Southern Australia In Style

Itinerary

• Australia

  Australia is the world's smallest continent, and includes Tasmania and other islands. Prior to European settlement in the late 1700s and early 1800s, the Australian mainland was inhabited by around 250 individual nations of indigenous Australians for around 40,000 years. After sporadic visits by fishermen from the north and then European discovery by Dutch explorers in 1606, the eastern half of Australia was later claimed by the British in 1770 and initially settled through penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales. As the population grew and new areas were explored, another five largely self-governing Crown Colonies were established during the 19th century. On 1 January 1901, the six colonies became a federation, and the Commonwealth of Australia was formed. \There are iconic sights "down under" that find their way on most itineraries; Sydney (Opera House, Harbour Bridge), Ayers Rock, the Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne. Other gems include the wild nature of Tasmania, vineyards of Hunter Valley, surfing on the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Darwin ... and more.

• Adelaide

  Adelaide is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of South Australia, and is the fifth largest city in Australia, with a population of more than 1.1 million. It is a coastal city beside the Southern Ocean. Adelaide is also home to a great number of cultural institutions with many located of the boulevard of North Terrace including the Art Gallery of South Australia, South Australian Museum and State Library of South Australia. The Adelaide Botanic Garden, National Wine Centre and Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute are located nearby in the East End.

• Kangaroo Island

  Kangaroo Island is Australia's third largest island - after Tasmania and Melville Island. It is 112 kilometres southwest of Adelaide at the entrance of Gulf Saint Vincent. At its closest point to the mainland, it is 13 kilometres (8 mi) offshore from Cape Jervis, on the tip of the Fleurieu Peninsula in the state of South Australia. The island is 150 km (93 mi) long and between 900 m (1,000 yd) and 57 km (35 mi) wide, its area covering 4,405 km2 (1,701 sq mi). Its coastline is 540 km long and highest altitude is 307 m (1,010 ft).

• Lorne

  A sparkling jewel along the treasure of the Great Ocean Road, Lorne glistens with the golden sands and cool blue waters of Louttit Bay set against the lush green hinterland of the Otway rainfoest. Given its spectacular scenery and picturesque qualities, there's little doubt why Lorne was the first place to be declared an area of 'Natural Beauty and Special Significance' by the Victorian Government.

• Melbourne

  Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, and is located around Port Phillip Bay in the south-east. The city is often referred to as Australia's 'sporting and cultural capital' and it is home to many of the nation's most significant cultural and sporting events and institutions. Melbourne is notable for its mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture, its extensive tram network and Victorian parks and gardens, as well as its diverse, multicultural society.

• • Melbourne
  • Hotel Lindrum

  Day 1: Melbourne

  Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

  Dining in Melbourne can be a fabulous experience, especially aboard the fleet of historical trams that have become The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. These glossy, burgundy restaurants on wheels are the first travelling tramcar restaurants in the world and ensure a delightful innovative approach to dining. As they cruise the scenic streets of Melbourne, you can enjoy the fine cuisine and drink the very best of Australian wines or make a selection from the fully stocked bar. The atmosphere is cosy, the service friendly and the decor as inviting as the colonial period these trams reflect. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant officially commenced operation in August 1983 and has since become a star attraction and tourist symbol for the city of Melbourne. Dining aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is not only a culinary delight, but also a trip into a little piece of Victoria's history.

  Accommodation: Hotel Lindrum (4.5*)

  Hotel Lindrum Melbourne is a sophisticated contemporary traveller's haven located in the heart of cosmopolitan Melbourne. It is only minutes from world-class theatres and restaurants, sporting venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Tennis Centre and from the hub of thriving local and international business. Hotel Lindrum in Melbourne is a unique 59 room boutique hotel that combines modern design with the ultimate in contemporary facilities and personalised service.

• • Penguin Parade

  Day 2: Melbourne

  You will be picked up by mini-coach and taken southeast of the city through the rich Gippsland coastal region. Visit a boutique winery overlooking Westernport Bay hearing colourful stories about explorers, sealers and whalers who settled this region. Phillip Island is known as the wildlife island. Walk amongst the treetops at the Koala Conservation Centre to see a protected koala company. Walk with your guide in nature reserve bushland and wetlands. The walk provides the opportunity to see wallabies and a range of bird life in the wild. Penguins come ashore each evening at dusk from their ocean feeding grounds. The large penguin colony enters the beach in groups and “walk and talk” loudly as they work their way into the dunes where their burrow nests are situated. Boardwalks enable you to gain close contact with the penguins in the dune area. Enjoy a fish and chip dinner at the Jetty Restaurant in the township of Cowes at Phillip Island.

  Accommodation: Hotel Lindrum (4.5*)
• • Lorne
  • Cumberland Lorne Resort

  Day 3: Melbourne - Lorne

  Depart Melbourne today by motor coach on a shared tour and enjoy one of the world’s great coastal drives with dramatic scenery and striking contrasts. Travel via the city of Geelong and Corio Bay. View the popular coastal townships of Torquay and Lorne - a surfer's haven and retreat. Pass world famous Bells Beach, home to World Surfing Championships. Admire the spectacular scenery as you wind along the Great Ocean Road toward Apollo Bay. The afternoon is yours at leisure to engage in a game of golf, go shopping, stroll along the beachfront and relax in the seaside atmosphere. Apollo Bay has an array of restaurants and cafes at your disposal for dinner arrangements.

  Accommodation: Cumberland Lorne Resort (4*)

  Established in 1989 on the site of the original Cumberland Guest House, Cumberland Lorne Resort (4*) has become one of the region's most well known and popular resorts. Located in the heart of Lorne opposite the famous main beach, the resort combines outstanding accommodation and leisure facilities. Refresh your mind, relax your body and rejuvenate your spirit.

• • Great Ocean Road

  Day 4: Lorne - Melbourne

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  You will be picked up from your Ocean Road hotel after lunch today to venture further along the Great Ocean Road on a shared tour. The first stop is at the magnificent Otway National Park where you can visit the Otway Fly treetop walk (Nov - Mar only). Here you have the opportunity to walk the 600 metre long boardwalk - suspended 25 metres in the rainforest canopy above the forest. The Otway fly is an enriching environmental experience that immerses you into the spectacular rainforest. Breathtaking views open up Air Valley from the tower summit some 45 metres above the forest floor. Continue your journey along the length of the Great Ocean Road passing towering limestone cliffs, sweeping white beaches and stunning forest scenery. It is truly one of the world’s greatest scenic coastal drives. Witness a fabulous spectacle of massive natural erosion. See the amazing Twelve Apostles - limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean and visit the Information Centre. Walk along the boardwalk and enjoy the scenery from various viewing platforms. At day's end you will be brought to Melbourne.

  Accommodation: Hotel Lindrum (4.5*)
• • Adelaide
  • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

  Day 5: Melbourne - Adelaide

  Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

  Transportation between Adelaide domestic airport and your hotel by private car.

  Enjoy a half day shared coach tour of the Adelaide hills and Hahndorf and enjoy the historic charm of Adelaide. Travel through the magnificent landscapes of the renowned Adelaide Hills, dotted with unique and historic villages. Visit the township of Hahndorf, Australia's oldest German settlement, to experience rich Bavarian heritage. Wander along the historic Main Street with its beautiful buildings and browse through the shops.

  Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden (4*)

  The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is an award winning flagship property of Majestic Hotels. It opened right in the heart of Adelaide in 2004 and was awarded the Best Value Hotel in 2009. It has been created with the discerning traveller in mind and despite its upmarket appearance, provides great deals on accommodation. The hotel has a 120 rooms featuring, modern bathrooms, king size beds, full mini-bar, 24-hour room service and in-room broadband. As well, all the usual conveniences you would expect from a 4 star property. The property has a Central Adelaide East End location, Roof top function venue, 24-hour room service, 24-hour reception, Roof garden with views, Mini-gymnasium with weights and running machines, In-house restaurant and bar called Culshaw’s Restaurant and an in room massage is available upon request. Nearby The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, the area offers many of the city’s attractions located within a 20 minute walking distance.

• • Adelaide Central Market

  Day 6: Adelaide

  You will be picked up from your hotel today for a truly unique behind-the-scenes experience on a shared tour. Layer by layer the Market's history, foods & charm will be peeled away & exposed for your enjoyment. You'll get to meet stall holders and share their knowledge & best of all, generous tastings will be the order of the day. This tour is an early start at 07.15am, to tour, taste and discover the many delicious secrets behind the internationally acclaimed Adelaide Central Market as the stall holders go about setting up for trade. It is a different world at this time of the day as forklifts swirl past and barrows laden with fresh produce slowly trundle in and stall holders set up for the day. After absorbing all the aromas, taste, colour and freshness of the Market, satisfy your appetite. Sit down and enjoy a traditional Market breakfast right in the heart of all the activity. This tour departs from the Bottom of the DOWN escalator located in the centre of the Adelaide Central Market.

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden (4*)
• • Barossa Valley

  Day 7: Adelaide

  You will be picked up from your hotel by shared coach this morning. Today’s journey leads you to the Barossa Valley, home to traditional music, arts and crafts and, of course, wine. Savour the Barossa's world-class wine at three premium wineries. Sample a glass of Shiraz from some of the world's oldest vines, learn about viticulture and discover the acoustic secrets of the Whispering Wall. Enjoy a freshly baked slice of 'bienenstich' at a unique and authentic German bakery. This tour includes a delicious two-course lunch at a winery restaurant.

  Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden (4*)
• • Kangaroo Island
  • Wanderers Rest

  Day 8: Adelaide - Kangaroo Island

  You will be picked up from your hotel today and take a trip to Kangaroo Island. The tour will take you through the Fleurieu Peninsula to Cape Jervis where you'll board the SeaLink ferry for your 45 minute cruise to Kangaroo Island (KI). The first visit is Clifford's Honey Farm. After lunch (not included) it is on to Parndana Wildlife Park, then Seal Bay for a beach walk among a breeding colony of Australian sea-lions. Then you will visit Kingscote to see the daily pelican feeding followed by a leisurely drive to your accommodation.

  Accommodation: Wanderer`s Rest (4*)

  Wanderers Rest hotel (4*) of Kangaroo Island is a small country guesthouse set in bushland, high on a hillside overlooking the beautiful waters of American River to white sandy beaches and farmland beyond. The outdoor living area offers a solar heated swimming pool with spa and swim jets and rambling garden. Evening dining takes full advantage of the 180 degree sea views in the relaxed ambience of the fully licensed a la carte restaurant. Emphasis is placed upon providing a relaxed atmosphere and a tailor-made holiday. A range of recreational activities aimed at experiencing the natural beauty of the Island can be arranged depending on your individual interests.

• • Kelly Hill Caves

  Day 9: Kangaroo Island - Adelaide

  Today, travel to the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, a marvellous example of Australian bush ingenuity on a shared tour. From here, you will travel on to Kelly Hill Caves where a National Parks Guide will escort you deep into this fascinating cave system. After lunch (not included), you will drive a short distance to Flinders Chase National Park. Walk along boardwalks to the spectacular Remarkable Rocks and Admiral's Arch.

  Board the Ferry to transfer from Kangaroo Island to Adelaide

  Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden (4*)

• Day 10: Adelaide

  Transportation between Adelaide domestic airport and your hotel by private car.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Collectibles

  Australia is famous for its marsupial species that include kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and of course the cuddly koalas. These bear-like animals are found in South Eastern Australia and were given the name "koala" by Aboriginals, a word that means "no drink". The Koala obtains enough moisture from the eucalyptus leaves that it feeds on, a plant that would be indigestible to most other life forms.

• Culinary Delights

  There is much more to Australian barbeques than shrimp. Northern Territory barbeques feature indigenous fare like barramundi, kangaroo, emu, ostrich as well as chicken and lamb grilled on the barbecue with oil and seasoning. Of course an outback barbeque is never complete without billy tea at the end. This is simply tea boiled in a tin container known as a "billy".

• Historic Moment

  The Australian "Slouch" hat, or "Digger" hat, is nearly as old as the Australian fighting man. Originating in the army, it traditionally has a leather chin strap made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt, and is turned up on the side (originally perhaps to keep out of the way of a lance or rifle). It also helps stay clear of that scorching outback sun!

• • Hotel Lindrum

  Hotel Lindrum (4.5*)

  Hotel Lindrum Melbourne is a sophisticated contemporary traveller's haven located in the heart of cosmopolitan Melbourne. It is only minutes from world-class theatres and restaurants, sporting venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Tennis Centre and from the hub of thriving local and international business. Hotel Lindrum in Melbourne is a unique 59 room boutique hotel that combines modern design with the ultimate in contemporary facilities and personalised service.

  • More information
• • Cumberland Lorne Resort

  Cumberland Lorne Resort (4*)

  Established in 1989 on the site of the original Cumberland Guest House, Cumberland Lorne Resort (4*) has become one of the region's most well known and popular resorts. Located in the heart of Lorne opposite the famous main beach, the resort combines outstanding accommodation and leisure facilities. Refresh your mind, relax your body and rejuvenate your spirit.

  • More information
• • Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
  • Deluxe Room

  Majestic Roof Garden (4*)

  The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is an award winning flagship property of Majestic Hotels. It opened right in the heart of Adelaide in 2004 and was awarded the Best Value Hotel in 2009. It has been created with the discerning traveller in mind and despite its upmarket appearance, provides great deals on accommodation. The hotel has a 120 rooms featuring, modern bathrooms, king size beds, full mini-bar, 24-hour room service and in-room broadband. As well, all the usual conveniences you would expect from a 4 star property. The property has a Central Adelaide East End location, Roof top function venue, 24-hour room service, 24-hour reception, Roof garden with views, Mini-gymnasium with weights and running machines, In-house restaurant and bar called Culshaw’s Restaurant and an in room massage is available upon request. Nearby The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, the area offers many of the city’s attractions located within a 20 minute walking distance.

  • More information
• • Wanderers Rest

  Wanderer's Rest (4*)

  Wanderers Rest hotel (4*) of Kangaroo Island is a small country guesthouse set in bushland, high on a hillside overlooking the beautiful waters of American River to white sandy beaches and farmland beyond. The outdoor living area offers a solar heated swimming pool with spa and swim jets and rambling garden. Evening dining takes full advantage of the 180 degree sea views in the relaxed ambience of the fully licensed a la carte restaurant. Emphasis is placed upon providing a relaxed atmosphere and a tailor-made holiday. A range of recreational activities aimed at experiencing the natural beauty of the Island can be arranged depending on your individual interests.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • International and Internal Flights - Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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