Essence of Australia & Tasmania

Upon arrival in Sydney you will be met and privately transferred to the Shangri-La Hotel for two nights. Situated within Sydney’s historic Rocks district, the Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney offers breathtaking views of Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

After breakfast you will be met by your private guide and commence your day with a short walking tour of the historic Rocks district, perhaps explore the convict built cottages, pubs and the first church in Australia. Continue to the Sydney Harbour Bridge to partake in the Express Bridge Climb. Next make your way to the Sydney Opera House for a one hour privately guided tour. After lunch at the Yacht Club, enjoy a two hour cruise around Sydney Harbour.

This morning you will be privately transferred to the Sydney Airport for the scheduled flight to Lord Howe Island where you will be met and transferred to Capella Lodge for your three night stay.

Lord Howe Island is encircled by the world’s southern-most coral reef which provides home to a kaleidoscope of abundant coral and fish. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1982 as a place of rare and unique beauty, rich in local history and folk-lore. It’s yours to enjoy with a limited few – only 400 guests are permitted on the island at any one time in order to preserve this precious natural treasure. Visit remote rocky coves alive with magnificent bird life or walk into valleys brimming with ancient plants. Undertake a journey of discovery with a world-renowned naturalist; climb to the summit of Mt Gower – rated as one of Australia’s best day walks; or simply laze on one of the pristine white beaches.

The waters around Lord Howe Island are ablaze with colour – delicate soft corals, intriguing hard coral formations and a riot of fish. Perhaps take a cruise to Balls Pyramid, the world’s tallest sea stack and one of a series of volcanic pinnacles formed from a massive eruption millions of years ago.

This morning fly to Hobart via Sydney. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the Islington Hotel, a boutique retreat with stunning gardens and some of the city’s finest views of Mt Wellington.

During your stay here, we recommend a visit to MONA, Tasmania’s newest attraction. The Museum of Old & New Art is one of the world’s most unique and controversial museums. View the largest private art collection in Australia with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern art.

On your second day your private guide will collect you to explore Port Arthur, Richmond and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. The Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur Historic Site are some of Tasmania’s most visited destinations. Tasmania’s famous convict settlement site features many attractions and your experienced guide will bring its history alive. Visit the famous geological features of the peninsula as you explore the rugged coastline. In the afternoon travel to the historic village of Richmond before meeting Tasmanian’s enigmatic character, the Tasmanian Devil at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. You will also have the chance to view Wombats, Wallabies, Echidnas, Quolls and other Australian animals first hand.

Your journey continues as you are transferred by road to Saffire Freycinet ( 2.5 hour drive). Saffire Freycinet is a coastal sanctuary capturing the essence of Tasmania’s most sublime coastal region, the Freycinet Peninsula. The 20-suite retreat is located on the inside of a gentle curve of sandy coastline that joins the peninsula to mainland Tasmania. Panoramic windows showcase views of Great Oyster Bay where migrating whales and dolphins come to play. Included in your three night stay is a broad range of activities to suit all interests, inclinations and fitness levels. The retreat also has a range of facilities for relaxation and restoration, including the Spa Saffire.

Today you fly to Melbourne for the final two nights of your trip. You’ll stay at the Crown Towers which is located on the southern bank of the Yarra River and sets the benchmark for luxury hotels in Australia. Crown Towers is just a short stroll from the Southbank with its celebrated riverside dining, The National Gallery of Victoria, shopping and nightlife of Collins and Bourke Streets and the city’s bold new hub, Federation Square.

This afternoon you will be met by private guide for a walking tour to explore Melbourne’s arcades and laneways which hide many of the city’s treasures. This tour unveils local designers and specialty retailers that often are only found in the city. Your guide will reveal some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, with historical tales of Melbourne along the way.

This morning you will be met by your private guide to further explore the city of Melbourne. Hear stories of the early indigenous history of Melbourne. Enjoy some indigenous artworks and learn more about how this remarkable history is reflected in modern day Melbourne. Travel down the Golden Mile, past the Old Treasury Building, Parliament House and the world heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building. See how the discovery of gold in the 1850’s shaped the city.

The various migrant groups give Melbourne its edge. Visit some of Melbourne’s cultural precincts and grab a sidewalk coffee at a chic laneway café. For Melbournians today, life revolves around food, fashion, beaches and sport. Meet the faces behind the produce at Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market. Many are true entertainers and have had their stalls passed down through generations. Stop for lunch at the Pier Restaurant, situated at the end of the historic St Kilda pier in Melbourne’s edgiest and most vibrant precinct.

In the morning you will be privately transferred to the airport for your flights home.