Melbourne: Reverse Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles with Lunch

If you’re dreaming of sweeping coastlines, towering limestone stacks, and a taste of Australian wildlife, a day trip to the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on extensive reviews and detailed itineraries, it promises a balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, engaging guides, and authentic experiences—all packed into a 13-hour adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it begins early, giving you a head start on the crowds at the iconic 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The chance to see these landmarks in the soft morning light, with fewer visitors, makes quite a difference. Plus, the inclusion of a rainforest walk through Great Otway National Park adds an unexpected touch of lush greenery. The opportunity to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat and enjoy a scenic drive along one of Australia’s most famous coastal routes are definite highlights.

However, a consideration is the length of the day—it’s a full 13-hour experience, which could be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long bus journeys. Also, some reviews mention that the tour may be subject to changes due to weather or operational needs, like the cancellation of rainforest stops if conditions aren’t ideal. That said, this tour appeals most to travelers who value in-depth commentary, stunning natural beauty, and a well-structured schedule that hits the major sights without feeling rushed.

In essence, this tour suits those looking for a comprehensive, comfortably paced day out with knowledgeable guides and plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and wildlife encounters. It’s particularly attractive for first-time visitors wanting a reliable, all-in-one experience of the coast.

Key Points

• Early start for fewer crowds at the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
• Includes a rainforest walk through the Great Otways National Park, adding lush diversity to the scenery.
• Wildlife sightings, including wild koalas, enhance the authentic Australian experience.
• Guided commentary and audio guides available in multiple languages enrich your understanding.
• Comfortable modern transport with high-back seats and seat belts ensures a smooth ride.
• Long day but well-organized, with plenty of scenic stops and photo opportunities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The journey begins at the Immigration Museum in Melbourne, where you meet your group early, preparing for a day packed with iconic sights and surprises. The first leg of the trip takes about 105 minutes as you head inland, away from the city’s hustle, setting the tone for a scenic escape.

Colac Stop — A Brief Break with a View

Your first stop is in Colac, where you get a chance to stretch, take photos, and enjoy welcome refreshments. This 30-minute pause offers a glimpse of rural Victoria and a breather before heading toward the coast. Reviewers note this as a relaxing beginning and appreciate the chance to get some fresh air early on (“Brett, the guide, was amusing and knowledgeable,” says one).

The Magnificent 12 Apostles

The main event kicks off with a 45-minute stop at the Twelve Apostles, arguably Australia’s most famous natural attraction. Visiting in the morning allows you to avoid the larger crowds and see the limestone stacks bathed in soft light, which truly enhances their visual drama. Expect guided insights into how these formations have been shaped by the Southern Ocean over millions of years. Reviewers like Ian from the UK have appreciated guides like Joel, who “put in a long shift and made the day enjoyable.”

Loch Ard Gorge — More Than Just a Photo Spot

Next, you head to Loch Ard Gorge, where you’ll have about 35 minutes to explore. This site tells a compelling story of shipwrecks and survival, carved over centuries. Many travelers find it more stunning than the Apostles themselves, especially when they step down into the gorge and imagine the history beneath their feet (“The Loch Ard Gorge was arguably more beautiful than the Apostles,” says a reviewer).

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Forests and Wildlife in Great Otway National Park

After returning to the coast, you’ll venture into Great Otway National Park for a 45-minute scenic stop. The highlight here is a guided rainforest walk among some of the tallest trees in the world. Wildlife viewing is possible, with some visitors lucky enough to spot koalas in eucalyptus trees, an experience that adds genuine connection to the wild Australian landscape.

Lunch with a View in Apollo Bay

A well-deserved 20-minute stop in Apollo Bay offers a chance to take photos, browse shops, and enjoy a picnic lunch. Reviewers have noted that the lunch is well-timed and caters to dietary requirements, making it a satisfying break. Many appreciate the chance to sit by the ocean and soak in the seaside atmosphere.

The Scenic Coast and Koala Spotting

The latter part of the day involves a 30-minute scenic drive along the coast, passing through small seaside towns. Here, you’ll stop to seek out wild koalas among the eucalyptus—an authentic wildlife encounter that many travelers cherish (“We saw a koala in the wild, which was a bonus,” reports one review). The coast twists and turns, providing spectacular views of beaches, cliffs, and ocean.

Memorial Arch and Final Stops

The iconic Memorial Arch, a tribute to those who built the road, is a quick 15-minute stop. It’s a perfect photo op and a moment to appreciate the engineering feat behind this route. The final stretch includes a 55-minute drive back into Melbourne, with plenty of time to relax or review photos.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in a modern 28-seater vehicle, with high-back seats and seat belts, ensuring a comfortable ride over long distances. The smaller size of the group creates a more intimate atmosphere, which many reviews find more engaging than large bus tours. The schedule is designed for a balance of sightseeing and downtime, with enough breaks to avoid fatigue.

Guides and Commentary

Guides like Graham, Tom, James “Wheels,” and others are praised for their knowledge, humor, and accommodating attitudes. One reviewer fondly mentioned how their guide entertained the group with singing and lively commentary, making the long day fly by. Audio guides in multiple languages are included, which helps non-English speakers get more context about each site.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the inclusion of numerous major sights, a picnic lunch, professional guiding, and comfortable transportation, this tour offers good value. It covers key highlights efficiently, saving travelers the hassle of planning and coordinating multiple stops. Some reviews mention that the tour felt well-paced and thoughtfully organized, with enough time at each stop to genuinely enjoy the scenery.

The price might seem steep for a long day on a bus, but when factoring in the cost of individual entries, guides, and meals, it’s quite reasonable. Plus, the early start and fewer crowds can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the most iconic sights of the Great Ocean Road without the fuss of driving or organizing logistics. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy guided commentary and want a comfortable, well-paced day. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see wildlife and explore rainforests, while those with an interest in history will find the Loch Ard shipwreck story compelling.

In The Sum Up

This tour offers a solid, well-organized introduction to one of Australia’s most famous coastlines. From the early morning start to the scenic return, it combines natural beauty, wildlife, and history into a manageable day. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long journey enjoyable.

While a full 13 hours might be quite a commitment, the variety of sights and experiences makes it worthwhile for those looking to tick off major attractions in one go. The inclusion of a rainforest walk, wildlife encounters, and insightful commentary adds depth beyond just sightseeing. Plus, seeing the 12 Apostles in the morning’s calm light is a clear highlight.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want reliable, engaging, and picturesque highlights of the Great Ocean Road, with the convenience of a guided tour that takes care of all logistics.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
It begins at 7:35 AM at the Immigration Museum, so plan to arrive a bit earlier to be ready.

How long is the trip?
The total duration is about 13 hours, including stops and travel time, making it a full but well-structured day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a picnic lunch is part of the experience, with options that cater to dietary needs.

Can I see wildlife on this tour?
Yes, many travelers report spotting wild koalas and other wildlife during the coast and rainforest stops.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Graham, Tom, and James “Wheels” for their entertaining and informative commentary.

What transport will I be on?
You’ll ride in a modern 28-seater coach with high-back seats and seat belts, ensuring comfort on the long drive.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, but it’s generally suitable for families with older kids who can handle a long day.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect certain stops, like the rainforest walk, which might be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable. The guides are flexible and aim to optimize your experience.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some short walks at each site, typically around 35-45 minutes, which are manageable for most travelers.

In all, this tour provides a balanced, memorable way to experience the majesty of the Australian coast without the stress of planning it all yourself. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the mix of scenery, wildlife, and storytelling makes it a worthwhile adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: