Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour & London Bridge

If you’re planning to visit Melbourne and want to see some of the most iconic sights along the coast, the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour by Wild OZ Adventures offers an intriguing twist on the classic route. Instead of the usual order, this tour takes you from the lesser-known southern stops to the highlights early in the day—helping you dodge crowds and get those perfect photos at the most photogenic moments.

What we love about this experience are three key things: the expert guides who know the region inside out, the carefully timed stops that maximize sightseeing and photo opportunities, and the wildlife encounters that bring a special touch to the day. The only potential downside? It’s a long 13-hour journey, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on a full-day road trip with plenty of walking and standing. Perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and comfort.

Good To Know

• Reverse itinerary helps avoid crowds and captures sights at optimal lighting
• Expert guides provide engaging stories and wildlife spotting tips
• Comfortable, air-conditioned coach ensures a relaxed journey
• Flexible stops for photos, walks, and free time enhance the experience
• Wildlife viewing adds a bonus element to the scenic drive
• Great value considering the comprehensive itinerary and professional service

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Introduction: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

When it comes to experiencing the iconic Great Ocean Road, most tours follow the same route, often crowded and rushed. This reverse tour by Wild OZ Adventures flips the script, starting with the lesser-visited spots and ending at the famous Twelve Apostles in the late afternoon, when crowds tend to thin out. This shift in timing, combined with the small group format, makes for a more intimate and relaxed adventure.

We appreciate that the tour combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters—something that’s often missed on standard tours. Plus, the guided commentary from knowledgeable locals like William, Philip, or Daniel adds layers of understanding and makes the day genuinely memorable. The only thing to consider? Since it’s a full 13 hours, it’s best for active travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road.

This tour appeals most to those who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience that balances stunning sights with cultural context, all in a comfortable setting.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Pickup and Early Drive

Starting from a central Melbourne meeting point, like The Great Southern Hotel, the tour begins with a scenic 1.5-hour coach ride. These early moments are a perfect chance to settle in, get excited, and possibly chat with your guide about what’s ahead. Reviewers rave about guides like William and Philip, who keep the mood light with their humor and interesting facts, making the long bus ride fly by.

Colac Stop: A Quick Break

A brief 15-minute stop at Colac gives everyone a chance to stretch, grab a coffee, or use the facilities. It’s the kind of thoughtful pause that makes a big difference on a 13-hour day.

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Loch Ard Gorge: Photos and Walks

The first major stop is Loch Ard Gorge, one of the most striking parts of the coast. Visitors can walk along the paths, take in the dramatic cliffs, and snap photos of the azure waters crashing against the limestone formations. Some reviewers mention how the timing of this stop is perfect for sunlit views, making photos truly pop. The free time here allows for a leisurely exploration, and guides often share stories about the shipwreck history tied to this spot.

The Twelve Apostles: The Main Event

Next up is the legendary Twelve Apostles, arguably the most famous landmark. But what we love about this tour is that, thanks to the reverse route, you arrive later in the afternoon, when the crowds are smaller. One reviewer pointed out they had plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the view without throngs of travelers jostling for space. The 45-minute visit includes walking around the lookout, capturing the towering limestone stacks, and soaking in the sunset hues if the timing aligns.

Passing Through Great Otway National Park

While just a pass-by, this national park gives you a glimpse of lush forests and native flora. The guide will likely point out eucalyptus trees and native birds, adding to the natural immersion.

Apollo Bay: Lunch and Leisure

A highlight for many is the stop in Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town. Here, travelers can choose from numerous local restaurants offering fresh seafood and regional specialities. Reviewers have appreciated the flexible hour for lunch, which breaks up the long drive nicely. It’s a good chance to relax, walk along the beach, or browse local shops.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View: The Iconic Photo

The tour includes a stop at the Memorial Arch, a classic photo spot symbolizing the start of the Great Ocean Road. Guides often share stories about the road’s history here, making it more than just a pretty picture. It’s a quick but meaningful stop, ideal for a group photo and a moment to appreciate the engineering feat.

Wildlife & Secret Stops

A lesser-known but treasured element is the “secret stop,” where wildlife enthusiasts often spot koalas in their natural eucalyptus habitat. Reviewers mention seeing koalas and vibrant birds, with some guides even arranging for early morning or late afternoon wildlife encounters. The guides’ local knowledge is key here, making chances of sightings much higher than just wandering independently.

Drop-offs

The tour concludes with drop-offs either at Southern Cross Station or Spencer Street, making it easy to plan your onward journey. The entire day is well-paced, with plenty of restroom breaks and free time at each stop, as confirmed by many guests who appreciated the thoughtful timing.

The Benefits of This Reverse Route

Most travelers are used to taking the traditional route to the Twelve Apostles first thing in the morning. The reverse itinerary flips that, allowing you to arrive at the most iconic sights when they’re less crowded and under better light conditions. Guests consistently mention how this results in better photos and a more relaxed experience.

It also means you’ll visit less crowded spots like Loch Ard Gorge earlier, reducing the risk of jostling for photos and giving you a more intimate connection with the scenery. Plus, arriving at the Apostles later means catching sunset views or softer lighting, which many reviewers describe as magical.

Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Reviews are filled with praise for the guides, who seem to make a real difference. William, Philip, and Daniel are often singled out for their humor, storytelling, and willingness to go the extra mile—like spotting wildlife, offering charging stations, or sharing fun facts about each location. Their friendly demeanor makes the long journey enjoyable rather than tiring.

Many reviews mention how guides effectively manage time, ensuring everyone gets ample opportunity for photos, bathroom breaks, and exploration. This level of attentiveness adds tremendous value, especially on a 13-hour trip.

Comfort and Transportation

Traveling in an air-conditioned coach with cozy seats, guests enjoy a smooth ride through the scenic landscapes. The smaller group size means more personalized attention and fewer distractions, helping everyone stay comfortable and engaged. Some guests noted that the bus condition was good, and the driver was always attentive to safety and timing.

Pricing & Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option available, the overall value is high considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and well-planned stops. Many reviewers confirmed that they felt the price was justified by the quality of the experience and the included wildlife sightings, cultural insights, and photo opportunities.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full-day, scenic adventure with a relaxed pace and expert commentary. It’s especially suited for those aiming to avoid crowds, get the best photos, and learn about the region from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. If you’re interested in wildlife, quaint towns, and iconic landscapes, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, be prepared for a long day on the road—good walking shoes, patience, and a sense of adventure are essential. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer shorter outings, this might be a bit too demanding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking at stops like Loch Ard Gorge and the Apostles, it’s best for travelers with good mobility. Strollers or large luggage aren’t allowed, and some walking is expected.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle are recommended. The guide can provide wildlife spotting tips, but it’s good to have your phone charged, especially since some stops are perfect for photos.

Does the tour include lunch?
You have the option to enjoy a leisurely lunch in Apollo Bay, with several seaside restaurants to choose from. The flexibility lets you tailor your meal to your preferences.

Are the stops short or rushed?
Guests report ample time at each major site—around 45 minutes at the Twelve Apostles and an hour in Apollo Bay—allowing for exploration and photos without feeling hurried.

How experienced are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like William, Philip, and Daniel as being highly knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, often sharing stories and wildlife tips that enrich the journey.

What makes the reverse itinerary better than the standard route?
Arriving later at the Twelve Apostles when fewer travelers are around means better photo opportunities and a more peaceful experience. It also allows visiting less crowded spots like Loch Ard Gorge early on.

Is this tour good value for money?
Most reveiwers agree that considering the sights, wildlife encounters, and the quality of guides, the tour offers excellent value—especially given how well-organized and comprehensive it is.

The Melbourne Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour & London Bridge offers a thoughtfully curated, comfortable way to see some of Australia’s finest coastal scenery. The reverse route strategically enhances the experience by minimizing crowds and optimizing photo conditions, making it ideal for travelers who value quality images and a more relaxed pace.

With expert guides, flexible stops, wildlife sightings, and stunning views, this tour combines natural beauty, cultural stories, and comfort in a way that’s difficult to beat. Suitable for those who want an immersive, well-organized day out from Melbourne, it promises memorable moments and plenty of opportunities to capture the essence of this remarkable coastline.

Whether you’re a keen photographer, nature lover, or just seeking an authentic experience away from crowds, this adventure delivers on all fronts—making it a worthwhile addition to your Australian itinerary.

Note: For more options or similar experiences, check out these alternatives: Luxury Coach Tour, Extended Top Stops, Wildlife & Forest Tour.

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