Great Ocean Road Tour Reverse -Luxury 13 Small Group-Hotel PickUP

Imagine cruising along one of Australia’s most spectacular coastlines in a luxury mini-coach, with just a handful of fellow travelers. At around $89 per person for a full 12-hour adventure, this small-group tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to see the famous sights like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the rainforest at Mait’s Rest. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, it’s clear this trip is designed to make the most of your day without the hassle of large crowds or rushed stops.

What we particularly love about this tour is the reverse itinerary — starting at quieter spots like the 12 Apostles early in the morning, giving you some of the best views before the crowds arrive. Plus, with hotel pickup in Melbourne, you’re spared the early morning stress of finding a meeting point. The luxury, air-conditioned vehicle with only 13 guests ensures comfort and a more personal experience. Two standout features are the opportunity for a helicopter ride (extra cost) over the Apostles, offering breathtaking aerial views, and the chance to see iconic Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos in the wild.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a full-day commitment, and with plenty of stops, you’ll need to bring walking shoes and be prepared for some light exploring. Also, meals are not included, so packing snacks or planning for lunch at Apollo Bay is wise. But overall, this tour suits travelers who appreciate smaller groups, personalized attention, and authentic sights without the crowds.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with a maximum of 13 travelers keeps the atmosphere friendly and flexible.
• Reverse itinerary allows visiting popular spots early, avoiding the crowds and enjoying quieter views.
• Expert guides (like Steve and Bill) share local insights, making the experience more enriching.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury vehicle enhances the day’s enjoyment and reduces fatigue.
• Wildlife sightings of koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat add a special touch.
• Flexible options like helicopter rides give you a chance for memorable aerial shots (additional cost).

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s main draw is the reverse route—starting in Colac and moving along the coast in a way that lets you beat the crowds at the popular sites like the 12 Apostles. Many travelers find this a real advantage, as the early access translates into quieter, more relaxed sightseeing. The small group size is another highlight; with a maximum of 13, you get a more personalized experience, and guides can tailor the stops as needed.

Pricing at $88.89 per person for a full day’s adventure offers excellent value. All national park entry fees and bottled water are included, so there are no hidden costs once you’re on the bus. The luxury mini-coach ensures comfort, with ample space to stretch out, especially important for a long day of travel and sightseeing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Colac — A Quiet Start

Your day begins in Colac, a charming country town in dairy country Victoria. Here, you can grab morning tea or breakfast at your own expense. This calm, less touristy start sets the tone for the day, and reviewers appreciate the relaxing pace. It’s a brief stop but enough to stretch your legs and take in some local scenery.

Stop 2: Mutton Bird Lookout — Ancient Coastline

Next, you’ll visit the Mutton Bird Lookout, where you’ll learn about how this part of the coast was once submerged underwater. The stone formations, roughly 200 million years old, formed from ocean debris, are a testament to nature’s slow but relentless work. Expect a 20-minute walk and some great photo opportunities of the rugged shoreline.

Stop 3: The Twelve Apostles — The Iconic Landmarks

No trip to the Great Ocean Road would be complete without seeing the famous Twelve Apostles. Over 20 million years old, these limestone stacks rise dramatically from the ocean, creating one of Australia’s most recognizable vistas. You’ll have approximately 45 minutes here, which is plenty of time to take photos, soak in the views, and even consider the helicopter ride (available for an extra fee) for a bird’s-eye view of this natural marvel.

Stop 4: The Razorback — Dramatic Coastal Erosion

Further along, the Razorback is a spectacular high, jagged rock formation with sharp edges and bumps, shaped by wind and water erosion. Its dramatic profile offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at how relentless nature is in carving out these features.

Stop 5: Loch Ard Gorge — A Shipwreck History

You’ll spend around 30 minutes at Loch Ard Gorge, site of a famous shipwreck. The gorge’s rugged cliffs and turquoise waters look spectacular, and it’s also a filming location for movies like “The Pirate Movie”. The history here adds a layer of intrigue; you might enjoy imagining the stories of ships lost along these dangerous waters.

Stops Through Port Campbell National Park — Scenic Drive

The tour includes a drive through Port Campbell National Park, showcasing the dramatic coastline, cliffs, and rock formations. It’s a scenic drive that fuels the sense of being somewhere truly wild and unspoiled.

Mait’s Rest — Ancient Rainforest

Next, you’ll explore Mait’s Rest, a lush rainforest walk featuring towering mountain ash eucalyptus trees, ferns, and ancient trees like myrtle beech. This stop is a highlight for nature lovers, and reviewers note it’s more than just a walk — it’s an immersive experience in a primeval environment.

The Great Ocean Road — Wild, Rugged Beauty

Driving along the Great Ocean Road itself, you’ll enjoy a scenic stretch famed for its rugged beauty, surfing culture, and shipwreck stories. The tour offers about 20 minutes here, enough to marvel at the sweeping vistas and perhaps snap some photos of the coastline.

Apollo Bay — A Coastal Lunch Spot

A highlight for many travelers is the 45-minute stop in Apollo Bay for lunch. The town is known for its delicious cafes and restaurants, perfect for sampling local seafood or enjoying a quick coffee. Travelers rave about the quality of food, making this a worthwhile break.

Kennett River & Wildlife Spotting — Koalas and Kangaroos

The tour continues with a 20-minute stop at Kennett River, where you might spot koalas resting in the trees and kangaroos hopping about. Several reviews mention how special it is to see these animals in their natural environment, which adds genuine value to the trip.

Final Stop: Anglesea and Sweet Treats

The day winds down at the chocolate and ice cream factory in Anglesea, where you can indulge in some local sweets and reflect on the day’s adventures. It’s a fun, relaxed way to finish the trip, with plenty of opportunities for photos and last-minute souvenirs.

How the Experience Comes Together

The small group size means you get more than just a bus ride; guides like Steve and Bill are praised for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility. They’re attentive to the group’s pace and interests, making stops more meaningful. Multiple reviewers mention how guides go beyond the standard itinerary, sometimes sharing local secrets or wildlife sightings.

What sets this tour apart is the careful planning—starting early at less crowded spots, allowing ample time at key sights, and incorporating optional activities like the helicopter ride—all at a reasonable price. The luxury vehicle ensures comfort during the long day, and bottled water keeps everyone hydrated.

The Value for Travelers

You get a comprehensive introduction to the coast’s natural wonders, wildlife, and history. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences — like wildlife sightings and rainforest walks — means you’re not just ticking off photo stops but engaging with the landscape. The price point reflects excellent value, especially considering the included park fees, bottled water, and small group atmosphere.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who values small groups and personalized attention, this trip is ideal. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to avoid the crowds will find this route especially appealing. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Melbourne wanting a thorough yet relaxed day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

This tour suits those looking for a comfortable, well-organized day trip that balances iconic sights with authentic encounters. If you appreciate a personal touch — friendly guides, flexible stops, and small-group intimacy — you’ll enjoy this experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the best of the coast but avoid the chaos of large bus tours or overcrowded viewpoints.

While it’s a long day, the reverse itinerary and luxury transportation make it an enjoyable, less stressful way to explore the spectacular Australian coastline. If you’re a wildlife fan, a photography buff, or simply after a meaningful outdoor adventure, this tour offers plenty of value.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from Melbourne CBD and Southbank hotels, making it easy to start the day without extra hassle.

What should I bring?
Bring walking shoes for rainforest walks, a camera for the stunning scenery, and snacks for the day since meals are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
All national park entry fees, bottled water, and a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle are included. The tour is limited to 13 travelers for comfort.

Can I add a helicopter ride?
Yes, the helicopter ride at the Twelve Apostles is available for an extra charge, offering spectacular aerial views.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While sightings of koalas and kangaroos are common, they depend on timing and luck. Many reviews highlight successful wildlife encounters.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and spending a full day outdoors.

This Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour provides a balanced mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural highlights in an intimate setting. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and flexible stops turn a long day into an enjoyable adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this trip offers a wonderful way to experience one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. For those seeking an authentic, comfortable, and memorable day out, it’s hard to beat this well-reviewed, value-packed tour.