12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch – Melbourne

Experience the Best of the Great Ocean Road with a Reverse Tour from Melbourne

This guided day trip from Melbourne costs around $100.68 per person and spans approximately 13 hours. It takes you along the legendary Great Ocean Road, but with a twist — traveling in the reverse direction from most tours. This means you’ll visit the Twelve Apostles early in the morning, in the soft light of dawn, before the crowds arrive, and then continue to other iconic spots like Loch Ard Gorge and Mait’s Rest. The tour includes hotel pickup, a light lunch, and wildlife sightings like koalas lounging in eucalyptus trees.

What we love most is how this tour manages to balance comfort and authenticity. The air-conditioned mini coach with USB ports makes the long day manageable, and the live commentary from guides like Ethan and Kiwi adds a layer of local insight that enriches the experience. Also, the choice to do the reverse route is appreciated — most travelers agree this helps avoid the crowds and gives a more relaxed view of this stunning coastline.

A minor consideration is the length of the day — 13 hours can sound daunting, but it’s packed with sights and stories, making every minute worthwhile. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, walking, and a bit of bus travel. This tour suits those eager to see a wide range of highlights in one go, especially if you prefer smaller groups, good guides, and avoiding the busiest times.

Key Points

• Early access to the Twelve Apostles for breathtaking morning views
• Small group size with personalized attention and lively guides
• Comfortable transport with modern amenities like WiFi and charging ports
• Well-paced stops for walks, photos, and wildlife encounters
• Includes a light lunch and refreshments, making the day easier to manage
• Reverse itinerary to beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience

A Deep Dive into the Great Ocean Road Tour Experience

If you’re considering a full-day adventure from Melbourne, this tour offers a well-rounded blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and local history, all packed into about 13 hours. Starting early from the Immigration Museum (or your hotel, if arranged), you’ll head inland, away from the city’s hustle, toward the coast on a comfortable 28-seat air-conditioned vehicle. The vehicle’s modern amenities, including WiFi and USB ports, mean you can stay connected and charge your devices while soaking in the views.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

WWI Memorial and Morning Tea

The journey begins with a stop at a WWI Memorial, a quiet spot that sets a contemplative tone for the day. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but it signals the thoughtful pacing of this tour. Along the way, you’ll enjoy complimentary morning tea, which is a nice touch for a long day — especially if you’re a tea lover.

The Twelve Apostles in the Morning Light

The highlight for many travelers is the Twelve Apostles. Visiting early means you get to see these iconic limestone stacks in the soft morning light, with fewer travelers obstructing your photos. The visitor facility provides ample time to take in the panoramic views, snap pictures, and even enjoy the serene atmosphere before the masses arrive later in the day.

Loch Ard Gorge and Additional Lookouts

Next, you’ll visit Loch Ard Gorge, a site rich with history and stunning rock formations. You’ll also see Mutton Bird Island and the Razorback Lookout, both offering spectacular vistas. Reviews rave about how breathtaking these natural sculptures are — “unbelievable,” as one traveler put it. The 25-minute stop here gives enough time for photos and a moment to appreciate the power of nature.

Melba Gully and Maits Rest Rainforest Walks

A walk through Mait’s Rest or Melba Gully offers a peaceful contrast to the coast’s rugged cliffs. The ancient rainforest is home to towering trees and dense foliage, which gives you a chance to enjoy some shade, birdsong, and the chance of spotting local wildlife like koalas. Several reviews mention the wildlife sightings — in particular, the joy of seeing koalas in their natural habitat.

The Great Ocean Road Drive

The core of the tour is the spectacular drive along the National Heritage-listed Great Ocean Road. Winding between hills, beaches, and lush rainforests, this stretch is packed with scenic vistas. Travelers note the slow pace and plenty of stops allow for great photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned that the reverse route meant fewer people on the Western side, making the experience more intimate and less crowded.

Memorial Arch and Return to Melbourne

The tour’s final stop is the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, a popular photo spot commemorating the servicemen who built this engineering marvel. It’s a fitting tribute before heading back to Melbourne, with a scenic two-hour drive that wraps up the day.

Guides and Personal Touches

Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and personalities. Ethan, Kiwi, and others are praised for their funny, resourceful, and friendly manner. One review mentions that the guide “catered to everyone’s needs,” making the long day enjoyable despite unpredictable weather — from sun to hail to rain.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

Wildlife sightings are a highlight. Travelers have seen koalas, kangaroos, and even a whale from a helicopter, as one review enthusiastically reports. While some reviewers mention difficulty spotting wildlife, guides do their best to find and point out these creatures. Expect to see koalas in the eucalyptus forests, which many find to be a special highlight.

Value and Comfort

The tour’s price point is quite reasonable for the extensive list of inclusions — admission to national parks, light lunch, live commentary, and modern transport. Reviewers consistently mention that the comfort of the vehicle and the small group size make the experience more enjoyable than large buses and crowded spots.

Weather Conditions and Practical Tips

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, you’ll want to dress accordingly. Some reviews mention the variable weather — from sunshine to hail — so packing layers and rain gear is wise. The light lunch is designed as a quick meal, so if you’re hungry or have dietary restrictions, bringing an extra snack might be a good idea.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for avid travelers who want to see many highlights in one day without rushing. If you’re someone who appreciates small groups, knowledgeable guides, and a well-balanced itinerary, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It also suits those eager to beat the crowds — visiting the Twelve Apostles early in the morning is a real perk. It’s especially good for wildlife lovers and photographers wanting the best shots without hordes of travelers spoiling the view.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour offers a thorough, well-paced way to experience the spectacular coastline of the Great Ocean Road with an emphasis on authenticity and comfort. The reverse route cleverly helps avoid the busy crowds, giving you more space to enjoy the sights. The knowledgeable guides, like Ethan and Kiwi, bring local stories and humor that make the long day fly by.

While 13 hours sounds long, the variety of stops, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters make it a value-packed adventure. It caters especially to travelers who want to see the best of the coast in a single day, without the hassle of planning multiple stops or navigating themselves.

If you’re after stunning views, wildlife sightings, and a small-group experience that emphasizes early access to iconic sites, this tour should be at the top of your list. Just remember to wear comfy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring some snacks — and you’ll be set for an unforgettable day along Australia’s most scenic stretch.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 17 need to be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and packing layers for varying weather is wise. A small snack or extra water could be helpful since the light lunch might not be enough for everyone.

How long is the drive back to Melbourne?
The return trip takes about two hours, giving you time to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While guides do their best to spot animals like koalas and kangaroos, sightings are not guaranteed but are often successful, especially in eucalyptus forests.

Is there WiFi on the vehicle?
Yes, WiFi is available on board, so you can stay connected throughout the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

In brief, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and early access to the Twelve Apostles. Perfect for those wanting a hassle-free, comprehensive day out that balances scenic beauty with informative storytelling.