Australia Unveiled: Reef, Rainforest & Vineyards

Upon your arrival in Sydney, private airport transfers tailored just for you will be waiting, guaranteeing a smooth journey to your accommodation, Vibe Darling Harbour. Enjoy a day of leisure. Explore the vibrant city at your own pace, or relax and unwind after your journey.                    

Our adventure begins later in the day with a refreshing welcome cocktail at Tayim Terrace. Amidst splendid views and a relaxed ambiance, you'll have the opportunity to mingle and connect with your fellow travelers. 

Following this delightful rendezvous, indulge in a convivial group welcome dinner at Tayim. Exquisite cuisine and lively conversation await, setting the stage for camaraderie and memorable experiences.    

After breakfast, we'll explore Sydney, immersing ourselves in its vibrant metropolis vibe complete with iconic landmarks. We'll begin at The Rocks, where cobbled streets and historic buildings ring with the city's colonial past. Then, we'll stroll through Hyde Park before continuing to the picturesque Mrs Mcquaries Point, which has panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. 

We'll explore the lush landscapes of the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, before heading to the world-famous Bondi Beach to soak up the sun and surf.         

As the day draws to a close, we'll relax over a sunset Sydney Harbour dinner cruise. Glide along the harbor's sparkling waters as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the iconic landmarks that line the shore. Savor a delicious dinner on board, featuring fresh local cuisine, as you take in the breathtaking views of the Sydney skyline. With live entertainment to set the mood, this unforgettable cruise offers the perfect end to a day of exploration and discovery in one of the world's most beautiful cities.                             

Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the Hunter Valley, Australia's premier wine region. Our full-day excursion offers a blend of wine tasting, gourmet experiences, and leisurely exploration.

Explore renowned vineyards guided by experts. Savor a curated selection of exquisite wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. Gain insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the Hunter Valley.

Delight your taste buds with a cheese and chocolate tasting session featuring artisanal products. Savor a leisurely lunch at Twine Restaurant, overlooking the picturesque vineyards.

Visit boutique shops and art galleries to discover local treasures. Then, stroll through the vineyards, surrounded by nature's beauty. 

Relax and unwind on the journey back to Sydney, enjoying the stunning countryside views. Experience the vibrant energy of Sydney's nightlife and iconic harbor front. Tonight, you can have dinner on your own or simply relax at the hotel. 

Escape the ordinary and venture into the breathtaking Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty, starting with a visit to the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. Soak in the mesmerizing views of the Jamison Valley and learn about the captivating Aboriginal legends surrounding these sandstone giants.

Next, wander through the charming village of Leura. Quaint shops, art galleries, and lush gardens beckon you to explore at your own pace. Absorb the village's delightful ambiance as you stroll through picturesque streets, uncovering local treasures.

At Featherdale Wildlife Park, encounter Australia's fantastic wildlife firsthand. Get up close to koalas, kangaroos, and other iconic creatures. Learn about conservation efforts and create unforgettable memories as you take photos with these beloved animals.

We will refuel with a delectable lunch at the historic Boiler House restaurant. Nestled in the Blue Mountains' rugged beauty, savor a culinary experience featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and panoramic views. 

As the day draws to a close, we will indulge in a delicious dinner at Love Fish. This renowned restaurant celebrates the best of Australian coastal cuisine with fresh and sustainable seafood dishes. 

Rest will come easily this evening as we reflect on the day's adventures.

After breakfast, we'll fly from Sydney to Cairns, where the wonders of Far North Queensland await. Your descent into Cairns offers a bird's-eye view over the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage-listed rainforest.  

Upon arrival in Cairns, we'll explore the lush rainforest canopy aboard the Kuranda Skyrail. This remarkable cableway provides a mesmerizing perspective of the verdant terrain below. Alight in the quaint Kuranda Village and immerse yourself in its unique charm. We'll wander through bustling markets, explore artisanal crafts, and engage with the rich indigenous culture that thrives in this vibrant community. 

Lunch is on our own today. You can have a hearty breakfast to carry you through, grab a bite at the airport, or when we arrive midafternoon in Kuranda Village, there are options for a quick bite or a packed lunch. 

After exploring Kuranda, we will return to Cairns aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway. Relax as the train winds through breathtaking scenery, including cascading waterfalls and rugged mountains.                    

We'll check into our hotel, Bailey Crystalbrook, after our return to Cairns. Unwind after a day of exploration and travel. 

We'll end the day with a delicious dinner at CC's Bar and Grill. We'll enjoy various dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients as we wind down a day of adventure in true indulgence.

After breakfast, we're off on another adventure into nature. We'll embark on a full-day tour of Mossman Gorge, delving into its ancient beauty with a guided Dreamtime Walk led by Indigenous guides. We'll discover traditional customs and hear stories while exploring the lush rainforest and pristine waters. 

We'll savor a delightful lunch in the serenity of the rainforest.      

In the afternoon, we will cruise the tranquil Daintree River on a leisurely cruise, spotting native wildlife such as crocodiles and birds. 

We'll dine at the Paper Crane this evening, enjoying innovative dishes crafted from the finest local ingredients.  

After a hearty breakfast, we're in for a real treat today. We will explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkeling tour. We'll spend the day immersed in the breathtaking beauty of one of the world's most renowned natural wonders as we snorkel amidst vibrant coral gardens and colorful marine life.

We'll indulge in a sumptuous lunch aboard the vessel, featuring fresh and flavorsome dishes to fuel your underwater snorkeling adventures.                   

After a day of underwater exploration, we'll head back to the hotel for a rest before dinner. 

Tonight, we will dine at Ochre Restaurant. In the heart of Cairns, Ochre offers a gastronomic journey through Australia's diverse flavors. Delight your taste buds with a four-course dinner showcasing Indigenous Australian ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. From native herbs and spices to fresh seafood and premium meats, each dish celebrates the country's rich culinary heritage. We're sure to have a peaceful rest after a delightful day spent on the water. 

Today, we'll head out on another full-day excursion exploring the Outback's culinary delights in the picturesque Atherton Tablelands. 

We'll begin your journey by visiting the charming Lake Barrine Tea House, where we'll savor a delicious breakfast in serene surroundings.                    

We'll continue our gastronomic adventure with stops at Winter and Mann to taste artisanal treats and the Australian Platypus Park to marvel at the unique native wildlife. Next up, indulge your taste buds at Gallo Dairyland, where we'll sample various cheeses and decadent chocolates. Who doesn't love chocolate?           

Next, immerse yourself in the flavors of the region at Humpy Nut World, sampling nuts, fresh, locally grown produce, and gluten-free products. 

Next, we will visit Mt. Uncle Distillery to discover the craftsmanship behind fine spirits. Our culinary odyssey will end at Emerald Creek Ice Creamery, where we will enjoy a sweet treat. 

As the day draws to a close, we'll celebrate our time together with a memorable farewell dinner at Nunu in Palm Cove. We'll delight in a feast of locally sourced ingredients expertly prepared to showcase the vibrant flavors of Tropical North Queensland. Raise a glass to a fantastic time with your new sisters and reflect on the memorable experiences of the week. 

We'll enjoy our final breakfast together this morning, savoring the tranquility before you depart for Cairns Airport.  

Reflect on your experiences as you travel, perhaps reminiscing about your adventures or looking forward to your next destination. Allow yourself to soak in the final moments of our trip, appreciating the memories created during our time in this captivating location.

If you care to extend your stay, join us on the 10:20 am flight to Melbourne for 5 more days of Aussie Adventure!

Our flight from Cairns is set to arrive at 1:50 pm. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy a warm welcome to Melbourne with an exclusive meet and greet service at the airport terminal. Our chauffeur-guide will greet us to provide a seamless introduction to vibrant Melbourne. We'll head directly to Hotel Ovolo in the fashionable South Yarro neighborhood to refresh before beginning our explorations.

This afternoon we'll explore Melbourne’s iconic laneways, boutique cafés, historic landmarks, and lush gardens. Melbourne is known as the cultural capital of Australia, and today's tour will allow us to feel the city’s unique charm and local culture, promising a memorable and enriching stay. 

The tour includes visits to St Patrick’s Cathedral, Fitzroy Gardens and Captain Cook’s Cottage, Melbourne’s renowned street art laneways, Albert Park Lake and Race Track, as well as the picturesque areas of St Kilda and Port Melbourne. We'll stop to savor a delightful afternoon tea, complete with a hot beverage and a selection of cakes or biscuits.

After some rest back at the hotel, tonight's meal is at The Meat & Wine Co., located in the Como Centre, which offers a premium steakhouse experience with an Afro-centric design. Known for its exclusive Monte beef and curated wine list, the restaurant combines modern city dining with authentic African interiors. It’s a top choice for food enthusiasts in Melbourne. Fish lovers and vegetarians will find plenty of choices as well. 

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic, scenic drives, offering over 200 kilometres of jaw-dropping views, wildlife encounters, and spectacular landscapes. 

At 7:30 am, we'll meet at our hotel and depart for Split Point Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the coastline. Next, it's the Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch for a photo stop. When we arrive in Lorne, we'll take some time to wander this charming coastal town, known for its scenic beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

We will continue on to the Kennet River for koala watching and birdlife spotting. Next, we'll head to Apollo Bay, where we'll find lunch at The Apollo Bay Seafood Café.

After lunch, we'll walk through a lush rainforest to discover the region’s incredible biodiversity. Finally, we'll arrive at Port Campbell National Park, where we'll take in the towering cliffs of the Gibson Steps and the famous 12 Apostles - rock formations rising dramatically from the ocean. We'll also visit the Lord Arch Gorge and Razorback Ridge to admire their natural beauty and learn about the shipwreck history in the area. There is an option to take a helicopter flight at extra cost to take in a bird’s-eye view of the Port Campbell National Park and the 12 Apostles. Your guide will assist you in arranging and paying for this thrilling option. 

This evening we'll return to our hotel and then gather for dinner at our hotel's restaurant, Lona Misa a Latin-inspired plant based menu created by a female chef. 

Here we'll toast to an unforgettable day on one of the world’s most scenic roads.

We'll spend the day discovering the beauty and wildlife of Phillip Island, culminating in the world-renowned Penguin Parade. This full-day excursion offers an intimate glimpse into the island’s stunning natural landscapes and native creatures.

We’ll begin at the Koala Conservation Centre, a beloved sanctuary where koalas can be observed in their natural habitat. Other highlights include Cape Woolamai—renowned for its surf—Pyramid Rock, and The Nobbies, home to Australia’s largest colony of fur seals. At Summerland Beach, we might also spot short-tailed shearwaters, along with swamp wallabies and other local wildlife. We'll pause for tea and a light snack during the day.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll experience the magic of the Penguin Parade with upgraded underground viewing. From this special vantage point, you'll see the tiny penguins up close as they waddle ashore to their burrows—a heartwarming spectacle of nature.

Dinner tonight is at Saltwater on Phillip Island, a relaxed café and bar perched on the Newhaven Jetty. With sweeping 270-degree views of Westernport Bay, the Phillip Island Bridge, and the eastern entrance, this spot serves up fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, tapas, and comforting mains like seafood linguine and fish tacos.

After a memorable day, the return to Melbourne promises a well-earned rest.

Today's adventures are of the calmer variety. 

Our day begins with an 8:30 am pick-up from the hotel lobby, setting off on a beautifully curated journey through Victoria’s stunning countryside. First stop is the charming township of Belgrave, where we'll board the iconic Puffing Billy steam train at 10 am. Enjoy a nostalgic ride on this 125-year-old train through towering forests and fern gullies as the train winds its way to Lakeside, offering breathtaking views along the way.

After disembarking, we'll travel to the scenic hinterland of Red Hill for a guided tour of a working Lavender Farm. Here, we'll immerse ourselves in the calming scents of lavender fields while learning about the harvesting process and their lavender-based skincare products, followed by a relaxed culinary workshop showcasing local seasonal produce with a lavender-inspired twist.

In the afternoon, enjoy two hours of pure relaxation at the award-winning Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. Soak in naturally heated geothermal waters surrounded by nature. Our unforgettable day concludes with a 6:30 pm return to the hotel.

Tonight's repast is a sheer indulgence in world-class dining at Eureka 89, situated on the 89th floor of Melbourne’s iconic Eureka Tower. This gourmet dining experience offers jaw-dropping views of Melbourne’s skyline, the Yarra River, and beyond, making it a perfect setting for our final farewell meal.

All great adventures must come to an end. We must bid adieu to magnificent Melbourne, keeping our memories of her near and dear. 

After breakfast and a fond farewell, we'll take a private transfer from our accommodation in Melbourne to the Melbourne Airport to ensure a seamless, comfortable, and timely departure home. 

Note: Arrival on the core trip is to Sydney, and departure on the extension is from Melbourne.