Small Group – 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Day Tour From Melbourne

Exploring the stunning landscapes along the Great Ocean Road is a must-do for any visitor to Melbourne. The ‘Small Group – 12 Apostles, Otways & Great Ocean Road Day Tour’ promises an immersive experience, taking travelers to iconic natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles while also venturing into the lush Otway National Park. With a personalized approach and knowledgeable guides, the tour caters to moderate fitness levels and provides convenient transportation, making it an appealing option for those seeking to discover the region’s natural beauty. However, the true highlight of this excursion may lie in the surprising experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Key Points

• This small group tour explores the stunning coastal landscapes of the Great Ocean Road, including the famous Twelve Apostles and the lush forests of Otway National Park.
• The tour reaches the Twelve Apostles before the crowds for breathtaking views and includes a delicious lunch at a local café.
• Highlights of the tour include a Grade 2 hike through pristine waterfalls, the exploration of towering Californian Redwoods, and the spotting of native Australian koalas.
• The tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off services, caters to travelers with a moderate fitness level, and features a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide.
• Reviewers praise the tour’s small group size, well-paced itinerary, and the included snacks, lunch, and transportation.

Tour Overview

The tour provides an opportunity to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Great Ocean Road and Otway National Park, including the famous Twelve Apostles and lush forest hikes.

During the full-day tour from Melbourne, travelers will reach the Twelve Apostles before the crowds and take in the breathtaking coastal views.

They’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch at a local café and hike through the Great Otway National Park, where they can see beautiful waterfalls, observe local wildlife, and admire the ancient forests.

Along the way, they’ll make stops at the coastal townships of Apollo Bay and Lorne, as well as visit Kennett River to see native Australian koalas.

Inclusions

This tour packs in a wealth of inclusions, from the breathtaking vistas of the 12 Apostles and Gibson Steps to a Grade 2 hike through the Otways’ pristine waterfalls.

Travelers will also explore the towering Californian Redwoods, traverse the iconic Great Ocean Road, and spot native Australian koalas at Kennett River.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy snacks, organic fruit, and hot drinks, as well as entrance fees to key attractions.

The tour also includes an air-conditioned vehicle, rain ponchos, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide to make the most of the experience.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of the Great Ocean Road region.

Logistics

Ensuring a seamless experience, the tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off services for all participants.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the region.

Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation, ensuring peace of mind.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it caters to travelers with a moderate physical fitness level.

Plus, the tour guide is friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience.

What to Bring

Travelers should pack comfortable trainers or hiking boots to ensure their feet are well-supported throughout the day’s activities. A 1-liter water bottle is recommended to stay hydrated during the hikes.

Cash or a credit card will be needed for lunch, which is estimated to cost around $35 per person. Warm layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also advised to prepare for the varying weather conditions.

Swimsuits and towels are optional for a refreshing dip during the summer months. It’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Reviews

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 158 reviews and a 5.0 rating, earning it a Badge of Excellence.

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who bring the stunning landscapes to life.

Many appreciate the small group size, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Guests are delighted by the well-paced itinerary, which balances scenic stops with light hikes, providing the perfect mix of activities.

The included snacks, lunch, and transportation are also highlighted as convenient and enjoyable features.

The Twelve Apostles

First, the tour visits the iconic Twelve Apostles, a series of dramatic limestone stacks along the rugged southern coast of Victoria.

Towering up to 45 meters high, these natural wonders were formed over millions of years by the relentless power of the Southern Ocean waves eroding the soft limestone cliffs.

Guests can explore the scenic boardwalks and viewing platforms, marveling at the sheer scale and grandeur of these ancient geological formations.

The tour ensures visitors reach the Twelve Apostles before the crowds, allowing them to fully appreciate the stunning coastal vistas and take memorable photographs.

This is undoubtedly a highlight of the day, showcasing the raw natural beauty that makes the Great Ocean Road so famous.

Hike in Great Otway National Park

After marveling at the Twelve Apostles, the tour ventures into the lush forests of Great Otway National Park for a Grade 2 hike to one of the region’s pristine waterfalls.

Guests can enjoy the park’s ancient landscapes, observing the diverse local wildlife and admiring the towering Californian redwoods that dot the trail.

The hike offers:

• Stunning waterfall views
• Opportunities to spot native Australian animals
• Peaceful forest surroundings
• A chance to appreciate the park’s old-growth ecosystems
• An invigorating outdoor experience for all fitness levels

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring guests make the most of this unique exploration of Great Otway National Park.

Sights Along the Great Ocean Road

Departing the tranquility of Great Otway National Park, the tour winds along the iconic Great Ocean Road, showcasing the region’s breathtaking coastal landscapes.

The first stop is Apollo Bay, a charming seaside town where travelers can stroll along the beach or indulge in a delicious local lunch.

Further down the road, the tour visits the picturesque town of Lorne, known for its stunning waterfalls and beaches.

Along the way, the tour makes stops at various lookout points, allowing participants to soak in the magnificent vistas of the Southern Ocean and the rugged cliffs that line the Great Ocean Road.

This scenic journey provides an unforgettable experience, highlighting the natural beauty that makes this region so captivating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Safety Equipment Is Provided on the Tour?

The tour provides rain ponchos and first aid equipment for participants. Safety gear like rain protection and medical supplies are included to ensure the group’s comfort and well-being during the excursion.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. For the safety and comfort of all participants, the tour company has a strict no-pet policy. Passengers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their furry friends during the day trip.

Is There a Restroom Stop During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom stops planned throughout the tour. The itinerary includes breaks at various locations along the Great Ocean Road where travelers can use the restroom facilities. The tour guide ensures there are sufficient rest stops during the day.

How Many People Are Usually in a Group?

The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience during the day trip. The small group ensures comfortable transportation and ample opportunity to explore the attractions.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is generally fixed, but the tour operator may allow for some customization based on the group’s interests and fitness level. Guests should communicate their preferences to the guide to see if adjustments can be made.

Recap

This small group tour offers an immersive exploration of the stunning natural wonders along the Great Ocean Road and Otway National Park.

Travelers can marvel at the Twelve Apostles, hike through pristine landscapes, and spot native wildlife, all while enjoying a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.

With convenient transportation and a moderate fitness level required, this tour is a great way to experience the best of Victoria’s coastal and inland landscapes.