Great Ocean Walk – A Leisurely Multi-Day Walk Over 10 Days (104km)
The 10-Day Great Ocean Walk is the most relaxed way to experience the entire 104km of this iconic coastal trail. This self-guided, leisurely multi-day walk is ideal for walkers who want to take their time, enjoy shorter daily distances, and fully immerse themselves in the scenery along the Great Ocean Walk.
Walking from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, this itinerary is well-suited to both beginners and experienced walkers who prefer a slower pace. With Walk91 managing accommodation, luggage transfers and logistics, you’ll enjoy the walk pack-free and finish each day feeling refreshed rather than fatigued.
What’s included on this walk:
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Pack-free walking with daily luggage transfers
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Catering provided – locally sourced, home-cooked meals carefully transported between accommodations (or the option to self-cater)
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Comfortable accommodation and welcoming local hosts
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Flexible daily transfers and full local support
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The complete Great Ocean Walk experience, finishing at the iconic Twelve Apostles
This 10-day itinerary allows plenty of time to appreciate the diversity of the trail — from coastal viewpoints and beaches to forest tracks, wildlife-rich areas and historic highlights such as the Cape Otway Lighthouse. It’s also ideal for walkers who enjoy photography, birdwatching or simply lingering longer in special places.
If this timeframe doesn’t suit you, explore our range of Great Ocean Walk tours, or let us design a custom Great Ocean Walk itinerary tailored to your pace and interests.
Read on below for the full itinerary and daily distances.
And remember — groups of four or more walkers usually qualify for a discounted rate, so please get in touch to discuss options.
A Slow & Relaxed Self-Guided Tour of the Great Ocean Walk
Map
Tour Details
10-Day Self-Guided Walking Holiday in Australia Includes
Price Excludes
Why Choose This Walk?
You’ll Complete 104KMS of The Great Ocean Walk in 10 Days
Day 1: Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach – 8.5km
Day 2: Shelly Beach to Blanket Bay – 13.5km
Day 3: Blanket Bay to Cape Otway – 13 to 15km *
Day 4: Cape Otway to Aire River – 11km
Day 5: Aire River to Castle Cove – 6.5km
Day 6: Castle Cove to Milanesia 3 Ways – 13km*
Day 7: Milanesia 3 Ways to Moonlight – 12 or 15km*
Day 8: Moonlight to Wreck– 7.5km*
Day 9: Wreck to Princetown – 12.5km
Day 10: Princetown to the Twelve Apostles – 6km
Before Your Adventure Begins
Walk91 look forward to welcoming you on arrival with your own personal walk briefing. We will hand you a map, tide chart, walk notes, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) & a phone or poles, if needed.
We will also explain in detail the Great Ocean Walk decision points as well as our daily ‘texting’ system. Our goal is to keep your waiting times for car transfers at a minimum, no matter how slow or fast you choose to walk.
As locals, with a team on the ground to support you, you will start your exciting journey with Walk91 feeling relaxed, confident & safe in the knowledge that we are never far away if you need us.
Standard and Upgrade Accommodation Pricing
Catered: From AU$4,795 per person based on double occupancy.
For groups of 4 or more walkers we typically offer a discounted rate, so please get in touch for more details.
Self catered: Please enquire for a price.
We can ‘mix & match’ accommodation options, creating a walk which will suit you perfectly, so please just get in touch.
Solo walkers & groups: Just let us know your preferred sleeping arrangements and we will advise the best options available for you.
Meals included: 8 breakfasts, 9 pack lunches, 8 dinners
Accommodation: 9 nights. Queen room with private bathroom. Please contact us for twin share options.
Rating: Comparable to 3.5 star
Tour code: 10
Note: These prices do not include Christmas, Easter, Public holidays and Victorian School holidays. Please enquire for a price & availability for these times. Please note we do not operate on Christmas Day.
Tell us what your perfect walk looks like!
Our standard option offers comfortable accommodation in great locations. But if you are looking for accommodation of a slightly higher standard, or just something a little bit different to what we have advertised, (for example, a stay at the Cape Otway Lighthouse) we can custom make a walk especially for you. Please contact us for a chat, or email us if you would prefer, and we will provide you with some options which we hope will suit you perfectly!
Example of an alternative option:
Meals included: 8 breakfasts, 9 pack lunches, 8 dinners (or self-catered).
Accommodation: Private cabin/ lodge (queen or twin beds available). Two bedrooms or four bedrooms. Price differs depending on how many bedrooms/bathrooms you require. We will happily have a chat with you to discuss which option will suit you best.
Dietary Notes
We can accommodate the following dietary preferences on our catered Great Ocean Walk tours:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Meals made using gluten-free ingredients
⚠️ Important allergy information
Due to the way food is prepared and transported, trace amounts of gluten, dairy, nuts and shellfish may be present due to possible cross-contamination.
For safety reasons, we cannot cater for coeliac disease, anaphylaxis, or severe food allergies.
If you have other dietary requirements, please contact us before booking so we can honestly confirm whether your needs can be accommodated.
Alternatively, self-catered walking packages are available. These include:
- Accommodation with appropriate kitchen facilities
- Transport of your food supplies with your luggage between accommodations
For more information, please refer to our FAQs, read our blog
Food on the Great Ocean Walk – grown, cooked and carried with care,
or get in touch with us directly.
Great Ocean Walk Itinerary
Day 1 – Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach
We transfer you to Shelly Beach at approx 12PM – 1PM and you walk back into your accommodation in Apollo Bay. This is a nice easy to medium trek to start off your Great Ocean Walk and sets the standard for the rest of your fabulous journey. The walk follows the magnificent coastline with sweeping views of the Great Otway National Park and the Cape Otway region.
The reason we ask you to walk back into town from Shelly Beach is because there is no phone reception at Shelly car park, so this option works much better as there are no ‘shuttle’ waiting times involved at the end of your walk. You just walk back into your accommodation at your own pace.
Distance: 8.5 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Meals: No evening meal is included in Apollo Bay. There are several restaurants & pubs in town for you to buy dinner and there are two supermarkets. Walk91 will provide you with a ‘locals favourite’ food guide.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation for this first night is in a nice standard motel in Apollo Bay, close to shops and restaurants and a short walk from the V-line bus stop if you are arriving by public transport.
Upgrade Accommodation Options
We can offer a superior option of accommodation in Apollo Bay if requested.
Day 2 – Shelly Beach to Blanket Bay
As you leave Shelly Beach and head onto the Elliot River Track, the trail meanders into the cool rainforest of the Great Otway National Park. You will enjoy watching the vegetation change as you pass lush tree ferns and tall eucalyptus found in the wet gullies. Think back to the hoards of loggers who set up camp here in the 1800s as you walk through tall forests and along old forestry tracks. Spot black wallabies and kangaroos (and occasionally deer!) who enjoy the seclusion of this now quiet and deserted area. It is wonderful to see the clear blue sea visible between the trees as you reach the top of the Telegraph Track, before slowly winding down the trail onto beautiful Blanket Bay.
Discover how this beautiful secluded beach was once used by settlers to transport provisions to the Cape Otway Lighthouse, and explore the remains of the old cottage nestled in the dunes which has fuelled local tales of hidden treasure!
Distance: 13.5 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Medium
Approximate Duration: 5 hours
Catered option: Breakfast, a packed lunch & dinner is included.
Self-catered: We transfer your food with your luggage to your accommodation.
Alcohol: Not included for the duration of your walk. Please purchase in advance and leave it with your luggage. We will transfer it to the accommodation for you. There are no shops on the walking trail.
Standard Accommodation Option
This accommodation is located in the Otway National Park. It is set within a magnificent forest of tall manna gums, housing koalas and a multitude of birds. Relax in a comfortable cabin, with a lounge/dining room area, full en-suite and kitchenette. There is a small shop on the premises selling basic food items. Internet and laundry facilities are available for a small fee.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Depending on the number of walkers in your party you may stay in lodges or cabins most suited to your needs, and we are happy to discuss these options and prices with you in detail. These options offer a touch of luxury in accommodation close to the Great Ocean Walk.(Please also let us know if you would like to stay at the historical Cape Otway Lighthouse).
Day 3 – Blanket Bay to Cape Otway
As you set off today along boardwalks you will enjoy wonderful views as you gently wind up to Point Lewis Lookout. The trail moves on past several creek foot bridges before slowly descending to Parker River. You might have to remove your shoes as there is no footbridge here, but this gives you a chance to stop and marvel at the wild ocean beating the rocks just outside the inlet. If you are very lucky, you might even see the remains of the ‘Eric the Red’ shipwreck rising tantalisingly out of the sand.
Walking on, the vegetation slowly changes to dry coastal forests inhabited by echidnas and king parrots. Remember to look up, as this is a popular spot for local koalas to rest in the manna gums. Enjoy fabulous views of the Bass Strait as you walk above Crayfish Bay, and enjoy your first glimpse of the Cape Otway Lighthouse from the sweeping staircase at Point Franklin.
Today, if opening hours allow, you may use our complimentary tickets to visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse where you may walk up the 18 metre, 150 year old lightstation tower and learn about the lives of the hard-working, isolated and incredibly resourceful lighthouse keepers. If you still have the energy, you may also like to visit the telegraph station built in 1859 and the World War ll radar station.
Distance: 13 kilometres plus approx 1.5km around Lighthouse (optional)
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate duration: 5 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation is the same as night two.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Accommodation is the same as night two.
Day 4 – Cape Otway to Aire River
Setting off today you will pass the old lightstation cemetery. The tombstones reflect the hardships experienced by the early settlers and make for sombre reading indeed.
The track then meanders towards the wild and wonderful Station Beach, littered with driftwood swept in by the impressively large surf. If you have the energy, and the swell and tide allow, you may take a small detour to Rainbow Falls, or simply use the high tide route to enjoy sweeping views of the Great Southern Ocean from the cliff tops.
Taking in your wonderful surroundings, you’ll slowly follow the trail towards the heritage-listed Aire River. This stunning yet peaceful river is teaming with wildlife and is home to a multitude of birds, including swans, ducks, egrets, swamphens and the endangered hooded plover. Remember to also look out for koalas sleeping in the gum trees; they love this peaceful location!
Distance: 11 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate duration: 4.5 hours
Catered: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation is the same as night two.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Accommodation is the same as night two.
Day 5 – Aire River to Castle Cove
Today you will walk on over the Aire River bridge towards Castle Cove beach. As the path rises upwards make sure you stop and admire the view back over the estuary and up along the beautiful sweeping Aire Valley. Pause at Sentinel Rock and Eagle Nest Rock and admire the sweeping views of the Great Southern Ocean. Slowly your walk will take you down to Castle Cove. This magnificent long sandy beach has its own lookout platform and is a great vantage point to stop and watch locals braving the large surf of the wild Southern Ocean.
Distance: 6.5 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate duration: 3 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation same as night 2.
Upgrade Accommodation Options
Accommodation same as night 2.
Day 6 – Castle Cove to Johanna
Leaving Castle Cove, be prepared for walking on sand as you drop down onto the wild and wonderful Johanna Beach. This beach has been used as an alternative in the past for professional surfing competitions when waves at the famous Bells Beach in Torquay were not big enough. Needless to say – don’t try and go for a swim here! Look out for majestic wedge-tailed eagles and white bellied sea eagles, and remember to stop at the lookout platforms for unbelievable views.
After leaving Johanna Beach behind, you climb alongside picturesque farmland and winding valleys before heading towards Milanesia. As you climb, look out for kangaroos grazing in the sun, and you may even spot the Otway Panther! (There is an ongoing debate in Apollo Bay as to whether this panther truly exists, which we will happily chat to you about when you arrive if your interest is piqued!)
Distance: 13 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Medium
Approximate Duration: 5 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Options
This wonderful private ensuite accommodation is in a great location, close to the Great Otway National Park. After a long day’s walk, kick back and relax in the living room, or enjoy tea or coffee prepared in the well-equipped kitchen area.
Upgrade Accommodation Options
Depending on the number of walkers in your party you may stay in lodges or cabins most suited to your needs, and we are happy to discuss these options and prices with you in detail. These options offer a touch of luxury in accommodation close to the Great Ocean Walk.
Day 7 - Milanesia 3 Ways to Moonlight Head
The trail starts by descending onto the rugged shoreline of Milanesia Beach. Stop and marvel at the stunning rock formations and think of Charles Joseph La Trobe who was ordered by his superintendent in 1846 to find a route from here to Cape Otway through this rugged landscape!
As the track rises back to the cliff tops you are presented with outstanding views from the coastal forests, high on the sea cliffs. Take the time to look back at how far you have walked so far, and rest at Ryans Den campground. But, before you leave, be sure to check out some of the campsite locations for some amazing views.
Walking on you will pass the ‘Lost Apostle’ – a rather phallic rock formation standing suprisingly all alone.
Distance: 12 or 15 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Medium / Hard
Approximate Duration: 12kms – 5 hours | 15 kms – 6.5 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation is the same as night 6.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Accommodation is the same as night 6.
Day 8 - Moonlight Head to Wreck Beach Look Out
From wild and wonderful Moonlight Head, the track winds along boardwalks and pathways lined with fern trees. As this is quite a sheltered area, you will likely see more wildlife here than before with wallabies, kangaroos and echidnas rustling in the bushes. Walk on through the blue gums, visiting the breathtaking Gables Lookout. Stop to admire some of the highest cliff views in mainland Australia before ending your walk at Wreck Beach.
Distance: 7.5 kilometres (or stop at The Gables at 6.5km)
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate Duration: 3.5 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation as night 6.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Accommodation as night 6.
Day 9 – Wreck Beach to Princetown
You will now be transported back in time to discover the shipwreck history of this unforgiving and rugged section of coast. Your last day will start with a walk through the Sheoak trees, dropping down onto Wreck Beach (tide permitting). Marvel at the old anchors rising out of the sand from the lost shipwrecks of the ‘Figi’ and the ‘Marie Gabrielle’ and stop and think of the many lives lost at sea. Hike on towards the Gellibrand estuary and rest near the waters edge.
Distance: 12.5 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate Duration: 5 hours
Catered option: Self-serve continental breakfast, pack lunch and dinner.
Standard Accommodation Option
Accommodation as night 6.
Upgrade Accomodation Options
Accommodation as night 6.
Day 10 – Princetown to the Twelve Apostles
This is an exciting and memorable part of your walk as you slowly watch the 12 Apostles grow larger and more impressive as the end of your walk approaches. The vegetation starts to change into scrub, wedged deeply in the rocky limestone, and if the tide permits you can walk down ‘Gibsons Steps’ to enjoy amazing sea-level views of the 12 Apostles. At the end of your walk you will enjoy celebrating your great achievement, taking photos from the official 12 Apostles viewing platform. This is a truly memorable walk and an experience you will never forget!
This walk commences at approx 12PM – 1PM on Day 1, and you can expect to be back in Apollo Bay on your last day at approx 2PM depending on the start time of your last day which we can discuss with you.
Alternatively, for an additional cost, we can arrange transport to Port Campbell if you would prefer. Please refer to our FAQs for more details.
Distance: 6 kilometres
Parks Vics Grading: Easy / Medium
Approximate Duration: 2.5 hours
Catered option: Please note that a self-serve breakfast and pack lunch is included on your last day. (No evening meal is included).
Accommodation: No further accommodation is included. However, please let us know if you would like us to book accommodation for you in Apollo Bay (for an additional cost) the evening before your walk commences, or for the evening your walk concludes.
