Arrive into Sydney and enjoy a few days exploring this vibrant city. Stroll through the historic rocks, take in the views from the Royal Botanic Gardens or hop on one of the gold and green harbour ferries. Sydney is also a wonderful city to explore on foot and there are lots of coastal walks that can be enjoyed. A four hour harbour cruise is included, so sit back, relax and enjoy one of the best experiences that Sydney has to offer.

3 nights: Shangri La Sydney

 

Lord Howe, less than 2 hours flight from Sydney, is a ‘treasure island’ of extraordinary contrasts, rugged volcanic peaks, rolling surf, vivid turquoise lagoons and emerald green rainforest. Long recognised for its pristine natural heritage this breathtakingly beautiful island is just 11km long and 2.8km at its widest point and home to Capella Lodge. Nine beach-house style suites offer spacious, light filled refuges that showcase the stunning scenery beyond the outdoor decks perfectly. The petite Capella Spa takes inspiration from the marine environment and offers a signature menu of rejuvenating and relaxing treatments.

3 nights: Capella Lodge

 

Return to Sydney and collect your rental car for the next leg of your journey, a wonderful drive along the stunning coastline of New SouthWales into Victoria and Melbourne. We have allowed 7 days for this but the abundance of national parks and pristine waterways, along with quirky towns and quaint villages, means that you will probably want to take longer and we can easily do this for you. First stop is Jervis Bay, if time allows a visit to Kiama and the famous Blowhole is worthwhile. The beaches around here are stunning and one of them, Hyams Beach reputedly has the whitest sand in the world, which is not a bad claim to have. Move south to Ulladulla Harbour where you can enjoy fish and chips sitting on the dock of the bay and then next up is Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba. These quaint villages offer an abundance of local arts and crafts and regional food and wine. From here it’s onwards to Mallacoota, the Eden Killer Whale Museum is definitely worth a visit and if you are doing the drive between June and September whales can often be spotted off shore. Gipsy Point in the Croajinglolong National Park offers comfortable apartments in a truly magnificent location and a morning boat trip to feed the sea eagles is a must. Once you reach Lakes Entrance the landscape changes and Metung is on the shores of Australia’s largest inland water way. From here you can include Wilson’s Promontory or carry on to Phillip Island, home to the little penguins. From Phillip Island it’s a short drive into Melbourne.
6 nights: B&B

 

Melbourne is a vibrant city that combines the old and new very successfully. Wander through the tiny laneways and chance upon cafes and boutiques hidden away, explore Melbourne’s cultural side in the art galleries and museums or why not take in one of the many sporting events that the city plays host to.

 

From Melbourne it’s just a scenic three hour drive into the Grampians National Park and an incredible array of native wildlife, walking trails and scenic highlights. Meringa Springs is perfectly located for exploring and accommodates just ten guests at any one time.

2 nights: Meringa Springs

 

Return to Melbourne for the short flight to Adelaide, the ‘garden city’ full of charm and elegance and a great introduction to South Australia.

2 nights: Sebel Playford

 

Kangaroo Island is where you will find wild beaches, rugged rock formations and an absolute treasure trove of native wildlife. Think kangaroos grazing by the roadside, koalas snoozing in gum trees and sea lions playing in the surf. Set on a cliff edge above the thunderous Southern Ocean with a full frontal coastal panorama that stretches as far as the eye can see, Southern Ocean Lodge is an extravagance second to none but well worth the indulgence. Owned by the same family as Capella Lodge on Lord Howe, this is the perfect finale to your Australian journey. Twenty one suites are raised, cantilevered above the bush and offer every conceivable creature comfort – sunken lounges and dramatic glass walled bathrooms, outdoor terraces with ocean views, recycled spotted gum walls and art work from local Kangaroo Island artists. A signature itinerary of daily excursions is included allowing guests to encounter the abundant wildlife and unique natural attractions at a relaxed and exclusive pace.

2 nights: Southern Ocean Lodge

 

From Ł3839 per person, twin share including all accommodation and touring as shown, Sydney to Melbourne self drive, 10 days car rental and all meals, beverages and scheduled activities at Southern Ocean Lodge. Flights from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island are also included.