Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Reverse Tour+London Bridge Wildlife

If you’re considering a day trip from Melbourne that combines dramatic coastal scenery with wildlife encounters, the Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour with London Bridge promises to deliver just that. This tour, offered by Wild OZ Adventures, is designed to give visitors a comprehensive experience of Victoria’s most iconic sights while sidestepping the crowds—thanks to its clever reverse route.

What we love about this experience is how it balances scenic beauty with wildlife viewing and the thoughtful itinerary that maximizes photo opportunities. Plus, the option to choose between different group sizes—from a spacious coach to an intimate Mercedes Benz van—means travelers can pick what suits their style best. The only thing to consider is that the tour is quite long, so stamina and comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour appeals especially to those who want to see the highlights without the rush, and those eager for a bit of wildlife spotting along the way. If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides, stunning vistas, and a well-organized day out, this trip could be ideal.

Key Points

• Reverse Route Advantage: Travel the route backwards for fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see kangaroos, koalas, and parrots in their natural habitat.
• Extra Stop at London Bridge: A lesser-visited gem that offers fantastic photography and a chance to explore a unique geological formation.
• Flexible Tour Options: From large coaches to small-group Mercedes vans, there’s a choice to match your preference.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Visit iconic locations like Loch Ard Gorge, the Twelve Apostles, and Apollo Bay.
• Late Lunch & Scenic Stops: Enjoy a leisurely midday meal with seaside views, plus multiple scenic viewpoints.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Route & Highlights

The Unique Reverse Itinerary

Most Great Ocean Road tours follow a traditional east-to-west route, often crowded by day-trippers. This tour flips that around, starting with the London Bridge stop—an often-overlooked site that’s a hidden gem with incredible photo prospects due to its backlit views. Travelers rave about this extra stop, noting it’s one of the few tours that include it, making for a more unique experience. One reviewer said, “The reverse format is great, manage to get to most places avoiding the peak times,” which underscores how this approach enhances the overall visit.

Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles

These two locations are the stars of the show. The gorge is a striking formation with dramatic cliffs and a sandy beach, perfect for a walk and photos. The Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks, are best captured in the late afternoon light. Because of the tour’s timing, you get to visit these sites when they are less crowded and under excellent lighting conditions, providing that perfect shot for your travel album. Many reviews mention how the guides help travelers navigate these spots, ensuring they get the best photos and explanations.

The Extra Stop: London Bridge

Most tours skip this, but it’s a highlight for those wanting a scenic and geological marvel. It’s a spot where you can walk around, take photos, and enjoy a quiet moment away from busier crowds.

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Wildlife & Forest Walks

Across the route, you’ll pass through Great Otway National Park and prime wildlife habitats. Here, many guests report seeing koalas lounging in trees, hopping kangaroos, and colorful parrots filling the sky. One reviewer noted, “We saw magnificent landscapes, koalas, and kangaroos,” which sums up how rewarding wildlife sightings can be.

The Coastal Town of Apollo Bay

Around midday, the tour stops for a late lunch in Apollo Bay, a peaceful seaside village famed for its fresh seafood. The flexible timing means you can choose from local restaurants or bring snacks to enjoy at scenic spots. The relaxed atmosphere here allows you to soak in the ocean breeze and recharge before heading to the next stops.

Memorial Arch at Eastern View

A classic photo stop, this landmark commemorates the route’s history and offers a great opportunity for a quick snapshot. Many travelers find this a perfect way to wrap up their scenic adventure before heading back to Melbourne.

Transportation & Tour Options

The Classic Coach Tour offers spacious, air-conditioned comfort, ideal for those who prioritize stability and space during long drives. The Mid-Size Coach—limited to around 35 guests—strikes a balance between comfort and intimacy, allowing more personal interaction with guides. The Premium Small-Group in a Mercedes Benz van is perfect for travelers seeking a more personal atmosphere, with just 15 guests and extra amenities like optional pickup from Melbourne CBD.

The timing varies slightly among options, with the small-group leaving a bit later at 8:00 AM, giving you a chance to relax in the morning. All tours feature live guides, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. Many reviews mention guides like William, Philip, and Joe, who go above and beyond—sharing stories, helping with photos, and ensuring everyone feels cared for.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Melbourne, the tour begins with scenic drives and a quick stop at London Bridge—a perfect early highlight that sets a relaxed tone. From there, the route takes you to Loch Ard Gorge, where you’ll have opportunities for photos and short walks along the coastline. The gorge’s rugged cliffs and sandy beaches provide a stunning backdrop for your camera.

Next, you’ll visit the Twelve Apostles, the most famous landmark on the coast. Here, you’ll get ample free time to photograph and explore, often with guides providing insights into their formation and history. Many guests appreciate visiting in the late afternoon light, which minimizes the crowds and enhances photo quality.

The tour then passes through Great Otway National Park, a scenic drive through lush forested areas that are prime habitat for native wildlife. Expect to see koalas, kangaroos, and native parrots. One guest noted, “We saw koalas and kangaroos, which made the day even more special,” highlighting how wildlife sightings are a key part of this trip.

In Apollo Bay, travelers can enjoy a late lunch—many recommend sampling the local seafood or just relaxing by the beach. This stop also offers a chance to stretch legs and take in the ocean views.

The final scenic stop is at Memorial Arch at Eastern View, a nostalgic and picturesque location that caps off the day. From there, the tour heads back to Melbourne, with drop-offs at multiple central locations, ensuring convenience no matter where you’re staying.

What the Reviews Say

The consistently high ratings—averaging 4.7 out of 5—speak volumes. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning guides like William, Philip, and Joe by name, highlighting their enthusiasm and professionalism. One review states, “William made the journey special and was able to bring us to all important places,” emphasizing the value of a passionate guide.

Guests also emphasize the scenic beauty and wildlife encounters. Comments like “We saw koalas and kangaroos” and “the views were beautiful” are common. Several reviews mention that the reverse itinerary is a real plus, helping them avoid the crowds and get better photos.

Many travelers find the value for money exceptional, noting that the tour packs in a large number of attractions and wildlife sightings into a single day. One traveler said, “It’s a long day, but absolutely worth it,” which reflects how well-organized and fulfilling the experience is.

The lunch break at Apollo Bay is generally appreciated, with many mentioning the variety of seaside restaurants and fresh seafood options. The timing and stops are praised for being well-paced, ensuring that the day doesn’t feel rushed despite the long hours.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Wear comfortable shoes since there’s walking involved at several stops.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water—the Australian sun can be fierce, especially during midday.
• Camera or smartphone is a must for capturing the stunning vistas and wildlife.
• Snacks are recommended, especially if you’re picky about lunch choices, despite the available options at Apollo Bay.
• Group size can influence your experience: the small-group tour offers more personalized attention, but the larger coach still provides comfort and space.
• Timing varies slightly by tour option, so plan accordingly if you’re catching flights or other activities afterward.

The Sum Up

The Melbourne Great Ocean Rd Reverse Tour + London Bridge Wildlife offers a comprehensive, thoughtfully organized way to experience Victoria’s coast. Its standout features include avoiding crowds, perfect lighting for photos, and a focus on wildlife encounters. The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to enhance the experience with stories and helpful tips.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who want to see the highlights at a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities to spot native animals and take memorable photos. It’s perfect for those who prefer a balanced mix of scenic stops, wildlife, and cultural landmarks—all delivered with good value and expert guidance.

If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded day on the coast that respects your time and curiosity, this tour ticks most boxes. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, making it a full-day experience from Melbourne.

What are the transportation options?
You can choose from a classic spacious coach, a mid-size coach limited to about 35 guests, or a small-group Mercedes Benz van with 15 guests for a more personal experience.

Where does the tour depart from?
Departures are from a central Melbourne meeting point. The small-group tour offers optional pickup from Melbourne CBD.

What is included in the tour?
The main attractions like Loch Ard Gorge, Twelve Apostles, and London Bridge are included, along with wildlife viewing opportunities and a late lunch in Apollo Bay.

Can I see wildlife during the trip?
Yes, many guests report seeing kangaroos, koalas, and native parrots. The tour passes through prime habitat for these animals.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While not explicitly stated, the long duration and walking at stops suggest adults and older children are best. No wheelchair access is available.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera are recommended. Snacks are also a good idea.

Are there options for vegetarian or special diets?
The tour provides a late lunch, but specific dietary options are not mentioned. Check with the provider for special requests.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The itinerary might be delayed or adjusted due to weather or unforeseen events like storms or road closures.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most travelers, the tour’s length and walking may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

In brief: this tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and wildlife-rich day out that’s praised for its guides, timing, and value. It’s a great pick for travelers who want a memorable, photo-worthy journey along the stunning Victorian coast.

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