Private Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Experience

Thinking about ticking off the Great Ocean Road from your bucket list? This private tour offers a flexible way to soak in some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery without the big-group hustle. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on the details and reviews, it looks like a thoughtfully planned day that balances highlights with some quieter moments.

What we genuinely like about this experience is how it hits all the major landmarks—the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Gibson Steps—while also giving you a chance to walk through lush rainforests and explore charming towns. The inclusion of a private group means you can expect a more personalized and relaxed vibe, especially compared to crowded bus tours.

A possible consideration is the timing at Gibson Steps, which is only accessible at low tide—so you’ll want to check tide times beforehand to make the most of that stop. Also, with a full day packed into approximately 11 hours, it’s a fairly long outing, so comfort and stamina may matter.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of iconic sights and natural beauty, enjoy guided commentary, and prefer a more intimate, flexible experience over large-group excursions.

Key Points

• Private group setting means a more tailored experience and less crowding.
• Iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge deliver unforgettable coastal views.
• Flexible timing allows you to visit quieter lookouts and avoid the busiest times.
• Includes rainforest walk at Maits Rest, offering a lush break from coastal scenery.
• Requires some planning around tide times for Gibson Steps to maximize access.
• A full-day tour that balances sightseeing with enough time to soak it all in.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary & What It Means for You

Starting in Melbourne

Your day begins with a pickup in Melbourne, making it convenient to start your adventure without fuss. Since it’s a private tour, you can likely coordinate a pickup time that suits your schedule. The drive out of the city is the first chance to relax and get excited about what’s ahead.

Small Town Charm at Winchelsea & Barwon Park Mansion

Your first stop is in Winchelsea, where you’ll get a quick look at Barwon Park Mansion from the outside. It’s a good moment to stretch your legs, grab a photo, and enjoy a glimpse of local architecture. You might find that this quiet town gives a gentle start to your day before hitting the coast.

Scenic Drive & Coastal Views

The journey to the coast can take different routes—either through Colac or inland, depending on weather and traffic. This flexibility in route planning is useful and can mean fewer delays or crowds. The drive itself offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and chat with your guide about the area.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Twelve Apostles

This is the star of the show. From the main viewing platform, you’ll get a close-up look at those iconic limestone stacks rising from the sea. The tour advises arriving early or choosing quieter lookouts to beat the midday crowds, which is smart—these spots get busy quickly.

Gibson Steps

Walking down to the beach at Gibson Steps is a highlight, giving you a chance to look up at the sheer sea cliffs and take some dramatic photos. Remember, access depends on tide times, so it’s worth checking beforehand. The steps are a short walk, but the experience of standing beneath those towering cliffs is pretty special.

Loch Ard Gorge & Razorback

Next, the tour takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs and deep blue waters. Here, you can learn about the famous shipwreck (the Loch Ard) and walk along trails like the Razorback and Tom and Eva Lookout. These spots are perfect for snapping photos or simply taking in the raw, rugged beauty.

Maits Rest Rainforest Walk

A refreshing change of pace comes with a walk through the rainforest at Maits Rest. The wooden boardwalk guides you through lush ferns and towering trees—an inviting contrast to the coastal landscapes. It’s an easy walk, accessible for most, and offers a peaceful moment amidst nature.

Return to Melbourne

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will bring you back to Melbourne, tired but filled with memories of one of Australia’s most scenic drives.

The Value of This Tour

While the price isn’t specified here, this tour’s value largely depends on the personalized experience it offers. With private group access, you won’t be stuck in crowded buses or fighting for photo spots. Instead, you get the flexibility to linger at spots that catch your eye, and your guide’s insights add a layer of depth to each location.

The inclusion of both popular landmarks and a rainforest walk strikes a good balance, catering to those who want both coastal drama and lush greenery. Since the stops are carefully timed and spread out, it means you’ll have enough time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed.

On top of that, the guide’s ability to tailor the timing—like avoiding the busiest times at the Twelve Apostles or choosing quieter lookouts—can significantly enhance your experience. Plus, the tour is conducted in English, with multilingual guides available, which helps make everyone feel comfortable.

Practical considerations

Make sure to bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera to capture the scenery. As some sites depend on tide schedules, a quick check of tide times for Gibson Steps is recommended. The tour also emphasizes weather-appropriate clothing, which is wise given Victoria’s changeable conditions.

Who is this for?

If you’re a traveler who prefers a more intimate and flexible way to explore the coast, this private tour is an excellent pick. It’s suitable for those who want to see the main sights but also enjoy some quiet moments in nature. The full-day format suits those comfortable with a long day on the move, and it’s not specifically tailored for families or children, but older kids and teenagers would likely enjoy the adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Private Great Ocean Road & 12 Apostles Experience seems like a carefully curated way to see one of Australia’s most stunning coastal areas without the crowds and stress of larger tours. Its highlights—like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and rainforest walk—are genuinely memorable and well-chosen to give a comprehensive taste of the region.

What really stands out is the guide’s potential for providing insightful commentary and helping you avoid the peak crowds. That personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable one. The flexibility around timing and route adds value, especially for travelers who appreciate a customized experience.

On the downside, the tour is a long day, which might be tiring for some. Also, since access to Gibson Steps depends on tide times, you’ll want to plan ahead. But overall, if you’re after a relaxed, intimate, and scenic journey along the coast, this could be a great way to do it.

Whether you’re visiting Victoria for the first time or looking to revisit iconic sights with a more personal touch, this tour offers a solid balance of highlights and tranquil moments—perfect for making the most of your day on the Great Ocean Road.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the stops like the rainforest walk are easy and accessible. Older children and teenagers who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor exploration will likely enjoy it.

How long is the total drive from Melbourne?
The tour starts in Melbourne and returns there after about 11 hours, including all sightseeing stops. The drive itself is part of the experience, with a portion spent traveling between sites.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. Remember to check tide times if you want to visit Gibson Steps.

Can I customize the timing or stops?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You might be able to discuss timing and focus on spots that interest you most with your guide.

What is the guide’s language?
Guides are available in English, Gujarati, Hindi, and Punjabi, providing options for a comfortable and informative experience in your preferred language.

Is this tour good for avoiding crowds?
Yes, the itinerary and timing suggestions aim to help you beat the midday rush, especially at popular spots like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

In short, if you’re after a thoughtfully paced, flexible way to experience the wild beauty of Victoria’s coastline, this private tour offers a lot. It balances iconic sights with natural serenity, all while providing a more personal touch that larger tours can’t match.

You can check availability for your dates here: