Melbourne: Great Ocean Road ExtendedTop Stops&London Bridge

Exploring the Great Ocean Road is a highlight for any traveler visiting Melbourne. This full-day tour, priced at just $36 per person, takes you through some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery, visiting iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. What sets this tour apart is its extra effort to go beyond the usual stops by including the hidden gem of London Bridge, offering a unique perspective rarely experienced on standard trips.

One thing we love about this experience is the careful balance of popular sights with less-trodden spots, giving a richer sense of the coast’s natural beauty. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the long day both enjoyable and educational. Another highlight is the opportunity to spot koalas in their natural habitat, which adds a truly authentic touch.

A possible consideration for travelers is the length of the day—at around 12 hours, it’s a full commitment, especially if you’re not used to long coach trips. The schedule can be tight, and some reviews mention that lunch could be a little rushed or that the coach’s legroom might be limited, so bringing snacks or being prepared for a long ride is wise.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments. If you’re comfortable with a full-day excursion and appreciate guides with local know-how, you’ll find this trip well worth it. It’s especially good for solo travelers, small groups, or anyone eager to see some of Australia’s most dramatic coastal scenery without the hassle of planning every stop yourself.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery: The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge are unforgettable sights.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Vance and Tony enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
• Authentic wildlife encounters: Chances to spot koalas in the wild make this trip more immersive.
• Good value for money: At only $36, you get a full day of highlights with all transportation included.
• Long but rewarding: The 12-hour schedule means a lot of time on the coach, so be prepared for a full day.
• Unique stops: The visit to London Bridge offers rare views that most tours don’t include.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect and Why It Matters

This tour starts early, with pickup options at several locations in Melbourne. The day is structured to maximize time at key sights while allowing for some relaxing moments. The journey begins with a morning refresh at the Chocolaterie, where you can enjoy coffee and pastries—perfect if you missed breakfast or need an energy boost before hitting the road. From there, the route heads toward the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch at Eastern View, a fitting starting point that commemorates the builders of this epic highway.

Next, your route takes you to Lorne, a charming seaside town offering some of the best ocean views. Here, you can breathe in the fresh air and snap photos of the coast’s rugged beauty. Nearby, the Cumberland River Monument Lookout provides a panoramic vista that’s perfect for capturing wide-angle shots of the coast’s dramatic cliffs and crashing waves. These stops set the tone for a day filled with natural drama and photo opportunities.

The Highlights and Why They Matter

The Twelve Apostles are undoubtedly the star of the show. These limestone stacks rising from the ocean are as spectacular in person as they appear in photographs. Many travelers, including those who reviewed the tour, emphasize how breathtaking they are when seen up close. One reviewer noted, “The Twelve Apostles are amazing to see in person, very windy today but still beautiful.”

Following this, the Loch Ard Gorge offers more than just stunning cliffs; it tells stories of shipwrecks and survival that add a layer of intrigue and history to the scenery. The cliffs here are dramatic, and the stories make the place even more compelling.

The Hidden Gem: London Bridge

Most tours skip this part of the coast, but this experience includes a visit to London Bridge, a natural arch that is both striking and less crowded. From the reviews, visitors rave about the rarity of seeing London Bridge and highlight how it’s a “spectacular view rarely experienced on typical trips.” It’s a memorable addition for those wanting something off the beaten path.

Lunch and Wildlife Encounters

The schedule allocates time in Apollo Bay, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy seaside cuisine with views. Travelers often mention how the free time here allows for exploring local cafes or simply soaking in the coast’s charm.

A quick stop at Barham River Road offers a chance—though not a guarantee—to see koalas in their natural habitat. Multiple reviews mention spotting koalas, which can turn a scenic drive into a wildlife encounter. One reviewer said, “We saw some koalas, stopped in different places for photos (with good time in all of them).”

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Transportation, Group Size, and Comfort

The trip is operated by Bus and Coach Charter and features a coach with multiple pick-up points in Melbourne. While the reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Vance and Tony, some mention the coach’s limited legroom—something to keep in mind if you’re tall or sensitive to long periods on a bus. The trip is about 12 hours, so comfort and packing snacks or water are advisable. The ride itself is smooth, and the driver’s expertise makes the long hours manageable.

The Value for Money

At only $36, this tour offers excellent value. You get all transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to some of Australia’s top coastal sights. Reviewers consistently praise the combination of affordability and quality, with many saying it’s “worth every penny” for a day packed with stunning scenery and interesting stories.

The Long Day and Pacing

While most reviews are highly positive, a common theme is that the day is long—around 12 hours—so patience and preparation are key. Some reviews mention that lunch might feel a little rushed, suggesting bringing snacks or allowing extra time if possible. The schedule can vary slightly depending on the day’s conditions, but guides like Vance and Tony keep things lively and informative throughout.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day with a mix of popular landmarks and lesser-known spots. It suits those open to a long day on a coach, eager to see Australia’s coast without the hassle of planning each stop. If you enjoy engaging guides who share stories and local insights, you’ll find this trip particularly rewarding. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups who appreciate a good value and breathtaking scenery will be most satisfied.

The Sum Up

This Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Extended Tour combines affordability, authenticity, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full picture of Australia’s stunning coastline in one day, especially with the added bonus of visiting London Bridge and getting a chance to see koalas in the wild. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge make the long hours fly by, and the scenery is truly unforgettable.

While it’s a packed day, the mixture of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and wildlife encounters makes it a worthwhile adventure. If you’re craving a straightforward, value-for-money trip that offers a genuine taste of the coast, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll see the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and enjoy stops at Lorne and Apollo Bay, along with opportunities to spot koalas.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s free time in Apollo Bay for you to grab a bite from local cafes or restaurants.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s mainly designed for able-bodied adults, as it involves a full day of coach travel and some walking. It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or over 95 years old.

What should I bring?
Snacks, water, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. The long day on the coach calls for comfort and preparedness for the weather.

Are koalas guaranteed to be seen?
No, but many travelers have reported seeing koalas during the stop at Barham River Road. It’s a matter of luck and timing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Australia’s most stunning coastal scenery without breaking the bank or stressing over logistics. Whether you’re snapping photos of the Twelve Apostles, listening to fascinating stories, or just soaking in the scenery, it’s designed to leave lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: