Itinerary

Day 1: Adelaide to Grampians National Park

Travelling through the picturesque Adelaide Hills, we cross the mighty Murray, and pass through small country towns on our way to the Grampians National Park. Get your legs working this afternoon with hikes at Hollow Mountain, the amazing MacKenzie Falls and Reeds Lookout before we settle in at our overnight Grampians accommodation. (D)

Day 2: Grampians National Park to Great Ocean Road

Hiking to the Pinnacle is a challenge, but on the way you’ll experience breathtaking views of the national park. Next we head south to the coast and Warrnambool, where you’ll have the chance to spot whales (seasonal). There’s a lot to explore along the famous Great Ocean Road, renowned for its beauty. Discover the Bay of Islands, Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Loch Ard Gorge before sunset over the Twelve Apostles – gorgeous! Dinner will be at your overnight coastal accommodation. (BD)

Day 3: Twelve Apostles to Melbourne

Start the day with optional helicopter ride (own expense) over the amazing Twelve Apostles or walk down the Gibson Steps to the beach to see a different angle of these limestone stacks. Next we visit the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. We’ll stop for lunch (own expense) at the coastal town of Apollo Bay. Hugging the coastline, we stop at Kennett River to spot koalas and birdlife before continuing on to Lorne. We’ll check out the world famous Bells Beach and the surfing town of Torquay before arrive into Melbourne. (B)

Accommodation in Melbourne NOT included.

Day 4: Melbourne to Wilsons Promontory National Park

Travelling southeast of Melbourne through pastoral South Gippsland we arrive at mainland Australia’s most southern point - Wilsons Promontory National Park. Walk along gleaming beaches, hike along amazing granite rock formations and learn about coastal flora and native wildlife. You might even see emus and wombats! In the afternoon we travel to the coastal town of Lakes Entrance. Here, we’re at the Gateway to the Gippsland Lakes and Australia’s longest beach – Ninety Mile Beach. (D)

Day 5: Lakes Entrance to Thredbo Alpine Village*

A journey from Australia’s southernmost point to Australia’s highest point! This morning we begin our journey into Snowy River Country. It’s a spectacular drive along The Barry Way, watching the Snowy River wind below. In the afternoon we climb high into the Australian Alps to the village of Thredbo. Grab your hiking boots and cameras, we’re going to the “Roof of Australia”. There’s a chairlift (own expense, but we get a great deal!) express up the mountain! You can walk to the summit of Australia’s highest mountain, Mt Kosciuszko, or to the viewing point. *In ski season (Jun-Sep) we stay in Jindabyne and during winter, have time to play in the snow at the ski resort of Perisher/Smiggins (optional toboggan hire or snow tube at own expense). (BD)

Day 6: Thredbo to Sydney via Canberra

Leaving Thredbo, we pass through Cooma, learning about the historically important Snowy Hydro-Electric Scheme. Next stop is the capital city of Australia – Canberra - where the Prime Minister hangs out. See for yourself how a custom-made capital city is built as you take in the view from Mt. Ainslie, take a tour of Parliament House, check out a few embassies and see other city highlights. Travel throughout the afternoon to the stunning city of Sydney. (B)

Note: Upgrade accommodation is budget style and may be located on different premises to hostel accommodation. This is a combination package so you may travel with a different guide and group in each section. Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. Safaris must be reconfirmed 48 hours prior to departure by phone on 1300 654 604. A STRICT luggage limit of 15KG applies