Taking a day to explore the iconic Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list experience for many travelers visiting Victoria, Australia. This premium tour offers a way to see this world-famous stretch of coastline, but with a twist – it starts inland, going in reverse to dodge the crowds and provide a fresh perspective. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this is a well-rounded, comfortable, and deeply engaging journey that balances breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert local insights.

What really catches the eye are the small group size, the knowledgeable guides like Steve, Bill, and Jay, and the luxury mini-bus that keeps things intimate and comfortable. The fact that the tour begins early in the morning and takes you through the inland route first means you’ll beat most crowds at the popular spots, which is a huge bonus for photography lovers and those wanting a peaceful experience. One thing to consider is the lengthy day – with over 12 hours in the bus, it might feel a bit long for some, especially if you’re not used to back-to-back sightseeing. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxing, and insightful taste of the region without sacrificing comfort.

Key Points

Reverse itinerary helps avoid crowds at major sights
Small group size ensures personalized attention and better photo opportunities
Expert guides like Steve and Jay make the experience engaging and insightful
Wildlife sightings of koalas and kangaroos are common along the route
Luxury mini-bus provides a comfortable ride for long hours
Early start means fewer crowds and better photo opportunities

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Discovering the Unique Value of the Reverse Great Ocean Road Tour

This tour stands out because of its smart approach to timing and route choice. Instead of the typical coast-first method, you start inland at Colac and work your way towards the coastline later in the day. Travelers have said that this allows for quieter, more relaxed visits to the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and other highlights. As one reviewer noted, “doing the itin in reverse resulted in less crowds,” which means you’ll have a more intimate experience and better opportunities for photos.

The transportation itself plays a significant role in the comfort of this tour. The mini-bus is described as modern and cozy, with a maximum of 13 passengers, so you aren’t lost in a large crowd. This smaller group size also allows for more interaction with the guide, who is praised for being knowledgeable, funny, and personable. Guests consistently mention that guides like Steve and Jay go above and beyond to make the trip memorable, sharing stories, pointing out wildlife, and taking the time to stop at lesser-known spots.

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The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Do

Hotel Pickup and Morning Drive to Colac

The journey begins with hotel pickup in Melbourne, which is a significant convenience for travelers staying downtown. From there, you’re driven about 1.5 hours to the charming town of Colac, where you can grab a coffee and stretch your legs (cost not included). This small break sets a relaxed tone while also reducing early-morning bus fatigue.

First Stop: Tom and Eva Lookout

Your first scenic stop is at Tom and Eva Lookout, where you’ll snap photos of sweeping views and get your initial taste of the region’s beauty. Travel reviews mention this as a great photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the landscape before heading further inland.

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The Twelve Apostles: Quieter, and Still Stunning

The highlight for many is the Twelve Apostles. Thanks to the reverse route, you’ll arrive early, avoiding the large crowds that swarm this iconic limestone formation later in the day. Many reviewers describe the sight as breathtaking, with some noting that the clear weather and early arrival made the experience even more special. The 50-minute stop allows ample time to walk around, take pictures, and learn about the formation’s geological history.

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Loch Ard Gorge: A Shipwreck’s Echo

Next, you visit Loch Ard Gorge, the site of a famous shipwreck. Guides share stories about the shipwreck of Loch Ard, making the visit both scenic and educational. Reviewers like Scott say, “the views were breathtaking” and appreciated the less crowded atmosphere, which let them enjoy the gorge and beach at leisure.

Rainforest Walk in Great Otway National Park

The tour then ventures into the Great Otway National Park for a 20-minute rainforest walk. This is a highlight for nature lovers, offering a chance to see Australia’s lush greenery, ferns, and wildlife. Travelers frequently mention spotting koalas, kangaroos, and parrots, emphasizing the value of this wildlife encounter. One reviewer notes, “We saw wallabies, Koalas sleeping, and lots of kangaroos,” illustrating how wildlife sightings are frequent and memorable.

Lunch in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell

A flexible 50-minute lunch stop gives you the chance to explore local cafes or grab a quick bite. The reviews mention that the tour includes free time here, allowing you to walk along the beach or explore the town. While the cost of lunch is not included, travelers seem to enjoy the relaxed break and scenic surroundings.

Scenic Drive Along the Coast

After lunch, the journey continues along the coastline, passing through Apollo Bay and Kennett River, where wildlife sightings continue. Guests often remark on how the small bus and guided commentary made the drive both scenic and informative. Many mention seeing Koalas in the wild and colorful birds, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment for nature enthusiasts.

Additional Stops and Highlights

The tour includes several photo stops along the iconic Great Ocean Road, like the Memorial Arch and Anglesea, where guests can stretch, take pictures, and enjoy the views. At Anglesea, there’s even a chance for tea and coffee tasting, a charming way to wind down the day.

Return via the Coast and Final Drop-off

The return trip takes you back along the famous coastline with scenic views, ending at the Melbourne Immigration Museum. This well-planned route ensures you see the major sights with enough time to appreciate each without feeling rushed.

The Real Benefits of This Tour

Wildlife Encounters: Multiple reviews highlight the opportunity to see koalas, kangaroos, and parrots in their natural habitat, which many travelers cherish as a true Australian experience. Guides are praised for their keen eyes and patience, often stopping to ensure everyone gets a good look.

Smaller Group and Personal Touch: With just 13 passengers, you’ll find the experience more relaxed and tailored. Guests mention guides like Jay and Steve as being friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, often sharing personal stories and insider tips.

Comfort and Convenience: The luxury mini-bus makes the long day more comfortable, especially for those who dislike cramped or noisy large coaches. The early start and reverse route mean you beat the crowds at major attractions, making every stop more enjoyable.

Value for Money: Considering the comprehensive itinerary, wildlife sightings, and personalized service, many reviewers agree that this tour offers excellent value. The inclusion of a rainforest walk, wildlife stops, and expert guiding ensures you get a lot for your investment.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience suits travelers who want to maximize their time in Victoria without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a more peaceful, less crowded view of the coast. It’s also perfect for small groups who appreciate personalized attention and expert guides who turn the journey into a memorable storybook.

If you prefer a luxurious, relaxed, and insightful day out that balances sightseeing with wildlife encounters, this tour ticks many boxes. However, if you’re not comfortable with long bus rides or early mornings, it might be worth considering if you’re prepared for a full and active day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Melbourne, which adds a lot of convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally.

How long is the overall tour?
The day lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a long but very comprehensive experience.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with a small group of up to 13 passengers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While wildlife sightings like koalas and kangaroos are common and frequently reported, they are dependent on animal activity and weather conditions.

Can I buy breakfast or lunch during the trip?
Yes, there are stops where you can purchase breakfast in Colac and lunch in Apollo Bay or Port Campbell (cost not included).

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, and the physical activity might be challenging for very young children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your plans.

Final Thoughts

This premium reverse Great Ocean Road tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to see some of Australia’s most stunning scenery with fewer crowds and more wildlife encounters. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience that feels both intimate and educational. The luxury mini-bus keeps comfort high, even on the long journey, and the early start means you’ll beat the crowds at the must-see sights.

While it’s a full day — often over 12 hours — the variety of stops, wildlife opportunities, and scenic vistas make it an excellent value for those eager to see the highlights without the chaos of larger tours. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone wanting a smooth, informative adventure, this tour is likely to leave you with unforgettable memories.

If you’re after a comfortable, guided, and wildlife-rich experience that highlights the best of the Great Ocean Road from a fresh perspective, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Suggested For:

Travelers seeking a small-group, wildlife-rich tour with expert guides and a focus on avoiding crowds. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic, and educational day, especially if you appreciate comfort and personalized attention.

Note: Always check the latest availability and confirm pick-up details, as times can vary. Pack your camera, curiosity, and sense of adventure for an unforgettable Australian coastal adventure.