accommodations around or out for others that are of equal standard. We will advise you when this occurs.

When we stay at remote retreats and guest houses, the meals are prepared by your expert hosts or a local caterer. The days start with breakfast and end with a 2-course meal. Each day you’ll be provided with a substantial walker lunch and the opportunity to enjoy it whilst taking in some of the most breathtaking views in the world. A walker’s lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHT 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

Each day we move your luggage ahead for you to the next accommodation. We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the Great Ocean Road highlights, staying in different accommodation on the route. This means more variety and less backtracking and time spent in a vehicle for more time to relax at the end of the day. You’ll walk an average of 15–16 km each day, with some optional side walks for those wanting to extend themselves.

The walking terrain is varied following cliff tops, wide forest tracks, beach traverses including Wreck Beach and some shaded forest canopy. It’s relatively easy going, flat stretches, with a couple of steady but challenging climbs. The walk is rated overall as easy to moderate.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

The walk starts at Apollo Bay and ends in Port Campbell.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive 

If you are driving you can park your car near your first accommodation for the duration of your trip. At the end of your walk we will transfer you back to your car.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport 

This is a combined train and coach service operated by PTV. You will first need to take a regional VLINE train from Melbourne to Geelong. In Geelong you will take a coach to Apollo Bay Visitors Information Centre the entire journey will take around 4hrs once in Apollo Bay. You can plan your journey and purchase tickets here. At the end of your walk on the last day of your trip we will transfer you to Camperdown Station for train connections back to Melbourne. Alternatively, if you would like to stay a post tour night you can do so either at Port Campbell or Apollo Bay. Please bear in mind transport connections are 2hrs 45 mins from Camperdown (near Port Campbell) or 3hrs 45 mins from Apollo Bay.

Important note: Please advise your arrival time to your destination consultant to arrange your transfer to your first accommodation.

If Flying into Melbourne Tullamarine / Geelong Avalon 

If you are flying into Melbourne Airport, there is a direct coach service that will transfer you to Geelong Train Station. The trip from Melbourne Airport to Geelong takes around 1 hour will Gull Airport Service. You will need to make a booking directly with them.

If you are flying into Avalon Airport, Avalon Airport Shuttle meets every flight that arrives into Avalon. They will transfer you to Geelong Train Station which will take around 30 minutes. This journey needs to be pre-booked. Please check online for the most up to dates prices and times.

Private Transfer 

Private transfers are subject to availability please ask you destination consultant at time of booking. Private transfers work best for groups of 4 or more.

 

WEATHER

Weather for a Great Ocean road trek: December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. Book well in advance for January due to the summer school holidays. March through May is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking. The winter months (June to August) are cool and sometimes stormy, providing exhilarating walking along the beaches. In winter, the hills are covered with pink heath, Victoria’s floral emblem. September and November are usually cool to warm and this is when most of the colourful wildflowers appear.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

climate graph for the Great Ocean Walk

Source; BOM

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions about the Great Ocean Walk Highlights, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Feb 2024 - 15 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2155

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

  • 16 Dec 2024 - 31 Jan 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2705

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
  • 1 Feb 2025 - 15 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2265

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

  • 16 Dec 2025 - 31 Jan 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2365

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
  • 1 Feb 2026 - 15 Dec 2026
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $535

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. lindawF6102UJ

    13 September, 2024 at 12:05 PM
    5

    Bella from Auswalk was amazing. From the start the communication was excellent and any questions we had were answered immediately. On the trip itself we had some challenging weather resulting in us being unable complete part of our walk. Bella went out of her way to arrange alternate walks and to amend our itinerary to still take advantage of what was available. Highly recommended Auswalk for your walking tour needs.

  2. Tim M

    5 July, 2022 at 12:56 PM
    5

    We really enjoyed our Great Ocean Road walk. The walk itself was amazing-through bushland, across beaches, through forests. Wonderful views all along the way. The food provided was very tasty and plentiful, the accommodation was very comfortable (important after a long day walking), transfers worked seamlessly, and the Auswalk team was outstanding. Highly recommended. Thank you Auswalk.

  3. Karen F

    5 July, 2022 at 11:02 AM
    5

    Thanks for this well-supported walk. The drivers were helpful and always on time (and even came early when we were ahead of schedule!). The food was delicious and the accommodation was very comfortable. The Great Ocean Walk itself was outstanding. I highly recommend this self-guided walk.

  4. Deb & Wendy

    1 July, 2022 at 4:30 PM
    5

    We had a amazing time on our walk. Simone and all the Auswalk staff were fabulous, easily contactable and so accommodating, taking the time to help us with any concerns we had. The accommodation at Otway lighthouse was a highlight and the views and hospitality at the southern Anchorage was wonderful. We would highly recommend doing the Great Ocean Road highlights and look forward to our next walk with Auswalk.

  5. Catherine R

    1 July, 2022 at 3:33 PM
    5

    Very well organised and resourced with lovely, helpful Auswalk staff and very comfortable accommodation. Highly recommended.

  6. Suzanne K

    1 July, 2022 at 1:37 PM
    5

    I did the Great Ocean Walk Highlights. It was great. The scenery was beautiful. Excellent accommodations and food. The walking notes were helpful. The AusWalk team Leslie and John were amazing driving me around everywhere. Special mention to John who did most of the driving and also a great tour of Loch Ard Gorge. They were completely reliable and always on time and friendly and helpful. They even helped with transport when I added an extra day on the end of my trip to stay at Skypods. Sandpiper Motel at Apollo Bay Cute little ocean themed room, staff very friendly and helpful. Cafe 153 at Apollo Bay Nice food, opened early for me and let me choose a simple but delicious breakfast. Chi Medicinal Farm near Castle Cove Beautiful, like a farm on the outside and a posh hotel on the inside. Restaurant quality food. Prettiest bathroom I’ve seen. Parkview at Port Campbell Spacious and comfortable, good location. Waves Restaurant at Port Campbell Great service, flexible let me choose scones and hot chocolate for breakfast, great food.

  7. Fred N

    11 February, 2021 at 11:49 AM
    4

    Had a great time doing this walk(despite of one rainy day) thanks to AUSWALK who had put together a great package of accommodation with luggage transfer. Nothing to do but enjoy the walk and at the end a good meal from friendly hosts.

  8. Peter & Rosie

    11 November, 2020 at 1:33 PM
    5

    We have just completed the Great Ocean Walk Highlights with Auswalk (self-guided). We did this at a difficult time for everyone due to the start of restrictions for COVID 19. The walk itself was beautiful, the accommodation was excellent, and the staff went out of their way to make it trouble free and enjoyable. Thanks particularly to John who was great company and a knowledgeable guide. We enjoyed this walk very much and hope all goes well for Auswalk in the hard times coming and hope they can continue to with their high quality walking holiday experiences.

  9. Lesley T

    22 April, 2020 at 2:32 PM
    5

    A wonderful walk along the southern coast of Victoria from Cape Otway to Port Campbell on well maintained paths, with views only available to walkers. And the views were spectacular! From hidden river inlets to majestic ocean views including on the final day a breath-taking view of the 12 Apostles. The walk at times is not easy – it can be challenging. But one foot in front of the other is all that is needed.

    The accommodation was not 5 star but ranged from delightful guest houses to quirky cottages. I did enjoy the shower and glass of wine at the end of every day.

    Overall a wonderful experience and even the weather was kind.

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Overview

OVERVIEW

With its breathtaking coastal scenery, magnificent forests, abundant wildlife and sheer diversity of landscape, the Great Ocean Walk bears the mantle of being one of Australia's most iconic walks.

As you walk you will meander your way through giant mountain ash forest, the tallest flowering plants in the world, and along some of the most remarkable pristine beaches in Australia.  Traverse the massive sea cliffs that have made this location famous. There's also ample opportunity to spot wildlife in their natural habitat, from kangaroos and echidnas to koalas and whales.

The breathtaking and deserted coastal landscapes, ancient Gondwana forests of Antarctic beech, shady wooded glades and heathland plateaus are the backdrop to a walk that will inspire, challenge and reward.

Highlights

  • Stunning coastal scenery en route to Castle Cove
  • High sea cliffs with breathtaking views and coastal forests
  • Spotting a koala or three!
  • Beautiful Milanesia Beach, only accessible by foot
  • The Gables lookout – spectacular views and super for whale watching
  • The imposing Twelve Apostles

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.

PRICE FROM
$ 2155

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
arrive apollo bay

If you arrive by public transport in Apollo Bay, you will walk a very short distance to your accommodation.  The walk starts at Cape Otway on the Great Ocean Walk tomorrow at 8:30 am.  If you’re arriving by a private vehicle, we will transfer you back to it at the end of your holiday. If you do arrive early, you can enjoy optional walks around Apollo Bay.

Walking: Optional walk around Apollo Bay

Accommodation: Apollo Bay in a hotel with ensuite rooms

DAY 2
CAPE OTWAY LIGHTSTATION TO CASTLE COVE

We start our trek on the Great Ocean Road Highlights at the light station, hiking via Station Beach and an optional short trek to Rainbow Falls, where a spring cascades down to the rocky coastal platforms below. The track then leads you through some wind-sculpted sand dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits on the route to Castle Cove.

Walking: Moderate / 15.5km / 5 -6 hrs / optional 2km walk available

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: The Retreat or Chi Medicinal Farm in rooms with ensuites

DAY 3
MILANESIA BEACH TO THE GABLES

Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches people can’t get to if they are just driving the Great Ocean Road. It’s one of those beautiful places that we are rewarded with if we take the time to walk. From the beach, the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway Lighthouse. High sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests lead you to Moonlight Head. The reward for walking is not over as you walk from Moonlight Head to the magnificent views of the Gables via a lovely eucalypt forest.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 15km / 5–6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, Walkers Lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: The Retreat or Chi Medicinal Farm in rooms with ensuites

DAY 4
THE GABLES TO THE 12 APOSTLES

Today’s first highlight is The Gables Lookout, perched on one of the highest sea cliffs in mainland Australia. This is a superb spot for whale watching between June and September. Continue through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where the remains of two shipwrecks can be inspected. Today’s walk finishes at the impressive Twelve Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing.

Walking: Moderate to Challenging / 20.1km / 6 –7 hrs / optional extra 1km and 5km walks available

Meals: Breakfast and Walkers Lunch

Accommodation: Motel in Port Campbell in rooms with ensuites

DAY 5
PRIVATE TRANSFER BACK TO CAPE OTWAY OR CAMPERDOWN

After breakfast from Port Campbell, you will be transferred back to Apollo Bay (where you started if you arrived by car) or to Camperdown for public transport connections.

Meals: Cooked breakfast at Waves Restaurant

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Five-day pack free walking holiday
  • The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
  • Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • Luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating much more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

All of the accommodations are more than comfortable, and all rooms have ensuites. Your first night will be spent in Apollo Bay. Apollo Bay is a lovely seaside town and offers many opportunities to take a stroll or even walk up to the top of Mariner’s Lookout.

Finish your experience off with a Lodge/ Retreat and then a small neat Motel in Port Campbell. All the properties are conveniently located near the track and have beautiful bush settings right on the edge of the national park. The Motel in Port Campbell is in the centre of the quaint town.

We sometimes have to swap accommodations around or out for others that are of equal standard. We will advise you when this occurs.

When we stay at remote retreats and guest houses, the meals are prepared by your expert hosts or a local caterer. The days start with breakfast and end with a 2-course meal. Each day you’ll be provided with a substantial walker lunch and the opportunity to enjoy it whilst taking in some of the most breathtaking views in the world. A walker’s lunch is varied and may include a high protein type salad, roll or a wrap, muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHT 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ~AVERAGE

Elevation training should be a consideration in your overall training program.

Try to include some form of elevation in more than 40% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

Each day we move your luggage ahead for you to the next accommodation. We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the Great Ocean Road highlights, staying in different accommodation on the route. This means more variety and less backtracking and time spent in a vehicle for more time to relax at the end of the day. You’ll walk an average of 15–16 km each day, with some optional side walks for those wanting to extend themselves.

The walking terrain is varied following cliff tops, wide forest tracks, beach traverses including Wreck Beach and some shaded forest canopy. It’s relatively easy going, flat stretches, with a couple of steady but challenging climbs. The walk is rated overall as easy to moderate.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

The walk starts at Apollo Bay and ends in Port Campbell.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive 

If you are driving you can park your car near your first accommodation for the duration of your trip. At the end of your walk we will transfer you back to your car.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport 

This is a combined train and coach service operated by PTV. You will first need to take a regional VLINE train from Melbourne to Geelong. In Geelong you will take a coach to Apollo Bay Visitors Information Centre the entire journey will take around 4hrs once in Apollo Bay. You can plan your journey and purchase tickets here. At the end of your walk on the last day of your trip we will transfer you to Camperdown Station for train connections back to Melbourne. Alternatively, if you would like to stay a post tour night you can do so either at Port Campbell or Apollo Bay. Please bear in mind transport connections are 2hrs 45 mins from Camperdown (near Port Campbell) or 3hrs 45 mins from Apollo Bay.

Important note: Please advise your arrival time to your destination consultant to arrange your transfer to your first accommodation.

If Flying into Melbourne Tullamarine / Geelong Avalon 

If you are flying into Melbourne Airport, there is a direct coach service that will transfer you to Geelong Train Station. The trip from Melbourne Airport to Geelong takes around 1 hour will Gull Airport Service. You will need to make a booking directly with them.

If you are flying into Avalon Airport, Avalon Airport Shuttle meets every flight that arrives into Avalon. They will transfer you to Geelong Train Station which will take around 30 minutes. This journey needs to be pre-booked. Please check online for the most up to dates prices and times.

Private Transfer 

Private transfers are subject to availability please ask you destination consultant at time of booking. Private transfers work best for groups of 4 or more.

 

WEATHER

Weather for a Great Ocean road trek: December through February is usually warm to hot with excellent swimming weather. Book well in advance for January due to the summer school holidays. March through May is usually cooler, with long sunny days, perfect for walking. The winter months (June to August) are cool and sometimes stormy, providing exhilarating walking along the beaches. In winter, the hills are covered with pink heath, Victoria’s floral emblem. September and November are usually cool to warm and this is when most of the colourful wildflowers appear.

See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

climate graph for the Great Ocean Walk

Source; BOM

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions about the Great Ocean Walk Highlights, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Feb 2024 - 15 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2155

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
  • 16 Dec 2024 - 31 Jan 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2705

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
  • 1 Feb 2025 - 15 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2265

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
  • 16 Dec 2025 - 31 Jan 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2365

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
  • 1 Feb 2026 - 15 Dec 2026
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $2795

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $535
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. lindawF6102UJ

    13 September, 2024 at 12:05 PM
    5

    Bella from Auswalk was amazing. From the start the communication was excellent and any questions we had were answered immediately. On the trip itself we had some challenging weather resulting in us being unable complete part of our walk. Bella went out of her way to arrange alternate walks and to amend our itinerary to still take advantage of what was available. Highly recommended Auswalk for your walking tour needs.

  2. Tim M

    5 July, 2022 at 12:56 PM
    5

    We really enjoyed our Great Ocean Road walk. The walk itself was amazing-through bushland, across beaches, through forests. Wonderful views all along the way. The food provided was very tasty and plentiful, the accommodation was very comfortable (important after a long day walking), transfers worked seamlessly, and the Auswalk team was outstanding. Highly recommended. Thank you Auswalk.

  3. Karen F

    5 July, 2022 at 11:02 AM
    5

    Thanks for this well-supported walk. The drivers were helpful and always on time (and even came early when we were ahead of schedule!). The food was delicious and the accommodation was very comfortable. The Great Ocean Walk itself was outstanding. I highly recommend this self-guided walk.

  4. Deb & Wendy

    1 July, 2022 at 4:30 PM
    5

    We had a amazing time on our walk. Simone and all the Auswalk staff were fabulous, easily contactable and so accommodating, taking the time to help us with any concerns we had. The accommodation at Otway lighthouse was a highlight and the views and hospitality at the southern Anchorage was wonderful. We would highly recommend doing the Great Ocean Road highlights and look forward to our next walk with Auswalk.

  5. Catherine R

    1 July, 2022 at 3:33 PM
    5

    Very well organised and resourced with lovely, helpful Auswalk staff and very comfortable accommodation. Highly recommended.

  6. Suzanne K

    1 July, 2022 at 1:37 PM
    5

    I did the Great Ocean Walk Highlights. It was great. The scenery was beautiful. Excellent accommodations and food. The walking notes were helpful. The AusWalk team Leslie and John were amazing driving me around everywhere. Special mention to John who did most of the driving and also a great tour of Loch Ard Gorge. They were completely reliable and always on time and friendly and helpful. They even helped with transport when I added an extra day on the end of my trip to stay at Skypods. Sandpiper Motel at Apollo Bay Cute little ocean themed room, staff very friendly and helpful. Cafe 153 at Apollo Bay Nice food, opened early for me and let me choose a simple but delicious breakfast. Chi Medicinal Farm near Castle Cove Beautiful, like a farm on the outside and a posh hotel on the inside. Restaurant quality food. Prettiest bathroom I’ve seen. Parkview at Port Campbell Spacious and comfortable, good location. Waves Restaurant at Port Campbell Great service, flexible let me choose scones and hot chocolate for breakfast, great food.

  7. Fred N

    11 February, 2021 at 11:49 AM
    4

    Had a great time doing this walk(despite of one rainy day) thanks to AUSWALK who had put together a great package of accommodation with luggage transfer. Nothing to do but enjoy the walk and at the end a good meal from friendly hosts.

  8. Peter & Rosie

    11 November, 2020 at 1:33 PM
    5

    We have just completed the Great Ocean Walk Highlights with Auswalk (self-guided). We did this at a difficult time for everyone due to the start of restrictions for COVID 19. The walk itself was beautiful, the accommodation was excellent, and the staff went out of their way to make it trouble free and enjoyable. Thanks particularly to John who was great company and a knowledgeable guide. We enjoyed this walk very much and hope all goes well for Auswalk in the hard times coming and hope they can continue to with their high quality walking holiday experiences.

  9. Lesley T

    22 April, 2020 at 2:32 PM
    5

    A wonderful walk along the southern coast of Victoria from Cape Otway to Port Campbell on well maintained paths, with views only available to walkers. And the views were spectacular! From hidden river inlets to majestic ocean views including on the final day a breath-taking view of the 12 Apostles. The walk at times is not easy – it can be challenging. But one foot in front of the other is all that is needed.

    The accommodation was not 5 star but ranged from delightful guest houses to quirky cottages. I did enjoy the shower and glass of wine at the end of every day.

    Overall a wonderful experience and even the weather was kind.

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blog

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The Great Ocean Walk & A Great Australian Story

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The Great Ocean Walk: A short guide to walking the track

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