Great Ocean Road Tour Melbourne Relaxed Way In Premium coach

Introducing the Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne

If you’re considering a day trip to the Great Ocean Road, this particular tour caught our eye for its relaxed pace, premium coach, and unique reverse itinerary. While we haven’t personally signed up, the reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights and authentic experiences—without the usual crowds.

What we love about this tour? First, the early start means you’ll beat the crowds at the 12 Apostles—a definite advantage for those wanting that perfect photo. Second, the reverse order ensures a quieter visit to major attractions, especially during peak seasons. Third, the inclusion of wildlife spotting—like koalas and kangaroos—is a real bonus for nature lovers. One small consideration? The early 7 AM departure may challenge some travelers, but for many, it’s worth it for the unique experience.

This tour is a great fit for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone keen to see the highlights of the coast without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you prefer a leisurely, informative ride with plenty of chances to take photos and enjoy local scenery, it ticks all the boxes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Early start, allowing for quieter visits to major sights
• Reverse itinerary to avoid crowds at the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge
• Scenic drive through Otway National Park with wildlife spotting opportunities
• Visit to Wildlife habitat with koalas and kangaroos in natural surroundings
• Comfortable premium coach with knowledgeable guides
• Includes a stop for local food, chocolate, and coffee tasting for a sweet break

The Experience: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

The Starting Point: Melbourne’s Immigration Museum

The tour kicks off from an accessible location on Market Street, right in the heart of Melbourne. This central meeting spot makes it easy to join after breakfast or a morning stroll. The bus itself is described as comfortable, setting the tone for a smooth 12-hour journey.

Morning Drive to Colac and Breakfast

Leaving Melbourne early, the tour heads toward Colac for a quick 25-minute breakfast stop. This is a good chance to stretch your legs and fuel up before a day packed with sightseeing. The small window means you won’t linger long, but it’s enough to grab coffee and chat with fellow travelers.

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The Iconic 12 Apostles: Quieter in the Morning

Arriving at the 12 Apostles before the crowds is a huge plus. Because the tour does this first, you’ll enjoy a peaceful moment to photograph these towering limestone stacks—arguably the most famous feature along the coast. Reviewers highlight this as a standout: “Great day and our guide was lovely,” and “exceeded expectations,” emphasizing how the early visit really makes a difference in the overall experience.

Loch Ard Gorge: The Picture-Perfect Stop

Next up is Loch Ard Gorge, famed for its dramatic cliffs and history. With just about 20 minutes here, you’ll have enough time for a quick walk and some photos, but it’s enough to get a good sense of the area’s rugged beauty. Reviewers appreciate this stop, describing it as a “beautiful, unforgettable spot.”

Coastal Views and Scenic Photo Stops

The tour includes additional photo stops along the coast, allowing travelers to soak in the sweeping vistas, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves. These stops are tailored to avoid the peak crowds, giving you space to appreciate the scenery at your own pace.

Exploring Otway National Park

A highlight is the drive through Otway National Park RANGES, offering a chance to connect with nature. The scenic drive lasts about 30 minutes and often features glimpses of local wildlife—kangaroos, koalas, and birdlife—that you might spot in their natural habitat. One review mentions feeling lucky to see kangaroos and koalas in the wild, which adds an authentic touch to the trip.

Lunch in Apollo Bay

Midday, the tour stops in Apollo Bay for a 45-minute lunch break. This gives you the opportunity to try some local eateries or pick up snacks, making it a perfect time to relax and recharge. The town’s charming vibe often makes this a favorite part of the day.

The Scenic Drive Along the Coast

Post-lunch, the journey continues along the Great Ocean Road, renowned for its jaw-dropping coastlines and sweeping vistas. The guide describes this as a “scenic drive” packed with photo opportunities. The 70-minute drive includes stops and sightseeing, which many reviews say is both relaxing and visually stunning.

Wildlife Viewing and Chocolate Stop

Continuing along, there’s a 20-minute stop dedicated to wildlife viewing—expect to see kangaroos, maybe some birds, and possibly more koalas. Following that, a visit to the Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery offers a sweet break with tea, desserts, and coffee tasting—a treat for the senses and a chance to mingle.

The Return Journey: Melbourne and Beyond

The tour wraps up with a bus tour of Melbourne, lasting about 70 minutes, allowing you to reflect on the day while enjoying commentary from guides. The bus then returns to the starting point on Market Street, ideally in the early evening.

Why This Tour Works Well

The reverse itinerary is a game-changer. By starting at the 12 Apostles early, you avoid the crowds that usually gather later in the day—this means better photos and a more peaceful experience. The premium coach ensures a comfortable ride, especially important on a long day.

The guide’s reputation for being knowledgeable and friendly shines through in reviews, with many travelers praising the storytelling and local insights. This makes the experience not just about sightseeing but also about understanding the history and ecology of the region.

Photography and Wildlife

Photographers will appreciate the early visits and scenic stops, capturing the rugged coastline and iconic rock formations with fewer people in the background. Wildlife sightings, especially in Otway National Park, add a genuine touch of the Australian wilderness—something that can often be missed on larger, less personalized tours.

Food and Tasting Experiences

The included lunch in Apollo Bay and the chocolate & ice cream stop add to the value, giving you a taste of local flavors without extra fuss. The guide’s knowledge about local products enhances these moments, making them more than just a quick snack.

Transportation and Group Size

The premium coach promises comfort, essential for a long 12-hour day. The tour tends to operate in small to medium groups, offering a more intimate experience and easier access to popular sights. This setup makes it easier to ask questions and enjoy personalized attention from guides.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t provided here, reviews and itinerary details suggest this tour offers good value—covering all key sights, transportation, guide expertise, and tastings in a single day. The early start may seem daunting, but it pays off with quieter attractions and better photo opportunities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed experience of the Great Ocean Road, avoiding the rush and crowds often associated with day trips. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, local insights, and authentic wildlife encounters. If you prefer a more intimate, less hectic way to see the coast, this could be your perfect match.

Final Thoughts

This Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne offers a thoughtfully curated experience with a focus on comfort, authentic encounters, and avoiding peak crowds. The early start and reverse itinerary are clever touches that elevate the experience, especially at popular sites like the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

While the length of the day might seem long, the relaxed pace and scenic stops ensure you’ll come away feeling both inspired and well-rested. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a well-rounded, informative, and beautiful journey along one of Australia’s most famous coastal routes.

This tour really shines for nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to enjoy the coast without the hassle of large crowds. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully planned itinerary, it promises a memorable day exploring one of the world’s most stunning coastlines.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 AM, making it an early start but ideal for beating the crowds at key sights.

Where is the meeting point?
You meet the tour on the Market street side of the Immigration Museum in Melbourne.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including sightseeing, meals, and travel time.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a premium coach designed for comfort during long hours on the road.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Most walkable sites require only light walking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is wildlife viewing guaranteed?
While sightings depend on nature, many travelers report seeing kangaroos and koalas, especially in Otway National Park.

Does the tour include meals?
It includes a breakfast stop in Colac and a lunch in Apollo Bay. There’s also a chocolate and ice cream stop.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with a long day and some walking.

In all, this tour offers a well-balanced, authentic glimpse of the Great Ocean Road that would suit travelers looking for comfort, insight, and fewer crowds. It’s a smart choice for those who want to enjoy Australia’s famous coastline at a relaxed pace.

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