Premium Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour 13Pax Max Hotel PickUP

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A Detailed Look at the Premium Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring one of Australia’s most iconic coastal routes—without the usual crowds and in the comfort of a small, luxury bus. This Premium Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour from Melbourne offers just that, with a carefully curated itinerary that flips the traditional route to maximize your experience.

What makes this tour truly special? Firstly, it’s the small-group setting, limited to 13 participants, meaning you get more personalized attention and easier access to photos. Second, the reverse itinerary is a game-changer, allowing you to visit the most popular sights before the crowds arrive. Finally, the knowledgeable guides and extra touches, like rainforest walks and wildlife sightings, elevate the experience.

Of course, it’s a long day—about 12 hours in total—so comfort and pacing are key considerations. The main downside? Some reviews mention that certain stops, like lunch or the chocolate factory, are a bit rushed or could be more customizable. Still, this tour offers excellent value for those looking for a well-organized, intimate adventure with plenty of authentic sights.

This experience suits travelers who want to see the highlights in a relaxed, personal manner while avoiding the typical bus crowds. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn from engaging guides who share stories and insights along the way.

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Key Points

Small group size: Max of 13 participants ensures a more intimate, relaxed experience.
Reverse route advantage: Visit the main attractions before the crowds arrive.
Wildlife sightings: Spot koalas, kangaroos, and colorful birds in their natural habitat.
In-depth experience: Includes rainforest walks and informative commentary.
Extra touches: Evening tea at The Chocolate Factory with 144 flavors adds a sweet end.
Value for money: At $85 per person, it provides an immersive day with many highlights.

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

Exploring the Route in Detail: Why the Reverse Tour Works

Starting with a Cozy Pickup and a Charming Stop at Colac

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup from Melbourne CBD, adding convenience and comfort right from the start. After a short drive, the group stops at Colac, a charming town perfect for grabbing breakfast and stretching your legs. Here, you might appreciate the chance to enjoy a coffee (not included), setting a relaxed tone for the day.

This early stop is a smart move because it breaks up the long drive and helps you settle in before heading inland. It also allows you to arrive at the main sights before most other travelers, thanks to the reverse route.

First Stop: The Twelve Apostles — Less Crowded, More Dramatic

The highlight for many is the Twelve Apostles, the iconic limestone stacks rising from the ocean. Unlike typical tours that arrive later in the day, this tour’s reverse route means you’re among the first visitors. One reviewer noted, “Enjoying the views of the limestone formations without large crowds,” makes a big difference when capturing photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Your guide will share stories about how these formations formed and the ongoing erosion that shapes them, giving context to the stunning sight. Plus, with fewer people, it’s easier to take in the scale and beauty of this natural wonder.

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Loch Ard Gorge and the Wreck of the Loch Ard

Next, the tour visits Loch Ard Gorge, a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and sandy beach are perfect for wandering and photography. The guide recounts the story of the shipwreck of Loch Ard, which adds a layer of intrigue. The Gorge’s secluded feel is heightened by the fact that fewer visitors are around, making this a peaceful spot to reflect and snap photos.

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Port Campbell or Apollo Bay for Lunch

A flexible lunch stop at either Port Campbell or Apollo Bay lets you choose where to refuel. While the tour doesn’t cover lunch, many reviews mention that the timing allows for a walk along the beach or a quick bite in town. A reviewer shared, “Went for a walk along the beach for more pictures,” which highlights how the stops foster a relaxed pace, even on a long day.

Rainforest Walk in Great Otway National Park

One of the unique features of this tour is the guided rainforest walk through Great Otway National Park. This 20-minute walk offers a refreshing break from coastal scenery, showcasing lush, vibrant greenery and tall trees. Reviewers who enjoyed this said, “Connect with nature during a rainforest walk to witness some of Australia’s most amazing rainforest scenery,” emphasizing how it adds diversity to the trip.

Traveling Along the Coast: Apollo Bay and Wildlife Encounters

On the return leg, the tour travels through Apollo Bay, a picturesque fishing village. Here, you might get a chance to see native animals like koalas and kangaroos in the wild, thanks to the guide’s attentiveness. Multiple reviews mention spotting wildlife, with one noting, “We saw koalas & kangaroos in the wild,” making this a highlight for animal enthusiasts.

Scenic Drive and Storytelling

As the bus winds along the Great Ocean Road coastline again, your guide shares stories about the region’s history, environment, and culture. The small group size makes it easier to engage and ask questions. The relaxed pacing means you’re not rushed, and you get ample opportunities to take photos or just enjoy the scenery.

The Chocolate Factory and Wrapping Up

The tour wraps up with a visit to The Chocolate Factory, with 144 flavors of chocolates—a sweet way to conclude the day. While some might find this stop a bit touristy, reviewers like one named Melanie appreciated it, emphasizing how it’s “a fun, sweet ending to an already memorable day.”

Finally, the bus heads back to Melbourne, with many travelers feeling satisfied that they’ve avoided the busiest times at the major attractions. The overall experience leaves a lasting impression of Australia’s rugged coast, wildlife, and natural formations.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size – Why They Matter

The luxury minibus with a maximum of 13 participants ensures comfort and flexibility. Unlike large buses, this smaller vehicle provides a more personal, less rushed environment and easier access to scenic spots for photos. Many reviewers appreciated the comfortable seats and big windows, which enhanced the viewing experience.

Timing-wise, starting early allows visibility of sights with fewer people, especially at the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The 12-hour duration sounds long, but the careful pacing ensures you’re not exhausted—reviews mention the trip feeling “well-paced” and “not too rushed.”

The inclusion of a rainforest walk and wildlife spotting speaks to the tour’s focus on offering more than just the typical coast-hopping. The small group size also enhances the chance to interact with your guide, ask questions, and enjoy a more tailored experience.

Value and Cost Effectiveness

At $85 per person, this tour offers a significant value considering the personalized approach, wildlife encounters, rainforest walk, and the rare opportunity to beat the crowds. The added experiences like evening tea and flexible stops make it stand out from standard bus tours.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, guides like Steve, James, Bill, and Jay consistently receive praise for their knowledge and friendly attitude. They seem genuinely invested in sharing stories, helping with wildlife sightings, and managing the day smoothly. If you’re lucky, you might be treated to stories of shipwrecks, local history, or even spontaneous wildlife sightings—like a koala perched in a tree or kangaroos grazing.

For a smoother experience, travelers recommend bringing essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and binoculars. The cooler, early start is worth it to avoid crowds, but be prepared for a long day of sightseeing and riding.

Since the tour doesn’t include meals, packing snacks or planning for lunch in Port Campbell or Apollo Bay is advisable. The chocolate factory stop may seem optional, but reviewers found it a delightful treat after a busy day of exploring.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This reverse Great Ocean Road tour stands out for its focus on smaller groups, authentic wildlife encounters, and strategic timing that lets you enjoy the sights before the crowds arrive. It’s especially suited to travelers who value personalized attention, scenic diversity (coastline and rainforest), and a relaxed pace.

If you enjoy engaging guides, wildlife, and stunning coastal views without feeling rushed, this tour offers excellent value. Its length and full-day commitment might be demanding for some, but the experience’s quality and intimacy are well worth it.

While it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or young children, the overall attention to comfort and experience makes it a memorable day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your choice of Melbourne CBD location, making it very convenient.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 13 participants, ensuring a small group experience.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day trip, approximately 12 hours from pickup to return, capitalizing on early starts to avoid crowds.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to eat during the stops.

What should I bring?
Essentials include sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Can I see wildlife on this tour?
Yes, many reviews mention spotting koalas and kangaroos in the wild during the inland drive and rainforest walks.

Is the tour suitable for kids or wheelchair users?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, mainly due to the nature of the stops and walking involved.

What makes this tour different from other Great Ocean Road trips?
The reverse route means you beat the crowds at key sights, and the small group setting enhances comfort and photo opportunities.

Can I add optional extras like helicopter flights?
Some reviews mention optional extras, like helicopter rides over the 12 Apostles, which can be arranged for an additional cost.

Final Words

This Premium Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour offers a thoughtful, comfortable way to experience Australia’s most famous coast. Its small-group approach, early access to popular sights, and focus on wildlife and nature make it a strong choice for those wanting more than just a snapshot of the region.

Whether you’re an avid photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxed, engaging day out, this tour provides a well-rounded, authentic adventure. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the scenic stops and extra touches like rainforest walks and chocolate treats, make it a memorable way to explore the coast.

If avoiding crowds and enjoying personalized service in an iconic setting sounds appealing, then this tour is likely to meet—and exceed—your expectations.