Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary PREMIUM Tour - Max 12 Guests
Overview
Available languages
13 hours
Mobile ticket
Pickup from hotel.
Why follow the crowd when you can flip the script? Our award-winning reverse itinerary tour from Melbourne takes you on a wild and wonderful adventure along the Great Ocean Road – backwards! That means more sights, fewer people, and a whole lot more fun.
We kick things off by heading inland straight to the Twelve Apostles –jaw-dropping views and fresh morning light perfect for photos. From there, we explore the stunning Shipwreck Coast, hitting up Loch Ard Gorge, The Razorback, Gibson Steps, and of course, the iconic Apostles.
Then, we switch gears and head into nature with a peaceful rainforest walk through ancient, towering trees.
On the way back, we cruise the coast through charming towns like Apollo Bay and Lorne. And yes – we guarantee wild koala sightings, plus a good chance of spotting kangaroos bouncing through the bush.
So if you're after a laid-back, wildlife-packed, photo-worthy adventure that skips the stress and doubles the fun–this is the tour for you.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We are not able to accommodate children under 7 years of age on this tour, as according to VicRoads regulations they must travel on child restraints, which are not available in our minibuses. Passengers who show up with under 7 years old kids will be refused boarding without refund.
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Expected to be back to Melbourne around 7 PM.
This is a small groups tour and the vehicles are 12 seaters minibuses Toyota Hiace or similar. In case extra room is required, send us a message so we can arrange large coaches option.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Winchelsea
A morning tea stop, as we travel inland in the morning and go straight from Melbourne to the 12 Apostles, this is just a break to buy some coffee/breakfast (own expenses)
The Twelve Apostles
Travel inland in the morning and go straight to the 12 Apostles. Get there early, beat the crowds of the afternoon and enjoy these magnificent limestone formations when it’s still quiet and peaceful.
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Professional guide
National Park fees
Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guaranteed to skip the long lines
Live commentary on board
Food and drinks
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Great Ocean Road Reverse Itinerary Tour
Pickup included
Reviews
764 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
great ocean road: autumn version
Kayla H,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00the “reverse tour” was a great move because on this particular day we were so fortunate to experience “better” weather at the beginning of the tour (throughout the morning). the evening brought weather that has been melbourne’s coldest (since their winter season). but i will say, the great ocean road is beautiful no matter what the weather may bring. tip: if it’s cooler a specific day it’s probably a good idea to bring a jacket. the good thing is that you’re able to leave it on the bus between stops so you’re not having to worry about carrying things. most importantly, our tour guide chris was incredible. it’s such an asset having a host who has life experience and historical knowledge in the region because guests are able to receive a less tourist-y and more of a local experience which is brilliant for interstate and international visitors. he was also welcoming and had great humour. it made the tour comfortable and enjoyable. also a thank you to our guide chris for taking us all to a small town coffee shop called “café la hoot” in winchelsea and a restaurant called “george’s” out at apollo bay. whenever i’m at home or when i travel i always like to support small businesses. honourable mention: great playlist. such a vibe.
Wonderful Great Ocean Road Experience – From Malaysia 🇲🇾
chiewfent,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Annie was knowledgeable and friendly, and our driver was safe and professional—great experience overall!
great ocean road: autumn version
KaylaH1040,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00the “reverse tour” was a great move because on this particular day we were so fortunate to experience “better” weather at the beginning of the tour (throughout the morning). the evening brought weather that has been melbourne’s coldest (since their winter season). but i will say, the great ocean road is beautiful no matter what the weather may bring. tip: if it’s cooler a specific day it’s probably a good idea to bring a jacket. the good thing is that you’re able to leave it on the bus between stops so you’re not having to worry about carrying things. most importantly, our tour guide chris was incredible. it’s such an asset having a host who has life experience and historical knowledge in the region because guests are able to receive a less tourist-y and more of a local experience which is brilliant for interstate and international visitors. he was also welcoming and had great humour. it made the tour comfortable and enjoyable. also a thank you to our guide chris for taking us all to a small town coffee shop called “café la hoot” in winchelsea and a restaurant called “george’s” out at apollo bay. whenever i’m at home or when i travel i always like to support small businesses. honourable mention: great playlist. such a vibe.
It was a great satisfaction.
Travel59002746804,May 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I think it was a planned trip, but thanks to the kind guidance and invitation of the guide, we managed to keep our schedule running smoothly. The rock of the 12 Apostles, which I had hoped for, was a spectacular sight. I also enjoyed walking in the rainforest. It was also worth listening to some detailed introductions. It was a very satisfying day!
Great tour - Great Ocean Road
AleQc,May 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We loved our experience, even though it was a long ride, but we didn’t feel it, because of the nice places we stopped by. Our driver/guide was lovely and gave us many informations on our way to all attractions. We didn’t understand everything he said, because we’re not fluent in English, but he repeated the information when needed. We loved our tour!
Great tour
Alessandro S,May 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We loved our experience, even though it was a long ride, but we didn’t feel it, because of the nice places we stopped by. Our driver/guide was lovely and gave us many informations on our way to all attractions. We didn’t understand everything he said, because we’re not fluent in English, but he repeated the information when needed. We loved our tour!
Great experience for small tour
Ananya D,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Very professional tour Mark he very good tour guide good driver first time am solo tour by myself enjoy every spot he show for photo
Great guide (Marty), great tour, and great value
Dale T,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Marty was a most excellent guide. He arrived a few minutes early and gave us the option of sitting in the front seats with him. This turned out to be an exceptional benefit. The other 10 people on the tour sitting farther back did not seem overly interested in the commentary, but I found it captivating. When the commentary finished and Marty switched off the microphone, we had the most interesting discussions ranging from the rules of cricket to the significance of today's travel day - ANZAC Day and to other places in which to travel. The tour stops were broken down quite nicely and Marty was quite efficient. Often, we were the first bus of the day arriving at each stop. The breakfast stop was a nice stop on the way out to the end of the line. Marty explained that the reverse itinerary allowed us to see the 12 Apostles in the best light. Marty delivered! The day prior, we had gone on another excursion to a Koala reserve to ensure that we saw these animals before leaving Australia. While riding along the Great Ocean Road, Marty stated that we would go in search of Koalas. To see them in the wild would be even better than a Reserve, but I doubted the chances. I asked Marty what our chances were and he said 100 percent. And true to his word, Marty delivered again. We saw 4 Koalas in the wild. Some were quite high in the trees, but we still "checked the box." Marty teased us at the beginning with a bonus stop at the end of the day if we got back to the bus on time at each stop. The bonus stop (which I will leave as a secret) was a great addition to the journey. Marty was a great guide. This company employs several guides. If the other guides are even half as good as Marty, you will have a great time. Highly recommended.
Exploring this picturesque coastal area with HTR Tours is a big plus
AdventureDiva,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Took the reverse premium tour to avoid the afternoon crowds and was happy to explore this beautiful area with Hit The Road Tours. This iconic road has a spectacular drive on the coast and gets you up close to the sights and the Southern Ocean. Our private guide Pete was proud to show what Victoria's coast had to offer. It was a great balanced mix of educating the passengers, sprinkled with personal stories about the area and quiet time to see out the window. His tireless dedication in showing off this area made a difference.
It was a fabulous tour....
Barbara J,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a fabulous tour. We got to see the sights and learn about the history from our guide. I highly recommend this intimate tour.
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Operated by HIT THE ROAD TOURS