Itinerary
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Day 1
Melbourne Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, and is located around Port Phillip Bay in the south-east. The city is often referred to as Australia's 'sporting and cultural capital' and it is home to many of the nation's most significant cultural and sporting events and institutions. Melbourne is notable for its mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture, its extensive tram network and Victorian parks and gardens, as well as its diverse, multicultural society. Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver. Hotel Lindrum Melbourne is a sophisticated contemporary traveller's haven located in the heart of cosmopolitan Melbourne. It is only minutes from world-class theatres and restaurants, sporting venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Tennis Centre and from the hub of thriving local and international business. Hotel Lindrum in Melbourne is a unique 59 room boutique hotel that combines modern design with the ultimate in contemporary facilities and personalised service. Overnight at Hotel Lindrum (4.5*). |
 Melbourne |
 Hotel Lindrum |
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Day 2
Melbourne Departing Melbourne with Go West Tours, enjoy panoramic views of the city and Port Phillip Bay as you cross the Westgate Bridge, Australia’s longest at just under 2.6 kilometres in length. Pass through and learn a little aboutVictoria’s second largest city,Geelong, as you make your way down towards theSurfCoast. AtBellsBeach, stop to appreciate this world famous surfing break. This is truly one of the world’s premier surfing spots and attracts board-riders from far and wide. DepartingBellsBeach set out along theGreat Ocean Road itself, as your experienced driver-guide provides an informative commentary about the road’s history and its place in Australian folklore. You get plenty of scenic stops on the way, including of course a photo opportunity at the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch at Eastern View. At the Township of Kennet River make a brief side trip into the sweetly-scented eucalyptus forest to locate some of the local koalas in the native habitat. The koala population here is particularly strong and numerous sightings are guaranteed. Continue on towards the lunch stop inApolloBay with another photo stop atCapePatten on the way.
After lunch follow the Great Ocean Road away from the ocean and into the mountains. The tour proceeds through the spectacular Otway Ranges, where you stop to enjoy a stroll in the cool temperate rainforest at Maits Rest. And then it’s onwards to the world famous Port Campbell National Park and its iconic array of rock formations. Just down the road is the heart of the Shipwreck Coast, the Loch Ard Gorge where 52 lives were lost and only 2 souls survived the wreck of the Loch Ard in 1878. Your guide will recount the legend of the Loch Ard, bringing the gorge to life in a way you never imagined. The final sightseeing destination is the collapsed London Bridge, where two holiday makers were stranded when the first arch collapsed in 1990. A dinner stop is made on the journey back to Melbourne. After dinner a video service allows you to enjoy a movie of your choice before enjoying a stunning view of the city as you cross the Westgate Bridge again on the way home Overnight at Hotel Lindrum (4.5*). |
 Great Ocean Road |
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Day 3
Melbourne Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. You will be picked up by mini-coach and taken southeast of the city through the rich Gippsland coastal region. Visit a boutique winery overlooking Westernport Bay hearing colourful stories about explorers, sealers and whalers who settled this region. Phillip Island is known as the wildlife island. Walk amongst the treetops at the Koala Conservation Centre to see a protected koala company. Walk with your guide in nature reserve bushland and wetlands. The walk provides the opportunity to see wallabies and a range of bird life in the wild. Penguins come ashore each evening at dusk from their ocean feeding grounds. The large penguin colony enters the beach in groups and “walk and talk” loudly as they work their way into the dunes where their burrow nests are situated. Boardwalks enable you to gain close contact with the penguins in the dune area. Enjoy a fish and chip dinner at the Jetty Restaurant in the township of Cowes at Phillip Island. Overnight at Hotel Lindrum (4.5*). |
 Penguin Parade |
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Day 4
Kangaroo Island Kangaroo Island is Australia's third largest island - after Tasmania and Melville Island. It is 112 kilometres southwest of Adelaide at the entrance of Gulf Saint Vincent. At its closest point to the mainland, it is 13 kilometres (8 mi) offshore from Cape Jervis, on the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula in the state of South Australia. The island is 150 km (93 mi) long and between 900 m (1,000 yd) and 57 km (35 mi) wide, its area covering 4,405 km2 (1,701 sq mi). Its coastline is 540 km long and highest altitude is 307 m (1,010 ft). Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver. Transfer from between your hotel and the airport When the night sky is clear take a journey and learn of ancient tales and mythologies derived from the Southern night sky. Sit back and gaze up to the unique and magical constellations of the Milky Way and Southern Cross. The Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) offers guests a complete and personal Kangaroo Island experience. A signature itinerary of guided excursions is designed daily and included in the tariff, allowing guests to encounter abundant wildlife in a 'zoo without fences' and discover the Island's unique natural attractions, often with exclusive access Overnight at Southern Ocean Lodge (5*). |
 Kangaroo Island |
 Southern Ocean Lodge |
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Day 5
Kangaroo Island A scenic walk starting right on the Lodge’s doorstep atop the limestone cliffs of Hanson Bay. This easy walk affords a bird’s eye view of thundering waves crashing along the coastline. Experience and learn about local flora, fauna and coastline ecosystems. A photographers dream! Seal Bay is home to Australia’s third largest colony of Australian sea lions. Join our naturalist guide for an exclusive tour on the beach with these wild animals. Learn about their unique breeding cycle and the ongoing research programs implemented on site. After your up close and personal experience relax with morning tea at the picturesque Vivonne Bay. Overnight at Southern Ocean Lodge (5*). |
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Day 6
Barossa Valley The Barossa Valley is a major wine-producing region and tourist destination of South Australia, located 60 km northeast of Adelaide. It is the valley formed by the North Para River, and the Barossa Valley Way is the main road through the valley, connecting the main towns on the valley floor of Nuriootpa, Tanunda, Rowland Flat and Lyndoch. Barossa Valley is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vineyards in the world, acclaimed Rieslings and iconic wine brands. Transfer from between your hotel and the airport Take a 75 minute transfer from the airport to the Louise. The Louise (4.5*) is a relaxing, spacious, comfortable lodge full of pure opulence and sophisticated contemporary design surrounded by acres of quaint, natural Barossa Valley vineyard landscapes. It is ideally situated in the heart of the legendary Barossa wine country just one hour from Adelaide. The Louise offers amazing food, wine and fifteen inspired designed ensuites accommodations with private terraces and breathtaking views of the vineyard. Onsite is the Appellation Restaurant which is highly regarded as one of Australia’s finest dining destinations; where fresh, local ingredients, informed service and an award-winning extensive collection of wines ensure a truly memorable dining experience. The sports and recreational facilities include an outdoor pool and spa. Overnight at The Louise (4.5*). |
 Barossa Valley |
 The Louise Barossa Valley |
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Day 7
Barossa Valley Includes a private, escorted, early morning drive to an easy walking tour at a nearby conservation park with a local guide. Complete with gourmet breakfast in the park surrounded by families of kangeroo. Overnight at The Louise (4.5*). |
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Day 8
Ayers Rock Uluru, also referred to as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part of the Northern Territory, central Australia. It lies 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, Alice Springs; 450 km (280 mi) by road. Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Uluru are the two major features of the Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. It has many springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Uluru is listed as a World Heritage Site. Take a 75 minute transfer from the Louise to the airport. Longitude 131 will arrange transportation to escort you between the airport and property. Luxurious, eco-sensitive and romantic, Longitude 131° (5*) offers immersion in the wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This award-winning luxury wilderness camp in Australia's Red Centre has achieved new heights in ecotourism the world over. Longitude 131° is a deluxe camping experience like no other and set atop an isolated sand dune close to the border of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. In the crisp, white linen of a king-sized bed guest find the serene, silent sleep of the desert. Guests awake to their own private view of the amazing sun rising over Uluru (Ayers Rock). Overnight at Longitude 131° (5*) . |
 Ayers Rock |
 Dining at Longitude 131 |
 Longitude 131° (5*) |
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Day 9
Ayers Rock Depart Longitude 131° at 6am bound for Kata Tjuta. Upon arrival you will begin your journey with a guided tour of Walpa Gorge, where the natural history of Kata Tjuta is explained in great detail, learning how eons of weathering and continental upheaval have created what is seen today. You will return to Longitude 131° at approximately 10am. Spend your afternoon at leisure or take the opportunity to enjoy any of our optional tours, such as a camel ride, Harley ride or helicopter tour over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Enjoy sunset drinks and canapés on the Dune Top from 6pm. You will then be transferred to our outdoor dining venue, where you'll have an unforgettable dining experience under the stars. Return to the Dune House for complimentary after dinner drinks. Overnight at Longitude 131° (5*) . |
 Walpa Gorge |
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Day 10
Cairns The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for 2,600 kilometres (1,600 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq mi). The reef is located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in northeast Australia. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps. The Great Barrier Reef supports a wide diversity of life, and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. Depart the Dune House at 6am for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to view the sun rising over Uluru. You'll then continue to the Mutitjulu Waterhole to view cave paintings and hear of the Kuniya/Liru Tjukurpa story. You will return to the Dune House at 9.15am for a well-earned continental buffet and a la carte cooked breakfast. Longitude 131 will arrange transportation to escort you between the airport and property. Private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel, or vice versa. The Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina, Cairns, one of the most distinguished hotels in Cairns, sets the standard for contemporary luxury and service in one of Australia’s most beautiful seaside destinations.Cairns' premier hotel, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina, Cairns, provides a haven of unsurpassed luxury in a tropical city setting. The hotel is magnificently positioned within the cosmopolitan Pier complex, overlooking the Marlin Marina and the Coral Sea. Shangri-La's special blend of service and attention to detail, combined with the ultra-chic guestrooms, make for memorable stays, and guests aspiring to return. It is a fresh modern hotel with appealing decor, offering all the creature comforts that well travelled guests anticipate. The spectacular waterfront location is renowned as Cairns’ premier dining precinct, hosting some of Cairns’ most acclaimed restaurants and bars. Overnight at Shangri La Hotel, The Marin (5*). |
 Great Barrier Reef |
 Mutitjulu Waterhole |
 Shangri-La hotel, the marina |
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Day 11
Cairns Join fellow travellers on a memorable tour of the famous Great Barrier Reef. Michaelmas Cay is a picturesque reef sand island surrounded by magical coral gardens teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The Cay is a protected seabird sanctuary playing host to over 20,000 migratory seabirds ... one of the most important nesting sights in the Southern Hemisphere. Set Sail aboard a five star catamaran and enjoy a reef experience - a day to remember . Overnight at Shangri La Hotel, The Marin (5*). |
 Australian Gannet |
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Day 12
Cairns You will be picked up and taken to Wooroonooran National Park by shared coach along with fellow travellers. The National Park is located half an hour drive south of Cairns city. At Babinda Boulders you walk along a rainforest path to the breath taking granite gorge created over millions of years and you can listen to the ancient Aboriginal legend about the creation of the Boulders. Josephine Falls is a secluded freshwater swimming hole, located at the foot of Queensland's tallest mountain, Mt. Bartle Frere (1622m). Take a short walk to a series of dramatic cascading waterfalls amidst the lush tropical rainforest. Then take the plunge on the exciting natural rockslide. Overnight at Shangri La Hotel, The Marin (5*). |
 Josephine Falls |
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Day 13
Hamilton Island Hamilton Island is the second largest inhabited island of the Whitsunday Islands. Unlike most islands off the east coast of Australia, Hamilton Island is used almost exclusively for tourism. Visitors can catch glimpses of migrating whales as they make their way through the warm waters of the Whitsundays around July-September each year. Hamilton Island Airport is the only airport in the Whitsunday Islands that is big enough to cater for larger commercial aircraft. Hamilton Island is also catered for by several ferry services, which can only carry passengers. Private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel, or vice versa. Make the most of holidaying in a car-free zone and hire a Hamilton Island golf buggy, one of the island’s icons. Easy to drive, two- and four-seater Hamilton Island golf buggies have a canopy to shade you from the sun, headlights for night driving, and drink-holders for your refreshments.
Full drivers licence is essential to hire a buggy. The Reef View Hotel is located directly opposite Catseye Beach and features extremely spacious, well-appointed rooms all with private balconies overlooking either landscaped gardens or the breathtaking vista of the Coral Sea. The Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island is the perfect destination for your next Great Barrier Reef holiday or Whitsunday Island getaway. Overnight at Reef View Hotel. |
 Hamilton Island |
 Buggy |
 Reef View Hotel |
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Day 14
Hamilton Island On the eastern side of the uninhabited Whitsunday Island see nature at its unspoiled, spectacular best. Magical Whitehaven Beach is considered one of the top 10 beaches in the world and one of the must see icons of the Whitsundays. From Hamilton Island you will board one of Fantasea's high speed, air-conditioned catamarans and enjoy a gourmet barbeque lunch whilst departing for Whitehaven Beach. Keep an eye out for dolphins, turtles and whales as you cruise through the calm, turquoise waters. The experienced crew will provide a thorough commentary on the geographical surroundings and history of the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Overnight at Reef View Hotel. |
 Whitehaven Beach |
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Day 15
Hamilton Island Fantasea Reefworld is situated at Hardy Reef, approximately 40 nautical miles from the mainland and is the largest floating pontoon facility in Australia, with two pontoons measuring a total length of 86 metres. Travel to Reefworld on a high speed, air conditioned catamaran, fitted out for day cruise operations and a smooth, comfortable passage. Hardy Reef is a healthy platform reef which allows for sheltered and protected snorkelling and swimming conditions year round. Inside Hardy Reef on a channel referred to as "the river", Reefworld is the best way to see everything the Great Barrier Reef has to offer. The location and strategic positioning of Reefworld at Hardy Reef means that you will spend less time on the vessel and more time exploring the Great Barrier Reef! Overnight at Reef View Hotel. |
 Reefworld |
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Day 16
Sydney Sydney is the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area population of approximately 4.28 million. It is the state capital of New South Wales, and the site of the first British colony in Australia, established in 1788 at Sydney Cove by Arthur Phillip, leader of the First Fleet from Britain. Located on Australia's south-east coast, the city is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city's nickname, "the Harbour City". It is noted for the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, and its beaches. The metropolitan area is surrounded by national parks, and contains many bays, rivers and inlets. Private transfer from Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa. There are so many things to do in Sydney it may be hard deciding what to choose. We would recommend some of the following attractions: Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower + Oz Trek, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales which also houses an Aboriginal Art exhibition. You can also choose to take a half day city sights tour, a one hour Majestic Harbour Cruise (which operates daily at 10:30 or 15:00) or the Sydney Opera House Essential Tour (1 hr, operates daily between 09:00 and 17:00). All are included in the SmartVisit free pass card. Ask your Travel Consultant if you would like to purchase this card. The Four Seasons (5*) is stunningly situated overlooking Sydney Harbour in the historic Rocks district, a short walk from the city's shopping and business centres. The hotel is vibrant and elegant, with dramatic harbourfront views and a luxurious day spa featuring exclusive skincare and aromatherapy treatments. 531 rooms and suites are elegantly decorated in luxurious, contemporary style. World-famous iconic views of Sydney, from the guest rooms includes sunrise over the Royal Botanic Gardens and Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour and beyond. Overnight at Four Seasons. |
 Sydney |
 The Rocks Market area at Night |
 Four Seasons |
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Day 17
Sydney See inside the world’s most recognizable sails on The Essential Tour at the Sydney Opera House. Experience this miracle of architecture and engineering. A work of art that came into existence against impossible odds – to become one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world. Working with a new enriching, interactive audio-visual component where images are projected onto the fabric of the building – the guides will take you on an emotional journey, engrossing you in a story to rival any opera plot with its dramatic twists and turns. You’ll visit one of the major venues – where we live performance every day. Some 1,500 performances, in every genre you can imagine, are staged each year to audiences of around 1.5 million. You will be inspired! Overnight at Four Seasons. |
 Sydney Opera House |
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Day 18
Sydney A shared luxury 4WD tour to the Blue Mountains. Meet Australia’s unique native animals at Featherdale Wildlife Park. A great photo opportunity, where you will come in close contact with Australian animals. Experience an off road Adventure as you descend a deep canyon. Enjoy a remote stop along the way in this World Heritage area, and breathe in the essence of the Australian eucalyptus while your friendly Guide explains the unique qualities of the Aussie bush. Then you visit the Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens - home to Australia’s largest collection of cool climate plants and the ‘Dinosaur Age’ Wollemi Pine. The journey continues along the scenic Bells Line Road with views over Grose Canyon, with its towering sandstone walls. The afternoon will be spent in Glenbrook National Park with a close up experience with wild Kangaroos and the many varieties of bird that inhabit this area. Overnight at Four Seasons. |
 Blue Mountains |
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Day 19
Sydney A perfect and intimate way to explore Sydney Harbour. We sail aboard our fabulous Beneteau yachts, with no more than 12 people aboard. You will set sail for a magical experience on Sydney Harbour, one of the most stunning waterways in the world. Either relax and enjoy the feeling of the wind in the sails and the sights of Sydney or take the helm and learn a little about the art of sailing! A light morning tea is served on the Adventure Cruise. You will have a skipper as your cruise director as they share their love and knowledge of sailing and Sydney Harbour with you before returning to Rushcutters Bay. Overnight at Four Seasons. |
 Sailing Sydney Harbour |
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Day 20
Sydney Private transfer from Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa. Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary. Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport). |
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