Great Ocean Road Tour Reverse -Luxury 13 Small Group-Hotel PickUP

Taking a day trip along the Great Ocean Road is a classic Aussie experience, but how you do it can make all the difference. This reverse itinerary small-group tour from Melbourne offers a fresh take on the familiar route, with the added luxury of a personalized experience and fewer crowds. We’ve gathered insights from countless travelers to give you a thorough look at what makes this trip special—and what to keep in mind.

If you’re after a comfortable, intimate, and well-organized adventure that combines stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and local charm, this tour ticks many boxes. However, it’s worth noting that it’s a long day—so if you’re not a fan of extensive travel or early mornings, plan accordingly. Perfect for those who enjoy guided discovery, small groups, and scenic photography, this trip promises to deliver more than just the standard tour.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 13 travelers ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Reverse itinerary means fewer crowds at the most iconic sights, leading to more relaxed visits.
• Knowledgeable guides like Steve and Bill bring Australian wildlife, history, and local secrets to life.
• Luxury mini-coach provides maximum comfort during the long day of sightseeing.
• Additional options like a helicopter ride at the 12 Apostles add a dash of adventure.
• Authentic experiences at wildlife stops like Kennett River help you see koalas and kangaroos in their natural habitat.

The Experience: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Price and Value

At $88.89 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, a luxury coach, all national park fees, bottled water, and generous stops at key sights. While meals are not included, the carefully curated itinerary allows for plenty of lunch and snack options in Apollo Bay and other towns. Reviewers often praise the tour’s affordability, especially when compared to larger, busier excursions.

Convenient Pickup and Small Group Size

The hotel pickup from Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank hotels means you start your day stress-free, without navigating to a central meeting point. Traveling in a luxury, air-conditioned mini-coach with a maximum of 13 guests means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Instead, you get a more relaxed, personalized experience, with plenty of time at each stop and opportunities to chat with guides.

The Reverse Route Advantage

Most tours start with the Twelve Apostles, but this tour begins in Colac, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife early in the day when you’re most energetic. Many reviews highlight how doing the route backwards results in less crowded sites, especially at the Twelve Apostles, which are often packed on traditional tours. One traveler remarked, “doing it in reverse on the smaller group made the experience more intimate and peaceful.”

The Itinerary: Every Stop Has a Story

• Colac: A charming country town perfect for a morning tea or quick breakfast (own expense). It’s a laid-back start and a chance to stretch your legs after early travel.
• Mutton Bird Lookout: A scenic spot where the rocky coastline reveals how ancient our planet is; rocks here date back 200 million years. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop with stunning views.
• The Twelve Apostles: The highlight for most, these limestone stacks are around 20 million years old and offer postcard-perfect photo ops. Many guests rave about the less crowded atmosphere thanks to the reverse route, and some opt for the optional helicopter ride for an unforgettable aerial view.
• The Razorback: Named for its sharp, high ridges, this striking formation showcases erosion’s power and adds to the rugged drama of the coast.
• Loch Ard Gorge: A poignant spot with a history of shipwrecks, it’s also a scenic location that features in movies like “The Pirate Movie.” Expect dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
• Mait’s Rest: The rainforest walk here is more than just a stroll; it’s a chance to see towering eucalyptus and ancient trees like the myrtle beech. Guides point out local flora and fauna, making it both scenic and educational.
• Great Ocean Road: As you drive along this famous stretch, the constantly changing vistas of cliffs, waves, and forests make it one of Australia’s most dramatic coastlines.
• Apollo Bay: A perfect lunch stop, with cafes and restaurants praised for their fresh seafood and Aussie hospitality. Reviewers also love how the town itself is a mini-holiday destination.
• Kennett River: Here, you’ll get the chance to see iconic Australian wildlife—kangaroos and koalas—in their natural habitat. Many guests mention spotting these animals in the wild, which adds a special touch to the trip.
• Anglesea: The tour wraps up with a visit to a chocolate and ice cream factory, a sweet way to end a long but fulfilling day.

Guides and Their Knowledge

Guests consistently mention guides like Steve and Bill as highlights of the tour. Described as funny, knowledgeable, and caring, these guides make the journey enjoyable and informative. One review said, “Steve’s humor and insight made the long drive fly by,” and others appreciated how guides tailored stops to maximize wildlife sightings. Their local tips and stories add depth to the experience, making each location more meaningful.

Wildlife Encounters and Unique Experiences

Many travelers are delighted by the opportunity to see Australian animals in the wild. At Kennett River, sightings of koalas and kangaroos—often in the early morning or late afternoon—are a common highlight. Several reviewers mentioned that their guides went “above and beyond” by trying to find animals in their natural environment, rather than just visiting a zoo.

Optional Extras and Personalization

The helicopter ride at the Twelve Apostles is available for an extra fee, and many guests find it worth splurging on. The aerial perspective offers a breathtaking view that’s impossible from land. Other than that, the tour’s pace and stops are flexible enough for you to enjoy each location at your leisure.

Transportation and Comfort

The luxury mini-coach is a major plus—quiet, air-conditioned, and spacious enough for a comfortable day. Reviewers love the bottled water and soda options, which keep everyone refreshed during the long drive. The reverse itinerary not only means fewer crowds but also a more relaxed vibe as the day progresses.

Meal and Break Considerations

While meals aren’t included, the itinerary allows for ample time in Apollo Bay for lunch, and many travelers rave about the local cafes. However, some mention that the lunch stop can feel a bit rushed, especially with queues at popular ice cream spots. Bringing snacks or planning ahead might make the day even smoother.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for small groups looking for a personal, relaxed experience with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re keen to avoid large tour buses and want to see the Twelve Apostles with fewer crowds, this reverse route is a plus. It’s also perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and those wanting a comfortable, scenic journey with plenty of authentic Australian moments.

However, because it’s a 12-hour day, it suits travelers who don’t mind an early start and a full itinerary. It’s especially good for those who want a balance of sightseeing, wildlife, and local culture without feeling rushed. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with children, the small-group atmosphere and professional guidance make this a good pick.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for this tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup from Melbourne CBD and Southbank hotels, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

What is the maximum group size?
Just 13 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide.

Can I add a helicopter ride?
Yes, the helicopter ride at the Twelve Apostles is available for an additional charge and offers spectacular aerial views.

How long is the total tour duration?
Approximately 12 hours, including travel, stops, and breaks.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but there’s enough time in Apollo Bay for lunch and snacks. The tour provides bottled water and soda.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While sightings depend on animal activity, guides often go out of their way to help you see koalas and kangaroos in the wild, with many guests reporting success.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Great Ocean Road reverse tour provides a well-balanced, comfortable, and exciting way to explore one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate encounter, while the luxury transportation makes the long day feel effortless. Guides like Steve and Bill truly elevate the experience with their local knowledge, humor, and care.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see iconic sights without the chaos of larger tours, enjoy wildlife in their natural setting, and capture memorable photos. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, couple, or small family, this tour offers a mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights—all at a reasonable price.

For those who cherish meaningful journeys and the comfort of a guided experience, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and an appetite for adventure.