Melbourne: Reverse Great Ocean Road 12 Apostles with Lunch

Travelers considering a day trip from Melbourne to the iconic Great Ocean Road will find this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see some of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal scenery. The tour is designed to avoid the usual crowds, giving visitors a more intimate experience of this natural wonder.

What we love about this experience is the early morning start that allows you to beat the crowds at the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, the chance to explore Great Otways National Park’s lush rainforests, and the opportunity to spot wild koalas in their natural habitat. Plus, the inclusion of a generous lunch at a scenic spot adds real value.

One potential drawback is the length of the day; at around 13 hours, it’s a long outing, especially for those with limited stamina or young children. However, it’s ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, varied exploration of the coast without worrying about transportation or logistics.

This tour suits anyone who appreciates natural beauty, likes wildlife encounters, and wants a stress-free, guided experience. It’s particularly perfect for those who don’t want to drive themselves but still seek to see the key highlights confidently and comfortably.

Good To Know

• Early Morning Advantage: Beat the crowds at the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge with an early start.
• Diverse Experiences: Combines coastal sights, rainforest walks, and wildlife spotting for a well-rounded day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the journey with engaging stories and local insights.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch and multiple scenic stops, making it a good deal for a full-day tour.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern 28-seater vehicles with high-back seats and seat belts ensure a smooth ride.
• Flexible and Accessible: Audio guides available in many languages, with options to change pickup points (with prior notice).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

Starting early from the Immigration Museum in Melbourne, the tour takes you inland first, away from the busy coastlines, setting the tone for a relaxed, crowd-free experience. The bus is modern and comfortable, with enough space to settle in for the long day of exploring. The aim is to get to key sites before most other groups arrive, giving you ample time for photos and reflection.

The first major stop is the Shipwreck Coast, where you’ll visit the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Visiting these sites in the morning allows for more vibrant colors and fewer travelers. Reviewers have appreciated the chance to enjoy these world-famous landmarks without the usual hustle, with one commenting that the “colors in the limestone stacks are more stunning early in the day.”

The 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

The 12 Apostles are the highlight of the tour, and for good reason. These towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean are even more captivating in the morning light. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to take photos, walk along the viewing platforms, and soak in the scenery.

Loch Ard Gorge, just a short drive away, is often described as more dramatic and evocative. You can walk into the gorge, explore its history, and hear about the shipwreck of the Loch Ard, which lends a touch of storytelling to the natural beauty. Many guests find Loch Ard Gorge more breathtaking than the Apostles themselves, with one reviewer noting it has “been carved away by the Southern Ocean over hundreds of years, and it’s arguably more stunning.”

Rainforest Walk and Wildlife Spotting

After witnessing the coast, the trip continues inland into the Great Otways National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided rainforest walk among some of the tallest trees in the world. Reviewers have raved about the lush greenery and the chance to connect with nature away from the crowds. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s like stepping into a different world, peaceful and towering.”

Wildlife sightings are another highlight. The tour mentions the possibility of spotting wild koalas among eucalyptus trees around Apollo Bay. Several travelers have been delighted to see these iconic animals in their natural environment, which adds a memorable touch to the trip.

Seaside Towns and Scenic Drives

The trip makes a stop at Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town perfect for a quick stroll, shopping, or grabbing a snack. The 20-minute stop allows for a refreshing break before heading along the twisting coast road, where panoramic ocean and cliff views unfold.

The return journey is equally scenic, with a brief stop at the Memorial Arch, a symbolic reminder of the road’s history, honoring the workers who built it. This part of the journey offers a relaxed, scenic drive as you reflect on the day’s highlights.

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Optional Secret Stop and Additional Sightseeing

A lesser-known stop adds a special touch, offering scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a chance to stretch your legs. It’s a good opportunity to capture some final photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before heading back to Melbourne.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your experience. The early departure from Melbourne at 7:35 AM ensures you reach the major sites before they get crowded. The trip includes various stops—Colac for a quick break and photos, the iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, a rainforest walk in the Otways, and time in Apollo Bay.

The stops are timed to give you a taste of each location, with 45 minutes at the Apostles and 35 minutes at Loch Ard Gorge. The rainforest walk lasts around 45 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the natural surroundings and wildlife.

Reviews highlight the value of this pacing. One guest remarked, “The stops were leisurely, and we saw quite a few koalas in the wild,” showing the tour’s focus on quality experiences over rushed sightseeing. Others appreciated the inclusion of a scenic lunch spot, which offers a break and a chance to appreciate the incredible scenery.

The Guides: Knowledge and Humor

Guests consistently praise the guides—whether it’s James “Wheels” with his lively commentary and singing, or Joel’s deep knowledge of local history. One reviewer said, “Our guide James kept everything fun and lively,” and another mentioned, “Likey made the trip very interesting and fun.” The guides’ storytelling and personal touches make the day more engaging and memorable.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses modern 28-seater vehicles, with high-back, non-reclining seats and seat belts. This setup ensures comfort for the long day, especially when traveling on winding roads. Reviewers have noted that the ride is smooth and the seating comfortable, making the hours on the bus more enjoyable.

Meal and Price Considerations

The included lunch is a picnic-style meal at a scenic spot, offering good value for a full-day tour. Many reviews mention the lunch as a pleasant surprise, with dietary requirements well catered to. However, some noted that the tea and coffee break could be improved, specifically mentioning the lack of decaf options or gluten-free biscuits.

In terms of cost, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with transport, guides, and meals included, making it a good deal for a full-day adventure. The long duration may seem costly compared to self-driving, but the convenience, expert guiding, and curated stops justify the price.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want to see key highlights of the Great Ocean Road without the hassle of driving, parking, or planning. It suits travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, enjoy nature walks, and are eager to spot wildlife like koalas.

It’s especially suited for visitors with limited time but a desire for a comprehensive experience, or groups who prefer the comfort of modern transportation and expert commentary. The long day might be tiring for some, but most reviews highlight the value and enjoyment they gained from the experience.

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and local stories, this tour will give you a memorable day—just be prepared for a full itinerary and a long but rewarding adventure.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Meet at the Immigration Museum at 7:35 AM, with departure shortly after. Make sure to arrive early to settle in.

Is lunch included, and what kind of meal is it?
Yes, a picnic lunch is included, served at a scenic spot, and it’s well appreciated especially for catering to dietary requirements.

How long is the entire day?
The tour lasts around 13 hours, with the return to Melbourne usually by late afternoon or early evening.

Can I see wildlife, like koalas, during the tour?
Yes, there’s a good chance to spot wild koalas along the coast near Apollo Bay, among eucalyptus trees.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 17 and younger must be accompanied by a paying adult, and the long duration might be tiring for very young kids or those with limited stamina.

What vehicles are used, and are they comfortable?
The trip is in modern 28-seater vehicles with high-back seats and seat belts, designed for comfort on long drives.

Can I change my pickup point?
Yes, you can adjust your pickup location after booking, provided you do so at least 48 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this guided day tour strikes a great balance between scenic exploration, wildlife encounters, and cultural storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full, well-paced experience without the stress of self-driving. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and well-chosen stops make it a solid choice for anyone eager to tick off the highlights of Australia’s celebrated coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby