Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Premium Reverse Tour&London Bridge

Traveling along Australia’s iconic coast is a bucket-list experience, and if you’re considering a day trip, the Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Premium Reverse Tour & London Bridge offers an intriguing way to see the sights. This tour, run by Joy OZ Tours, promises a well-rounded blend of breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural landmarks, all within a 13-hour journey.

What sets this tour apart is its reverse itinerary — starting later in the day to help you avoid crowds and enjoy some of the most famous spots like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge in the best light for photography. The small group size (max 14 guests) combined with a Mercedes minibus ensures a comfortable ride, and a professional local guide enhances the experience with stories and insights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is quite packed, with a late lunch around 3 PM and some long driving stretches, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a bit of a rush. If you’re after a truly relaxed, slow-paced tour, this might not be your ideal pick, but if you love seeing highlights efficiently, this could be perfect.

This tour is especially good for those who appreciate photography, wildlife spotting, and historical landmarks. It’s also a great choice for travelers keen to explore the coast without the hassle of planning every stop themselves.

Key Points

• Reverse itinerary helps you avoid crowds at popular sites and catch the best light for photos
• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and comfortable travel
• Wildlife encounters with koalas, kangaroos, and parrots add a fun, natural touch
• Cultural highlights like Split Point Lighthouse and Memorial Arch offer a glimpse into local history
• Flexible options like reserve now, pay later, and full refund for cancellations
• Ideal for photography lovers wanting optimal lighting and fewer travelers at key sites

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Along the Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous scenic drives, known for dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, and iconic formations like the Twelve Apostles. With this tour, we found that the reverse itinerary truly offers an advantage. Starting later in the day means you’re hitting the major attractions when they’re less crowded, and the lighting conditions are usually better for photos.

Loch Ard Gorge: A Dramatic Natural Wonder

Your first stop is Loch Ard Gorge, a site that’s as visually striking as it is historically significant. This spot, named after the shipwreck that occurred nearby, features towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Many reviews highlight how the timing of the visit allows for quieter moments and better photo opportunities. We loved the way the gorge’s rugged beauty framed the sky, especially during the golden hour.

Expect to spend some time exploring, taking photos, and soaking in the natural power of the site. The guide typically provides background stories, making the visit both scenic and educational.

The Twelve Apostles: A Classic, But Better at the Right Time

Next up are the Twelve Apostles, the highlight of any Great Ocean Road trip. Thanks to the later start, you’ll arrive when the crowds have thinned out, and the sunlight casts a warm glow on the limestone stacks. Several guests rave about seeing these famous formations in fewer travelers’ selfies and more in their own photographs, which really enhances the experience.

You’ll get enough free time here to walk around and snap those iconic shots without feeling rushed. Plus, the guide often shares interesting tidbits about their formation and history, making the visit more than just a photo op.

Wildlife and Forests: Kennett River

A special feature of this tour is the chance to see native Australian wildlife up close. Kennett River is known for its eucalyptus forests, where koalas rest in the trees and native birds sing melodies. Many reviews mention sightings of koalas and kangaroos that you might not see on other tours.

We loved the authenticity of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat — it’s quite an experience to see koalas just hanging out in the trees, and the bird songs add to the peaceful vibe. The group usually stops here for some photos, and the guide is keen to point out different species.

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Apollo Bay: A Laid-back Coastal Town

Midday, you’ll arrive at Apollo Bay, a charming seaside village perfect for a relaxed lunch. The tour typically includes a late lunch around 3 PM, giving you time to enjoy fresh regional seafood or other local specialties. Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the opportunity to unwind, as well as the quality of the food options.

Historic Landmarks & Scenic Spots

In the afternoon, the tour visits the historic Split Point Lighthouse, built in 1891. The lighthouse is a visual icon and a nice photo stop. Another highlight is the Memorial Arch at Eastern View, which pays homage to the soldiers who built the road and is a popular photo spot.

Later, a stop at Split Point Lookout provides expansive views of the coast, perfect for panoramic shots and soaking in the scenery.

The Coastal Highlights & Final Wildlife Spot

The last wildlife stop is at Kennett River again, giving you another chance to see koalas or parrots. Many travelers appreciate the consistent wildlife sightings, often remarking on the joy of spotting these animals in the wild rather than in captivity.

The day wraps up with convenient drop-offs at various locations in Melbourne—Southbank, Docklands, Spencer Street, or CBD—making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

Why This Tour Works Well

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendliness, humor, and ability to convey the stories behind the sights. Many reviews mention guides like William, Philippe, Allan, and Philip, all of whom seem to go above and beyond in making the day memorable.

The comfort of the Mercedes minibus is also a frequent highlight. The vehicle’s air conditioning and cozy seats make the long drive more pleasant, especially since there are some lengthy stretches of road. Traveling in a smaller group means you get more personalized attention and flexibility, which many guests value.

Considerations and Downsides

While the tour is packed with stops and sights, some reviews, like one from Charis, note that it can feel a bit rushed, especially around lunch and beach walks. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, be prepared for a busy day. The itinerary also involves a good amount of driving, about three hours just to get to the main sites, so expect some long periods on the bus.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, which is worth considering if mobility is a concern. It’s a full-day adventure that demands a fair bit of walking and standing.

Price & Value

With the option to reserve now and pay later, the tour offers flexibility, and many reviews mention it’s “great value for money.” For around 13 hours of guided sightseeing, you’re paying for a well-organized, scenic, wildlife-rich experience with expert guides. The inclusion of wildlife sightings, cultural landmarks, and prime photography spots makes it a worthwhile investment for many.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour appeals most to photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers who want an efficient, well-curated experience of the Great Ocean Road without the hassle of planning. It’s a solid choice if you enjoy a full day of sightseeing, don’t mind a bit of a pace, and value engaging guides who bring the locations to life.

If you’re traveling with children or need a more relaxed itinerary, you might find the schedule a little tight. However, the wildlife stops and scenic vistas could still make it an enjoyable family day out with some prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who want to avoid crowds?
Yes. The reverse itinerary is designed specifically to help you visit key sites like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge when they are less busy, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring snacks to supplement the included lunch, as the schedule is tight and a late lunch at 3 PM may not be enough for everyone. Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are also recommended.

How long is the drive to the main sights?
The drive to the starting point takes about three hours, but the entire tour involves many stops along the coast, making the journey part of the experience.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While wildlife sightings are common and many guests report seeing koalas and kangaroos, they are in the wild, so sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility adds some peace of mind to your planning.

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and standing at various stops.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a Mercedes minibus, an experienced guide, and visits to major landmarks. Food and drinks in the vehicle are not allowed, but lunch and entrance fees are typically included.

How scenic are the stops?
The stops at Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, and scenic lookouts are truly stunning, especially when the lighting is right. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the views are, often saying they exceeded expectations.

Final Thoughts

The Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Premium Reverse Tour & London Bridge offers a thoughtfully organized, scenic, wildlife-infused day out that balances natural beauty with cultural touches. Its reverse itinerary is a smart way to beat crowds and enjoy prime photo moments. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable and engaging way to explore one of Australia’s most famous coastlines.

If you’re after a full, active day that covers all the major highlights with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife encounters, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a guided experience that maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or need accessibility options, you might consider other tours or private arrangements. For most travelers looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day with excellent value, this tour hits the right notes.

Happy travels, and enjoy the stunning views along Australia’s coast!

You can check availability for your dates here: