• SELF-GUIDED
  • 5 DAYS
  • Challenging
PRICE FROM $ 1,170 per person
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT $ 275 per person
DOWNLOAD PDF
DEPARTURE DATES DEPARTURE DATES
BOOK NOW BOOK NOW

Group-guided

Self-guided

back to top

OVERVIEW

Challenge yourself to walk the Great Ocean Walk, Australia’s most iconic coastal walk, in just 5 days. A walk that stretches for 105kms from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, via a diverse range of landscapes with changing flora. The walk slices through the Great Otway National Park and meanders along the coast on top of some of the highest sea cliffs in Australia.

It makes its way through Mountain Ash and Manna gum forest, with koalas only metres from the track. The massive sea cliffs at the 12 Apostles, which have made this location famous, are a fitting end to this stunning walk.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Walk beneath Mountain Ash forest, the tallest flowering plants in the world
  • Traverse inaccessible pristine beaches and witness the awesome power of the Southern Ocean
  • Ample opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat from kangaroos and koalas to wedge-tailed eagles and even whales
  • Walk the full track from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles passing Castle Cove, the Gables, as well as Wreck and Johanna Beaches, one of the world’s ultimate beach walks
  • The challenge of averaging 21kms a day

AT A GLANCE

TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Challenging
PRICE FROM
$ 1170 per person twin/double share
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 275 per person
DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hike Apollo Bay view
DAY one

APOLLO BAY TO BLANKET BAY

The walk starts in Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road at 9am the morning. Leave the tourists behind as you meander along the coast. The track follows the coast before heading inland through Mountain Ash forest with an array of other flora; be surprised if you don’t spot at least a couple of koalas around Shelly Beach. This is also a great place to spot black wallabies, echidnas, seabirds, dolphins, and in-season whales.

The walking finishes at delightful Blanket Bay an ideal place for a swim. This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’s accommodation to the trip.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 23.4 km / 6.5 – 8 hrs
*This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’s accommodation to the trip.

Meals: Walkers lunch

Accommodation: Apollo Bay in ensuite rooms

Day Two 45
DAY two

BLANKET BAY TO CASTLE COVE

From Blanket Bay, we walk to the beautiful Parker Inlet, the track contours through coastal forests and along cliff tops. There’s an optional side-trip to Crayfish Bay. The track continues through Manna Gum forests that are home to large numbers of koalas, eventually emerging at Cape Otway Lightstation. Visit the Lighthouse grounds walking up the 18m high lighthouse, one of the oldest in the region. There’s also a fascinating indigenous centre here. It’s then onto Station Beach. The track continues through wind-sculpted dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits you on the route to Castle Cove, the end of today’s walk. This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’ accommodation to the trip.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 25.8 km / 6-7 hrs
*This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’ accommodation to the trip.

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hiker walking through forest near Blanket Bay
DAY three

CASTLE COVE TO MILANESIA GATE

Today’s section has some of the most spectacular coastal views of the entire track. It’s also a great day for wildflowers with colourful heathlands and numerous grass trees. In the winter months, there are native orchids and masses of pink heath – Victoria’s floral emblem. Another highlight is the long, white, sandy expanse of Johanna Beach. The last part of the walk has you walking briefly through farmland before ending at Milanesia Gate.

Walking: Moderate / 15.2 km / 5 hrs / plus a 2 km optional 50 min  walk

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hike Cape Otway National park ocean and beach
DAY four

MILANESIA GATE TO THE GABLES

Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches, not many people get to and one of the most special places on the walk. It is only possible to access this beach on foot. From here the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway lighthouse. The walk is characterised by high sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests that lead you to Moonlight Head. The last highlight today 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.

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

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

IMG_0012
DAY five

THE GABLES TO 12 APOSTLES

From the Gables, it is another walk through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where the remains of two shipwrecks can be inspected. Walk via the small town of Princetown before finishing the hike at the impressive 12 Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing. An epic way to finish this epic trek.  We will collect you at 4 pm to take you back to either Apollo Bay or Camperdown, depending on how you got to Apollo Bay.

Walking: Moderate / 20.1 km / 6-7 hrs

Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack free walking at your own pace and with who you want, when you want
  • Private vehicle transfers in the company of our friendly Stroll driver who knows the area intimately, plus all luggage transfers
  • 4 nights’ accommodation in rooms with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • National Park fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Stroll’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support with our local partner network on the ground
  • Nearly 30 years of Stroll’s experience in organising these types of holidays

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

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. All the properties are conveniently located near the track and have beautiful bush settings right on the edge of the national park.

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).

img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img

GENERAL INFO

Travel down on the Great Ocean Road to the start of the walk in Apollo Bay. You will have to arrive early in the morning (by 9:00 am) on your first day. This walk is for people that would like to challenge themselves or who are limited on time (or both).

We move your luggage for you each time you change accommodations. All you need to carry is a daypack with what you need for the day. We provide comprehensive walk notes for you. It’s easy to find your way on this track but with our notes, you’ll also receive lots of information to help you better appreciate the flora, fauna, history and geology you’re experiencing along the route.

We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the highlights, staying in the various 2 accommodation locations that best services the route. Due to the regions diversity and the remoteness of area, along with the limited accommodation and access roads (taken by vehicles) to drop-off and/or collect, this means less backtracking, and you will pick up where you left off from the day earlier. All necessary morning and afternoon transfers (transportation) from/to accommodation and at each Start/Finish of the walk (which, the most spent would be around 30km at 30/35mins travel) are included. You’ll walk an average of 21kms each day, with some optional sidewalks for those wanting to extend themselves.

The walking terrain is varied following clifftops, wide forest tracks, rough trails, beach traverses (including Wreck Beach) and sections shaded by the forest canopy. It’s mostly relatively easy-going, flat stretches, some steady, challenging climbs and long downhill descents. The walk is moderate to challenging with some longer days. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves.

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

HOW TO GET THERE

The walk starts in Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road and ends in Port Campbell.

As you have a 23.5km walk on day 1 we recommend starting your walk at 9am to comfortably be at the pick up point on time.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive

This is the recommended way to travel for this trip. If you are driving you can park your car in a quiet street in Apollo bay near the Visitor Information Centre. At the end of your walk on the last day of your trip we will transfer you back to your car in Apollo Bay.

Important note: Please advise your arrival time to your destination consultant to arrange for your luggage to be collected from the Visitor Information Centre.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport

If catching public transport you must arrange to have a pre tour night in Apollo Bay to ensure you start on time as the earliest train leaves Melbourne at 9.00am, alternatively please see our 6 Day Great Ocean Walk Unplug itinerary here. If you are catching public transport- it 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. 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.

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, or email us at info@stroll.com

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    Single Occupancy
    Details
  • 1 Feb 2024 - 15 Dec 2024
    AVAILABLE

    from $ 1170

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW
  • 16 Dec 2024 - 31 Jan 2025
    AVAILABLE

    from $ 1415

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 265
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Feb 2025 - 15 Dec 2025
    AVAILABLE

    from $ 1230

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW
  • 16 Dec 2025 - 31 Jan 2026
    AVAILABLE

    from $ 1470

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Feb 2026 - 15 Dec 2026
    AVAILABLE

    from $ 1275

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 2290

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

  1. Geoffrey G

    21 November, 2024 at 5:49 AM

    We would like to say what a delightful group of people you have that looked after us. Apollo Bay Taxis were on time every time. They went above and beyond especially when Marions walking boots fell apart and had to be replaced. Thank you Vanessa, Colin and Sue.
    Chi Farm (WOW). Magnificent fresh healthy food, and so much of it. I think we both had put on weight by the end of the walk. Thank you Jodie and Shane.
    Cafe 153, Waves and Des at Portside Motel thank you all for making us so welcome.
    It was obvious to us that they all highly value their relationship with Stroll, and this made the walk a thoroughly enjoyable experience for us.

    Reply

sections

Overview

Challenge yourself to walk the Great Ocean Walk, Australia’s most iconic coastal walk, in just 5 days. A walk that stretches for 105kms from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, via a diverse range of landscapes with changing flora. The walk slices through the Great Otway National Park and meanders along the coast on top of some of the highest sea cliffs in Australia.

It makes its way through Mountain Ash and Manna gum forest, with koalas only metres from the track. The massive sea cliffs at the 12 Apostles, which have made this location famous, are a fitting end to this stunning walk.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Walk beneath Mountain Ash forest, the tallest flowering plants in the world
  • Traverse inaccessible pristine beaches and witness the awesome power of the Southern Ocean
  • Ample opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat from kangaroos and koalas to wedge-tailed eagles and even whales
  • Walk the full track from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles passing Castle Cove, the Gables, as well as Wreck and Johanna Beaches, one of the world’s ultimate beach walks
  • The challenge of averaging 21kms a day
Itinerary
Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hike Apollo Bay view
DAY one

APOLLO BAY TO BLANKET BAY

The walk starts in Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road at 9am the morning. Leave the tourists behind as you meander along the coast. The track follows the coast before heading inland through Mountain Ash forest with an array of other flora; be surprised if you don’t spot at least a couple of koalas around Shelly Beach. This is also a great place to spot black wallabies, echidnas, seabirds, dolphins, and in-season whales.

The walking finishes at delightful Blanket Bay an ideal place for a swim. This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’s accommodation to the trip.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 23.4 km / 6.5 – 8 hrs
*This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’s accommodation to the trip.

Meals: Walkers lunch

Accommodation: Apollo Bay in ensuite rooms

Day Two 45
DAY two

BLANKET BAY TO CASTLE COVE

From Blanket Bay, we walk to the beautiful Parker Inlet, the track contours through coastal forests and along cliff tops. There’s an optional side-trip to Crayfish Bay. The track continues through Manna Gum forests that are home to large numbers of koalas, eventually emerging at Cape Otway Lightstation. Visit the Lighthouse grounds walking up the 18m high lighthouse, one of the oldest in the region. There’s also a fascinating indigenous centre here. It’s then onto Station Beach. The track continues through wind-sculpted dunes and along the cliff tops to the Aire River estuary and wetlands. Stunning coastal scenery awaits you on the route to Castle Cove, the end of today’s walk. This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’ accommodation to the trip.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 25.8 km / 6-7 hrs
*This day can be split into two parts if you wish which adds another night’ accommodation to the trip.

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hiker walking through forest near Blanket Bay
DAY three

CASTLE COVE TO MILANESIA GATE

Today’s section has some of the most spectacular coastal views of the entire track. It’s also a great day for wildflowers with colourful heathlands and numerous grass trees. In the winter months, there are native orchids and masses of pink heath – Victoria’s floral emblem. Another highlight is the long, white, sandy expanse of Johanna Beach. The last part of the walk has you walking briefly through farmland before ending at Milanesia Gate.

Walking: Moderate / 15.2 km / 5 hrs / plus a 2 km optional 50 min  walk

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

Great-Ocean-Walk-Self-Guided hike Cape Otway National park ocean and beach
DAY four

MILANESIA GATE TO THE GABLES

Milanesia Beach is one of those secret beaches, not many people get to and one of the most special places on the walk. It is only possible to access this beach on foot. From here the track continues along the cliff tops, and you can see all the way back to Cape Otway lighthouse. The walk is characterised by high sea cliffs, breathtaking views and coastal forests that lead you to Moonlight Head. The last highlight today 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.

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

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and 2-course dinner

Accommodation: Ensuited rooms at Castle Cove

IMG_0012
DAY five

THE GABLES TO 12 APOSTLES

From the Gables, it is another walk through a grove of casuarinas to Wreck Beach, where the remains of two shipwrecks can be inspected. Walk via the small town of Princetown before finishing the hike at the impressive 12 Apostles, a group of limestone sea stacks that are constantly changing. An epic way to finish this epic trek.  We will collect you at 4 pm to take you back to either Apollo Bay or Camperdown, depending on how you got to Apollo Bay.

Walking: Moderate / 20.1 km / 6-7 hrs

Meals: Breakfast and walkers lunch

What’s Included
  • Pack free walking at your own pace and with who you want, when you want
  • Private vehicle transfers in the company of our friendly Stroll driver who knows the area intimately, plus all luggage transfers
  • 4 nights’ accommodation in rooms with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • National Park fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Stroll’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support with our local partner network on the ground
  • Nearly 30 years of Stroll’s experience in organising these types of holidays
Accommodation & Dining

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. All the properties are conveniently located near the track and have beautiful bush settings right on the edge of the national park.

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).

img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 1

APOLLO BAY

Your first night will be spent at a hotel in Apollo Bay. The property is centrally located, which allows exploration of the quaint shopping area and a plethora of restaurants. All the rooms have ensuites.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
img
NIGHT 2, 3 & 4

CASTLE COVE

Both properties we use at Castle Cove have outstanding views over nature. They are also both located right near the track and very close to Castle Cove beach. On a calm day, it is possible to take a dip in the sea here but not on days when the swell is working as it is dangerous. Both properties have a sense of privacy that ensures that you can relax and chill with the knowledge that you’re remote. The rooms are all comfortable and have bathrooms.

img
General Info

Travel down on the Great Ocean Road to the start of the walk in Apollo Bay. You will have to arrive early in the morning (by 9:00 am) on your first day. This walk is for people that would like to challenge themselves or who are limited on time (or both).

We move your luggage for you each time you change accommodations. All you need to carry is a daypack with what you need for the day. We provide comprehensive walk notes for you. It’s easy to find your way on this track but with our notes, you’ll also receive lots of information to help you better appreciate the flora, fauna, history and geology you’re experiencing along the route.

We’ve mapped a point-to-point walk to maximize the highlights, staying in the various 2 accommodation locations that best services the route. Due to the regions diversity and the remoteness of area, along with the limited accommodation and access roads (taken by vehicles) to drop-off and/or collect, this means less backtracking, and you will pick up where you left off from the day earlier. All necessary morning and afternoon transfers (transportation) from/to accommodation and at each Start/Finish of the walk (which, the most spent would be around 30km at 30/35mins travel) are included. You’ll walk an average of 21kms each day, with some optional sidewalks for those wanting to extend themselves.

The walking terrain is varied following clifftops, wide forest tracks, rough trails, beach traverses (including Wreck Beach) and sections shaded by the forest canopy. It’s mostly relatively easy-going, flat stretches, some steady, challenging climbs and long downhill descents. The walk is moderate to challenging with some longer days. This is a great opportunity for fit walkers to challenge themselves.

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

HOW TO GET THERE

The walk starts in Apollo Bay on the Great Ocean Road and ends in Port Campbell.

As you have a 23.5km walk on day 1 we recommend starting your walk at 9am to comfortably be at the pick up point on time.

Arriving / Departing via Private Vehicle – Self Drive

This is the recommended way to travel for this trip. If you are driving you can park your car in a quiet street in Apollo bay near the Visitor Information Centre. At the end of your walk on the last day of your trip we will transfer you back to your car in Apollo Bay.

Important note: Please advise your arrival time to your destination consultant to arrange for your luggage to be collected from the Visitor Information Centre.

Arriving / Departing via Public Transport

If catching public transport you must arrange to have a pre tour night in Apollo Bay to ensure you start on time as the earliest train leaves Melbourne at 9.00am, alternatively please see our 6 Day Great Ocean Walk Unplug itinerary here. If you are catching public transport- it 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. 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.

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, or email us at info@stroll.com

Map
Departure Dates
  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • Date
    1 Feb 2024 - 15 Dec 2024
    AVAILIBILITY
    AVAILABLE
    PRICE
    from $ 1170
    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275
    DETAILS

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW
  • Date
    16 Dec 2024 - 31 Jan 2025
    AVAILIBILITY
    AVAILABLE
    PRICE
    from $ 1415
    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 265
    DETAILS
    BOOK NOW
  • Date
    1 Feb 2025 - 15 Dec 2025
    AVAILIBILITY
    AVAILABLE
    PRICE
    from $ 1230
    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275
    DETAILS

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW
  • Date
    16 Dec 2025 - 31 Jan 2026
    AVAILIBILITY
    AVAILABLE
    PRICE
    from $ 1470
    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 275
    DETAILS
    BOOK NOW
  • Date
    1 Feb 2026 - 15 Dec 2026
    AVAILIBILITY
    AVAILABLE
    PRICE
    from $ 1275
    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $ 2290
    DETAILS

    SCHOOL HOLIDAYS SURCHARGE APPLIES

    BOOK NOW
REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

  1. Geoffrey G

    21 November, 2024 at 5:49 AM

    We would like to say what a delightful group of people you have that looked after us. Apollo Bay Taxis were on time every time. They went above and beyond especially when Marions walking boots fell apart and had to be replaced. Thank you Vanessa, Colin and Sue.
    Chi Farm (WOW). Magnificent fresh healthy food, and so much of it. I think we both had put on weight by the end of the walk. Thank you Jodie and Shane.
    Cafe 153, Waves and Des at Portside Motel thank you all for making us so welcome.
    It was obvious to us that they all highly value their relationship with Stroll, and this made the walk a thoroughly enjoyable experience for us.

    Reply
back to top

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.
Get in touch

blog

May 16, 2024

The Sound of Marlborough

Read More
March 8, 2024

What’s the right Camino de Santiago route for me?

Read More
February 16, 2024

Larapinta Loonies – A poem by Stroller Michael Gibbs about walking the Larapinta Trail

Read More
January 24, 2024

Nakasendo Way Trail – by Sam Ludbey

Read More
June 22, 2022

Getting Fit for Hiking

Read More
June 22, 2022

Royal National Park – Garie Beach to Figure Eight Pools return

Read More
May 12, 2022

10 REASONS WHY WALKING IN NATURE HAS BECOME MORE POPULAR

Read More
March 1, 2022

POLE POSITION

Read More
February 18, 2022

Five Wonderful Reasons to Walk in Australia

Read More
February 16, 2022

Everything you need to know about hiking socks

Read More