Great Ocean Road Private Tour

Great Ocean Road Private Tour: An Intimate Journey Through Australia’s Coastal Marvel

Imagine waking up in Melbourne, your day beginning with the promise of coastal cliffs, lush rainforests, and iconic sea stacks. For around $815 per group, up to 11 people can enjoy this 11.5-hour adventure in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, personalized experience—one that avoids the crowds and dives into the region’s stories, scenery, and wildlife.

What we love about this experience is the chance to have a guide like Kevin or Wes, who truly bring the journey alive with stories of shipwrecks and Aboriginal history. Plus, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to include both classic sights like the Twelve Apostles and less touristy spots like Colac, giving a well-rounded picture of the region. The option to do the drive in reverse order helps dodge peak-season crowds—a huge plus for those wanting quieter, more reflective moments.

A potential consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some travelers on a tight budget. However, given the private nature of the tour, the all-inclusive price, and the extensive itinerary, many find it a good value, especially for larger groups. The longer duration allows for a relaxed pace, giving you enough time to truly savor each stop rather than rush through highlights.

This tour suits adventurous couples, families, or friends who want a tailored experience—one that combines scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and cultural stories. It’s ideal if you prefer avoiding crowded group tours and enjoy a more personal touch, as reflected in rave reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and care.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for up to 11 people adds comfort and flexibility.
• Expert guides like Wes and Kevin enrich the journey with stories and local insights.
• Stunning scenic stops including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Mount Defiance Lookout.
• Wildlife encounters with Koalas, King Parrots, and Crimson Rosellas at Kennett River.
• Balanced itinerary with iconic sights and lesser-known gems, avoiding tourist traps.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles designed for small groups.

In-Depth Look at the Great Ocean Road Private Tour

Starting Point: A Seamless Morning Pickup

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am, with a pickup from your Melbourne accommodation. The use of private transportation means you won’t be part of a large noisy group. Instead, you’ll enjoy the luxury of space and personal attention right from the start.

The air-conditioned vehicle is perfect for the day’s adventures, especially considering the lengthy drive and variable weather conditions. The driver-guide is licensed and dedicated to making the trip both informative and enjoyable, a sentiment echoed by numerous reviews praising Wes and Kevin’s enthusiasm and knowledge.

First Stop: Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway

Your journey kicks off at the Memorial Archway, built in 1939 to honor soldiers lost in World War I. It’s a poignant gateway to the region and makes for a meaningful photo opportunity. Here, your guide will share stories about the road’s construction and history, adding depth to your scenic drive.

This stop is free, but the emotional weight adds to the experience—reminding us that this coastal route is as much about history as it is about natural beauty.

Mount Defiance Lookout: Breathtaking Views

Next, you’ll reach the Mount Defiance Lookout, offering sweeping views over the coastline and cliffs. It’s the ideal spot to capture panoramic photos of the rugged landscape, all while learning about William Buckley, the convict who became part of the local lore.

Expect about 20 minutes here, giving enough time to soak in the scenery and snap some shots. The view of the cliffs hugging the ocean is genuinely awe-inspiring, and your guide will point out interesting features along the coast.

Anglesea: Kangaroo Spotting with Morning Tea

At Anglesea, the tour takes a laid-back turn. You’ll stop by the riverbanks where wildlife enthusiasts often spot kangaroos, and enjoy complimentary morning tea amidst lush surroundings.

This peaceful seaside village offers a taste of Australia’s coast and forests, with your guide sharing stories of local flora and fauna. The 30-minute break here is perfect for stretching your legs and taking in the fresh air.

Lorne: A Coastal Town with a View

Traveling up the mountain to Lorne, you’ll arrive at an iconic seaside town known for its vibrant arts scene and stunning beaches. Your guide will drive you to a secluded lookout, where the views over the coast are simply spectacular.

Lorne is a favorite among Melburnians for its relaxed vibe and natural beauty. The roughly 20-minute stop allows you to breathe in the ocean air and admire the sweeping vistas.

Exploring the Otway Rainforest: Mait’s Rest

A highlight for nature lovers is the visit to Mait’s Rest, situated in Great Otway National Park. Here, a 30-minute walk along boardwalks and gravel paths takes you through cool temperate rainforests filled with towering Beech and Mountain Ash gum trees.

The tranquility and lush greenery make this a refreshing contrast to the coastal stops. Your guide’s insights about the local ecosystem and the rainforest’s importance add educational value to this peaceful walk.

Wildlife at Kennett River

One of the most beloved stops is Kennett River, where you can see Koalas resting in eucalyptus trees. It’s a rare chance to observe these creatures in their natural environment. If lucky, you might also spot King Parrots and Crimson Rosellas feeding nearby.

The 30-minute stop is perfect for wildlife photography, and many reviews mention how engaging the guide is in helping you spot and understand the local wildlife—an authentic Aussie experience.

Lavers Hill: The High Point

Traveling inland, you’ll reach Lavers Hill, the highest point on the road. It’s an ideal spot for a quick break, perhaps to grab a snack or take in the view. The 30-minute stop offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and enjoy the inland scenery.

The Twelve Apostles: The Iconic Sea Stacks

No visit to the Great Ocean Road would be complete without seeing the Twelve Apostles—though currently only eight remain. These limestone sea stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are a photographer’s paradise, especially as the setting sun casts a golden hue.

Allow about 30 minutes here to marvel at the scale and beauty of these natural formations, with plenty of opportunities for photos from different angles. Your guide will share the stories of their formation and history.

Loch Ard Gorge: Picturesque and Dramatic

Next, you’ll visit Loch Ard Gorge, where the story of the shipwrecked Loch Ard unfolds amid dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. The 20-minute walk along the trail leads you down to the gorge, revealing a landscape that’s both beautiful and tinged with history.

Many travelers appreciate how this stop combines scenic beauty with a touch of drama, making it one of the highlights according to reviews.

Gibsons Steps: Get Up Close

For a more tactile experience, you’ll descend 80 steps to the beach at Gibsons Steps. From here, you can get close to the towering sea stacks, take stunning beach photos, and really appreciate their scale.

The 30-minute stop ensures you don’t just view these formations from afar but experience their grandeur firsthand—a favorite feature for many visitors.

The Sum Up: A Day of Natural Splendor

The tour winds down as you head toward Colac, a fertile volcanic plain with a farming landscape. It’s an ideal place to stretch, grab a bite, and reflect on your day before heading back to Melbourne.

Throughout the journey, the small group size combined with a private vehicle means you can enjoy a relaxed, flexible pace. The guides’ storytelling and local knowledge make each stop more meaningful, turning sightseeing into an engaging experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for those who crave a personalized, relaxed experience rather than a rushed, big-group outing. If you’re interested in wildlife, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate storytelling that adds context to natural sights, you’ll find it rewarding. The flexibility to choose the reverse route to dodge crowds makes it ideal during peak seasons.

Couples, families, or groups of friends who want to take their time exploring iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles or Loch Ard Gorge will appreciate the thoughtful pacing. The inclusion of stops at lesser-known spots like Colac also appeals to those interested in a more authentic, less-commercialized journey.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and travel time.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a licensed guide, and bottled water. All fees and taxes are included.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat at stops like Colac or Lorne.

Can I get picked up from my hotel?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of navigating Melbourne streets.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops at wildlife and scenic spots are generally family-friendly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Can I do the tour in reverse?
Yes, doing the itinerary in reverse is an option, especially to avoid crowds during peak season.

Is this a small group or a large bus?
This is a private tour for your group only, with vehicles accommodating up to 11 people, ensuring intimacy and flexibility.

In our opinion, this private Great Ocean Road tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, local stories, and wildlife encounters—all delivered in a comfortable, personal setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a stress-free day of exploration, it’s a fantastic way to see one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines.