12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch - Melbourne
Active
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Great Ocean Road is travelled by more than 3.5million visitors each year. We have designed this Reverse Great Ocean Road Tour to avoid the crowds at peak times and to also allow our guests to see the awe inspiring 12 Apostles in the morning sun light which brightly illuminates this incredible rock formation. Journey along the entire Great Ocean Road stopping to walk through an ancient rainforest, explore quaint seaside villages, encounter wild Koalas and see the many incredible cliff top lookouts along the way.
Available options
Great Ocean Road Reverse
Onboard WiFi available: Audio translation available in Cantonese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korea Mandarin, Portuguese, and Spanish.
<br/>Duration: 13 hours<br/>Light lunch included<br/>28-seater Yutong Midi-Coach: This vehicle is designed for coach comfort (air-conditioned), with lower clearance steps convenient for passengers.<br/>Reverse Tour Only: Reverse 12 Apostles 'Morning Light' Great Ocean Road Tour Only
What's included
USB charging ports available
WiFi on board
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Admission to Great Ocean Road National Parks
Ride in comfort and style with modern mini coaches
National Park Fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Australian wildlife sightings in their natural habitat
Light lunch and morning tea provided
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional driver guide with live commentary
Detailed itinerary
1
Escape the city by traveling inland direct to the Shipwreck Coast via Colac enjoying a complimentary morning tea along the way. Refreshments stop.
2
Take a journey and experience the Great Ocean Road reverse tour in the opposite direction to the masses, enabling you to escape the crowds and enjoy this famous & picturesque coastline in all it’s glory. Explore the cliff edge boardwalk located in the Marine National Park, with spectacular unobstructed views of the limestone rock formations known as the 12 Apostles.
3
Stop 3
Our first major stop will be the breath-taking 12 Apostles and the extraordinary rock formations of Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell. Discover Mutton Bird Island & Razorback lookout, both offering amazing views.
4
Then, enjoy a guided walk through Maits Rest or Melba Gully, an ancient rainforest admiring some of the world’s tallest trees in the Great Otway National Park
5
Stop 5
We continue our journey along this spectacular National Heritage listed road winding between hillsides, pristine beaches, stunning ocean views and dense rainforest. The Great Ocean Road is famously known as one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes which you will get to enjoy without all the crowds. Our local guides will try to seek out the iconic Australian koala, as this coastal region is heavily populated with these furry creatures hidden within the pockets of Eucalyptus forests.
6
Stopping next at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch, one of the most photographed spots along this rugged coastline. This monument is a tribute to the World War One serviceman who built the Great Ocean Road stretching 243 kilometres and was finally completed in 1932. A great location to grab a group photo under the archway and share with friends on social media.
7
From here, we sit back, relax and enjoy the drive back into the dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Any meals not indicated
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
PT
KO
CMN
JA
YUE
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Written guide
DE
PT
KO
CMN
JA
YUE
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
47 reviews
5★
41
4★
3
3★
3
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
414 reviews
5★
389
4★
17
3★
5
2★
2
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise any specific dietary requirements or food allergies at the time of booking
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately (it can get cold)
Child and infant fare prices apply to 0 to 12 years old. Please advise if you have anyone travelling aged from 0 to 4 years old.
Children ages 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Our vehicles are not wheelchair, prams or child stroller accessible please refrain from bring on tour.
Meeting point
Our main meeting point for this will be the Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35am. If you wish to arrange an alternative pickup location, please contact our reservations team on +61393931333.
Important notes
• Our main meeting point for this tour is Immigration Museum, 400 Flinders St corner of Market St, Melbourne @ 7:35am.
• If guests would like to arrange an alternative location please call our reservations team on +61 39393 1333.
• We recommend arriving to your nominated pickup location at least 5-10 mins prior to the scheduled departure time.
• What to bring: sunscreen, refillable water bottle, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing for the evening just encase.
• We ask that all guests have travel insurance and should be taken out at the time of booking and prior to departing on tour.
• Autopia Tours support a paperless boarding system, please consider the environment by not printing this confirmation voucher.
About Melbourne
Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene, world-class dining, and sporting culture. With a unique blend of historic and modern architecture, lush parks, and a thriving coffee culture, Melbourne offers a rich and diverse travel experience.
Top Attractions
Federation Square
Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting major events, exhibitions, and cultural institutions like the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).
Cultural
1-3 hours
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
The Royal Botanic Gardens is a 94-acre oasis in the heart of Melbourne, featuring a diverse range of plants, lakes, and walking trails.
Nature
1-3 hours
Free
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The MCG is Australia's most iconic sports venue, hosting major events like the Australian Open, AFL, and cricket matches.
Sports
1-3 hours (longer for events)
Free to enter (tours and events have fees)
Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most scenic drives, featuring breathtaking coastal views, the Twelve Apostles, and the lush Otway Ranges.
Scenic Drive
Full day or overnight trip
Free to drive (attractions may have entry fees)
Queen Victoria Market
The Queen Victoria Market is Melbourne's largest and most iconic market, offering a vast array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, clothing, and souvenirs.
Market
1-3 hours
Free to enter (food and shopping at your expense)
National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)
The NGV is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, featuring an extensive collection of international and Australian art.
Art
1-3 hours
Free (some exhibitions may have entry fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast dish featuring toasted sourdough bread topped with mashed avocado, often accompanied by poached eggs, feta, or smoked salmon.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (can be made vegan without eggs or feta)
Lamb Rump
A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often served medium-rare with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a rich red wine jus.
Dinner
Contains meat
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, often enjoyed during the summer months.
Dessert
Contains dairy and egg whites (can be made gluten-free)
Flat White
A popular Australian coffee drink, similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam texture.
Drink
Contains dairy (can be made with plant-based milk alternatives)
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Dandenong Ranges
Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley
Kayaking on the Yarra River
Spa and wellness retreats
Picnics in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Beachcombing at St Kilda Beach
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending live performances and events
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant nightlife. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Mandarin, Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Arabic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
AEST (UTC+10) during standard time, AEDT (UTC+11) during daylight saving time (October to April)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Melbourne is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services, such as Uber or Didi, and always check the fare before starting your journey
- • Book tours and tickets through official channels or reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Melbourne Airport • 23 km from city center
By train
Southern Cross Station
By bus
Southern Cross Coach Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trams are a convenient and iconic way to get around Melbourne. The free tram zone in the city center is a great way to explore.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fitzroy
St Kilda
Carlton
Southbank
Brunswick
Day trips
Yarra Valley
60 km from Melbourne • Full day
The Yarra Valley is a picturesque wine region known for its award-winning wineries, gourmet dining, and stunning natural landscapes.
Mornington Peninsula
80 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight
The Mornington Peninsula offers beautiful beaches, coastal walks, hot springs, and a range of outdoor activities.
Phillip Island
140 km from Melbourne • Full day or overnight
Phillip Island is a scenic island known for its wildlife, particularly the famous Penguin Parade, as well as beautiful beaches and coastal walks.
Festivals
Australian Open • Mid-January
Melbourne International Comedy Festival • March to April
Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) • August
Pro tips
- Use the free tram zone in the city center to explore Melbourne's attractions and neighborhoods
- Get a myki card for easy and discounted travel on trams, trains, and buses
- Visit the Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs
- Explore Melbourne's laneways and street art for a unique and authentic experience
- Try Melbourne's famous coffee culture at one of the city's many specialty coffee shops and cafes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
