Great Ocean Road Tour Reverse SML GRP-DLUX Mini Bus Hotel Pickup

Exploring the Great Ocean Road with a Small-Group Reverse Tour from Melbourne

If you’re planning to visit Melbourne and want to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives, this Great Ocean Road Tour in Reverse might catch your eye. It’s highly rated, averaging 5 stars from over 900 reviews, with almost everyone recommending it. The tour promises a full day of breathtaking scenery, interesting stops, and a comfortable ride—all in a small-group setting that keeps things intimate and flexible.

What really draws us to this experience are two things in particular: the reverse itinerary that gets you to the Twelve Apostles first, often before the crowds arrive, and the luxury, mini-bus transport that makes the long day feel more relaxed. Plus, the option to add a helicopter ride over the Apostles adds a WOW factor that many will love. The downside? It’s a 12-hour day, so it’s not ideal if you’re not used to full-day excursions or traveling with young children. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this could be right up your alley.

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet comfortable way to see the coast, especially those who prefer a small-group vibe over big tour buses. If you’re after stunning photo opportunities, interesting stories, and a chance to see local wildlife like koalas and kangaroos, then this tour has a lot to offer. Just be prepared for a day packed with sightseeing—long, but worth every minute.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and less crowding at popular spots.
• Reverse itinerary means you visit the Twelve Apostles first, avoiding the crowds and catching the best light in the morning.
• Comfortable luxury transport with USB ports and air conditioning keeps you relaxed during the long drive.
• Flexible meeting points in Melbourne CBD/Southbank make it easy to start your day.
• Multiple stops provide ample time for photography and exploring, with many reviews praising the well-planned schedule.
• Extra options like helicopter rides add a memorable, high-adrenaline touch to the day.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Meeting Up and Departure

Starting bright and early, the tour departs from 400 Flinders Street at around 6:50 am, with hotel pickup available in Melbourne CBD and Southbank. The small group—capped at 22 travelers—makes for a more relaxed vibe than big bus trips. You can expect to be greeted by a professional driver-guide who will keep things engaging throughout the day.

The convenience of hotel pickup is a big plus, meaning you don’t have to worry about finding a meeting point or navigating Melbourne’s busy streets early in the morning. Since the trip includes bottled water and USB charging ports, you’ll stay refreshed and connected without needing to bring your own charger or snacks.

Transportation Comfort

Travel happens in a luxury, air-conditioned mini-coach, which means more space to stretch out compared to standard tour buses. As some reviews noted, the vehicle’s comfort plays a significant role in making such a long day manageable. The driver (many praise Bill or Steve, depending on your guide) is not only knowledgeable but also friendly and humorous, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s reverse route begins with an early stop in Colac, a charming rural town where you can grab breakfast or morning tea at your own expense. This sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead. After that, the first big highlight is the Twelve Apostles—the iconic limestone stacks that have become a symbol of Australia’s rugged coastline.

The Twelve Apostles are best seen in the morning light, and many reviews mention that starting with this stop allows for fewer crowds and better photos. You’ll spend approximately 45 minutes here, plenty of time to take in the views, snap photos, and even opt for the optional helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view of the formations (additional cost).

Next, the tour takes you to Loch Ard Gorge and Tom and Eva Lookout, where you’ll learn about the famous shipwreck that gave the Gorge its name. Sightings of the site’s dramatic cliffs and history are frequent highlights, and travelers often mention how captivating these views are.

From there, you’ll explore The Razorback, a long, sharply eroded rock formation that showcases the power of wind and water. Its jagged profile makes for striking photos.

The trip also includes a scenic drive through Port Campbell National Park, where you’ll see some of the coast’s most dramatic landscapes. The next stop, Melba Gully National Park, offers a rainforest environment that’s notable for being one of Victoria’s wettest spots, full of lush plant life like Myrtle Beech, Blackwood, and Tree-ferns. Visitors report that the rainforest adds a peaceful contrast to the coastal scenery.

Lunch and Wildlife

In Apollo Bay, you’ll have about 40 minutes for lunch, with many cafes and restaurants offering local fare. It’s a good chance to relax and recharge. Following lunch, the tour resumes with a visit to Kennet River, where you might spot iconic Australian animals such as koalas and kangaroos—an experience many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the day.

The Iconic Drive and Final Stops

The journey along the Great Ocean Road itself is a highlight, renowned for its rugged beauty and often-changing landscapes. Many reviewers note that the reverse itinerary offers a unique perspective, with the ocean on your right side on the return trip, providing spectacular views and photo ops.

The tour ends in the town of Anglesea, a lively seaside spot, before returning to Melbourne and concluding at 400 Flinders Street. The last stop at the Immigration Museum is just a quick visit, with easy access to Melbourne’s tram and train network for your onward journey.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—many mention guides like Steve, Bill, or Jay as personable, funny, and full of interesting stories. The trip’s value for money is also a common theme, especially considering the many stops, entry fees, bottled water, and guide service included.

A standout feature is the extra time at each stop, thanks to the reverse route, which many say allows for more relaxed exploration and better photos. For example, one reviewer noted, “Since this is a reverse tour, you will get to the Twelve Apostles first, they are stunning in the morning, and then you get to enjoy the scenic drive back with ocean views on your right. It’s a smart way to avoid crowds.”

Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers mention the length of the day—about 12 hours—which can be tiring, especially for those not accustomed to long tours. It’s also worth noting that meals are not included, so you’ll need to budget for breakfast, lunch, or snacks. Plus, the tour is not explicitly described as family-friendly, so if you’re traveling with very young children, you might want to consider their stamina for such a full day.

Weather can also impact the experience—if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour’s flexibility and good communication seem to handle these concerns well.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized day of sightseeing without the hassle of driving or navigating. It’s perfect if you’re after that once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity at the Twelve Apostles, and appreciate small-group intimacy with a guide who shares stories and local insights. It suits those prepared for a full day out, especially if they enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of time at each stop.

If you’re after a more flexible, laid-back experience and don’t mind the long hours, this tour offers fantastic value. However, if you’re traveling with very young kids, or prefer a shorter or less physically demanding trip, it might be worth considering other options.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Melbourne CBD and Southbank hotels, making it easy to start your day without extra fuss.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, including all stops, driving, and breaks.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 22 travelers, which helps keep things personal and less crowded.

Can I add a helicopter ride?
Yes, the helicopter over the Twelve Apostles can be booked for an extra charge—many find it a worthwhile upgrade for the stunning aerial views.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in Apollo Bay.

What should I bring?
Bring walking shoes, a camera, layers for weather changes, and any personal essentials. Bottled water is provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly described as family-focused, older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing might enjoy it. Keep in mind the length of the day.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A luxury, air-conditioned mini-coach with USB ports, offering a comfortable ride for the long hours.

What makes the reverse itinerary special?
Starting with the Twelve Apostles reduces crowding and allows for better photos in the morning light, plus it offers a different scenic perspective during the return drive.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered the chance to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full, scenic day with an expert guide, good company, and the chance to see the highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the stress of driving, this small-group reverse tour offers excellent value. The combination of well-planned stops, a comfortable vehicle, and the opportunity for memorable photos makes it a strong choice for most travelers.

While it’s a long day, many reviews confirm that the stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and special touches—like extra time at key sites—make it worth every minute. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Aussie traveler, this tour provides a comprehensive, enjoyable way to experience one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.

Happy travels, and enjoy your adventure along the Great Ocean Road!