Melbourne: Great Ocean Road ExtendedTop Stops&London Bridge

Travelers often rave about Australia’s scenic coastline, and this full-day tour from Melbourne promises to deliver some of the best views and experiences along the famed Great Ocean Road. It’s a carefully curated journey that combines the must-see landmarks with some lesser-known treasures, promising a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring scenery.

What we love about this tour is how it seamlessly balances iconic stops like the Twelve Apostles with special touches such as a visit to London Bridge, which is often skipped by typical itineraries. We also appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of a morning refresh at the Chocolaterie, giving you an energy boost before the day heats up. Plus, the chance to spot koalas in the wild adds a truly authentic Aussie element. The only potential downside? With a 12-hour duration, it’s a long day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extensive hours on a coach. This tour suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a truly immersive coastal experience.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering all the major sights and hidden gems
Knowledgeable guides who make the journey informative and fun
Great value for money considering the inclusions and scenic stops
Authentic wildlife encounters, including koalas in their natural environment
Beautiful seaside lunch options in Apollo Bay
Long but fulfilling day, perfect for dedicated day-trippers

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A Deep Dive into the Great Ocean Road Experience

Looking for more options in Melbourne? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting with a Refresh at Chocolaterie

The day kicks off with a delightful stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery. Not only is this a treat for the senses, but it’s also a smart way to start the day with fresh coffee and pastries—ideal if you missed breakfast or need a quick boost. Reviewers frequently mention how this break sets a friendly, relaxed tone for the day, with one noting, “It’s the perfect way to fuel up before hitting the road.”

Iconic Memorial Arch at Eastern View

The first official stop is the Memorial Arch, a historic landmark marking the start of the scenic drive. This site isn’t just a photo op; it’s a tribute to the workers who built this legendary route. It primes you for the journey ahead, and travelers appreciate the chance to stretch their legs after early morning pickups.

Coastal Charm in Lorne

Next, we find ourselves in Lorne, a charming seaside town famous for its relaxed vibe and stunning coastal views. Here, you’ll get a light breath of fresh ocean air and some time to admire the scenery. One reviewer said, “Enjoying breathtaking ocean views at Lorne made the long trip worthwhile.” It’s a perfect spot for quick photos or a short walk along the beach.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cumberland River Lookout

A highlight for many is the Cumberland River Monument lookout, offering an expansive view of the rugged coastline. It’s a quiet moment to take in the natural beauty and capture some memorable shots. Reviewers often comment on how peaceful and photogenic this spot is, with one noting, “It’s a great place to just soak in the scenery and appreciate the wild coast.”

There's plenty more to explore in Melbourne

Lunch with Seaside Views in Apollo Bay

By mid-morning, the tour moves into Apollo Bay, where you’re given free time to explore local cafes or restaurants. It’s a welcome pause in the day, with plenty of options to enjoy fresh seafood or casual bites. Reviewers frequently mention how the lunch views enhance the experience, making it more than just a meal but a memorable highlight.

Encountering Koalas in the Wild

One of the tour’s special features is the chance to see koalas in their natural habitat during a brief stop at Barham River Road. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s efforts, with one saying, “We saw some koalas, and that was definitely a highlight!” This authentic wildlife encounter distinguishes this tour from more typical sightseeing trips.

The Majestic Twelve Apostles

No visit to the Great Ocean Road is complete without marveling at the Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Travelers describe this as a “must-see” with breathtaking views that are even more impressive in person. Photos hardly do justice to their grandeur, and many reviewers comment on how lucky they felt to witness such natural wonder.

Loch Ard Gorge: Stories Carved in Stone

Adjacent to the Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge offers stunning cliffs and dramatic scenery. As you explore, you’ll hear stories of shipwrecks and maritime history that add depth to the visual spectacle. Reviewers often say, “The cliffs and the stories behind them make Loch Ard Gorge a truly immersive experience.”

The Hidden Gem: London Bridge

Beyond the usual tourist trail, this tour introduces you to London Bridge, a natural arch that’s as impressive as it sounds. It’s often overlooked in other tours, but here, you’ll get the chance to see this spectacular coastal arch and enjoy views rarely accessible on standard trips. One reviewer called it a “hidden gem,” emphasizing how special this stop felt compared to the typical itinerary.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included Elements

Pickup and drop-off at Melbourne locations: Convenience matters, and this tour covers five pick-up points, including Russell Street and Spencer Street.
Bilingual commentary: Guides speak English and Chinese, enhancing the experience for diverse travelers.
All tolls, fuel, and parking: No hidden costs here, making it straightforward to budget.
Gratuities: Appreciated but optional.

Not Included

Food and drinks: Apart from breakfast at Chocolaterie and lunch in Apollo Bay, you’ll need to cover additional snacks or beverages.
Personal expenses: Souvenirs, extra snacks, or optional activities.
Other fees: Any unmentioned costs.

The Logistics

The 12-hour duration involves early pickups (starting around 7:30 am) and a return around 7:30 pm, depending on traffic and the day’s pace. Travelers mention the coach’s comfort level varies, with some noting tight legroom, especially for tall passengers. The guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, making the long trip more enjoyable.

The Value for Money

At just $36 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the number of iconic sights and the inclusion of wildlife spotting and a special visit to London Bridge. Multiple reviews highlight how their guide, like “Vance” or “Tony,” made the experience memorable with engaging commentary and smooth driving.

Highlights from Real Travelers

Many reviews emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guides. One said, “Vance was truly wonderful and made the long day extra magical,” while another praised Tony’s passion and humor, noting, “He made sure everyone saw everything and kept the energy high.”

The scenery consistently impresses, with travelers calling the Twelve Apostles “breathtaking,” and Loch Ard Gorge “spectacular,” especially in bad weather, which some appreciated for its raw, wild feel. The koala sightings also stand out as authentic and unexpected treats, with guides actively searching for these adorable creatures in the trees.

Lunch in Apollo Bay is generally rated positively, with many appreciating the seaside views and local eateries. However, some reviews suggest allocating more time here or at the lighthouse to avoid feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits those willing to dedicate long hours on a coach to see Australia’s most stunning coastal sights. It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography fans, especially those eager to capture the grandeur of the Twelve Apostles. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will find the experience enriching, thanks to the personable guides and well-planned stops.

If you’re after a more relaxed pace or want to explore at your own leisure, you might prefer a smaller, more flexible tour. However, if a comprehensive, value-packed day of sightseeing with authentic encounters and expert guidance sounds appealing, this trip is a very strong choice.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickups begin as early as 7:30 am at designated Melbourne locations, with times confirmed a day before.

How long is the total trip?
Approximate duration is 12 hours, but some reviewers mention it can stretch to around 14 hours depending on delays or stops.

Are meals included?
No, but breakfast at Chocolaterie and lunch in Apollo Bay are covered through free time; you’ll need to pay for extra snacks or drinks.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not designed for mobility-impaired travelers or wheelchair users, and the long coach ride might be tiring for some.

Can I see koalas?
Yes, at a designated stop in the Barham River Road area, with many reviewers noting they successfully spotted these iconic animals.

What makes this tour special?
Along With the famous Twelve Apostles, the visit to London Bridge and the chance to see wildlife in the wild make this experience stand out.

How’s the guide?
Guides like Vance and Tony are frequently praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, making the long day much more enjoyable.

Is the price good value?
Absolutely. For just $36, you get a full day of scenic highlights, wildlife encounters, and expert commentary.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. Some find it helpful to sit at the front or on the left side of the coach for better views.

What if the weather isn’t perfect?
The scenery remains stunning even in less-than-ideal weather, and guides are prepared for changing conditions, making the experience worthwhile regardless.

This extended Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending the iconic with the unexpected. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their coastal adventure without the hassle of planning each stop. The knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery make it a memorable value, especially for those eager to see Australia’s natural wonders up close.

While it’s a long day, the range of stops—from the towering Twelve Apostles to the lesser-known London Bridge—ensures you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for this rugged, beautiful coast. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or with family, this tour provides a fantastic, authentic taste of Australia’s coastline at a very accessible price.

Ready for a day of spectacular sights, wildlife, and stories? This tour is a reliable choice for those wanting a comprehensive, scenic, and authentic Great Ocean Road experience.