Great Ocean Road Reverse Tour: Beat the crowds, catch the best light

Shauna

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

3/5

This whole road is narrow at places. There are overseas tourists that drive on the wrong side of the road with no signs to make them aware that in this part of the world, they drive on the OTHER side. Expensive touristic places along this road.

Victoria

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Thank you, the day was amazing experience. We had fun and the tour guide told us lot of interesting facts. The views were incredible beautiful and we managed to see some koalas and also some kangaroos.

Megan

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

I joined the Great Ocean Road Day Tour led by Jimmy Chen on 11 Mar 2025, and it was an amazing experience! Jimmy was sincere, caring, and full of hospitality, making everyone feel welcome and well looked after throughout the day. His knowledge about the Great Ocean Road and its iconic stops, like the Twelve Apostles, added so much depth to the tour. Jimmy’s friendly and attentive nature made the trip enjoyable and stress-free. I highly recommend this tour, especially with Jimmy as your guide—it’s a fantastic way to explore one of Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Thank you, Jimmy, for a memorable day!

Jasmijn

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

A whole day in nature with breathtaking views of the ocean and coastal cliff and rainforest walks with wildlife encounters all together with lovely fellow tour guests and under the expert guidance of our tour guide and superb driver Marty! The morning coffee and lunchtime stops were excellent too. I'd do it all again tomorrow!

Luitgard

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Our round trip from Melbourne to the Great Ocean Road was an absolute delight! The journey was smooth and well-paced, with everything running punctually from start to finish. The group was wonderful, making the experience even more enjoyable. A huge shoutout to our driver, Chris, who was incredibly versatile—switching effortlessly between guiding, driving, and ensuring everyone’s safety. His thoughtful planning meant we arrived early enough to beat the crowds at key stops, allowing us to truly soak in the stunning coastal scenery without the rush. Chris made sure we ticked off all the highlights, from the iconic Twelve Apostles to hidden gems along the route. The wildlife sightings were a special bonus—we spotted kangaroos, koalas, and even had the rare treat of seeing an echidna! Overall, this tour was well-organized, comfortable, and packed with breathtaking sights. If you’re looking for a stress-free and memorable Great Ocean Road experience, this is it! Highly recommended.

Carlos

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

A whole day in nature with breathtaking views of the ocean and coastal cliff and rainforest walks with wildlife encounters all together with lovely fellow tour guests and under the expert guidance of our tour guide and superb driver Marty! The morning coffee and lunchtime stops were excellent too. I'd do it all again tomorrow!

Molly

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Chris was our guide who offered a wealth of information, shared experiences of Australia past and present. The trip had many stops for us to view and experience the breath taking scenery. It was a full day! We saw kangaroos in the wild, amazing!

Thérèse

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

We travelled along the Great Ocean Road on our motorbikes, the road is full of scenic sights to see and there are plenty of corners to enjoy.

Burghard

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Outstanding tour especially doing it in reserve. The best tour to do if you are visiting Melbourne. It gives you a wonderful perspective of both the farmlands and coastline. Small bus was excellent choice and Marty was exceptional and easy to spend the long day with.

Urszula

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

I had an amazing experience on the Great Ocean Road tour. The entire trip was well-organized, and our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the journey even more enjoyable. The breathtaking coastal views, iconic landmarks, and well-planned stops made for an unforgettable day. Everything ran smoothly, and the comfortable transport added to the experience. Thank you for creating such a memorable tour. Would highly recommended.

Mateus

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

An amazing.experience. Ann was a great tour guide. She was not.only informative but very entertaining. Would highly recommend!

Inaya

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

3/5

We saw some driving on wrong side of the road And others just stopping in middle of the road we nearly crashed a couple times People getting out of cars taking photos so dangerous. Impossible to get any parks on sights. Most only accomodate a few vehicles definitely no room for caravan to park Camping spots impossible to find. Everywhere you go is packed with no parking. Nice view but not worth the drive. SA peninsulas a lot better lots of camping options and parking bays.

Danilo

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We took two days to drive the Great Ocean Road route.

Willy

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world's most beautiful natural coastal features.

Fabio

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Excellent trip driver was very knowledgeable and very obliging took us to very beautiful places. well done Pete (driver)

Nils

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We stayed with friends in Melbourne who were eager to show us the highlights of the area. It was a full day tour, but so happy we went. Sometimes the road goes inland where you might encounter some animals in the wild. Truly gorgeous coastline!

Anna

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

The tour guide, Peter provided a lot of information about the sites on the tour. Nothing was too much trouble & he was keen to ensure everyone was having a good time.

Stewart

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Great way to see some great sights in a short amount of time (was here on business). Managed to see the 12 Apostles and the surrounding areas, (Gibson steps, Razorback, Loch & Gore) and others along the Great Ocean Rd. Saw kangaroos and koalas and just stunning ocean views. Definitely enjoyed the "reverse" itinerary of going straight out towards the 12 Apostles and working our way back down Great Ocean Rd. This meant that circa 10am when we were at the coast for the 12 Apostles and that whole region, there were few other people. I imagine come midday and early afternoon, it can get difficult to capture pictures without a bunch of others in the foreground or background of your photos :) While there is a lot of driving, it is punctuated with many stops along the way so there's a good rhythm to the day without too many lags. Our driver and guide Marty(?) was great! Upbeat energy, great sense of humor, a music playlist we enjoyed and have since all downloaded off of Spotify hahaha), and very knowledgeable of the different sights. I would definitely recommend to others.

Jeroen

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We rode the great ocean road from Melbourne and liked it very much. I Think you'll have the best views if you travel the great ocean road from east to west. If you travel from east to west then you drive the closest to the ocean. To be honest the first part of the great ocean road is the most beautiful if you pass cape otway the road will be less stunning. Though the second part has some really beautiful spots like the twelve apostles and london bridge but the road itself is here not really challenging anymore.

Telemaco

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

The tour was well organized, with lots of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and friendly, drove well, and kept us on schedule so we didn't return to Melbourne too late. Highly recommend this tour.

Marine

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We absolutely loved this tour! Chris was fantastic at making sure we saw all the best views and beat the crowds as well as taking us koala and kangaroo spotting. We felt like we saw all the best bits of the Great Ocean Road and had the most amazing day. Highly recommend!

Frederike

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We booked this tour based on the reviews, small tour size, and reverse itinerary - and I am so glad we did!! This tour is wonderful! Our guide Pete set the tone right away for a fun, educational, and respectful day. He did everything he could to ensure we saw everything we wanted to see (including several koalas and kangaroos) and taught us a lot about the area. The itinerary is well thought out and we were able to see all of the highlights with very few other people around (in some cases, just our small group). This was a highlight on our first trip to Australia and one of the reasons we are inspired to come back someday! Thank you Pete and Hit the Road Tours!

Iréne

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

The Hit the Road Tour in Melbourne offers an unforgettable adventure through this vibrant city and its stunning surroundings. Expert guides share fascinating local insights and hidden gems, enhancing each stop with history and culture. The tour’s well-planned itinerary covers iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and lesser-known spots, ensuring a balanced blend of exploration and relaxation. Comfortable vehicles, small group sizes, and attentive service create a personalized experience. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this tour reveals Melbourne’s unique charm and beauty in an engaging, informative way. Highly recommended for any adventure seeker. An excellent journey for true enthusiasts.

Anna-Luise

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Thoroughly enjoyed myself on this tour!! Jimmy was an extremely friendly and knowledgeable tour guide who made us all feel comfortable and ensured we had enough time to sightsee. He also brought us to an additional place since we had additional time and we spotted wild kangaroos! Jimmy did his best to ensure we experience the great ocean road fully, truly appreciate that! Safe and comfortable driving too. The reverse itinerary made so much sense as well - not much crowd at 12 apostles! Overall, highly recommended!!! Glad that I signed up for this :)

Allegra

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

This was an amazing trip from start to finish. The small group and reverse direction meant we could see the incredible scenery at its best with fewer people about. Our guide Peter was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and funny which made the whole experience even better.

Leo

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Visited this couch last week , there was a long queue but it moved very fast ...very impressed with the church , the alter the states , well worth a visit.

Tobias

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Our room was big and very quiet. I love a quiet room! No noise from other rooms or anyone else’s plumbing. A very big, very comfortable bed. Everything was spotlessly clean. The staff were lovely. We really enjoyed the spa and the rooftop pool area. Excellent breakfast and a great location. If I go to Faro again I would always stay here.

Birgitta

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

Nice and safe location walking distance to Sagrada Familia, busses and metro. Near cafes and restaurants too. Very good service, and very clean . I did not include breakfast in our stay. There are many Cafes nearby for breakfast and a quick meal. Thanks Acta Antibes you made us very happy.

Jolie

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

3/5

I visited Castaways for a friends wedding. What a stunning site for a wedding. However I felt the venue itself is in need of modernising or upgrading. Some aspects are starting to look quite tired and my partner mentioned the men's toilets were disgusting. The food was pretty average for a wedding and the service staff were also pretty average, the bar staff were mostly standing around doing nothing and it took quite some time to get a drink. I know how much this venue costs as I looked at it for my own wedding and I'm glad I didn't get married here as I would have been disappointed.

Dan

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

During a previous visit to Madrid Constant Companion and I could not help but notice the queue to enter the Basilica of Jesus de Medinaceli. It went on for over three blocks. Curious, we did a little research since nothing about it appears in any of our English speaking travel guides. What we learned was that the Jesus de Medinaceli statue was carved in 17th Century Seville. Iit has traveled to Morocco, was captured by the Moors, was rescued for 30 coins(Miraculous), and went to Madrid in 1681 where it appeared in its annual first Friday in March procession for the first time. It also survived trips to Ceuta, Gibraltar, Valencia, Barcelona, Genoa etc. before being accidentally rescued again by the Republicans during the Spanish Civil War. Its current location--the Basilica de Jesus Mendinaceli- was consecrated in 1930. Note that while the entrance queue is blocks long it moves pretty quickly. We waited approximately 20 minutes to enter. When we did the queue to the statue on the second floor took another 10 minutes or so. Mondrileños believe that the statue is miraculous and queue to kiss its feet and to make three requests. A mass was occurring when we attended and the basilica was completely full. There are a number of beautiful side chapels and another in the basement worth viewing. This is a beautiful statue and basilica with a large and very devout following. Make an effort to visit this basilica! We are sure you will be glad that you did!!

Margaux

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

you don't believe and just wish to talk "to yourself" about all your worries, sorrows, pains and doubts, go and have a sit in that basilica. Luxury despoiled, clean and wide, you have there a place to hear you thinking. And you know? I did so and I was heard, Now I'm in peace...

Letizia

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

How to describe this area? Well, its grown over the famous Khao San Road (nothing fancy, Raw Rice Road, that's it). Low-cost tourism business was booming so it grew to near blocks.

Valérie

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

We had a birthday party for 50 guests at the resort. What a spectacular location! After the party, my wife and I headed off to one of the glamping sites. We had never "glamped" previously. First checking in was friendly and efficient. Secondly we were led to a golf buggy. We the drove for about 15 mins across sheep paddocks to our glampsite Tussock Hut. What a spectacular location. The hut was fully kitted out in luxury and the fridge fully stocked with food, beer and wine. There was a gas barbie for cooking There was also a capsule coffee maker. The bed was giant and very soft. Outside was a bath - yes under the stars, two hammocks and two cape cod chairs. It was all sublime. Note entirely off grid. No cellphone or wifi. The sound system had lots of music covering all tastes. For dinner we cooked steak, potatoes etc. For breakfast we did bacon, eggs, tomatoes etc. All included in the price. This is definite if you want to escape the world. It's totally private. Highly recommended and will do again.

Eitel

Apr 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Surprisingly colorful and bright church in Barrio de Las Letras.

Felipe

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Of course, this area is known for several tourist attractions.

Michael

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

3/5

Sensational rooms let down by indifferent staff. The pool was out of action but we were not told until after we had checked in when we were handed a piece of paper as if there was now nothing we could do about it. More than a bit unfair. A huge tantrum on my part illicited a 35percent discount on the rate after a new front desk manager Raul took some responsibility but the damage was done I’m afraid. The business room we had was pretty stunning but it’s just as well because the staff need their hands holding at all times to make anything happen.

Janin

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

The Church of Jesus de Medinaceli is one of the most important churches in Madrid because it has the statue of Jesus de Medinaceli, donated to the church by the aristocratic Medinaceli Family. The statue is venerated by the Madrileños and is supposed to have created many miracles.

Kamil

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

I can not fault this place. My partner took me here for a birthday surprise on Friday 10 Oct 2014. When we arrived, we were greeted by name. The lovely woman at the reception desk knew to keep secret the surprise planned for the next morning, so spoke in code to my partner about where to meet and what not. From the get-go, without prompting, had my lactose intolerance reconfirmed upon check in also. Stayed in room 21, an ocean view studio which with the large ceilings, made the room feel a lot bigger than it actually was, so didn't feel like the small studio was claustrophobic. Great view of the ocean and the sunset from our veranda. The food at this place was superb. We had 2 dinner options and a breakfast option included in our package. When we added everything all up, the majority of the price paid for the accommodation was actually towards the 5 star quality food served in the restaurant. Our waitress (same for dinner and breakfast) offered to move us closer to the window after the table had cleared (we had only just been served our entre so no issue to move), knew what food items I wouldn't be able to eat due to my dietary requirements and had on hand alternatives that the chef was able to make in stead. The birthday surprise after breakfast was archery. I was surprised to see so many activities on offer at this place. The guy we had for this was super friendly, chatting away to us about the new things going on at the resort, funny stories about past guests (archery related) and had we not of complained like Aucklanders that our arms and fingers were getting sore from the bows, would have let us keep shooting until our hearts were content. I can not rate this place highly enough. Happily recommend to anyone wanting a quite night/weekend away, beautiful backdrop for a wedding or wanting to surprise that special someone.

Youssef

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

Good location not far from tube station & walking distance of Sagrada Familia. Staff friendly and helpful. Rooms clean and reasonably spacious. Breakfast ok with selection of cereals, pastries, eggs etc. Could do with a kettle / hot drink making facilities in the bedrooms.

Joan

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

We stayed in Cala Blanes which is close by and there is a nice coastal walk provided to link the towns together - recommend this stroll. We visited the marina area in Cuitedella a few times during our two week holiday and enjoyed it each occasion. There are lots of restaurants along the marina which provide a lot of options on food quality, type and price so something for everyone in terms of breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Konrad

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

My daughter & new son-in-law recently held their wedding at Castaways and from the moment we all arrived we were not only greeted by stunning views but also by a very hospitable and accommodating staff. Roddy in particular was exceptional and I can't thank him enough for the long hours and huge effort he afforded us to ensure the wedding was a success. The food at Castaways is excellent and the menu caters very well for vegetarians with flexible, viable options available and a chef who is happy to oblige. We were there three days and the meals were consistently excellent. The wine list is very good with several local wines available too. A large group of us booked for a Clay-bird shoot on the Sunday and Frosty Frost, the gentleman in charge was extremely friendly, knowledgeable and safety conscious. I would highly recommend anyone keen to give it a go no matter what age! Frosty entertained us with little snippets of information and funny stories from his past. The rooms are comfortable, clean and the heat pump provides a cosy environment on colder days. Internet connection is difficult because of the location and the TV is very small, however the outdoor activities, the beautiful beach, the stunning sunsets and my book was all I required after the wedding. I have it on good authority that the Baisanti Spa is worth a visit for some pampering too. If you have a special event or just want to get away for a few days and get back to nature I would highly recommend Castaways as a fantastic choice!

Edeltraud

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

I live around the corner of this church and pass by very often, I can't help myself to enter many times during a week just to sit there in the quiet, contemplating g this mesmerising black Jesus and meditating about my own life, I'm not practitioner of religion but these moments bring me peace.

Laila

Feb 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

I think this is one of the nicest place where to stay at night in bangkok. It's easy to arrive both by tuktuk and by boat (pier 13). The atmosphere is warm and relaxed. Making exception of the most crowded street with live music and thousands of people having fun ... all the rest of the area is quite, with good restaurants and wow street food (highly recommended here!), affordable massages and lanterns anywhere. Enjoy a Chang beer in a bar on the street and relax your soul here.

Janice

Jan 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Had a very enjoyable 4 night stay at Room Mate Gerard. Great location, near to bus stops and Metro and plenty of eating places. Staff were very welcoming. Bedroom was comfortable & clean & air conditioning worked well. Breakfasts were excellent.

Detlev

Jan 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

I was attending a wedding here recently and wife & I decided to stay the night. I'd been here before to another function and raved about how lovely it was so wife & I decided to book a room for the night. We went to check in early, but room was not available and it was the last room to be cleaned. On getting to the chalet we couldn't believe the view - Stunning! the Chalet was modern, well laid out and had everything you would need - even a washer / drier. I looked around the lounge for the TV - then discovered it was very high on the wall...almost hanging from the ceiling. This would be my ony criticizm of the place as you really had to strain your neck upwards to watch the TV. The bed was comfortable and we both really enjoyed our over night stay here. We would happily stay here again.

Philip

Jan 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

Starting route from main Avennue circular rounsbout road connected to Phra Arthit and Samsaen plus Khaosarn road area. These Bunglumpoo location is a mix of touchy treandy feeling style.

Irmeli

Jan 2025Verified Partner Review

3/5

We decided to go out for the day to the cuitadella as it had been described as having a good market. Let's start there - approx 15-20 stalls all selling the same items not a great visit to purchase gifts for home. The shopping area is nice but VERY expensive. The church/cathedral is nice to look around and very flat so good for prams and wheelchair access. The monastery part which comes with the ticket price is more an art gallery than a sight seeing opportunity. We walked down to the marina area where there are plenty of restaurants. All seemed decent value and the one we stopped at (at the very end) was very nice. Only negative is there was a few steps to get to it. Ok to carry a pram down but not sure there was an alternative for wheelchair users. It's ok for a half day wander to break up your holiday but not much to write home about.

Emmanuelle

Jan 2025Verified Partner Review

5/5

This review is quite late. Banglampu is located in the Rattanakosin Island where most of the cheap backpacker accommodations can be found. The popular Khao San Road is also located in this area. The biggest attraction here is the Grand Palace.

Gareth

Mar 2025Verified Partner Review

4/5

This is a nice church in the heart of Madrid, very close to Neptuno Square.