11D Tastes of Southern Australia

From Sydney journey to Canberra via the Southern Highlands. Along the way, stop at the historic Berrima then visit Gold Creek Station - a working sheep farm, for a taste of country life. Enjoy a barbecue lunch there. On arrival in Canberra join a guided tour of Parliament House, then visit the impressive Australian War Memorial. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travellers.

Visit the summit of Mt Ainslie to experience panoramic views of the city, before leaving Canberra. Journey over the mighty Murray River into Victoria taking the scenic route to historic Beechworth - Victoria’s best-preserved gold rush town. The region offers plenty of great photo opportunities, with tree-covered ranges, wild rivers and tranquil rural farmlands. Get to know Beechworth with an orientation and some storytelling over a “cuppa” with a local. Explore antique shops, galleries and museum at leisure.

After breakfast, travel through Glenrowan and Ned Kelly country to the culturally diverse and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne. Take a sightseeing tour then consider taking a relaxing walk along the Yarra River before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants along Southbank.

Today Melbourne is yours to explore. Consider joining an optional tour such as the Hunt & Gather Food Tour of the popular Queen Victoria Market.

Embark on one of the world’s premier road trips – the Great Ocean Road. Along the coastline of Port Campbell National Park, the towering limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles rise 50m above the wild Southern Ocean. You’ll also see nearby Loch Ard Gorge and visit the impressive London Bridge natural rock formation before arriving in the rural town of Warrnambool.

Visit the Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Cooperative at Tower Hill State Game Reserve. The guided tour will offer an indigenous perspective on the area’s flora, wildlife and volcanic formations. Cross the border into South Australia and continue to the world-renowned Coonawarra wine region. Stop at a vineyard for a tasting session before participating in a guided tour which will bring you through Alexandra Cave. Then head to Naracoorte.

Journey to Fleurieu Peninsula, known for its wine regions, notably McLaren Vale. Visit the charming seaside town of Victor Harbor before boarding a ferry to Kangaroo Island, famous for its unspoiled natural beauty and fine produce. Visit South Australia’s only boutique distillery to taste a selection of award-winning Australian gins and delicious liqueurs. Your final destination is Kingscote, South Australia’s oldest European settlement.

Explore Kangaroo Island this morning then head to Vivonne Bay for a delicious lunch. Next, experience the only ‘in-flight’ birds of prey display in South Australia, where you’ll see an array of birds including the majestic Wedgetailed Eagle. Following that, visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and enjoy a guided walk among a colony of sea lions.

Depart Kangaroo Island via a ferry and head back to the mainland, then continue your journey to Adelaide. Participate in an orientation tour before checking into the hotel. Next, choose between joining a guided city walking tour and hear stories of the early history of Adelaide, or visiting the Art Gallery of South Australia.

Discover the beauty of Adelaide Hills and the Barossa, stopping first at the picturesque German settlement of Hahndorf. At Hahndorf, wander down the streets and explore the many shops offering artisan produce. Then continue on to the Barossa for lunch before visiting Jacob’s Creek vineyard to sample some world-famous wines. As you travel back to Adelaide, look out for the stone cottages and olive groves which dot the tranquil landscape. Finally end the evening with a farewell dinner with fellow travellers.

Your tour concludes this morning after breakfast. Transfer to Adelaide Airport for your departure flight.