It’s no lie that Melbourne is home to some of the greatest coffee and food that the world has ever seen, but it’s also home to Hike & Seek, the coolest boutique travel company to hit our shores. Have you ever wanted to take a day trip out of the city and escape to The Great Ocean Road? Hike through The Grampians National Park and have lunch with a view? Or head to Mt Buller, and try out some snowboarding? Well, now you can and if you think that’s the best bit, you’ll be picked up in a VW Kombi Van called Olivia. Trust me, she’s a classic.
I met James, co-founder of Hike & Seek Tours to hear and see what it was all about. James is a down to earth adventurer, who is keen to show like-minded travellers the real Victoria. After all, there’s so much more to this state than Hosier Lane and hidden bars.
Before you begin your tour, you’re treated to warm drinks and fresh fruit, and for lunch you’ll be devouring wholesome vegan food to give you the energy you need to complete your hike. James and his partner and fellow co-founder Mette, have thought of everything you will need for your day trip, including backpacks from Poler that you can borrow for the day and treats from Pana Chocolate that will hit the sweet spot without making you feel guilty.
The hikes are exceptionally well planned and James is ever so knowledgeable about the surrounding areas. What I loved most about the tours was how quickly your group became like a bunch of old friends taking a roadtrip. There was never a dull moment with Olivia.
The tours are a great way for solo travellers to meet new people and make friends, or for anyone who is keen to explore off the track places. Yes, I’m looking at you Melbournians.
Hike & Seek pride themselves on being not your average hiking company, they are so much more than that. The best thing about driving around in a Kombi van is the personal aspect of having no more than seven like-minded travellers with you at a time, allowing you to really get to know your group and enjoy the adventure that awaits you right outside the city. Truly, you won’t regret it.
Hike & Seek have some incredible adventures coming up in the near future, so be sure to keep a look out. In the meantime, do yourself a favour and book one of their unreal tours and get ready to seek to your heart’s content.
-Caitie
When she’s not globetrotting, Caitlin Martin loves to scope out Sydney’s hidden gems, with a camera and coffee in hand. Follow her adventures @caitlineliseeee
Hike & Seek run tours 6 days a week.
Places book out fast, so be sure to book in advance.
www.hikeandseek.com.au
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of Hike & Seek.
Image credit: Hike & Seek.
