12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road from Melbourne

Experience the Best of the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne

If you’re looking to see one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines without the hassle of planning, the “12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road from Melbourne” tour might be just what you need. Priced at $169.04 per person and lasting about 11 to 12 hours, this guided trip takes you from Melbourne through rugged cliffs, lush rainforests, and some of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in the world.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances comfortable transportation with numerous photo-worthy stops, all guided by knowledgeable experts. Another highlight is the opportunity to see wildlife, like koalas and colourful birds, in their natural habitat—something that makes the trip feel authentic and engaging.

That said, keep in mind that it’s a long day on the road, and meals aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for a lunch break. This tour suits travelers who love nature, iconic scenery, and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you’re ready for a full day of adventure and natural beauty, this trip offers great value and memorable experiences.

Key Points

• Stunning Landmarks: Visit the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Gibson Steps for classic views.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot koalas, parrots, and rosellas at Kennett River.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and lively.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern bus with pickup from Melbourne, making the trip smooth and hassle-free.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops allow for plenty of photo opportunities and exploration.
• Cost-Effective: At just over $169, it offers a full day of sightseeing with included entry to key sites.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Out in Melbourne

Your day begins early, with pickup at designated locations around Melbourne at 6:30 am. The modern coach is comfortable, giving you plenty of room to relax and enjoy the scenery on the approximately 3-hour drive to the coast. The early start means you’ll beat some of the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more reflective journey through Victoria’s landscapes.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View

Your first stop is at the Memorial Arch at Eastern View, a true symbol of Victorian history. Built to honor the WWI servicemen who built the Great Ocean Road, this landmark is a perfect spot for photos and to learn about the road’s remarkable construction. The 15-minute stop includes an admission fee covered in your ticket, giving you time to snap pictures and soak in the atmosphere.

Scenic Drive Along the Great Ocean Road

As you continue along the Great Ocean Road, you’ll marvel at the towering cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and rugged coastline. This stretch is the heart of the tour and offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate the beauty of this famous route. The one-hour-and-twenty-minute section is mostly driving, but the scenic outlooks make it worth every minute.

Wildlife at Kennett River

Next, the tour takes you to Kennett River, a highlight for nature lovers. Here, you can see koalas in eucalyptus trees, often resting or munching, along with a variety of bright native birds like king parrots and rosellas. The 25-minute stop is free of charge and offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities outside of a zoo. Many travelers mention how “seeing koalas in their natural habitat was a real treat.”

Maits Rest Rainforest

From Kennett River, you’ll head into the lush Maits Rest Rainforest. This 1-hour stop takes you into a verdant world of towering trees and ancient ferns. The walk through the forest is easy, but the experience is profound—these trees have witnessed centuries of change and still stand tall. Some reviews mention how “the rainforest was peaceful and cool, a stark contrast to the coast.”

Gibson Steps and the Twelve Apostles

Driving from the rainforest, you’ll arrive at Gibson Steps, where you get a close-up look at massive sea stacks called Gibson’s Pillars. The 30-minute stop allows you to walk down to the beach and appreciate the power of the ocean crashing against the cliffs. Then, the star of the show—the Twelve Apostles—awaits. During your 35-minute visit, you’ll witness these limestone formations rising dramatically from the sea, perfect for photography. Many find the sight “breathtaking” and worth every minute, even if the number of Apostles can vary due to natural erosion.

Loch Ard Gorge

Next, it’s time for Loch Ard Gorge, a hidden gem with stunning beaches and towering cliffs. The 40-minute stop is ideal for walking along the beach, exploring the gorge, and taking memorable photos. The water here is crystal-clear, and the scenery is simply unbeatable for a peaceful break amidst natural grandeur.

Return to Melbourne

After a day packed with natural beauty and wildlife, you’ll start heading back to Melbourne around 3 pm. The return trip takes about 3 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. Many travelers mention how the journey back is smooth and offers a chance to unwind after an action-packed day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Guided expertise is a big plus—your guide, though not named in reviews, is described as knowledgeable and engaging, adding context and stories that enrich the experience. The scenic diversity, from rainforest to limestone stacks, ensures you’ll see a wide range of landscapes, making it a truly comprehensive tour.

The stops are well spaced, allowing for plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. The inclusion of admission fees saves you from juggling cash at each site, while the modern coach ensures comfort during the long day.

The wildlife sightings at Kennett River and the chance to walk among ancient trees at Maits Rest give this tour an authentic, natural feel. Many reviewers have lauded the views as “stunning” and “photo-perfect,” especially at the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

While most travelers find this tour highly rewarding, it is a long day with about 6 hours on a bus. If you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely pace, this might be a challenge. Also, since meals are not included, you’ll need to plan ahead—though there are plenty of spots for snacks or quick bites along the way.

Weather can impact the experience—poor weather might obscure some views or lead to cancellations, but the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if that happens.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a comprehensive taste of Victoria’s coast in a single day. It’s suitable for most travelers, given the moderate group size (max 30 people), but those with limited mobility might want to consider the walking involved at certain stops. If you’re after a guided, hassle-free experience with plenty of iconic sights and wildlife, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The “12 Apostles and Great Ocean Road from Melbourne” tour offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and informative guiding—all at a reasonable price for a full-day experience. While it demands a long day, the stunning visuals and memorable stops make it worth the effort.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers eager to see Australia’s world-famous coast with minimal planning and maximum comfort. Whether you’re capturing photos of the Twelve Apostles or listening to stories about the road’s construction, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for this spectacular stretch of coastline.

If you cherish natural beauty, love wildlife, and want a guided adventure that covers the highlights efficiently, this trip will not disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 am with pickups from designated locations in Melbourne, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but given the long duration and some walking at stops like Loch Ard Gorge and Gibson Steps, it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included, so you should bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during the day.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies heavily on good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
Stops range from 15 minutes at the Memorial Arch to 40 minutes at Loch Ard Gorge, allowing enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Can I customize this tour?
Since this is a guided group tour, customization isn’t offered. However, the itinerary covers the major highlights of the Great Ocean Road.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Australia for more scenic adventures, this tour packs a punch for your day. With stunning views, wildlife, and expert guidance, it’s a worthwhile choice for experiencing the best of Victoria’s coast.