The Great Ocean Road Private Day Trip

Exploring the Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Australia, and a private day trip promises a personalized, comfortable way to soak in its natural beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, plenty of reviews and the detailed itinerary suggest it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, intimate adventure with expert guidance.

What we love about this experience is its focus on stunning vistas, carefully curated stops, and the chance to enjoy the journey with just a small group — making it more relaxed and flexible. Plus, the inclusion of iconic landmarks like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge ensures you’ll get plenty of picture-perfect moments. On the flip side, one possible consideration is the long day, which could be tiring for travelers with limited stamina or those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour seems ideal for adventurous travelers, small groups, and those craving a more personal connection with Australia’s coast. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive experience without the crowds of larger bus tours, but keep in mind it involves a substantial amount of driving and walking.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 3 people) for a more personalized experience
• Flexible stops allow for ample sightseeing and photo-taking
• Expert guides enhance the understanding of landmarks and local tips
• Long day with early start and late return, suited for energetic travelers
• Includes lunch and dinner options, making it a complete day trip
• Opportunity to drive along the iconic coast when conditions permit

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Extensive Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour kicks off at 4 Siddeley Street, just in front of the World Trade Centre in Melbourne. Expect a very early start around 7 to 7:30 am, which might seem early but is necessary to maximize daylight and avoid traffic. The private vehicle, accommodating a maximum of three guests, promises comfort and exclusivity— a considerable upgrade from larger buses, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or a small group of friends.

Geelong: A Convenient First Stop

Your first break is in Geelong, about an hour from Melbourne. Guests typically get around 45 minutes here. Reviewers mention that this stop is perfect for stretching legs, grabbing a coffee, or a quick restroom break. It’s a good way to shake off the early hours of travel and get a glimpse of an Australian city with its own local vibe.

Lorne: Coastal Charm and Sightseeing

Next, the journey takes you to Lorne, a scenic seaside town about an hour from Geelong. Expect roughly one hour here for sightseeing. Visitors love how the guide points out local hidden gems and offers insights about the area’s history and natural features. Lorne’s cliffs and beaches provide a lovely backdrop for photos and a quick walk along the coast.

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Apollo Bay: The Lunch Stop

The third major stop is Apollo Bay, roughly an hour from Lorne. This town is special because it sits right along the coast, with a relaxed vibe perfect for a lunch break and some free time. Many guests appreciate the chance to explore local cafes or just relax by the water, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. Expect about one hour here— enough time to enjoy a meal and breathe in the ocean air.

The Twelve Apostles: The Main Attraction

After lunch, the tour heads to The Twelve Apostles, the star of the show. You’ll spend around 2.5 hours here, allowing plenty of time for photos, sightseeing, and soaking in the incredible rock formations. Reviewers often mention how stunning and surreal the limestone stacks are, especially at sunrise or sunset, but you’ll get to see them in daylight, which is perfect for photos.

The guide’s extensive commentary enhances your understanding of the area’s geological formation and history, making the visual experience even richer. Visitors report that this stop feels magical at any time of day, and the lengthy stay lets you avoid the rush of larger tour groups, making your experience more intimate.

Loch Ard Gorge: A Photo-Stop with a Twist

Next is Loch Ard Gorge, a 45-minute stop. While reviews mention that sometimes this site might be closed (due to weather or safety reasons), when open, it’s a stunning place for photos and a quick walk. If it’s closed, the guide usually adjusts the schedule to spend more time at the Apostles or head into Geelong for dinner, ensuring the day remains fulfilling.

Returning via Geelong and Evening Wrap-Up

The return journey involves a 1.5-hour stop in Geelong, giving you time for a relaxed dinner or to reflect on the day. According to reviews, this is a good chance to unwind after hours of sightseeing, and the guide often offers restaurant recommendations and local tips.

Finally, the trip concludes back at 4 Siddeley Street in Melbourne, around 10-11 pm. While it’s a long day, the value comes from seeing so many iconic sights with a knowledgeable guide, all in a small group setting that allows for flexibility and comfort.

Transportation and Comfort

The private vehicle, likely a comfortable car or SUV, ensures a smooth ride that’s less tiring than a coach and offers the flexibility to stop and explore as needed. The small group size (up to 3 people) means more space and intimacy, and the guide can tailor some parts of the experience based on weather or interests.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and a daypack to carry essentials. Since lunch is included in Apollo Bay, you can relax and focus on sightseeing. Dinner options are flexible, with recommendations provided in Geelong or Colac, giving you control over your evening.

Considerations and Practicalities

• The trip is not suitable for those with low fitness because of walking and the long hours.
• You’ll need to bring your driver’s license if you want to participate in driving the coast when safe, a unique feature of this tour.
• The flexibility in cancellation (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This private take on the Great Ocean Road combines personalized service, stunning scenery, and the flexibility that large bus tours often lack. It suits travelers who value comfort, intimacy, and a deeper connection with the landscape. The inclusion of key sights like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge ensures you won’t miss Australia’s most iconic coastal features, while the small group format opens up opportunities for spontaneous stops or tailored experiences.

The long day might be demanding, but if you’re energetic and eager to see the coast without the crowds, this tour offers an authentic, memorable experience. The knowledgeable guides, especially those who can share insights about the landmarks, make the journey not just scenic but also enriching.

For travelers wanting a luxury, tailored adventure, or those who prefer a more relaxed pace with ample photo time, this experience offers excellent value — especially considering the inclusion of meals and the exclusivity of a private vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at 4 Siddeley Street, just in front of the World Trade Centre in Melbourne, with pickup coordinated on the day of the tour.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to up to 3 people for a more intimate experience, though a minimum of 1 guest can book.

What should I bring with me?
Guests are advised to bring driver’s license, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a daypack for essentials and comfort.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 14 to 15 hours, starting early around 7-7:30 am and returning around 10-11 pm, depending on traffic and dinner timing.

Is there an opportunity to drive along the coast?
Yes, when conditions are safe, there’s a chance to drive the Great Ocean Road yourself. You must bring your driving license.

What if Loch Ard Gorge is closed?
In that case, more time will be allocated at The Twelve Apostles or the tour may head earlier into Geelong for dinner, ensuring a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness due to the long hours and walking involved.

This private tour offers a balanced combination of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and personalized service. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor seeking a more private exploration, it’s a fantastic way to experience the iconic Australian coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: