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Exploring the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: A Deep Dive

Imagine cruising through one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes, but with a twist—you start inland and head toward the famed Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Apollo Bay. This premium small-group tour from Melbourne costs around $85 per person and lasts a full day, packed with stunning scenery, wildlife, and storytelling. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip is designed for travelers who want to see the highlights with fewer crowds, in comfort, and with plenty of authentic experiences.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it avoids the crush at the most popular spots by starting inland, giving you more time and space at locations like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Plus, the small group size (max 13 people) ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere, while the luxury minibus adds a touch of class to the journey. A couple of considerations include the long hours—you’ll be seated in the bus for most of the day—and that breakfast and lunch are not included, so plan accordingly. Still, this tour suits those who value comfort, exclusivity, and time saved by skipping the crowds, especially if you love wildlife and natural scenery.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided storytelling, local wildlife spotting, and prefers a less crowded experience of the Great Ocean Road, this tour will hit the right notes. Families, solo travelers, and couples seeking a balance of relaxation and adventure tend to find it particularly appealing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Reverse itinerary advantage: Starts inland to beat the crowds at key sites.
• Small group size: Limited to 13 participants, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot koalas, kangaroos, and native birds in the wild.
• Expert guides: Guides like Steve, Jay, Bill, and others bring stories and local knowledge.
• Flexible stops: Plenty of time for photos, walks, and enjoying the scenery.
• Comfortable transport: Luxury minibus with big windows and plush seats.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Starting in Melbourne and heading inland

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Melbourne CBD accommodation, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. The first stop is the charming town of Colac, where you can stretch your legs, grab a coffee (at your own expense), and prepare for the scenic journey ahead. This early start is essential because it sets the stage for avoiding the crowds that typically swarm the coast later in the day.

The first spectacular sight: The Twelve Apostles

By heading inland first, you arrive at the Twelve Apostles early, before the large crowds usually arrive. This limestone formation is the star attraction—towering stacks rising from the ocean—so having quiet moments for photos and reflection is a big bonus. Multiple reviews highlight how this reverse approach allows for more time at the lookout and less jostling for the perfect shot.

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Loch Ard Gorge and Shipwreck Tales

Next, your guide will take you to Loch Ard Gorge, a site with a dramatic history. The story of the Loch Ard shipwreck is a gripping reminder of nature’s power. Here, you can wander along the beach, snap photos, and learn about the tragic shipwreck that lends the gorge its name. Reviewers praise the guided story-telling, with one noting how their guide “told us all the histories and events behind Twelve Apostles,” making the experience both educational and moving.

Port Campbell and Lunch Breaks

After soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, you’ll stop in either Port Campbell or Apollo Bay for lunch (not included). This gives you a chance to relax, explore a bit, or take a quick walk on the beach. Some travelers appreciate the flexibility here—being able to choose a cozy cafe or a picnic spot—while others mention the limited time for lunch might feel rushed.

Rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park

A standout feature of this tour is the stop at Great Otway National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a 20-minute guided rainforest walk, walking among ancient trees, ferns, and listening to the sounds of Australian wildlife. Multiple reviews rave about this experience, with one traveler noting it “was a wonderful rainforest scenery” and a chance to connect with nature away from the crowds.

The return journey along the coast

On the way back, the tour retraces the famous Great Ocean Road from the coastward side. This allows you to see the spectacular coastline with a fresh perspective, as the guide shares stories about the region’s natural and cultural history. Keep your camera ready—you might spot koalas and colorful parrots in the trees along the way, as several reviews confirm sightings of wildlife in the wild.

Evening tea at The Chocolate Factory

The day ends with a sweet treat—a stop at The Chocolate Factory, which boasts 144 flavors of chocolates. While some might see this as a touristy add-on, many travelers enjoy the chance to indulge in homemade chocolates and pick up souvenirs.

Return to Melbourne

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will drop you back in Melbourne, usually feeling like you’ve experienced a full spectrum of the region—from iconic landmarks to hidden gems—without the hassle of large crowds or long lines.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The reverse itinerary is the biggest draw. By driving inland in the morning, you arrive at the most popular sights early, before they fill up with visitors. This means more peaceful photos and a less rushed experience. Many reviews mention how this approach “resulted in less crowds” and allowed for “better views and photos.”

Wildlife sightings are another highlight. Guides seem adept at spotting koalas and kangaroos in the wild, making it more than just a sightseeing trip but an authentic chance to observe Australian animals in their natural habitat. Reviewers often mention guides “finding us kangaroos and koalas,” which adds a special touch.

The small group size (max 13) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing guides to tailor the day and answer questions comfortably. Travelers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability. For example, one says, “Steve was a brilliant guide,” and another emphasizes how Jay was “passionate, helpful, and informative.”

Comfort and convenience are also significant. The luxury minibus with big windows makes the long drive enjoyable, and the included bottled water and Coke keep you refreshed. The pickup from your Melbourne hotel adds to the ease of the experience.

The Real Value for Your Money

At $85 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: luxury transport, rainforest walk, entry to the national park, and the chance to see wildlife in the wild. Compared to larger group tours, the small size and personalized touch make it a more relaxed and engaging day.

While breakfast and lunch aren’t included, the stop at Colac and optional lunch in Port Campbell or Apollo Bay give you the flexibility to choose what and where to eat. This can be a plus, especially if you prefer to pick your own meal or want to avoid pre-packaged options.

Many travelers comment on how well-paced and thoughtfully organized the day is. The expert guides make the long hours seem shorter, sharing stories, insights, and even playing music during the ride, as one reviewer notes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour appeals to travelers who value comfort, intimacy, and avoiding crowds. It’s perfect for those who want more time at key sites and enjoy wildlife encounters. Families, couples, and solo adventurers who don’t mind a long day in a vehicle will find it especially rewarding. If you’re a nature lover or interested in photography, the early access to the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge makes a big difference.

The Sum Up

This reverse Great Ocean Road tour offers a well-crafted blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and storytelling—all with fewer people around. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it stand out among many options, providing a more personal and relaxed experience. You’ll see the iconic sights without the crowds, which makes for better photos and more meaningful moments.

While a long day and some optional stops might require patience, the overall experience is value-packed and memorable. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time, avoid the rush, and truly connect with the region’s stunning scenery and wildlife. If you’re after a comfortable, authentic, and well-organized day trip, this tour is a smart choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour pick me up?
Pickup times are confirmed the day before, but the tour generally starts early in the morning to make the most of the day.

Is breakfast included?
No, breakfast is not included, but you can purchase it at the first stop in Colac.

Can I get lunch during the trip?
Lunch is not included, but there are stops in Port Campbell or Apollo Bay where you can buy food, or you can bring your own.

Will I see wildlife like koalas and kangaroos?
Yes, guides often spot koalas, kangaroos, and colorful parrots in the wild, especially during the return journey.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 13 participants, making it more personal than large coach tours.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and binoculars. Comfortable clothing and camera gear are also recommended.

This tour strikes a good balance between comfort, authenticity, and value. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road while enjoying a quieter, more relaxed day.

You can check availability for your dates here: