Cooee Tours — Melbourne & Victoria

Day 1 — Melbourne to Apollo Bay

Depart Melbourne after an early breakfast and head south-west through the seaside suburbs before joining the coastal ribbon that becomes the Great Ocean Road. Highlights en route include the dramatic cliff edges of Bells Beach — a world-famous surf stretch — and the Memorial Arch at Eastern View which commemorates the road’s construction by returned WWI soldiers. We pause for panoramic photos and a short coastal walk, before continuing through classic seaside towns where time is allocated for local coffee and artisan shop browsing. Arrive in Apollo Bay in the late afternoon for an overnight stay; this village sits close to rainforest pockets of the Otways and offers excellent local seafood.

Day 2 — Otways & Twelve Apostles

After breakfast explore an Otway rainforest — an optional short walk among towering eucalyptus and ferns, with interpretive notes on local flora and fauna. Continue to the Port Campbell National Park where you’ll visit Loch Ard Gorge, a beautifully sheltered cove with shipwreck heritage, and the famous Twelve Apostles lookout for dramatic seascapes. Late-afternoon light paired with fewer crowds offers superb photo conditions; we ensure time for cliff-edge photography as well as a short beach-level access at Gibson Steps if tides permit.

Day 3 — Port Campbell to Melbourne (via seaside towns)

The final day heads back to Melbourne with scenic stops including London Bridge, Bay of Islands and smaller coastal outlooks. Choose to return directly to the city or extend the trip with optional extras like a nature cruise (seasonal) or extra stops in seaside villages. We aim to arrive back in Melbourne by early evening, with drop-off at central locations.

Inclusions & practical info

• Small-group coach transport, 2 nights accommodation (standard twin/double), guided walks, entry fees to national park lookouts (where required), and breakfast on days 2 & 3.
• Optional add-ons: helicopter scenic flights, private photographer, coastal cruises and extended private transfers.
• Fitness: mainly easy to moderate — some short stair descents to beaches.

Local context & tips

Coastal erosion is an ongoing natural process; the number of visible stacks changes over time and interpretations highlight geomorphology and shipwreck stories. In high season (Dec–Feb), early bookings are recommended for accommodation and any helicopter or cruise add-ons. For photography, sunrise and late afternoon deliver the most flattering light; our schedule balances both where possible.

Day 1 — Travel & cellar-door immersion

Depart Melbourne mid-morning and arrive at a selection of boutique and larger wineries. Hosted tastings are arranged for an intimate look at production philosophies and signature varietals like Semillon and cool-climate Shiraz. Many cellar doors in the Yarra offer vineyard walks — an excellent way to discuss terroir, pruning cycles and sustainable viticulture practices with the vigneron or cellar door host. The afternoon includes a long-lunch with matched wines, designed by vineyard chefs to showcase local produce — cheeses, seasonal vegetables and regional meats.

Day 2 — Optional balloon & relaxed tasting

For the sunrise balloon option, pre-dawn pickup delivers you to the launch site. The slow ascent reveals patchwork vineyards and mountain ranges as the sun climbs — a special perspective notable in many regional write-ups and popular with visitors. After the balloon, return to the cellar doors for a more relaxed tasting and discussion, or take time to visit local artisan producers (chocolatiers, cheesiers and small-batch distilleries).

Inclusions & notes

• Transport, selected cellar-door tastings, long-lunch or lunch voucher, and (if selected) balloon experience which is subject to weather and operated by a third-party provider.
• Balloon flights are seasonal and have age/weight restrictions; bookings should be secured well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Accessibility: many cellar doors are accessible; vineyard walks may have uneven surfaces.

Why this works for wine lovers

It’s compact but immersive: the program balances sensory experiences (tastings and lunches) with learning (vigneron insights) and the option of a bucket-list balloon ride that elevates the entire trip into a celebration. The Yarra’s proximity to Melbourne makes logistics straightforward while still feeling like a rural escape.

Day 1 — Travel & coastal highlights

Depart Melbourne and cross the iconic bridge to Phillip Island. Along the way there are opportunities for seaside photos and short walks on cliff-top trails. Visit the Nobbies Centre where interpretive displays and boardwalks offer sweeping ocean views and potential seal-spotting. Time is allowed for lunch and a relaxed afternoon exploring local beaches or wildlife parks.

Evening — Penguin Parade

The evening is dedicated to the Penguin Parade. Our guided viewing ensures you have reserved seating or boardwalk access (depending on your chosen package) with interpretive commentary about Little Penguin behaviour, conservation efforts, and seasonal considerations. This is a family-favourite and one of Victoria’s signature wildlife experiences.

Day 2 — Coastal boardwalks & return

On day two enjoy a sunrise coastal walk, stop at scenic outlooks and, time permitting, visit a wildlife sanctuary for close-up (but ethical) experiences with local species. We return to Melbourne in the afternoon with drop-off at central points.

Inclusions & advice

• Transport, Penguin Parade entry (where included), guided commentary and accommodation options for an overnight stay.
• Bring warm layers for evening viewing; penguin habitats can be cool and breezy.
• Pre-book Penguin Parade tickets — they are popular and may sell out in peak periods.

Conservation & visitor responsibilities

Viewing is managed to protect penguins and their habitat. Visitors are asked to avoid flash photography, remain on boardwalks and respect signage. Our tours support local conservation partners where possible.

Day 1 — City laneways & cultural landmarks

Start at Federation Square and stroll to Flinders Street Station, a Melbourne icon. Move through Hosier Lane to explore vibrant street art and curated gallery stops. A guided walk takes you through the hidden alleys to small coffee roasteries and independent boutiques. This day includes a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria or ACMI depending on interests, and wraps with a rooftop bar experience or a dinner at a chef-led bistro.

Day 2 — Markets & gardens

Visit Queen Victoria Market for local produce, artisan stands and food stalls; try local specialties and pick up picnic supplies. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Botanic Gardens for a relaxing contrast to the busy city. Optional add-ons include a river cruise on the Yarra or a tram trip to St Kilda for beachside views and the Esplanade market on weekends.

Inclusions & notes

• Guided walking tours, market visits, museum entry (optional), and suggested lunch/dinner bookings. Customise the program with food-focus, art-focus or family-friendly adaptations.
• Accessibility: many city attractions are accessible; individual venues vary — we can tailor routes for mobility needs.

Why Melbourne works as a cultural hub

Melbourne’s compact CBD, brilliant café culture and strong public transport make it easy to see a lot in a short time. The city rewards slow exploration — cafes change seasonally, markets show local production and laneways reveal new murals every season.