Tastes of Southern Australia

Depart Sydney for Australia’s capital, travelling via the Southern Highlands. Stop en route at Berrima to see early colonial architecture, and at Gold Creek Station to learn about life on a sheep farm and to enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue. Upon arrival in Canberra take a tour of Parliament House and visit the Australian War Memorial. Evening welcome dinner. Stay 1 night at Crown Plaza Canberra. (L, D)

 

Travel to the summit of Mount Ainslie for panoramic views, then journey over the Murray river into the state of Victoria to visit Beechworth. Take a short introductory tour of this wellpreserved gold rush town. Overnight in a hosted bed & breakfast-style property. (B)

 

Travel through Glenrowan and Ned Kelly country to Melbourne, where there will be a sightseeing tour of the city, including a guided walk through its hidden lanes. Stay 2 nights at Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne. (B)

 

Day at leisure to explore the delights of Melbourne. Perhaps visit Eureka Skydeck for fantastic views of Melbourne, join a guided tour of the historical Queen Victoria Markets or visit the many bars and restaurants along the Yarra river. (B)

 

Travel along the Great Ocean Road, passing the impressive limestone formations known as the Twelve Apostles. Visit the quaint seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, and stop at Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge. Stay for 1 night at Quality Suites Deep Blue Hotel & Spa in Warrnambool. (B, D)

 

This morning visit Worn Gundidj to learn about the Aboriginal perspective on flora, wildlife, medicinal practices and the landscapes. Continue to the crater lake at Mount Gambier, then enjoy a wine tasting in the Coonawarra wine region, known for its cabernet sauvignon. Continue to Naracoorte for a 30-minute guided walking tour of Alexandria cave. Overnight at William MacIntosh Motor Lodge in Naracoorte. (B, D)

 

Journey to the seaside town of Victor Harbour on the Fleurieu peninsula, just an hour from Adelaide. This afternoon take the ferry to Kangaroo Island and visit South Australia’s only boutique distillery to try some of its delicious liqueurs and award-winning Australian gin. Stay 2 nights at Aurora Ozone Hotel. (B, D)

 

Visit the Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch, and try local wine and bush tucker at Andermel Marron Farm, with the chance to taste marron (freshwater crayfish) for lunch. Finish with a guided walk among a colony of sea lions. (B, L)

 

Travel back to the mainland by ferry and on to picturesque Adelaide, the ‘City of Churches’. Choose from a selection of three included excursions: a guided tour of the Art Gallery of South Australia, a guided walk through historic Adelaide’s north precinct or entrance to Adelaide zoo. Evening at leisure. Stay 2 nights at the Stamford Plaza, Adelaide. (B)

 

Travel to Barossa Valley and the rolling Adelaide Hills with the opportunity to taste a number of world-renowned wines. First stop is Jacob’s Creek Winery. Wander through the display vineyard with a wine specialist and taste some of the award-winning collection. Enjoy lunch near to the vineyards at The Company Kitchen, with gourmet food and wine provided. This evening there will be a farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

 

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)