12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch – Melbourne

Planning a trip to Australia often means adding the iconic Great Ocean Road to your bucket list. This famous coastal drive is packed with jaw-dropping scenery, wild wildlife, and stories of shipwrecks and natural wonders. We’ve looked into a highly-rated tour that offers a fresh take — starting early from Melbourne and taking you in the reverse direction to beat the crowds. Whether you’re into stunning vistas, wildlife spotting, or just want a stress-free day out, this tour offers plenty of value.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the early start allows you to see the Twelve Apostles bathed in morning light, away from the throngs of other travelers. Second, the expert guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the long day both informative and entertaining. Third, the well-planned stops and inclusion of a light lunch keep the day comfortable and convenient.

A word of caution: the full day involves around 13 hours of travel, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with long bus journeys and winding roads. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic journey with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife encounters, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of the coast.

Key Points

• Reverse route offers fewer crowds at iconic sights like the Twelve Apostles.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting stories and humor.
• Comfortable transportation and amenities include WiFi, USB ports, and air-conditioning.
• Includes a light, satisfying lunch and complimentary refreshments.
• Multiple stops for sightseeing, rainforest walks, and wildlife viewing.
• Ideal for travelers seeking value with a mix of scenery, wildlife, and cultural sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early for the Best Views

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:35 am from Melbourne’s Immigration Museum, with pick-up options from select hotels. This early start is a game-changer, especially for seeing the Twelve Apostles in the morning light. As several reviewers noted, viewing the Apostles before crowds arrive transforms the experience. One traveler shared: “It was so much better to see the Apostles without the crowds, and the photos turned out amazing.” The reverse route really pays off here.

The First Stop: WWI Memorial and Scenic Drive

The initial stop is at a WWI Memorial, which, while brief, sets the tone for the historical significance of the area. The journey then takes you inland, heading through Colac and along the Shipwreck Coast. A complimentary morning tea breaks up the drive nicely, making the 15-minute stop pleasant without feeling rushed. The bus, a modern air-conditioned mini-coach with WiFi and USB charging ports, ensures comfort during these longer stretches.

Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge: The Main Attractions

The highlight for many is the Twelve Apostles — towering limestone formations rising from the ocean. Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes here, enough time to take photos, soak in the views, and appreciate the scale of these natural monuments. One seasoned traveler mentioned, “The view from the lookout is breathtaking, and being there early meant we got the perfect light for photos.“

Next, the tour moves to Loch Ard Gorge, a site steeped in history and natural beauty. The gorge’s towering cliffs and rock formations tell stories of shipwrecks, with a common highlight being the Razorback lookout and Mutton Bird Island. Reviewers loved this stop for its scenery and the chance to explore on foot. One shared: “The Gorge is just stunning, and I loved the walk down to the beach — it feels like you’re discovering a secret cove.“

Rainforest Walks and Wildlife

Traveling further into the Great Otway National Park, the tour includes a 30-minute guided walk through Mait’s Rest or Melba Gully. These ancient forests impress visitors with their towering trees and lush greenery. Several reviewers noted the chance to see wild koalas in the eucalyptus forest — a real treat. One guest remarked, “We saw koalas in their natural habitat, which was a highlight of the trip.“

The Spectacular Coastline and Iconic Landmarks

Next, the bus winds along the Great Ocean Road itself, winding past beaches, cliffs, and rainforests. The two-hour drive is scenic in its own right, with many stopping points for photos. The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch offers a classic shot — a tribute to the soldiers who built the road — and is a favorite for visitors. One review said, “The arch is a must-see spot, and it’s great that the tour keeps the stops varied.“

Relaxed Return and Optional Extras

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour wraps up with a relaxing two-hour drive back into Melbourne. The reviews consistently mention the comfort of the coach and the friendly guides that keep spirits high, no matter the weather. Some travelers noted they wished they had brought snacks for the long day, as the light lunch was quite modest. However, the inclusion of a meal is appreciated for the overall value.

Guides and Customer Service

Guides like Ethan, Kiwi, Steve, and Misty receive numerous compliments for their friendly, knowledgeable, and humorous approach. One review summed it up: “Our guide Lauren was amazing — she knew all the best spots and made the long day fun.” It’s clear that the guides’ personalities significantly enhance the experience, making the long travel hours feel shorter.

Price and Overall Value

At around $100.68 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering the inclusions — transport, guide, multiple stops, and lunch. Compared to self-driving or other tours, it’s a hassle-free way to see these iconic sights without worrying about navigation or parking. Reviewers often mention how the comfort, combined with the curated stops, made the long day enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of the Great Ocean Road in one day. It’s perfect if you’re after stunning views, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed pace without the stress of driving yourself. The early start and long hours mean it suits those who are comfortable with full-day tours and winding roads. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the early light at the Apostles is a bonus. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the chance to see koalas naturally.

While the tour is very family-friendly, children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult. It caters well to small groups and solo travelers, thanks to the intimate coach size and friendly guides.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation: Modern mini-coach with WiFi, USB ports, and air-conditioning ensures comfort.
• Duration: About 13 hours from Melbourne, including stops and travel time. Prepare for a full day.
• Inclusions: All park fees, a light lunch, morning tea, and wildlife sightings are included.
• Weather: Operates in all conditions, so dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed.
• Stops: Plenty of opportunities for photos, restroom breaks, and short walks.
• Group Size: Limited to 28 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Booking: Mobile tickets available, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 17 and under can join, but they need to be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally family-friendly, with plenty of interesting sights for kids.

What is the best time to see the Twelve Apostles?
The early morning light, which you experience on this reverse tour, offers stunning photo opportunities and fewer crowds.

Does the tour include enough time at each stop?
Most reviewers say yes, with around 25-45 minutes at major sights, allowing sufficient time for photos and exploration.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and bringing snacks or extra water can be helpful, especially considering the modest lunch.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife is unpredictable, but many travelers have seen koalas and other animals in their natural habitat. Guides do their best to spot wildlife along the way.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately, and be prepared for rain or wind — the scenery is still impressive in less-than-perfect weather.

Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, the mini-coach offers WiFi and USB charging ports, making it easy to share your photos or stay connected.

How long does the entire trip take?
Expect around 13 hours from start to finish, including all stops and travel back to Melbourne.

Final Thoughts

This reverse touring experience offers a fantastic way to see the most famous sights of the Great Ocean Road with fewer crowds, knowledgeable guides, and a comfortable setup. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day out that balances sightseeing, wildlife, and storytelling.

While it’s a full day, many reviewers have mentioned how the expert guides and well-planned stops make the journey enjoyable and memorable. For travelers seeking great value, beautiful vistas, and a chance to capture some unforgettable photos early in the day, this tour ticks all the boxes.

If you prioritize comfort, expert commentary, and seeing the iconic attractions without the crowds, this tour is a standout choice. It’s best suited for curious travelers who love natural beauty, wildlife, and a well-organized adventure that covers the essentials in one go.

Explore the coast, escape the crowds, and create memories on this thoughtfully curated Great Ocean Road tour that balances scenic beauty with fun storytelling.