Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour from Melbourne - Helicopter

About this experience

Discover Australia's most breathtaking coastal drive — the way the locals do it. Our Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour is a full-day, 12-hour adventure departing from Melbourne that flips the traditional route, taking you west-to-east so you arrive at the most iconic landmarks before the crowds do. This is the smartest and most scenic way to experience one of the world's greatest road trips. Starting early from Melbourne, your expert guide will take you along the winding coastal highway, offering unbeatable views of the Southern Ocean, dramatic sea cliffs, and lush temperate rainforest. The "reverse" direction means you hit the 12 Apostles — the tour's crown jewel — in the morning when the golden light is at its best and the tour buses haven't arrived yet. What's Included: • The 12 Apostles — walk the clifftop boardwalk and marvel at these ancient limestone stacks rising from the ocean • Loch Ard Gorge — explore the dramatic gorge and hear the incredible shipwreck story behind it • London Arch & The Grotto — two of the Great Ocean Road's most photogenic natural formations • Rainforest Walk through the Great Otway National Park — towering ferns, ancient myrtle beech trees and hidden waterfalls • Apollo Bay — a charming seaside town perfect for a coastal stroll • The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch — the iconic photo stop on the world-famous stretch of highway • Scenic drives through Lorne and Anglesea with stunning ocean views all the way back to Melbourne Why the Reverse Route? Most tours travel east-to-west, meaning they arrive at the 12 Apostles in the afternoon — crowded and harsh light. Our reverse route gets you there first, giving you a more peaceful, more beautiful experience. It also means your scenic coastal drive home is at sunset — absolutely spectacular. Tour Highlights: ✔ Small group tour for a personalised experience ✔ Departs and returns Melbourne CBD ✔ 12 hours of incredible sightseeing ✔ Expert local guide with insider knowledge ✔ Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ✔ Free time at key stops to explore at your own pace From $149 per person — an incredible full-day experience that showcases the very best of Victoria's coastline.

Experience type

Day tour or activity

Duration

1 hour

Booking in advance

Book at least 1 days in advance. Before the tour starts.

Categories

Adventure · Air or helicopter tour · Bus or minivan tour · Bus tour · Holiday and seasonal tours · Nature · Sun and beach · Private roundrip · Sightseeing · Safari and wildlife

Please note

Public transportation nearby

Itinerary

1. 1
   Day 1

   Melbourne – Departure & Pick-Up

   Your tour begins with convenient pick-up from Melbourne CBD. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive as we head west along the Princes Highway toward the start of the Great Ocean Road.

2. 2
   Day 1

   The 12 Apostles

   Marvel at the iconic 12 Apostles — towering limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the clifftop lookouts and capture unforgettable photos of this world-famous landmark.

3. 3
   Day 1

   Loch Ard Gorge

   Explore the breathtaking Loch Ard Gorge, named after the iron clipper ship that wrecked here in 1878. Walk down to the sandy beach nestled between towering sandstone cliffs and learn the fascinating story of the two survivors.

4. 4
   Day 1

   Port Campbell – Lunch Stop

   Take a break in the charming seaside town of Port Campbell. Enjoy lunch at one of the local cafes or restaurants (own expense) and take a stroll around this picturesque coastal village before continuing your journey.

5. 5
   Day 1

   The Arch & London Bridge

   Stop to admire The Arch and London Bridge — spectacular natural rock formations carved by the relentless force of the Southern Ocean. These dramatic coastal features offer incredible photo opportunities against the rugged cliff backdrop.

6. 6
   Day 1

   Otway Rainforest & Waterfalls

   Venture into the lush Otway National Park and discover ancient temperate rainforest. Stroll to cascading waterfalls hidden among towering ferns and towering eucalyptus trees, and keep an eye out for native wildlife including koalas and wallabies.

7. 7
   Day 1

   Apollo Bay

   Pass through the charming fishing village of Apollo Bay, nestled between the rolling Otway Ranges and the Southern Ocean. Soak in the relaxed coastal atmosphere, grab a coffee, and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay.

8. 8
   Day 1

   Return to Melbourne

   Head back along the scenic inland route to Melbourne, arriving in the early evening. Drop-offs will be made at Melbourne CBD and surrounding pick-up points, completing your unforgettable reverse journey along the Great Ocean Road.

Meeting point

Melbourne Spencer Street 56, 3000, Melbourne, Victoria, AU

Pick up

Pickup is not provided.

Cancellation policy · Standard rate

Non refundable

Good to know

Operated by AR TRAVEL GROUP PTY LTD and sold by AGORA. Your voucher and booking reference arrive by email straight after payment.