Great Ocean Road Full Day Private Tour

The Great Ocean Road is often called one of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives—an exhilarating journey that combines rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and lush rainforests. While many travelers opt for self-drive or group tours, a private tour like the one offered by Melbourne Elite Tours promises a more personalized, relaxed, and intimate experience.

This review looks at the full-day private excursion, which covers some of the most celebrated sights along the coast, with a special twist: starting from the end near Port Campbell and traveling back toward Torquay. This reverse route is a clever way to dodge the crowds and enjoy a calmer, more reflective visit to attractions such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

While the price ($1,334.07 per person) may seem high at first glance, it includes private, air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a flexible, carefully curated itinerary. If you’re after a seamless, worry-free way to see the best of the coast—especially if you prefer avoiding large bus groups—this tour could be a worthy choice. But, as with all private experiences, it will suit travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Exclusive Privacy: This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility.
• Stunning Landscapes: You’ll visit renowned sites like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Erskine Falls, with fewer travelers around.
• Expert Guide: The reviews frequently praise the guide’s knowledge, friendliness, and safe driving—quality that makes a big difference.
• Flexible Itinerary: Starting from the “end” near Port Campbell means less crowd and more peaceful photos.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and a day carefully planned to maximize your experience.
• Value for Money: While the cost is on the higher side, the personalized approach, private transport, and expert commentary offer a good bang for your buck.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 7:30 am, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed. Pickup is offered, which means you can relax from the moment your day begins—no navigating public transport or crowded shuttles. Since it’s a private tour, your group’s pace is the priority.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Aireys Inlet is your first stop, famous for its lighthouse. The Split Point Lighthouse offers dramatic views, and a quick tour here provides both scenery and a slice of local history. One reviewer notes it’s “the lighthouse for the unfamiliar,” which means it’s the perfect start to get your bearings and enjoy some fresh coastal air.

Next, you’ll visit Lorne—a charming seaside village renowned for its white-sand beaches and relaxed vibe. The Mediterranean-style atmosphere means you can soak in the sunshine, breathe in the sea air, and maybe spot some surfers or local artists. An hour gives enough time to stroll or grab a coffee.

A short drive takes you to Teddys Lookout, perched high above Lorne, offering sweeping views of the coastline. It’s a perfect spot for photos and taking in the vastness of the ocean.

Erskine Falls is next, a lush waterfall in the Otway Ranges. Thanks to the area’s high rainfall, this falls is especially lush and scenic. One reviewer highlights the fern gullies and waterfalls as being especially photogenic.

A quick stop at Kennett River offers a rare chance to see koalas in the wild—though not everywhere, as the guide will explain. Visitors frequently mention how difficult it is to spot these solitary animals, but the chance to see them in their natural habitat is a highlight.

Apollo Bay serves as a hub for beach lovers and seafood enthusiasts. With swimming beaches, a lively marina, and a charming town center, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely break. One review mentions enjoying lunch here, which might be an opportunity to sample fresh local seafood.

Mait’s Rest is a self-guided rainforest boardwalk, where you can walk among trees up to 300 years old. It’s a peaceful, cool environment that contrasts sharply with the coastal scenery, and it’s a favorite among those interested in native flora.

Finally, the highlight—the Twelve Apostles—are the star attraction. These towering limestone stacks, shaped by relentless erosion, are breathtaking. The longer stop here (around 4 hours) means you can fully appreciate the grandeur, take photographs, and perhaps enjoy the sunset if timing allows. Reviewers often mention how special it is to see these formations without the crowds, especially with the reverse itinerary.

Additional Considerations

The tour includes coffee and tea, and transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle suitable for comfort, especially during summer. Since lunch and dinner are not included, travelers should plan accordingly—packing snacks or enjoying a meal at stops like Apollo Bay.

The duration of around 12 hours** means a full day of sightseeing, so be prepared for a long but rewarding experience. While the price might seem steep, it’s important to factor in the private nature, expert guidance, and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What sets this tour apart is how it balances iconic sights with a personalized approach. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge, friendliness, and safety, making the journey not just scenic but informative. The option to do the drive in reverse—starting from the end near Port Campbell—is a clever move, reducing the number of travelers at key spots and allowing for more tranquil photo opportunities.

The stops are well-chosen: from the historic lighthouse at Aireys Inlet to the lush rainforest of Mait’s Rest, each provides a different flavor of Victoria’s diverse landscape. The Twelve Apostles, a universally loved feature, benefits from an in-depth, less-crowded visit, which many travelers find more meaningful.

What Travelers Love

Feedback highlights the expert guidance and the chance to see native wildlife, like koalas, in their natural environment. The flexibility and private setting let guides tailor the day, ensuring each stop feels personal and unhurried.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is excellent, the price might be prohibitive for budget travelers. Also, since lunch isn’t included, it’s up to you to plan for meals—something to consider if you prefer all-inclusive packages. The long duration could also be tiring for some, especially if traveling with young children or those with limited mobility.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for those who value comfort, personalized service, and flexibility. It suits travelers seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration of the coast without the hassle of self-driving or large group tours. It’s perfect for honeymooners, small groups, or families who want a special, private experience with a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the tailored timing and fewer crowds will help you capture those perfect shots of the Twelve Apostles and lush landscapes. For wildlife lovers, the chance to see koalas and native birds adds extra appeal.

This tour might be less suitable for budget travelers or those looking for a quick or less expensive overview of the coast. But if you want to indulge in a luxurious, well-curated day trip that maximizes scenery and comfort, it’s a fine choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, ensuring you have plenty of daylight for sightseeing and photos.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day without worries about transportation.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide, and coffee or tea. Lunch and dinner are not included.

Can I see wildlife, like koalas, on the tour?
Yes, there’s a good chance to see koalas in Kennett River, though they are solitary animals and sightings aren’t guaranteed.

How long are the stops?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Kennett River to around 4 hours at the Twelve Apostles, giving you plenty of time to explore each site.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and walking at sites like Mait’s Rest may require some planning for younger children.

The Sum Up

The Great Ocean Road Full Day Private Tour from Melbourne offers a comfortably paced, personalized way to experience one of Australia’s most celebrated coastlines. The combination of expert guides, fewer crowds, and carefully chosen stops makes it stand out from standard group excursions. You’ll enjoy the scenic highlights, with the flexibility to linger at your favorite spots and capture memorable photos without feeling rushed.

While the cost might be a consideration, the level of comfort, attention to detail, and access to iconic sights make it a worthwhile investment for travelers who want a premium experience. It’s especially suited for those craving a tailored, more intimate adventure—perfect for honeymooners, small groups, or anyone valuing high-quality guided touring.

If your goal is to see the most spectacular parts of the coast in a relaxed, worry-free manner, and you appreciate the value of expert storytelling and private transportation, this tour could be the highlight of your Melbourne visit.

Note: Be sure to plan for meals, and consider weather conditions when packing. Enjoy the journey—this coastline is truly one of the most stunning on the planet.