Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour – Max 11 Guests

Discover the Great Ocean Road in Reverse: An authentic, small-group premium experience

Traveling along Australia’s most celebrated coastal drive doesn’t have to be a long, crowded affair. This Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Premium Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to see the highlights while skipping the crowds. With a maximum of 11 guests, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and more space on board, making the whole day more comfortable and engaging. Starting early from Melbourne, the tour whisks you inland first—meaning you arrive early at iconic locations like the Twelve Apostles, avoiding the busloads of afternoon visitors.

Priced at just $107.80 per person, this full-day adventure (about 13 hours) packs in scenery, wildlife, and local highlights, with hotel pickups in Melbourne CBD and Southbank. We love how this tour’s reverse route means quieter, more peaceful views—and the chance to truly appreciate the stunning landscapes without the crush of crowds. The guide’s lively commentary adds a touch of local flavor and history, making each stop more meaningful.

One potential consideration is that the day is long, with many stops and some walking involved. Travelers should be prepared for a full, active day, especially those who dislike early mornings or long bus rides. However, if you’re after a comprehensive, authentic experience with a small group, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, personal connection to the landscape, wildlife encounters, and scenic stops, rather than just ticking boxes on a larger group tour. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate expert guides, flexible itineraries, and quieter viewing moments.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures more comfort, better interaction, and personalized attention.
• Reverse itinerary helps beat the crowds at key sites like the Twelve Apostles.
• Diverse stops include iconic formations, waterfalls, rainforest walks, and wildlife sightings.
• Expert guides provide engaging commentary, local insights, and stories that bring the landscape to life.
• Long but rewarding day with carefully timed stops to enjoy each location at a relaxed pace.
• Value for money considering the included fees, experiences, and skip-the-line access.

An in-depth look at the tour experience

Starting early from Melbourne: beat the crowds from the get-go

The tour kicks off at 6:30 am, and early risers will appreciate the opportunity to see the famous Twelve Apostles before they fill with visitors. We loved the way this reverse route prioritizes arriving at key sites early, giving us the chance to enjoy the sights in peace. Reviews highlight that beating the afternoon crowds is a big plus; “we saw the Apostles when it was still quiet and peaceful,” one traveler noted.

The pickup from Melbourne CBD and Southbank is straightforward, and the vehicle—a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus—ensures a smooth ride. The small group size (max 11 guests) means you’ll get more legroom, and your guide can provide more personalized commentary.

First stop: Winchelsea – a quick morning tea break

Soon after departure, the tour makes a brief stop in Winchelsea for a coffee or breakfast, at your own expense. It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs, enjoy some local flavor, and prepare for the day ahead. The stop is just 15 minutes, so it’s quick but enough to refresh before hitting the major sights.

The Twelve Apostles: a quiet, awe-inspiring view

Arriving early means you get to see the tall limestone stacks in relative tranquility. The views are spectacular, and the experience is markedly different from busier afternoon visits. One reviewer raved, “the Apostles were breathtaking early in the morning, and we avoided the crowds.” This spot is the highlight for many, with its dramatic cliffs and ocean spray.

Gibson’s Steps: walk down to the beach

Next, you’ll descend to the beach at Gibson’s Steps—an unmissable chance to get close to the towering cliffs and the Gog and Magog stacks. Walking on this beach gives a real sense of scale; these 70-meter-high cliffs feel even more impressive when you stand at their base. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

The Razorback and Loch Ard Gorge: dramatic formations and history

The Razorback limestone formation is a favorite among those who love dramatic, jagged landscapes. The views here are described as “breathtaking,” and it’s easy to see why—nature’s sculptures at their finest.

Loch Ard Gorge, with its tragic shipwreck story, adds a layer of history to the scenery. Walking along the beach and seeing the gorge that witnessed the shipwreck of Loch Ard brings the region’s stories alive. Guests mention feeling dwarfed by the scale of the cliffs, and one reviewer called it “an incredibly beautiful and poignant spot.”

Rainforest walk at Mait’s Rest and Otway National Park

Traveling inland, the tour takes you through Great Otway National Park, home to towering trees and lush greenery. The 20-minute walk at Mait’s Rest is a highlight, with travelers describing it as “a real connection to nature,” and some even spotting wallabies, koalas, and kangaroos in the wild, according to reviews.

Lunch at Apollo Bay

After a morning packed with sights, the tour stops in Apollo Bay for around 45 minutes. This lively coastal town offers a range of restaurants, and guides typically recommend spots for fresh local food. Many travelers appreciate this break, highlighting how it’s a chance to relax, refuel, and soak in the relaxed seaside vibe.

Wildlife and lookout: Kennett River and Teddy’s Lookout

The afternoon includes a nature walk at Kennett River—famous for koala sightings and birdlife like the orange-bellied parrots. Several reviews mention spotting koalas in the wild, which adds a special touch to the trip.

The day ends with a visit to Teddy’s Lookout, where you’ll get panoramic views of the Lorne coast. A short, 10-minute stop, but one that offers fantastic photo opportunities and a peaceful conclusion to the day.

Returning to Melbourne

Expect to be back around 7 pm, tired but enriched by a day of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and engaging stories. The tour’s well-paced stops and the small group setting mean you’ll leave feeling satisfied—not rushed, and with plenty of memorable moments.

Analyzing the value and overall experience

The $107.80 price tag seems quite reasonable given the scope of what’s included: national park fees, live commentary, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and skip-the-line access to major sites. Compared to larger bus tours, this smaller, more intimate experience offers better comfort, more opportunities for photos, and richer interaction with your guide.

Reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor—with many mentioning guides like Jimmy, Chris, Mark, and Ann as making the day special through their storytelling and local insights. This personal touch is valuable, especially on a day packed with so many stops and stories.

Some travelers note that the long day involves many hours on the bus, but the stops break up the journey and allow for stretching or quick explorations. If you’re someone who appreciates natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and a relaxed pace, this tour will suit you well.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want to see the best of the Great Ocean Road without the hassle of planning, and who value small-group intimacy. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic drives, and don’t mind a full, active day. Families with kids over 7 will appreciate the focus on safety and the itinerary, but younger children might find it too long or require child restraints, which are not available.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, informative, and scenic day trip that avoids the heaviest crowds and offers a personal touch, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from designated points in Melbourne CBD and Southbank, making it convenient for guests staying nearby.

What’s the best time to see the Twelve Apostles?
Arriving early, around 7 am, lets you enjoy the site before the larger afternoon crowds arrive, giving a more peaceful experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 13 hours, starting at 6:30 am and returning around 7 pm, packed with sightseeing and breaks.

Can I expect wildlife sightings?
Yes, many reviews mention spotting koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies in the wild, especially at Kennett River and Otway National Park.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes and suitable footwear for walking, plus sun protection and water. The tour provides bottled water, but food is at your own expense at stops like Apollo Bay.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 7 are not accommodated due to safety regulations regarding child restraints.

Final thoughts

For anyone dreaming of the Great Ocean Road, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights, wildlife, and scenery in an intimate setting. The reverse route helps dodge crowds, making the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides, flexible stops, and scenic highlights makes it a smart choice for travelers seeking a genuine, memorable day in Australia’s stunning coastal landscape.

If you value personalized service, quality sightseeing, and a small-group vibe, this tour will deliver beyond expectations. Perfect for those who want to avoid the busloads and enjoy the natural beauty at a comfortable pace. It’s a day packed with awe-inspiring views, stories, and wildlife encounters—making it a worthwhile addition to your Melbourne trip.