Great Ocean Road Tour Plus Koalas, Forest Walk and Morning Tea

Discovering the Great Ocean Road: An In-Depth Review of the Plus Koalas, Forest Walk, and Morning Tea Tour

If you’re planning a trip from Melbourne to see the world-famous coastline, this Great Ocean Road Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into Australia’s natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic landmarks—all in one day. We’ve compiled what makes this experience stand out, along with some honest insights to help you decide if it’s the right adventure for you.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of sights and activities—from spotting wild koalas to walking among towering trees. Second, the knowledgeable guides—they bring the scenery alive with stories and insider tips. Third, the value for money, considering the number of stops, inclusions like morning tea, and the extensive itinerary. The only hitch? If you’re not a fan of long bus rides, the 13-hour day might feel a bit stretched, especially on a comfortable but still bus-based journey. But if you’re eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour is a solid pick. It’s perfect for travelers who love nature, scenic photography, and a well-organized day out.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering iconic sights, wildlife, and scenic stops.
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories about Australian flora, fauna, and history.
• Good value with included morning tea and numerous photo opportunities.
• Wildlife encounters with koalas and parrots in their natural environment.
• Stunning views of the 12 Apostles and other rock formations.
• Long day with around 13 hours of exploration, so be prepared for a full schedule.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This full-day adventure from Melbourne packs a punch. It’s designed for those who want to make the most of their time and see the best of Australia’s southern coast without the stress of self-driving or multiple bookings. The tour is run by Wine Hop And Coastal Tours and boasts an average rating of 4.7 from over 1,000 reviews, which speaks volumes about its popularity and reliability.

The day kicks off early, with pick-up from your Melbourne accommodation at around 6:40 am. You’ll spend approximately 13 hours on the road, but plenty of stops break up the journey and keep things engaging.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable vehicle with a maximum of 24 travelers, you’ll get a more intimate experience than large coach tours. Reviewers consistently point out the comfort and the smoothness of the ride—though some mention the bus can be a bit uncomfortable after hours, so bringing a cushion or planning for some stretching might help.

Guides and Commentary

Guides like Warren and Theo stand out for their extensive knowledge, infectious enthusiasm, and storytelling abilities. One reviewer called Theo “amazing,” noting his stories about secret places and wildlife encounters, while another praised Warren for his vast knowledge of Australian flora, fauna, and history. Expect roadside stops where guides often make extra efforts—like Warren’s spontaneous stops to show wild kangaroos hopping past or Koalas cuddling in trees.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and Why It Matters

Stop 1: Torquay Front Beach

Your journey begins with a quick visit to Torquay’s famous beach area, giving you a taste of Australia’s surf culture. The view of Bells Surfing Beach is a perfect introduction to the coastal vibe. Reviewers mention the brief stop but appreciate the scenic start.

Stop 2 & 3: The Pole House & The Great Ocean Road Sign

Photographers will love these iconic spots. The Pole House is a photo magnet—suspended 40 meters above ground, offering spectacular views of the coastline. Likewise, the Great Ocean Road sign is the classic selfie moment, a must-do for visitors.

Stop 4: Apollo Bay

A longer stop here—about an hour—gives you time to grab lunch from local cafes or walk along the beach. Some travelers say this is a highlight, especially when they take a swim or just enjoy the seaside atmosphere.

Stop 5: Kennett River

Here’s where wildlife lovers get excited. The guide knows exactly where to take you for glimpses of wild koalas and colorful parrots. One reviewer notes, “We saw several kangaroos hop past us right beside the bus,” which shows how close you can get to nature. The opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat elevates this tour beyond just sightseeing.

Stop 6: Mait’s Rest & Forest Walk

Walking among some of the tallest trees in the world, this forest walk is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. Aromatic eucalyptus fills the air, and many travelers say this is a highlight for its natural serenity. As one reviewer puts it, “You can really feel the fresh natural smells as you walk.”

Stops 7-12: Iconic Coastal Landmarks

The next series of stops includes Gibsons Steps, where you view the 12 Apostles from sea level, and the Twelve Apostles themselves—arguably the most famous coastal formations in Australia. The views are breathtaking, and many comment on the ease of capturing photos from multiple angles. The Razorback and Island Arch Lookout offer unique geological formations that make for interesting photo opportunities and natural wonder.

Final Stop: Loch Ard Gorge

Often praised as the best part of the tour, Loch Ard Gorge features dramatic rocks and rolling sea, giving a real sense of the power of nature. Reviewers rave about how this ground-level view “excites you with its natural glories,” making it a fitting finale.

Returning Stops: Colac & Cape Patton

On the way back, a stop in Colac allows for dinner options, and the Cape Patton Lookout offers a last glance at the coastline’s rugged beauty. Travelers appreciate that these stops break up the long drive and give a chance to unwind before heading back to Melbourne.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The ticket price (~$90 AUD) covers almost everything—transport, morning tea, and the majority of stops. Lunch and dinner are not included, so it’s worth budgeting extra for meals. Reviewers often mention they brought snacks or purchased food at stops, noting the options at Apollo Bay and Colac are plentiful.

The Value

Considering the extensive itinerary, multiple scenic stops, wildlife viewing, and guided commentary, the price offers solid value. Especially when you factor in the extra effort guides make to show wildlife and offer interesting facts, it’s a well-rounded experience for those looking to maximize their day.

Authentic Experiences & Insider Tips from Reviewers

Many travelers highlighted their guides’ efforts to enhance the day. For instance, Warren’s vast knowledge and friendly nature helped people feel comfortable, even if they were nervous about wildlife sightings. Theo’s stories and “secret” stops, like spotting wild kangaroos, added a layer of authenticity that’s hard to replicate independently.

A common comment is the balance of sightseeing and downtime—reviewers appreciated the many roadside stops that allow stretching legs and taking in the scenery. Some mention the forest walk at Mait’s Rest as a peaceful highlight, where the scent of eucalyptus and towering trees made them feel immersed in Australia’s natural environment.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Bring layers: The weather can change quickly along the coast, especially in the wind or rain.
• Prepare for the long day: Comfortable shoes and a cushion for the bus can make the ride more pleasant.
• Book early: This tour is popular, with booked-out days often months in advance.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage: You’ll want to capture the stunning vistas and wildlife encounters.
• Budget for meals: Lunch in Apollo Bay and dinner in Colac are at your expense, so plan accordingly.
• Arrive early for pick-up: The early start is key to fitting everything in and avoiding missing out on stops.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized day trip packed with scenic views, wildlife, and iconic landmarks, this tour ticks all the boxes. It suits travelers who value guided insights, multiple stops, and wildlife encounters, especially if you prefer not to drive yourself. The length might be a challenge for some, but most find the experience worth the effort.

Wildlife lovers, landscape photographers, and those wanting a structured but flexible day out will find this tour a great way to see the best of the Great Ocean Road without the hassle. It’s especially ideal for first-timers, family groups, or anyone eager to tick off Australia’s most famous coastal sights with a knowledgeable guide.

FAQ

Is breakfast included?
No, breakfast isn’t included. The tour starts early, so it’s best to eat beforehand or grab something quick during the morning pick-up.

How long is the travel time?
The total tour lasts around 13 hours, with multiple stops along the way for sightseeing, wildlife, and photos.

Are lunch and dinner included?
No, lunch in Apollo Bay and dinner in Colac are at your own expense, giving you flexibility to choose where and what to eat.

What animals can I expect to see?
You’ll have the chance to see wild koalas and parrots in their natural habitat, and there’s a good chance of spotting kangaroos hopping past the bus.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially if your kids enjoy nature and sightseeing. The long day might be tiring, so plan accordingly.

How is the transportation?
Travel is in a comfortable vehicle with a maximum of 24 travelers, which keeps the experience personable but note that some review comments mention the bus can get uncomfortable after many hours.

Can I cancel this tour for a refund?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Are guides available in different languages?
Guides via the mobile website are available in various languages, but specific languages are not detailed in the provided info.

What should I bring for the forest walk?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll walk through Mait’s Rest, and a light jacket can help if it’s windy or rainy.

In summary, this Great Ocean Road Tour with Koalas, Forest Walk, and Morning Tea offers a well-rounded taste of Australia’s stunning coastline, wildlife, and geological wonders. With passionate guides, multiple scenic stops, and good value, it’s an excellent choice for those who want a full day of natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. Just be prepared for a full day on the road—your camera and sense of adventure will thank you.