At a Glance
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Grampians Peaks Trail. Over the course of six days, immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, conquer rugged terrains, and reach new heights by climbing the tallest peak on the trail, Mt Duwul (Mt William). Walk upon the ancestral lands of the Djab Wurrung and Jadawadjali people, connecting with the natural wonders of the region and appreciating its rich cultural heritage. Each day presents a unique experience, offering an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. With daily distances ranging from 6 to 20 kilometers, this tour is designed for individuals with a moderate to good level of fitness. Prepare to be captivated by the panoramic views from Mt Zero, Mt Stapylton, Mt William, and Mt Sturgeon, leaving you in awe of the incredible landscapes that await.
The journey ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 5 nights in comfortable accommodations
- 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners
- Return transfer to and from central Melbourne
- Expert leadership from experienced hiking guides
- Tour transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned mini bus (maximum 12 people)
- All National Park entry fees
- Emergency support: leaders carry satellite phones and a full first aid kit
Itinerary
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Approx. 9 km (5.6 miles), 3-4 hours of walking. On the first day, we depart Melbourne at 8 am and make our way to the stunning Grampians National Park. As we travel, we'll have a stop for morning tea, giving everyone a chance to refresh and get acquainted with their fellow hikers. Once we reach Halls Gap, we begin our hike for the day. The trail starts with a climb out of the township, passing by notable sites such as Venus baths, Elephant Hide, and the spectacular Grand Canyon (not to be confused with its American namesake). As we continue our ascent, we eventually reach the top of The Pinnacle, a popular lookout that offers breathtaking views of Halls Gap and its surrounding landscapes. After an exhilarating day of hiking, we check-in at the Country Plaza in Halls Gap, where you can enjoy a well-deserved warm shower. In the evening, mingle with your fellow walkers over some nibbles and savor a lovely dinner. |
Dinner
Country Plaza, Halls Gap (or similar) |
Approximately 16 km (9.9 miles), 5-6 hours of walking. Today's adventure takes us to the most northern section of the Grampians Peaks Trail, starting from Mt Zero Trailhead. We embark on a southward journey, traversing mainly along ridgelines that offer breathtaking views. Along the way, we'll be treated to vistas of the impressive Staplyton Amphitheatre and the vibrant orange wave of Taipan Wall. Our path leads us through low forests and dense scrub, with occasional encounters with small creeks and seasonal rockpools. As we ascend towards the Mt Difficult Range, we pass by the picturesque Barigar (mountain stream). Finally, we trek through grassy woodlands, following the ridgeline until we reach our destination at Roses Gap. At the end of the day's hike, we return to Halls Gap for the evening, where you can relax and recount the day's experiences with your fellow hikers. |
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCountry Plaza, Halls Gap (or similar) |
Approximately 13 km (8.1 miles), 4-5 hours of walking. Today, we drive north once again to continue our hike southward, back to Halls Gap. Our journey begins from Wardug, where we start with a challenging climb up to the beautiful Lake Wartook Lookout. Along the way, we traverse the escarpment, passing through rocky gardens before descending into the wetter eastern slopes. As we make our way towards Halls Gap, the hike takes us through tall forests adorned with ferns, wattles, and tea trees. Chautauqua Peak presents our final ascent before reaching the town. Keep an eye out for Clematis Falls, which may reveal its beauty depending on recent rainfall. The Botanic Gardens will signal our arrival in Halls Gap. After an eventful day of hiking, enjoy an included dinner to replenish your energy and engage in lively conversations with your fellow hikers. |
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCountry Plaza, Halls Gap (or similar) |
Approximately 15 km (9.3 miles), 5-6 hours of walking. Elevation gain: 1017m (3340ft) Today, we set our sights on one of the highlights of the Grampians National Park, Mt Duwul (Mt William). With an elevation of 1,167 meters, it is the highest point in the park, offering spectacular 360-degree views of mountain ranges and open plains. Our hike begins at Redman Trailhead, where we descend to Seven Dials before embarking on a climb towards Redman Bluff (1017m high). This section of the trail boasts the most significant elevation change, crossing Barney Creek at 320 meters and Redman Bluff at 1,017 meters. Along the way, we'll be treated to magnificent views of the Serra Range to the west. Descending from Redman Bluff, we'll come across a picturesque pond surrounded by tea trees on a small plateau. Hiking through the corridor between Mt William Road and the cliff edge, we finally reach the Duwul Hike-in Campground. Here, you can look forward to a soothing hot shower, a delicious dinner, and a cozy night's sleep. |
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCountry Plaza, Halls Gap (or similar) |
Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles), 4-5 hours of walking. On this day, we drive south to embark on another exciting leg of our adventure. As we climb through stunted forests onto the Serra Range, we enter one of the most remote sections of the Grampians Peaks Trail. Take a moment to breathe in the natural beauty that surrounds you and enjoy the expansive views of the western Victoria Range, which will guide you towards Djardji-djawara (sister). If you visit during spring, you can expect an abundance of wildflowers, including various heath, orchid, grevillea, bush pea, and blue tinsel-lily species. After immersing ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings, we head back to the picturesque Halls Gap, where you can indulge in a well-earned dinner and perhaps a refreshing drink. |
Breakfast, Lunch, DinnerCountry Plaza, Halls Gap (or similar) |
Approximately 6.4 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours of walking. As our adventure comes to a close, we bid farewell to the enchanting Halls Gap and begin our journey back to Melbourne. Before we depart, we make our way to the southern end of the Grampians to conquer the peak of Mt Sturgeon, providing us with one last opportunity to admire the unique mountain ranges. After soaking in the panoramic views from Mt Sturgeon, we drive to the charming town of Dunkeld, where you'll have some time to pick up lunch and explore the town's quaint attractions. Our return journey to Melbourne takes us through Ballarat, and we anticipate arriving in the city late afternoon. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Melbourne
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Melbourne
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 5 Challenging
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
The Grampians Peaks Trail experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year. In summer (December to February), temperatures can reach highs of 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), with occasional thunderstorms. Autumn (March to May) brings mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and the landscape is adorned with colorful foliage. Winters (June to August) are cold, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), and there is a possibility of frost and occasional snowfall in higher elevations. Spring (September to November) offers mild temperatures of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), vibrant wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
