PREMIUM Great Ocean RD Tour REVRS-Dlux MINIBUS-Hotel PickUP

Thinking about visiting the iconic Great Ocean Road? If so, you’ve probably seen the usual photos and heard the stories. This Premium Great Ocean Road Tour by TOURS AROUND MELBOURNE offers a twist — it travels in reverse to help you beat the crowds and enjoy the sights with a more relaxed pace. As someone who’s seen many tours and read countless reviews, I find this approach quite appealing for those wanting pristine photos and less rush in what’s often a busy tourist spot.

What we really like about this experience is how it prioritizes comfort and access. The small, deluxe minibus ensures you’re not crammed in with strangers, and the reverse route gives you an early-start advantage at major attractions like the Twelve Apostles. Plus, the guided rainforest walk in Otway National Park adds a genuine touch of nature that many tours miss. The only potential downside? The long hours—this is a full-day trip, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a more leisurely or less packed schedule.

All in all, this tour probably suits travelers who want to see the highlights without the crowds, appreciate a knowledgeable guide, and don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s especially worthwhile if you’re after stunning photos, wildlife encounters, and a smooth ride.

Key Points

• Reverse itinerary helps beat the crowds at the popular sights.
• Small group size enhances comfort and personalized attention.
• Expert guides make the experience more informative and fun.
• Wildlife sightings like koalas and kangaroos are common and memorable.
• Luxury minibus offers a relaxed, comfortable ride for the entire day.
• The tour includes a rainforest walk, providing a natural escape.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Food and certain stops are at your own expense, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Booking and Pickup Process

One of the first things to note is how straightforward the process is. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Melbourne, with the exact time confirmed a day before. The tour provider emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to reserve now and pay later — a plus if your plans aren’t yet set. The small group size (limited to 13 passengers) means not only a more intimate experience but also easier coordination for pickups and stops.

The Journey Begins: A Different Way to See the Coast

The key feature of this tour is its reverse route. While most tours head directly to the coast in the morning, this one starts inland at Colac. This means you beat the crowds to the main attractions like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. As one reviewer put it, “the reverse itinerary worked well,” allowing for more exclusive photos and a more relaxed visit. Starting early is a big advantage—by the time the buses arrive later in the day, the main spots can be crowded and less photogenic.

The First Stop: Colac for Breakfast and Coffee

Before hitting the sights, there’s a quick stop in Colac for breakfast, coffee, or a stretch. It’s a casual way to prepare for the day, and you can pick up snacks or drinks (cost not included). Many travelers appreciate the chance to wake up properly before a busy day of sightseeing.

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Iconic Sights: Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

The highlight for most is the Twelve Apostles. This iconic limestone formation is stunning at any time, but arriving early on this tour means fewer people and better photos. One reviewer called it “stunning,” and many noted how magnified the experience felt without crowds. Plus, the guide provides insightful commentary, making the scenery more meaningful.

Loch Ard Gorge is another major highlight. It’s a place rich with history, thanks to the shipwreck story, and offers a gorgeous beach landscape. Visitors often spend a good chunk of time here, wandering the beach and snapping pictures. The tour’s 40-minute stop allows you to soak in the natural beauty and learn about the tragic shipwreck that lends the gorge its name.

Exploring the Rainforest at Otway National Park

A real distinguishing feature of this tour is the visit to Great Otway National Park for a 20-minute rainforest walk. This is a refreshing change from the coastal scenery and gives you a chance to connect with nature. Travelers who love greenery, birds, and wildlife will especially enjoy this part, and many reviews emphasize the quality of the guide’s commentary during this walk.

Wildlife Encounters

Speaking of wildlife, the tour’s stops at Kennett River and other points often result in sightings of koalas, kangaroos, and various native birds. Reviewers frequently mention seeing sleeping koalas and kangaroos in the wild, which can be a highlight for nature lovers. The guide actively looks out for these animals and shares facts that bring the experience to life.

Lunch at Apollo Bay or Port Campbell

Lunchtime is flexible — you can choose to eat in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell, with a stop lasting around 50 minutes. This is your time to relax, explore the town, or grab a quick bite on your own. Many find this a good break, although some mention that the stops could be a little rushed. Still, it’s a decent amount of time to stretch and refuel.

Scenic Coast Drive and Additional Stops

On the return journey, the tour follows the coast along the Great Ocean Road, offering more stunning views and photo opportunities. Expect to see the Razorback rock formation, Gibson Steps, and more coastlines. The tour also includes a secret wildlife stop, adding an element of surprise. Reviewers love these moments, especially when they get to see more animals or enjoy quieter, less touristy spots.

Ending at the Memorial Arch and Final Stops

The last scenic stop at the Memorial Arch is a popular photo spot, and the tour wraps up near Melbourne’s Immigration Museum. This close-to-home ending makes it convenient to continue exploring the city after a full day on the road.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• The reverse route is a game-changer for those wanting to avoid crowds and get better photos early in the day.
• Small group size makes the experience feel more personal and less rushed.
• Knowledgeable guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, humor, and storytelling skills.
• Wildlife sightings aren’t just incidental; they’re a genuine part of the experience.
• The luxury minibus ensures comfort despite the long hours, with many reviews indicating the bus was modern and clean.
• The inclusion of a rainforest walk and multiple scenic stops provides a well-rounded experience of Victoria’s natural beauty.

Price and Value

While the tour is a full-day experience, it’s often noted as excellent value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and exclusive access to sights early in the morning. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the chaos of large groups or crowded spots.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prioritize comfort, wildlife encounters, and avoiding crowds. It’s ideal for those who want a full, engaging day with a knowledgeable guide who makes the trip both fun and informative. If you’re after a relaxed pace, plenty of photo opportunities, and the chance to see koalas and kangaroos in the wild, this tour fits the bill. Keep in mind, it’s a long day—so if you prefer a shorter or more leisurely trip, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a thoughtfully designed adventure that takes you through the highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the crowds, this tour offers a compelling choice. The small group, luxury transport, and early start make it a particularly appealing option for those who value quality over quantity. The guides’ knowledge, combined with wildlife sightings and stunning scenery, ensures you’ll leave with plenty of memories.

While the long hours might seem daunting, many reviews speak to the enjoyment of such a full day — especially with a great guide making every moment engaging. This tour is especially good if you’re visiting Melbourne and want an accessible, well-organized way to experience one of Australia’s most iconic coastlines.

For travelers who want a smooth, enriching, and wildlife-filled day, this tour delivers in every aspect. Just be prepared for a full day on the road, and you’ll likely find it worth every minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-oriented, it’s generally suitable if your kids can handle a long day of travel. The small bus and scenic stops make it manageable, but it’s best for children who won’t mind sitting for extended periods.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them. These items will help you enjoy the outdoor stops and wildlife watching.

Are there any meal options included?
No, meals are not included. You can purchase breakfast in Colac or lunch at Apollo Bay or Port Campbell. The stops give you time to explore local cafes or grab snacks.

How long is the total driving time?
The tour includes about 1.5 hours to Colac, plus additional scenic drives and stops, making for a long but scenic day. The entire trip is designed to maximize sightseeing while keeping comfort in mind.

What are the main attractions I will see?
You’ll visit the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay, Kennett River, and other scenic coastlines and wildlife spots.

Is the tour eco-friendly or sustainable?
The tour emphasizes natural scenery and wildlife viewing, but specific sustainability practices aren’t detailed. However, the small group size helps reduce environmental impact.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

How do I know what time I’ll be picked up?
Pickup times are confirmed a day before the tour, making it easy to plan your departure from Melbourne.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Early access to sites like the Twelve Apostles means fewer people and better lighting, ideal for capturing memorable shots.

If you’re after a well-organized, wildlife-rich, crowd-avoiding day exploring the Great Ocean Road, this tour ticks many boxes. With friendly guides, comfortable transport, and stunning scenery, it’s a strong option for a memorable Victoria adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: