Melbourne: Private Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tours

An Unforgettable Day Along the Great Ocean Road

If you’re on the hunt for a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastlines, the Melbourne: Private Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Tours offers a fantastic option. Priced at just over $1,090 for a group of up to 13 people, this 12-hour journey is both a practical and immersive way to see the highlights of this legendary stretch of coast, minus the usual crowds.

The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide—Matt—who keeps things lively and informative, making sure you get the most out of every stop. The journey begins early from Melbourne, with a pickup service, and takes you through a carefully curated route that emphasizes spectacular scenery, wildlife, and photo opportunities. What we particularly love about this tour is its reverse itinerary, which allows for a different perspective on the sights, and the small-group experience, providing flexibility and a more personal touch.

One of the significant attractions is the 12 Apostles, a series of towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean—truly breathtaking. The guide often points out the best spots for photos, and you’ll get ample time for capturing these iconic formations. Another highlight is the visit to Loch Ard Gorge, where the story of a famous shipwreck adds a layer of historical intrigue to the stunning cliffs and caves. The rainforest drive through towering trees as the day closes offers a peaceful, almost primeval ending.

A potential drawback is the long day — roughly 12 hours from start to finish— which might be tiring for some. However, the included comfort of private transport, WiFi, bottled water, and the small group size helps make the experience more relaxed. This tour suits those who appreciate detailed sightseeing, wonderful scenery, and expert guidance without the hassle of driving themselves.

This private trip is ideal for travelers seeking an intimate, flexible, and informative way to explore the Great Ocean Road, especially if you value comfort and expert commentary. It’s also perfect for families or groups who prefer a tailored experience over large bus tours.

Key Points

• Private transportation offers comfort and flexibility for your day.
• Expert guide enhances the experience with insightful commentary.
• Iconic sights like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge are well-covered.
• Flexible stops and optional shopping, like Gorge Chocolates, add variety.
• The long duration provides comprehensive coverage but can be tiring.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and a love for scenic drives.

A Deep Dive into the Great Ocean Road Experience

Starting Early for the Best Light and Fewer Crowds

The tour kicks off at 6:45 am, which, while early, is a smart move. Traveling early helps you beat the crowds at popular sites like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. It also means you get to enjoy the coast in the soft morning light, ideal for photos and soaking in the peaceful scenery before the day heats up or crowds arrive.

The ride from Melbourne is about an hour and twenty minutes, giving you time to settle in, chat with your guide Matt, and prepare for the day ahead. A key benefit here is the private transport, which is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi—making the journey comfortable, even on a long day.

First Stop: Winchelsea for Coffee and Refreshments

Your first break is at Winchelsea, roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes into the trip. It’s a quick 25-minute stop, and since this part of the tour is free of admission fees, it’s an excellent chance to stretch, grab coffee, or just enjoy the morning air. It’s a practical touch that helps break up the drive and sets a relaxed tone.

Iconic Sights: The Twelve Apostles

The crown jewel of the tour, the Twelve Apostles, is a must-see. These limestone stacks are awe-inspiring and offer some of the most spectacular coastal views Australia has to offer. Your guide will likely point out the best angles for photos and share stories about how these formations have evolved over thousands of years. The tour provides roughly 55 minutes here, enough for photos and a quick exploration.

Loch Ard Gorge: A Mix of Natural Beauty and History

Next is Loch Ard Gorge, a site that combines natural wonder with a hint of tragedy—it’s the remains of a shipwreck that happened in 1878. The cliffs around the gorge are dramatic, and the caves and rock formations create a striking landscape. You’ll get about 20 minutes here, which is enough time to walk around and take in the scenery, perhaps imagining the stories hidden in these rocks.

Erosion and Natural Artistry: Island Arch & Razorback

The tour continues with stops at Island Arch Lookout, where erosion has carved out a natural archway, and The Razorback, a jagged, knife-like rock formation that stands out in the seascape. Both stops are about 20 minutes each, providing ample opportunities for photos and appreciating nature’s artistry.

Hidden Gems: The Bakers Oven

A lesser-known but fun spot is The Bakers Oven, a rock formation that resembles an oven. It’s a perfect photo op and adds variety to the typical tourist stops. Again, 20 minutes is allocated here, enough to snap some shots and enjoy the scenery.

Leisure in Port Campbell

The charming town of Port Campbell offers a well-earned break—a chance for a leisurely lunch or just a stroll along the beach. The tour allows about 55 minutes here, giving you room to explore, pick a cafe, or simply relax.

The Iconic London Bridge and The Grotto

Post-lunch, you’ll visit London Bridge, which collapsed in 1990 but remains a famous and photogenic site. The tour includes about 20 minutes here to admire the arch and learn its history. You’ll also visit The Grotto, a stunning sinkhole where the sea crashes against the cliffs, about 40 minutes of exploration.

Optional Sweet Finale: Gorge Chocolates

For those with a sweet tooth, a visit to Gorge Chocolates is an optional stop. This family-run shop offers handcrafted chocolates made with local ingredients. It’s a delightful way to support local artisans and indulge after a day of sightseeing. The visit lasts about 20 minutes.

Wrapping Up: Colac for Coffee and Reflection

The final stop is in Colac, a small town perfect for a quick coffee break and last chance to soak in regional life before heading back to Melbourne.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Unlike many standard tours, this private experience focuses on personalized attention and flexible timing. The small group size means your guide, Matt, can tailor commentary and help you capture the best shots. The reverse itinerary offers a fresh perspective, making your visit feel unique.

The inclusion of an optional chocolate stop is a thoughtful touch, adding a bit of indulgence without rushing. The comfort of private transport also means you won’t be jostled with strangers, and the WiFi keeps everyone connected and sharing photos easily.

Some Considerations

The main trade-off is the lengthy day—if you’re not used to early mornings and long drives, it could feel tiring. However, the pace is generally relaxed, and the stops are well spaced. Also, while the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that food and beverages outside of the suggested stops are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, detailed, and comfortable way to see the Great Ocean Road. It suits those who appreciate expert guides with local knowledge and enjoy photography—the stops are chosen for their scenery and photo potential. Families or groups who prefer a tailored experience over large bus tours will find this especially appealing.

It’s also perfect for those with moderate physical fitness, as most stops involve short walks and manageable terrain. If you’re keen to avoid the crowds and have a flexible schedule, this private tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This private Melbourne-based tour provides a thorough introduction to one of Australia’s most treasured coastlines. The value lies in the personalized attention, expert guidance, and the chance to explore at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a meaningful and well-organized day out.

While the lengthy day might not suit everyone, the benefits of comfort, flexibility, and the chance to see iconic sights with fewer fellow travelers make it well worth considering. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer, a nature lover, or simply want a relaxing, hassle-free way to experience the coast, this tour has something special for you.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:45 am, allowing you to beat crowds and enjoy the scenery in the morning light.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family friendly. Child seats are available upon request, and the guide is experienced in working with children.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, bottled water, WiFi onboard, a professional guide/driver, and all entry tickets for the attractions.

Are meals included?
No, food and beverages are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase lunch during the stop in Port Campbell.

How long are the stops?
Stops range from 20 to 55 minutes, giving ample time for photos, short walks, and relaxing.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The description doesn’t specify accessibility, but the moderate physical activity and walking involved are geared toward travelers with moderate fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and snacks if desired. The vehicle provides bottled water and WiFi for your convenience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your planning.

Who should I contact for more details?
You can reach Matt at +61415459900 or via email at [email protected] for specific questions or special requests.

This private tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and personalized comfort—perfect for a memorable day exploring Australia’s stunning coast.