From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full-Day Guided Trip

Planning a trip from Melbourne and considering a day trip along the legendary Great Ocean Road? You’re in good company—this iconic coastal drive is one of Australia’s top experiences, packed with amazing scenery, wildlife, and stories. We’ve taken a close look at the popular full-day guided tour offered by Bunyip Tours to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with informative guides and great value. The stops at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and rainforests are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Plus, traveling in comfortable, air-conditioned buses makes a long day much easier. However, it’s worth noting that with a packed schedule and a 14-hour duration, it can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger at certain spots.

This tour caters well to those who want a rundown without the hassle of driving themselves. Perfect for first-timers, nature lovers, or anyone eager to see the highlights of this world-famous coastline in one go. If you’re okay with a full day on the road and enjoy engaging guides, this experience should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience with engaging stories and insights
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned coaches for the entire day
• Stunning stops like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Rainforest Walk
• Wildlife sightings including koalas in their natural habitat
• Flexible options like helicopter rides (offered as optional extras)
• Long but rewarding day, with return around 8:30–9:30 PM

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Full-Day Tour

If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see the most iconic parts of the Great Ocean Road, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s designed to give you a taste of everything—nature, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas—without the need to rent a car or plan multiple stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with pickups at six convenient Melbourne locations, from the stylish Crown Promenade to the historic Hotel Windsor. After boarding your coach, you’ll settle in for about 1.5 hours of travel through scenic routes that set the tone for the day.

First stop: Torquay. Here, you get to enjoy a relaxed morning tea by the beach, watching surfers carve through the waves while the sun warms the sand. It’s a gentle start that immediately immerses you in the coastal vibe.

Next, you’ll visit the Memorial Arch at Eastern View, the famous gateway to the Great Ocean Road. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a symbolic start to your adventure. The lush greenery surrounding the arch hints at the lush landscapes ahead.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

A highlight for many travelers is Kennet River, where you have about 20 minutes to try spotting koalas in their natural habitat. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and touching it is to see these iconic animals lounging lazily in the trees—if luck is on your side.

From there, you’ll enjoy more scenic views at various lookouts along the coast, where you can snap photos of the rugged cliffs meeting the ocean. Expect breathtaking vistas as you pass along the winding road, with plenty of opportunities to capture memories.

Lunch and Rainforest Walk

Apollo Bay offers a chance to stretch your legs and grab lunch (at your own expense). Many opt for fresh seafood, with the bay’s calm waters providing a scenic backdrop. It’s a real treat to enjoy local flavors after a morning of sightseeing.

Post-lunch, the tour heads into the Maits Rest Rainforest, where you’ll take a guided walk through towering trees, lush ferns, and cool, shaded paths. This peaceful walk provides a welcome break from the bus, and many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the forest’s flora and fauna.

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The Main Attractions: 12 Apostles, Gibson Steps, and Loch Ard Gorge

The 12 Apostles are undoubtedly the star of the show. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, giving you enough time to marvel at these limestone stacks, take photos, and walk around the viewing platforms. Many reviews note how spectacular the scenery is, even if some viewing platforms are out of action at times. One reviewer highlighted that the time at the Apostles allows for a quick walk to Gibson’s Steps for a closer look.

Gibson Steps lets you walk down to the beach and feel the size and power of the waves crashing against the cliffs. It’s an exhilarating spot, and many guests find it a worthwhile addition to the visit.

Finally, the day wraps up at Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning location with turquoise waters, steep cliffs, and stories of shipwrecks that add a layer of history to the natural beauty. Reviewers consistently mention this as a highlight—an almost cinematic ending to a long day.

The Return Journey

After Loch Ard Gorge, the bus heads back inland for about an hour before a brief stop in Colac for dinner (own expense). The return trip to Melbourne takes roughly 1.5 hours, and the tour concludes at your original pickup points between 8:30 and 9:30 PM.

The Experience of Traveling with Bunyip Tours

From the feedback we’ve seen, guides make or break this kind of trip. Fortunately, reviews praise guides like Bree, Lisa, and Aaron for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to go the extra mile. One guest even mentioned a helicopter ride over the 12 Apostles as an optional add-on, which many found worth the extra cost.

The buses are described as comfortable and well-organized, although some mention that the vehicle can feel cramped for taller travelers. The tour is long—14 hours—but many reviewers say it’s worth it for the depth and variety of sights covered.

What about the price and value?

While the tour isn’t cheap, considering the transport, guided commentary, and included stops, many feel it offers good value. The fact that you get to see all the major sights in one day is a big plus for those with limited time in Melbourne.

Who should consider this tour?

If you’re after a hassle-free, guided adventure that covers the highlights without the stress of driving or planning, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited to those who want a relaxed but rundown of the coast, wildlife, and iconic landmarks.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

Absolutely, especially if you love nature, scenery, and stories. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which can really elevate the experience. The stops are well-chosen, and the scenery—the majestic Twelve Apostles, the tranquil rainforests, and the dramatic coast—is hard to beat.

The only possible downside is the long day and the fact that at times, some viewing spots may be crowded or out of action. If you prefer to linger or explore at your own pace, a self-drive might be better. But for most, this tour hits a great balance between seeing the highlights and having everything taken care of.

In sum, it’s an excellent way to get a full taste of the Great Ocean Road, especially if you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group. You’ll come away with fantastic memories and plenty of photos to prove it.

FAQ – Your Practical Questions Answered

How many pickup locations are available?
There are six convenient pickup points in Melbourne, including major hotels and the Crown Promenade.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, a charged smartphone, weather-appropriate clothes, a power bank, and a credit card for lunch or extras.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, and Apollo Bay is the designated stopping point for a break and meal.

How long is the whole tour?
Approximately 14 hours, with return between 8:30 and 9:30 PM.

Are the buses comfortable?
Yes, most reviews mention the buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, though some feel a bit cramped for taller travelers.

Can I see koalas during the trip?
Yes, at Kennett River, you might spot koalas in their natural habitat—many guests find this a special moment.

Can I do extra activities like helicopter rides?
Yes, some optional extras like helicopter tours are available and highly recommended by previous travelers.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the information doesn’t specify, it’s generally a full-day experience best suited for older children and adults.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour conducted in other languages?
All tours are in English, but written and recorded info in 16 languages is available via the free app onboard Wi-Fi.

In closing, this guided trip combines stunning scenery, engaging guides, and the convenience of organized transport. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the stress of planning, especially if you’re short on time or prefer an informative approach. Just be prepared for a long day, and you’ll likely come home with a camera full of memories and a smile on your face.

You can check availability for your dates here: