Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour & London Bridge

Discover the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour & London Bridge

If you’re looking for a day trip that balances breathtaking scenery with knowledgeable guides and good value, this Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with London Bridge might just be what you need. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized adventure that captures the essence of Victoria’s coast.

What we love about this tour are three key things: the reverse itinerary that helps avoid crowds and catch the best light, the expert guides who know their stuff—and are often funny and friendly, and the chance to see wildlife like koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat. Plus, the stops at iconic locations like the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge promise plenty of picture-perfect moments.

A possible consideration is the long duration of 13 hours, which might be tiring for some travelers. However, this is typical for a full-day tour that covers so many highlights.

This experience suits those who want a curated, scenic day out with minimal hassle, especially if you value expert insights and avoiding the crowds. Perfect for first-timers, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the coast without the stress of planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Reverse Itinerary helps you dodge the biggest crowds and snap photos in the best light
• Expert local guides provide insightful stories and ensure a smooth, fun journey
• Wildlife encounters with koalas and native birds are a highlight
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning and cozy seats makes the long day manageable
• Well-paced stops and lunch give you time to relax and enjoy each site
• Flexible booking options allow cancellations up to 24 hours in advance

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Its Unique Flow

This tour’s biggest draw is its reverse itinerary. Instead of starting with the Twelve Apostles, it begins with Loch Ard Gorge and then moves southward. This clever switch means you’ll arrive at these famous landmarks when the crowds are thinner and the lighting more flattering for photos. Multiple reviews emphasized how well-timed stops made the experience less hectic and more enjoyable.

The journey kicks off with a pickup from central Melbourne, with the coach journey lasting about 1.5 hours to reach the first stop. The bus itself is described as air-conditioned with cozy seats, offering a comfortable environment for the long day ahead. The group size is kept small when possible, fostering a more personal experience.

Once at Loch Ard Gorge, you get free time to explore, take pictures, and walk around. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and history-packed past make it a compelling start. Next comes the Twelve Apostles, where you’ll have about 45 minutes for photos and sightseeing. Reviewers often mention how perfect the timing is here—by this point, the light is often just right for those postcard shots.

The tour then passes by Great Otway National Park, offering a scenic drive through lush forests. Midday is reserved for a leisurely lunch in Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town known for its relaxed vibe and delicious local seafood. Reviewers rave about the variety of restaurants and the opportunity to indulge in fresh dishes while soaking in sea views.

In the afternoon, the coach heads to the iconic Memorial Arch at Eastern View, a popular photo stop, and then to a “secret stop” for wildlife viewing, where guests frequently spot koalas and native birds. Some reviewers mention how guides go out of their way to find wildlife, making these moments extra special.

Finally, the journey wraps up with a visit to London Bridge—famous for its dramatic arch—and ends with drop-offs at Melbourne’s Southern Cross Train Station or Spencer Street, making it easy to continue your city exploration afterward.

Wildlife and Nature Encounters

One of the most praised aspects across reviews is the wildlife sightings. The Kennett River eucalyptus forests are a highlight, where koalas lounge in the trees, and native birds chirp overhead. Several reviewers mention encountering koalas in the wild, which is a rare treat on such trips. Guides often know the best spots and are committed to making wildlife viewing a highlight.

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Iconic Landmarks and Photo Opportunities

The Twelve Apostles are, of course, the star attraction. Visitors consistently praise the 45-minute window to explore and take photos, often citing the stunning views in the early afternoon as the best for photos. Loch Ard Gorge offers a mix of natural beauty and history, with some reviewers noting the evocative stories tied to shipwrecks and local legends.

London Bridge, with its dramatic arch, is a fitting finale and provides great photo ops. The secret wildlife stop adds an extra layer of uniqueness, with sightings that many travelers will cherish.

Comfort and Convenience

Travelers consistently mention how comfortable and well-organized the trip is. The coach’s air-conditioning and cozy seats are appreciated, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The small group size (when available) is a bonus, making it easier to ask questions and feel more engaged.

The tour lasts about 13 hours, from pickup to drop-off, which can be quite a long day, but the well-paced stops, good lunch options, and engaging guides help make the experience worthwhile.

Value for Money

Considering the number of stops, wildlife encounters, and the guided commentary, many reviews affirm that this tour offers excellent value. The price includes transportation, guide services, and multiple scenic stops, making it easier to experience the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and timings yourself.

Guides and Personal Touch

Multiple reviewers mention their guides by name, often describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and witty. For example, William’s and Philip’s reviews stand out, with guests noting their ability to share local stories, keep the group entertained, and handle large groups with ease. Several reviews mention guides offering helpful extras, like charging phone batteries or providing detailed explanations that enhance the experience.

How It Feels to Be on the Tour

Travelers often describe the day as well-organized and fun, with plenty of time at each site for photos and exploration. The early start and long hours seem to be balanced by a lively, friendly atmosphere on the coach. Guests appreciate the chance to see wildlife in the wild, with many documenting adorable koalas lounging in eucalyptus trees—something not always guaranteed on other tours.

Lunch in Apollo Bay is highlighted as a relaxing break, with many mentioning the variety of seaside restaurants and the quality of the seafood. The scenic drives through national parks, combined with stops at key landmarks, mean you get a thorough overview of Victoria’s coast.

The Fair Price Point

While the tour isn’t cheap, the reviews show that many see it as worth every dollar for the convenience, expert guidance, and access to top sights. Compared to other options, the carefully timed stops and the reverse route offer a more exclusive and less crowded experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full-day, guided experience that combines stunning scenery, wildlife spotting, and iconic landmarks without the fuss of planning. It suits first-time visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography lovers who want the best light and fewer crowds. If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and enjoy engaging guides, this is a fantastic choice.

The Sum Up

The Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with London Bridge offers an authentic, scenic, and well-organized way to experience one of Australia’s most famous coastal drives. With expert guides, strategic timing that avoids crowds, and plenty of wildlife encounters, it’s a great value for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Victoria’s natural beauty.

Travelers who prioritize comfort, knowledgeable commentary, and avoiding busy peak times will find this tour particularly appealing. Its focus on quality stops, local wildlife, and iconic landscapes makes it a memorable day out—perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see the best of the coast.

While the lengthy duration might be tiring for some, many reviewers have found the experience engaging and worth every minute. Pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a day filled with awe-inspiring views and friendly guides.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers of various ages enjoy this tour, though it’s best for those comfortable with a long day and minimal walking at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, a hat, water, and perhaps a light jacket. Pack a charger or power bank for your devices, as guides sometimes offer charging options.

Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
The tour includes a variety of seaside restaurants in Apollo Bay, where you can find options to suit different dietary preferences.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Your guide will contact you the day before to confirm your pickup time and location, ensuring a smooth start.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the coach comfortable for a long day?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the coach’s comfort and climate control, making the long hours more manageable.

Will I see wildlife during the tour?
Wildlife sightings are common, with koalas and native birds often spotted in eucalyptus forests, thanks to guides’ efforts to find them.

In essence, this tour strikes a fine balance between scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert guidance—all wrapped in a well-timed package that’s hard to beat for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: