Melbourne Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour + London Bridge wildlife

Planning a trip to Melbourne and craving a memorable coastal adventure? This Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour promises to deliver some of Australia’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving. It’s an accessible day-trip option that balances scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and informative guiding—all wrapped up in about 12 hours.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the chance to see the Twelve Apostles from a well-organized coach, saving you hours of research and navigating the winding coastal roads. Second, the stops like Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge offer rich stories and sweeping views that will stay with you. Keep in mind, it’s a long day, and some might find the coach’s comfort levels and commentary quality vary. But overall, it’s a solid pick for those wanting a relaxed, value-driven way to experience the coast.

This tour suits travelers who prefer resting on a comfortable vehicle rather than self-driving, and who want a taste of Australia’s coastal wonders without spending days on the road. It’s also a good choice for groups or families who appreciate guided commentary and organized stops. If you’re looking for an affordable, well-reviewed adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife sightings, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Relaxed scenic drive on a comfortable coach, perfect for avoiding long hours behind the wheel.
• Multiple iconic stops, including Loch Ard Gorge, Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, and London Bridge.
• Wildlife opportunities with stops at places like London Bridge, known for animal sightings.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with informative commentary and personal touches.
• Value for money at around $61 per person, especially considering the length and highlights.
• Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for your travel plans.

Contents

• Key Points
• A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
• Loch Ard Gorge: The First Stop
• The Iconic Twelve Apostles
• Nature, Forests, and Wildlife
• Chill in Apollo Bay
• Scenic Drive and Historic Landmark
• London Bridge: The Final Highlight
• Transportation and Comfort
• Price and Value
• What’s Not Included?
• Review Highlights
• Who Should Consider This Tour?
• The Sum Up
• FAQ
• Our Top Picks in Melbourne
• More Wildlife Experiences in Melbourne
• More Tours in Melbourne
• More Tour Reviews in Melbourne
• Not for you? Here's more things to do in Melbourne we have recnetly reviewed

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour offers a full day of Australian coastal charm, with a well-structured itinerary designed to maximize your time at each highlight. Starting in Melbourne, the air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from a central location—52 Spencer Street—and takes you on a roughly 12-hour journey filled with spectacular views, stories, and wildlife encounters.

Loch Ard Gorge: The First Stop

Your day begins with a visit to Loch Ard Gorge, a dramatic stretch of coastline famous for its tragic shipwreck history. The gorge’s steep cliffs and crashing waves create a picture-perfect setting for photos, and the rich maritime past adds a layer of storytelling. You’ll have about 30 minutes here—just enough time to snap some shots and breathe in the sea air. Reviewers consistently praise this stop, with one describing it as “a dramatic coastal gorge with steep cliffs and a rich maritime history.”

The Iconic Twelve Apostles

Next up are the Twelve Apostles, the most famous of the limestone stacks along the coast. This is what most travelers come to see, and for good reason—these towering formations rising from the ocean are breathtaking. You get 45 minutes here, allowing plenty of time for photos, videos, and soaking in the view. Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery, with one traveler calling it “an amazing experience” and recommending the tour for this very reason.

Nature, Forests, and Wildlife

The tour also includes a stop at a diverse park, boasting rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal scenery. While the exact location isn’t specified, it’s perfect for scenic walks and wildlife viewing, potentially offering sightings of native animals like kangaroos and koalas—common in the area. Some reviews mention wildlife stops, with travelers appreciating the chance to see animals they might not spot on their own.

Chill in Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay is a jewel of a seaside town where you’ll enjoy about an hour to relax, explore, or grab a casual lunch. The town’s tranquil beaches and friendly vibe make it an ideal break from sightseeing. Many travelers describe it as a “laid-back spot,” perfect for stretching your legs.

Scenic Drive and Historic Landmark

The Memorial Arch at Eastern View provides a scenic photo opportunity and a reminder of the road’s construction history. With a 20-minute stop, you’ll get a chance to appreciate the landscape and learn a bit about the road’s significance.

London Bridge: The Final Highlight

The tour concludes at London Bridge, a stunning natural rock formation with a dramatic history—once a complete arch, its central section collapsed in 1990, leaving a fascinating story and iconic structure. You’ll spend around 20 minutes here, taking photos and enjoying the scenery. Many reviews highlight this stop as a favorite, with travelers describing it as “a story of geological wonder and dramatic change.”

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle that, according to reviews, provides a comfortable ride for most. The group size caps at 50 travelers, allowing for a lively yet manageable experience. However, some reviews point out that the coach’s comfort varies—while it’s not a luxury vehicle, it is generally considered adequate for a long day.

In terms of guides, most travelers speak highly of the knowledgeable and friendly guides—examples include Philip and David, who add humor and insight. One reviewer mentions, “our guide Philip made the journey truly memorable with his cheeky jokes,” showcasing how a good guide can elevate the experience.

Price and Value

At $60.97 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It covers transportation, guiding, and numerous stops at major sights, saving you the hassle of planning logistics. While it doesn’t include lunch or dinner, the stops at Apollo Bay give ample opportunity to purchase food, making it flexible for your preferences and budget.

What’s Not Included?

• Lunch and dinner aren’t part of the package, so bringing snacks or planning a meal in Apollo Bay is recommended.
• Some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with the coach comfort or the commentary quality, so if you prioritize luxury or in-depth information, you might want to consider paying more for a different package.

Review Highlights

• Many visitors rave about the stunning views and the informative guides. One says, “Great guide, informative and kind,” emphasizing that the guide’s personality and knowledge make a difference.
• Conversely, some reviews mention coach comfort issues, like seats not reclining or hearing difficulties, especially at the back of the bus. It’s a reminder to pack patience and perhaps bring earphones if audio is hard to hear.
• Wildlife sightings, particularly at London Bridge, are a highlight for many, with several reviews noting the animals they encountered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking a cost-effective way to see many of the top sights along the Great Ocean Road without the stress of driving, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for groups, families, or solo travelers who value guided commentary and organized stops. It’s a good choice if you want plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxed pace, although those looking for luxury or private experiences might find it less appealing.

The long hours are manageable because the coach is generally comfortable, and the stops are well-spaced. However, if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or tight schedules, this might not be your perfect fit.

The Sum Up

This Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour from Melbourne stands out as a practical, value-packed option for travelers eager to explore one of Australia’s most famous coastlines. Its highlights—Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, and London Bridge—offer picture-perfect moments and engaging stories, all with the convenience of guided transport.

Most guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the reasonable price point. While some critiques focus on coach comfort and the depth of commentary, these are balanced by the overall quality of the sights and the friendly, experienced guides.

This tour is perfect for those who want an efficient, enjoyable day of sightseeing, with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife encounters, without the hassle of planning or driving. If you’re not expecting luxury but are excited about memorable scenery and good company, this trip will deliver.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll visit Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, Apollo Bay, Memorial Arch, and London Bridge.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included. You’ll have time to buy food in Apollo Bay or pack snacks.

What kind of transport is used?
An air-conditioned coach seats up to 50 travelers, providing a comfortable environment for the long day.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Most reviews agree that guides are friendly, informative, and add a personal touch to the trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is wildlife viewing likely?
Yes, stops like London Bridge are known for wildlife sightings, including native animals like kangaroos and koalas.

Is it suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers and reviews indicate it’s suitable for most ages, though long hours and some walking may be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for the weather, camera equipment, snacks, and perhaps earphones if you want better audio during the guide’s commentary.