From Melbourne: Twelve Apostles, Back Roads Gourmet Day Tour

Exploring Victoria’s coast often means battling crowds and rushing through highlights—unless you opt for this thoughtfully curated day tour by Oceania Tours & Safaris. We’ve come across reviews that praise its well-organized nature, knowledgeable guides, and authentic local experiences, making it clear this trip offers more than just the usual postcard shots.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it combines stunning natural scenery with delicious local treats like cheese, fudge, and chocolates—perfect for food lovers. Second, it takes you off the beaten path, revealing hidden spots that most travelers miss. Lastly, the balance of time — not too rushed, with an early return — means you get an authentic, relaxed experience without sacrificing comfort.

One thing to consider is that the tour is geared toward a medium-sized group, which is great for socializing but might feel a bit crowded if you prefer solitude. Also, children under 3 are not allowed, so family travelers will need older kids. This is a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines scenic beauty, local flavor, and expert storytelling—perfect for first-timers and seasoned explorers alike.

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Key Points

Stunning coastal scenery including the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge
Authentic local food tastings such as cheese, fudge, and chocolates
Comfortable transportation with hotel pickups and a well-organized itinerary
Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with stories and insights
Early return allows for relaxed evening plans
Value for money at $119 per person, considering included tastings, park fees, and a light lunch

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A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Melbourne? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting the Day: Convenient Hotel Pickups & Comfort

The journey begins early, with pickups from four central Melbourne hotels—Windsor Hotel, Rendezvous, Hotel Indigo, and Mercure Southbank. This means no wandering around trying to find your departure point, which is a huge plus for travelers with tight schedules or those staying downtown. The tour vehicle is described as comfortable, and the group size is medium, striking a good balance between intimacy and social vibe.

First Stop: Chocolate Degustation and Brunch

The day kicks off with a visit to a local chocolate producer for a tasting session and a late brunch. This isn’t just a quick sweet nibble; it’s a chance to enjoy artisan chocolates crafted locally, setting a delightful tone for the day. As one guest shared, “Loved the stops for cheese, chocolate, and fudge tasting,” which highlights how these treats are woven into the experience seamlessly.

The Twelve Apostles and Scenic Marvels

Next, the tour heads directly to the iconic Twelve Apostles, one of Australia’s most photographed natural wonders. We love how the tour doesn’t just stop for a quick photo but allows ample time to soak in the views—an aspect travelers highly appreciated, as echoed in reviews praising the “breathtaking views over the Southern Ocean.” The timing is carefully managed so you can appreciate the spectacle without feeling rushed.

Nearby, the Loch Ard Gorge offers a more intimate look at geological history and the story of a famous shipwreck—an element that adds depth and storytelling to the experience. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and stories are sure to captivate history buffs and nature lovers alike.

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Other Natural Wonders: London Bridge, The Gorge & Bay of Islands

The itinerary continues with stops at London Bridge, known for its striking rock formations and history of partial collapses, and the Bay of Islands, which offers sweeping views. The inclusion of these spots means travelers get a comprehensive look at the coastline’s diversity, from rugged cliffs to tranquil bays.

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Tasting at a Dairy Farm

One of the highlights, based on reviews, is the visit to a dairy farm for cheese tastings. This authentic farm experience offers a chance to sample local cheeses and learn about regional dairy farming. It’s a real treat for foodies and those wanting a genuine taste of rural Victoria.

Sweet Endings: Fudge Tasting & Relaxed Drive Back

The tour wraps up with a fudge degustation—another sweet highlight that many reviewers found addictive. The friendly guides often talk about how these tastings add flavor not just to the palate but also to the storytelling, creating memorable moments.

The return drive to Melbourne is early enough that you’ll be back in the city with plenty of time to explore dinner options or relax after a full day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $119 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, park fees, and numerous tastings. Considering the cost of individual attractions, food tastings, and the guided experience, it’s highly competitive. The small group size ensures personalized attention and more flexibility in exploring each site, which enhances the overall experience.

The inclusion of local treats and visits to lesser-known spots adds value beyond typical tours. The tour’s pacing—carefully balancing sightseeing with tasting and storytelling—means you’ll leave feeling fulfilled without exhaustion.

What Travelers Can Expect at Each Stop

Chocolate Tastings & Brunch: You’ll start your day indulging in artisan chocolates, paired with a light brunch to energize you for the day ahead. It’s a relaxing way to set the tone, with friendly staff guiding tastings.

Twelve Apostles & Loch Ard Gorge: Expect ample time for photos and to take in the scenery. The guides often share stories about the formations and the shipwreck, making the visit not just scenic but educational.

London Bridge & the Gorge: These spots showcase the rugged coastline and geological marvels. The guides often highlight interesting facts about the formations’ origins and changes over time.

Bay of Islands: Here, the views stretch for miles, with opportunities to take stunning photos and enjoy some quiet moments away from crowds.

Dairy Farm & Fudge Tasting: Authentic farm visits where you can see the production process and sample fresh cheeses and fudge—perfect for foodies.

The Guide & Group Dynamics

Guests consistently praise their guides—especially Burt, who’s described as very knowledgeable and engaging. The guides enhance the experience with local stories, making each stop more meaningful. The group size is large enough to create a lively atmosphere but small enough for personalized attention.

Timing & Pacing

The tour lasts roughly 9.5 hours, which is well-balanced to avoid fatigue. The early start and return facilitate evening plans, and the quick yet comprehensive itinerary ensures you see key sights without feeling hurried.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip from Melbourne is excellent for those wanting to see the coast without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves. Food lovers will appreciate the tastings, while nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the scenic stops. The knowledgeable guides add an extra layer of enjoyment, sharing stories and context that bring each location alive.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, a relaxed pace, and a well-rounded mixture of sightseeing and local flavor. If you prefer small groups and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re after a more private or ultra-flexible experience, or traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a balanced, value-packed day with memorable highlights, this tour offers genuine quality and fun.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs are included at four centrally located Melbourne hotels, making it very convenient.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals provided?
You’ll enjoy a light brunch and plenty of tastings, including chocolates, cheeses, and fudge, but not a full sit-down dinner.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 3 are not allowed on this tour, but older kids will enjoy the scenic stops and food tastings.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and a sense of adventure. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially if it’s windy or rainy.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the group size and friendly guide make it easy to connect with others while enjoying the sights.

To sum it up, this Melbourne day tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, local flavors, and expert storytelling. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic, and visually stunning adventure along Victoria’s coastline. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, or history enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to love here—and come away with memorable stories to tell.