Private Small Group Tour of 2-7pax in Great Ocean Road Melbourne

Introduction

Our review takes a close look at a Private Small Group Tour of 2-7 people along the legendary Great Ocean Road in Melbourne. This tour promises a highly personalized experience, tailored to your interests, and packed with stunning scenery and iconic landmarks. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the details paint a picture of a flexible, well-organized adventure ideal for those craving an intimate and authentic journey.

What we love most about this experience is the customizable itinerary, allowing you to prioritize what excites you most—whether that’s the famous Twelve Apostles or spotting koalas in the wild. We also appreciate the small group format, which often translates into more personalized attention from your guide and fewer crowds.

One potential consideration is the travel time — the drive from Melbourne to the coast involves winding roads, which might be a bit taxing for some travelers. However, for those who love scenic drives and expert-guided photo moments, this isn’t a dealbreaker.

This tour suits families, couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience without sacrificing the highlights of this legendary Australian coastline. If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized day with a knowledgeable guide, this could be your perfect escape.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The itinerary is tailored to your preferences, giving you control over what you see and do.
• Small Group Format: Limited to 2-7 travelers, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.
• Iconic Sights: Includes highlights like the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and Otway National Park.
• Flexible Timing: Tour duration ranges from 9 to 12 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace.
• Excellent Value: For around $717, you get private transportation and a dedicated guide, making it a good deal for a bespoke tour.
• Highly Praised Guides: Reviewers consistently mention careful, thoughtful drivers who help capture memories and focus on what interests you.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Journey: From Melbourne to the Coast

The tour begins with a pickup in Melbourne, likely from your accommodation or a designated meeting point. From there, you’re whisked away in private transportation—a key feature that means no bus crowds or rushed schedules. The drive north-eastward takes you through scenic countryside, with a chance to enjoy Australia’s rural landscapes before hitting the famous coastal route.

The Memorial Archway: A Classic Photo Op

Your first stop is at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Archway, a historic landmark marking the start of the drive. Here, you’ll get an opportunity to snap photos under this iconic arch. Since the ticket is free, it’s a quick, meaningful photo stop that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. Reviewers often mention how thoughtful guides help you capture perfect shots, which makes this stop more than just a quick glance.

Passing Seaside Towns: Anglesea, Lorne, and Wye River

As the tour progresses, you’ll pass through charming seaside towns like Anglesea, Lorne, and Wye River. While just a quick drive-through, these towns showcase the laid-back Australian coastal lifestyle, with surfers, cafes, and beaches. Reviewers note that the scenic drive along beaches and ranches offers a nice change of pace from city life, even if it’s not a major stop.

Apollo Bay: A Relaxing Break

The next significant stop is Apollo Bay, a picturesque seaside resort. Here, you’ll have about an hour to stretch your legs, grab a bite, or explore the small town. This flexible stop is appreciated by travelers who enjoy local cafes and a chance to soak in more ocean views. It’s also a good point to regroup before heading into the national park area.

Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles

Driving from Apollo Bay, you’ll venture into Port Campbell National Park, home to many of the coast’s dramatic formations. The approximately 100-minute drive takes you back close to the ocean, where you’ll witness the rugged cliffs and iconic Twelve Apostles. This is undoubtedly the highlight for most visitors.

At the Twelve Apostles, you’ll have around 45 minutes to walk along the boardwalks, take photos, and marvel at these towering limestone stacks. Travel reviews highlight how flexible this stop is—you’re encouraged to explore from various angles, capturing perfect shots and enjoying the raw beauty of this rugged coastline.

Otway National Park and Koala Spotting

Next, the tour moves into the Great Otway National Park, a lush area famous for koala sightings and native birdlife like lorikeets, kookaburras, and parrots. Spending about 30 minutes here, you’ll likely walk through scenic paths, with guides helping you spot these adorable creatures. Reviewers often mention how memorable it is to see koalas in their natural habitat, making this stop a highlight for animal lovers.

Loch Ard Gorge: Limestone Cliffs and Shipwreck History

The final major stop is Loch Ard Gorge, where imposing limestone cliffs surround a picturesque cove. Here, you can stroll along paths to see features like the Archway, Razorback, and Dumpling Pots, each offering a different perspective of the coastline. This spot is treasured for its natural beauty and historical significance, as it’s linked to a famous shipwreck. The review mentioned that walking the trails reveals impressive limestone formations, adding a sense of adventure and discovery to the day.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The majority of reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a key strength, often praising their careful driving and willingness to help with photos. One reviewer called their guide “careful and thoughtful of our comfort,” which underscores the personalized touch.

Another common theme is the good value for money — paying around $717 for a private, customizable day seems reasonable given the private transport, guide, and flexible itinerary. The ability to focus on areas of personal interest makes this tour especially appealing.

A reviewer fondly remembered the 12 Apostles as the best part, noting their impressive scale and rugged beauty. However, some mentioned that the journey involved winding roads which could be tiring for some, especially if prone to motion sickness, but the scenic views along the way help compensate.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 9 to 12 hours, giving you the flexibility to customize your experience based on your interests and pace. This is ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed day rather than a rushed group tour.

Group Size and Intimacy

Limited to just 2-7 people, this experience ensures a more intimate setting. You’ll likely have more opportunities to ask questions, get personalized advice, and enjoy the scenery without the busload of travelers.

Pricing and Value

At around $717, the cost covers private transport and a dedicated guide. For a full day of sightseeing with personalized service, this offers good value, especially if you’re traveling as a family or small group.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes private transportation and a mobile ticket, but breakfast is not included—so plan to have something before or during your journey. Also, since the tour is private, only your group will participate, avoiding the typical bus crowds.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking happens about two months in advance on average, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour date. This flexibility can help if your plans change unexpectedly.

The Sum Up

This private small group tour of the Great Ocean Road offers a personalized, flexible approach to one of Australia’s most photogenic and iconic drives. With a knowledgeable guide at your side, you’ll enjoy the best viewpoints, wildlife sightings, and cultural landmarks without the rush or crowds of larger tours. The itinerary’s flexibility means you can focus on what interests you most—whether that’s the Twelve Apostles, koalas in the wild, or just soaking in the coastal scenery.

The combination of small-group intimacy, customized stops, and expert guidance makes this a strong choice for travelers who value quality over quantity. While the winding drive may not be for everyone, those who enjoy scenic routes and wildlife encounters will find this tour both rewarding and memorable.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized day along Australia’s most famous coast, this tour delivers a blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and expert local knowledge—all in a format that respects your pace and interests.

FAQ

How many people are in this tour?
The tour is limited to 2-7 travelers, making it small and intimate.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it suits families, couples, and friends who want a flexible, personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation and a mobile ticket are included. Breakfast and entry to attractions are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers a customized itinerary based on your preferences, allowing you to focus on spots that interest you most.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs from approximately 9 to 12 hours, depending on your pace and interests.

Is this a private tour?
Absolutely, only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, camera, snacks if desired, and be prepared for potentially winding roads. Guides often help with photos, so don’t forget your camera or phone.

In all, this private tour balances flexibility, comfort, and the chance to see one of Australia’s most stunning coastlines—perfect for those wanting a more tailored, relaxed adventure.