Lux Great Ocean Road Tour Reverse – Max 11 Hotel Pickup

Traveling along Australia’s famed Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list experience, but choosing the right tour can make all the difference. This particular small-group day trip from Melbourne, offered by Awesome Leisure Group, promises to showcase the highlights while avoiding the typical crowds—especially with its reverse itinerary starting at the Twelve Apostles. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just after a stress-free day out, this tour warrants serious consideration.

What we love about this experience is the well-structured itinerary that offers plenty of time at key sights, and the small-group atmosphere that keeps things intimate and flexible. Plus, the optional helicopter ride injects a dash of excitement, providing aerial views that are simply unforgettable. The fact that it starts early and hits the main spots before the crowds arrive is another big plus.

On the flip side, be aware that the drive involves quite a bit of curvy roads, which might be a consideration if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed, less bumpy ride. Also, not everyone might appreciate the limited time at certain stops—some say more time at the Twelve Apostles would be ideal.

This tour best suits travelers who value convenience, expert guides, and a focus on natural beauty. If you’re looking for an immersive, well-organized trip with the chance to see wildlife, enjoy scenic views, and avoid the crush of large buses, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Early start to beat crowds: Starting at the Twelve Apostles allows for quieter photo opportunities.
• Small-group comfort: Up to 11 travelers ensures a more personal experience.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with local insights.
• Flexible options: Helicopter ride available for those seeking aerial views.
• Wildlife sightings: Spot koalas and kangaroos with guide tips.
• Good value for price: Includes Wi-Fi, water, and hotel pickup.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Melbourne’s CBD, Southbank, or Docklands—a real convenience that helps you start your day stress-free. Once aboard a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi and reclining seats, we set out on a well-paced journey designed to balance sightseeing, comfort, and storytelling.

First stop: Colac—a quick coffee break where you can stretch your legs and learn about this area’s farming history. Many travelers appreciate this intro, as it gives a taste of local produce and sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Next, the focus shifts to the Twelve Apostles, arguably the star of the show. These towering limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean are even more breathtaking when you arrive early, avoiding the midday crowds. One reviewer highlights: “Wonderfully experience with spectacular views,” and praises the guide’s knowledge, making the stop both educational and awe-inspiring.

Following this, we visit Loch Ard Gorge, a site filled with maritime stories, rugged cliffs, and natural beauty. Wander the trails, take photos of offshore limestone stacks, and enjoy the wild coastal atmosphere. Reviewers note that this area is a “treasure trove of natural beauty,” with some wishing for more time to explore.

The tour then takes you into the Great Otway National Park, where the rainforest reveals some of the tallest and oldest trees—an oasis of greenery amid the rugged coast. Here, travelers often marvel at the lush vegetation and the peacefulness of the forest.

The scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road itself is a highlight, with sweeping views of cliffs, beaches, and the ocean. A walk on a volcanic rock beach offers a tactile experience and a chance to appreciate the geological history.

Lunch at Apollo Bay provides a welcome break with options to buy your own meal. Many reviewers mention the quality and variety of local eateries, and some appreciate the flexibility to choose their own food.

From there, the tour ascends to Teddy’s Lookout, the highest viewpoint of the trip, offering panoramic views across the coastline—many travelers say this spot is utterly breathtaking.

The Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway offers a moment of reflection on the road’s history and the effort it took to carve this scenic route into the landscape.

A quick stop at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery satisfies sweet cravings and provides a final chance for photos and souvenirs.

Finally, the trip concludes at Southern Cross Station, where you can catch free trams back to your hotel or explore the city at your leisure.

The Benefits of the Reverse Itinerary

Beginning at the Twelve Apostles is a strategic choice. Many tours start from Melbourne and head south first, which means visitors often arrive at the Apostles when they’re already crowded. This tour flips that, giving you the opportunity to enjoy this iconic site in a more peaceful setting. Travelers consistently praise this approach, with one remarking: “Reverse trip is the way to go,” for quieter, more memorable views.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in a premium small-group vehicle, which likely means less time waiting, fewer stops, and more space to spread out. The reclining seats and Wi-Fi add to the comfort, making a long day easier to endure. Many reviews commend the driver-guides’ professionalism and knowledge, with some noting how well they managed the group and shared interesting facts.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

Spotting wild koalas and kangaroos is a recurring highlight. Guides are adept at pointing out these animals along the way—a bonus for wildlife lovers. The stops at Loch Ard Gorge and Teddy’s Lookout also deliver dramatic scenery that photographs just don’t do justice.

The Optional Helicopter Ride

For an extra cost, the helicopter ride offers an aerial perspective of the Twelve Apostles, turning a fantastic day into an unforgettable experience. Several travelers found it well worth the expense, describing the views as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.”

Food, Water, and Convenience

Bottled water and Wi-Fi are included—small touches that elevate the experience. The ability to buy your own lunch gives flexibility, and many reviewers mention how well-organized the stops are for eating and stretching.

Price and Value

At approximately $94.68 per person, this tour is quite competitive, especially considering what’s included—hotel pickup, Wi-Fi, water, guided commentary, and the chance to see wildlife and landscapes in a small-group setting. Based on reviews, many find it offers excellent value, especially with the added comfort and personalized service.

Common Praise and Minor Criticisms

Pros: Knowledgeable guides, the quality of the vehicle, stunning views, wildlife sightings, and the thoughtful reverse itinerary. Many reviews mention the “friendly, personable guides” and the “spectacular scenery,” with some calling it a “perfect day trip.”

Cons: A few travelers mention that the drive can be quite curvy, which might cause discomfort or motion sickness. Some wish for more time at the Twelve Apostles or other key stops, but this is often a challenge with full-day tours trying to balance multiple sites.

Who Should Book This?

This tour is ideal for those who prefer a small-group experience over large buses, value comfort and convenience, and want to maximize scenic views early in the day. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see kangaroos and koalas, while photography buffs will enjoy the quieter, less crowded stops. If you’re after an organized, thoughtfully paced day without worrying about logistics, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This reverse Great Ocean Road tour offers a beautifully paced, well-organized way to see some of Victoria’s most stunning coastal scenery. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and optional helicopter ride add up to a memorable experience that balances comfort, value, and adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning traveler, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—especially if crowds are your nemesis.

If you’re after a hassle-free day with a focus on natural beauty, wildlife, and authentic experiences, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid the busy crowds and travel in comfort, with the flexibility of optional extras like the helicopter ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes. The tour offers pickup from Melbourne CBD, Southbank, or Docklands, making the start of your day smooth and straightforward.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and guided commentary. Lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level. It is not recommended for travelers with walking or mobility problems because stops involve some walking and the roads are curvy.

Can I do the helicopter ride?
Yes, the helicopter flight is optional and incurs an extra cost. Many find it well worth it for the aerial views of the Twelve Apostles.

Does the tour drop me off back at my hotel?
No, the tour ends at Southern Cross Station. From there, you can easily take free trams back to your accommodation or explore Melbourne.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11.5 hours, including pickups, stops, and travel time.

Are the stops timed?
Yes. Stops range from 10 to 40 minutes, with the longest at the Great Ocean Road itself (about 3 hours). Some reviewers wish for more time at certain sites but note that the schedule is quite full.

This small-group tour offers a thoughtful, scenic, and comfortable way to experience the Great Ocean Road’s best highlights. It’s perfect for those who want to see iconic sights without the hassle and enjoy a genuinely personal touch along the way.