11 Days Tastes of Southern Australia (ESMA)

Australia’s capital city, also known as the ‘Bush Capital’ is surrounded by forest, farmland and nature reserves; while at its heart is the fabulous Lake Burley Griffin, filled most days with colourful sailboats and kayaks. The city boasts a treasure trove of attractions, including the strikingly modern Parliament House, the National Gallery, the Australian War Memorial and Questacon National Science and Technology Centre. A short drive from the city, you’ll find the Australia Alps, Tidnbinbilla Nature Reserve and the Murrumbidgee River Corridor – all worthy scenic day trips. And if you’re there in autumn, you’ll be treated to the Balloon Fiesta – when a cornucopia of colourful hot air balloons take to the skies.

Located in northeast Victoria, Beechworth is a historic gold-rush town boasting beautiful nature, a flourishing culinary scene and an array of attractions. Lush countryside and woodlands surround the town, making it ideal for outdoor excursions and providing plenty of walks of all lengths. See ancient Aboriginal cave paintings at the Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site and delve into more recent history at the Beechworth Historic and Cultural Precinct, a significant attraction comprising the town's old courthouse, telegraph station, and town hall. Explore the life of outlaw Ned Kelly through artefacts like death masks, rare photographs, and the legendary bulletproof suit at the Ned Kelly Vault, and visit the Burke Museum to see gold-rush relics and oddities such as Charles Dickens' writing desk. Make sure to visit some of the local breweries for beer tastings and dine at some of the restaurants, many of which serve interesting dishes inspired by Australia.

Australia's ‘heart of culture’, Melbourne, is the capital of Victoria and lies on the banks of the Yarra River. Famous for its gorgeous gardens, exciting culinary scene, and wealth of arts and culture attractions, the city is alluring to travellers with a variety of interests. Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens offer a spectacular display of indigenous plants and flowers, an Aboriginal Heritage Walk, and live concerts; the impressive Melbourne Star provides a 30-minute, 120-meter-high experience over the city; and the uber-modern Federation Square includes the magnificent NVG International Gallery, housing ancient works as well as contemporary masterpieces. Other highlights include the abundance of Queen Victoria Market, the hidden lanes and alleyways around Bourke, Collins, and Flinders streets for food and nightlife, and the mighty Melbourne Cricket Ground, arguably one of the best in the world.

If pristine beaches and great surf are what you’re looking for, Warrnambool is the place to visit. Located on the Great Ocean Road, the city is set on the wide cobalt expanse of Lady Bay, on a plateau sheltered by a steep bluff. Much of life revolves around the ocean here, with surfing, s all high on the agenda, but this former port town also has much of historical interest to offer. Don’t miss a visit to the award-winning Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, where you can tour a 19th-century precinct that includes the Lady Bay Lighthouse, Warrnambool Garrison and a coastal port harbour with an entire town. The rivers and wetlands that surround the area also present a unique natural splendour – particularly Lake Pertobe Adventure Playground and Hopkins River Estuary.

The county town of Naracoorte is located in the Limestone Coast, a region in southern Australia, and is known for its 19th-century heritage architecture, surrounding scenic landscape and rich fauna and flora. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Listed Naracoorte Caves Conservation Park, home to one of the richest collections of Pleistocene fossils in the world. Visitors can look forward to visiting the Sheep's Back Wool Museum and Tourist Office; browsing the art collection at the Naracoorte Cultural Arts Centre, which is housed in the old Corporation Building; and relaxing at the town's Swimming Lake and Jubilee Park, situated just north of the town. Other popular activities include golfing at the Tiny Train and Mini Golf Park, bird watching at Bool Lagoon, and visiting the Mini Jumbuk Factory.

Kingscote is the largest town on South Australia’s beautiful Kangaroo Island, set on the gorgeous Nepean Bay. A wonderfully idyllic tidal pool allows hours of leisurely swimming in the warm waters, and neighbouring Emu Bay provides a spectacular stretch of powdery sands lapped by clear turquoise waters. An array of wineries, breweries, and top-notch restaurants make the town popular with food lovers, while a fantastic selection of shops, art galleries, and lively regular markets add appeal. History enthusiasts will delight in the numerous heritage buildings here, with Reeves Point (Old Kinngscote) being one of the highlights. Head to nearby Busby Islet Conservation Park for some excellent hiking trails and the chance to spot Little Penguin, Australian Pelicans, and Sooty Oystercatchers.

Once known as the ‘City of Churches’, today Adelaide is better recognised for its sophistication, charm and cosmopolitan feel. South Australia’s capital is a hub of festivals and art galleries; it enjoys a vibrant nightlife and live-music scene; plus there is plenty of shopping, including gorgeous opals, to be done; and gastronomic delights to be enjoyed. Pop into the Art Gallery of South Australia to view indigenous art, or the South Australian Museum devoted to natural history; take an amble in the Adelaide Botanic Garden; or if you’re up for a hike, find out about the trails on the Mount Lofty Ranges.