Australian Explorer!

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Overview

Jenny's Amazing Australia

Escorted by Travel Specialist Jenny Revesz

Travel the Ghan, Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef

Premier Aussie Specialist Jenny Revesz has customized a unique adventure through Australia in 2018! In this amazing 20 day adventure you will visit Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Northern Queensland, and end in Sydney at the Sydney Opera House.

This tour is based on a maximum of 10 travellers plus Jenny and Rikki Hepburn from Personal Travel Management.

Itinerary

Day 1 - September 18, 2018


Arrive Adelaide

Upon arrival into Adelaide, you’ll be met at the airport by myself and our local guide, who will accompany us by private transfer to our accommodation at the stylish Majestic Roof Garden Hotel.

The remainder of the day and evening at your leisure to settle in to Australian Central Time after your flight Down Under.

Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden - Superior Room

The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel is the award winning flagship property of Majestic Hotels opened in Adelaide in 2004. The property is family owned and operated and located right in the heart of Adelaide.

Rooms feature modern bathrooms, king size beds, full mini-bar, 24-hour room service and free and unlimited WiFi. Plus all the usual conveniences you would expect from a 4.5 star hotel.

Day 2 - September 19, 2018


Adelaide Sightseeing

This morning after a hearty breakfast, we’ll depart on a full day excursion starting with a city orientation tour. We then travel through the scenic Torrens Gorge to the Barossa Valley. The Torrens Gorge is a natural chasm carved out of the Adelaide Hills by the River Torrens. Our day will include tastings of fine wines at smaller wineries, followed by lunch at Fino (described by Australian food critic John Lethlean as “the best place in Australia for a long lunch”), located at Seppeltsfield Winery. Then we take in an “Ultimate Winery Experience” where we will each taste our “Birth Year”. On arrival back in Adelaide, we will all have time to freshen up prior to dinner.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden - Superior Room

Day 3 - September 20, 2018


Travel to Kangaroo Island

This morning we depart for Cape Jervis where we board the ferry for Kangaroo Island (“KI”). Upon arrival we will be met by Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours and our Island Nature Wilderness Experience begins! We start by setting off to Seal Bay Conservation Park where we learn how the Australian sea-lion survives the rigors of the Southern Ocean. The colony of bulls, cows and pups rest on the beach and we can walk amongst them. We then journey further south and enjoy a pleasant, easy walk through the bush and come out at the base of Kangaroo Island’s spectacular and vast sand dunes of Little Sahara. Climb the dunes and enjoy stunning views of distant bays and the serene, rural landscape. Be truly fascinated by the wonder of its formation.

From the South Coast we traverse the rural areas of the middle of the Island via the Parndana Wildlife Park. This park was set up as an ‘animal refuge’, where sick, injured, orphaned or unwanted animals could find a home. Marvel at the colours of the Australian Birds here, pat a Koala and feed a Kangaroo! Lunch today is a picnic of marinated chicken breast, fresh salads, tangy lemon tart, complimented by a selection of beverages.

The north coast beaches of Snellings and Stokes Bay are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy the sound of waves breaking on the pristine sandy coast, or if the weather allows, go for a swim in some of the clearest water you will ever experience. Later in the day enjoy a nature walk through the drooping she-oaks of Lathami National Park and observe the kangaroos and wallabies. This is also the habitat of the rare Glossy Black Cockatoo, and great country for the elusive echidna (spiny ant-eater). The first day’s touring concludes with our return to our accommodation.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Aurora Ozone Hotel - Standard Room

Located on the foreshore in Kingscote this hotel has stunning views overlooking Nepean Bay from the Zone Restaurant. It central location in Kingscote, makes this a popular accommodation for both leisure and business travellers.

Day 4 - September 21, 2018


Kangaroo Island Sightseeing

Today we continue to explore Kangaroo island. We arrive at Rocky River, headquarters of the Flinders Chase National Park. Here, kangaroos laze and the Cape Barren geese graze.

“The Chase” is home to all varieties of native animals and birds. On to Admirals Arch, an ancient limestone formation close to the ocean, a perfect haul-out area for an active colony of the New Zealand fur seal.

Next stop is the Remarkable Rocks, via the spectacular coastline of Cape du Couedic, where the forces of nature have carved modern sculptures out of the granite. A short bush walk searching for Echidna (spiny ant-eater) and observing the colourful Kangaroo Island endemic crimson Rosella.

Head back for an Australian “Barbie” lunch of marinated steak, onions and potatoes, cooked by your guide -now turned chef! This is complimented by fresh salads, local “KI” wines and other refreshments. For dessert spoil yourself by indulging in our special pears poached in ”KI” red wine, accompanied by KI’s unique Sheep’s Milk Yogurt. Your meal is complimented by a selection of beverages. Enjoy all this served in the bush, whilst nestled amongst the beautiful tall Gum trees.

After our meal, we head for Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, 9,500 acres of protected land with an abundance of koalas easily seen in the ‘Tasmanian Blue Gums’ that grow in the area. Your guide will then take you down a bush lined track and into ‘Grassdale’, part of the Kelly Hill Conservation Park. Here you will enjoy viewing the large ‘mob’ of Kangaroo’s that graze the grassy flats and shelter in the surrounding bush. Also listen for the many parrot and other bird species that live in the tall gum trees. Wander through some of the old relics that speak of a by-gone era of early pioneer farming.

Next stop is Vivonne Bay, with its crystal clear turquoise water. Take in the majestic scenery of Point Ellen where you can fossick for shells on the beach and possibly sight a penguin in its rookery. Our day will end on a relaxing note, so enjoy resting on the scenic route as we return to our Island accommodation.

**The weather on Kangaroo Island is changeable for each season, so it is advised that at all times clients carry a waterproof light-weight jacket, a hat, sunscreen and good non-slip walking shoes**

Note: Itinerary may be changed on the day to suit the conditions.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Aurora Ozone Hotel - Standard Room

Day 5 - September 22, 2018


Kangaroo Island - Fly to Adelaide

This morning we check-out and make our way by private vehicle to Kingscote Airport for our flight to Adelaide. Upon arrival, we are met and transferred back to the Majestic Hotel. The Remainder of the afternoon will be at leisure. This evening we will enjoy a progressive walking tour of Adelaide including a journey through some of the city’s small bars, concluding with great views over Government House and the River Torrens followed by dinner.

Meals Included: B |  D

Accommodation: Majestic Roof Garden - Superior Room

Day 6 - September 23, 2018


On the Ghan
636886 Great Southern Rail

This morning we check-out and transfer to Adelaide Keswick Rail Station to board the Ghan Train for our Gold Class overnight journey to Alice Springs. The Ghan is truly an authentic Australian adventure, following the footsteps and camel tracks of our fledgling nation’s heroic pioneers. The Ghan, named after the pioneering cameleers, is heralded as one of the world’s great rail journeys. The route offers unique insights into the spectacular and ever changing landscape of the Australian Outback. The journey begins in Australia’s wine capital Adelaide and the experience of this remarkable train journey will stay with you for a lifetime. Dinner on board the Ghan.

Meals Included: B |  D

Accommodation: The Ghan

The Ghan travels 2,979km between Adelaide and Darwin. The Gold Class service provides comfort during your rail journey with a large window for watching the Australian outback as you pass though it, along with all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of fascinating Off Train Excursions at key stops.

Day 7 - September 24, 2018


The Ghan into Alice Springs

Early this morning as we arrive into Marla located in the remote reaches of South Australia, we have the opportunity to step off the train to witness an unforgettable outback sunrise, before continuing on to Alice Springs. Upon arrival into Alice Springs, we will be met at the train station and transferred by private vehicle to our eco-friendly accommodation- The Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs.

Late afternoon, we depart on our Mbantua Starlight Bush Dinner. Driving out along the Western Mcdonell Range arriving at a magnificent bush setting. Enjoy a drink before dinner as the sun is setting changing the colours of the rock. Dinner will be cooked in a bush oven or BBQ with the beautiful flavours of the Mulga wood, giving extra flavour to the meal. A delicious 3 course meal will be served which features some of the flavours of the bush foods. We will be able to learn from Bob – our indigenous chef and tour host- some of his cooking styles and about the foods of the Aboriginal people. Dinner will be under the Milky Way where we can hear the sounds of the desert. After dinner we will try to view by spotlight some evening wildlife as the desert does come alive at night. Then we will transfer back to our accommodation.

Note: dinner tonight is included, however alcohol is not.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Doubletree by Hilton Alice Spring - Deluxe Room

This modern eco-friendly lodge provides majestic views of the MacDonnell Mountain Ranges. The property is centrally located in Alice Springs and offers a fitness centre, tennis courts and an outdoor heated pool in a garden landscape. You can even play golf you if want to!

Day 8 - September 25, 2018


Alice Springs to Ayers Rock

This morning we transfer by private vehicle to Alice Springs Airport to connect to our short flight to Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock. On arrival into Ayers Rock we will be met and transferred by private vehicle to our accommodation.

Remainder of the day at leisure.

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Dinner this evening will be at The Sounds of Silence. We will be transferred to a private dining setting in the middle of the desert, to dine under a million stars at the award winning Sounds of Silence restaurant. Enjoy a glass of champagne with the sound of a lone didgeridoo filling the air as the sun slowly sets over Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), and Uluru (Ayers Rock). Dine on a gourmet BBQ of Australian delicacies and then sit back and take in the mystery of the desert at night as an astronomer takes us on a tour of the clear Southern night skies. Upon conclusion we will be returned to our hotel.

Meals Included: B |  D

Accommodation: Sails int he Desert Hotel - Superior Room

In the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, Sails in the Desert hotel beautifully contrasts Uluru’s raw natural beauty with a decidedly luxurious outback holiday experience. One of the world’s oldest cultures still thrives, the mystery, colour and wisdom of the local Anangu people is interwoven into every facet of the hotel.

Day 9 - September 26, 2018


Ayers Rock

This morning – early – our driver will collect us to drive to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Kata Tjuta means ‘heads many’ and given the 36 steep-sided domes of Kata Tjuta, it is aptly named. Upon arrival, it is just a short walk to the viewing platform that boasts the most spectacular views. Be sure to have your camera at the ready as the sun rises and the scenery comes alive in many splendid colours. Following sunrise, we take in a walk to Walpa Gorge, a gentle but rocky track that will lead us into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen shrubs know as Spearwood.

Return to the resort for some free time before lunch. Lunch today will be at Gecko’s Café in the town centre.

This afternoon we will enjoy a 30 minute aerial WOW experience, taking in the magnificent views of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and the red desert as far as the eye can see. Often underestimated, the tallest of the 36 domed heads of Kata Tjuta stands 546 meters tall, that is nearly 200 meters higher than Uluru. Dinner tonight at leisure on our own.

Meals Included: B |  L

Accommodation: Sails in the Desert Hotel - Superior Room

Day 10 - September 27, 2018


Ayers Rock to Cairns/Port Douglas

Today we check out and transfer by private coach to Ayers Rock Airport in time for our two and a half hour flight to Cairns. Upon arrival into Cairns we will be transferred by private vehicle to our accommodation. This will be a later arrival to our hotel, so dinner will be on our own this evening.

Meals Included: B

Accommodation: Peninsula Hotel Port Douglas - Poolview Room

This boutique property is located overlooking Four Mile Beach. From your large private balcony that allows you to relax with a tropical cocktail or listen to the calmness of the waves lapping on the beach. An oasis of tiered heated pools and jacuzzi spa, offers a quiet tranquil setting whilst relaxing on the sun lounges or in your suite. The property is an adult only haven and is the perfect escape from the world.

Day 11 - September 28, 2018


Port Douglas
647605 Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Reduced

This morning our driver will transfer us to Freshwater Station. Here we depart on-board the historical Kuranda Scenic Railway. These are heritage carriages that offer some old world charm of travelling in authentic timber carriages, some of which are up to 90 years old! The journey to Kuranda passes through unsurpassed views of World Heritage protected tropical rainforest, steep ravines, picturesque waterfalls and spectacular Barron Gorge. This famous railway winds its way on a journey of approximately 2 hours from Cairns to Kuranda, the village in the rainforest. Upon reaching the village of Kuranda, a rich assortment of interesting attractions and unique shopping experiences awaits. Here we have free time to stroll around this beautiful tropical village. After our visit to Kuranda, we travel down the mountain through the rainforest canopy by Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Once aboard, we glide silently over the rainforest canopy on the world’s most beautiful rainforest experience. Upon arrival at the base of the mountain we travel across to Tjapukai Cultural Park where we enjoy buffet lunch in the Flame Tree Restaurant. Followed by an exclusive guided tour with one of the local Aboriginal guides.

Tjapukai is Australia’s most accessible venue to experience authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture dating back over 40,000 years. For the past 28 years Tjapukai has been sharing the authentic culture and traditions of the local Djabugay people who have lived in the rainforest around Kuranda for tens of thousands of years. Tjapukai is a symbolic interpretation of the world’s oldest living culture through traditional dance, art and interactive demonstrations. The experiences within the park portray the essence of life; from the wondrous legends of the Dreamtime through to the present reality of today’s Tjapukai people. On completion of our time at Tjapukai we transfer back to our hotel.

Dinner: Aussie Barbie poolside at the hotel

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Peninsula Hotel Port Douglas - Poolview room

Day 12 - September 29, 2018


Port Douglas
643370 34 Tourism Australia

Depart our hotel today for our full day Daintree & Mossman Gorge Tour. Travel one of Australia’s great scenic Highways before arriving at the Mossman Gorge Centre. Visit the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre and enjoy an Indigenous presentation by the traditional owners of the gorge, the Kuku Yalanji people before boarding our eco shuttle for the transfer into Mossman Gorge. Our driver/guide will take us for a guided walk sharing their knowledge of this enchanting rainforest environment. Learn about the fascinating secrets of one of the world’s oldest rainforests. Morning tea included.

We then continue onto Cape Tribulation Beach while our driver explains the rich history of the area. Walk on this world-renowned rainforest beach or stroll the boardwalk and relax in this tranquil setting, and admire the coastline and fringing coral reef from the Kulki Lookout. Our next stop is for lunch in a private rainforest setting – enjoy a short walk along a delightful rainforest creek before a tropical lunch with choice of steak, fish or vegetarian meal, fresh salads and fruit platter, followed by Coffee or local Daintree Tea. Following lunch – after winding through the rainforest of the Alexandra Range, enjoy spectacular views over the Daintree River estuary, Snapper Island and beyond to the Coral Sea from Alexandra Lookout.

Next, we join the Daintree River Cruise, where our guide will point out the different types of wildlife and plants that make their home along this important river. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive and fearsome estuarine saltwater crocodile! Upon the cruise terminating, we will be returned to our hotel.

Dinner tonight will be on our own.

Meals Included: B |  L

Accommodation: Peninsula Hotel Port Douglas - Poolview room

Day 13 - September 30, 2018


Port Douglas

A full day at leisure to relax in our tropical paradise. You may wish to relax by the pool or take in a spot of shopping in town or a swim at the beach. The options are varied, and this is a day for you to relax and enjoy Australia’s (North Coast).

This evening we will regroup and walk to dinner. Tonight we’ll be dining at the unforgettable Nautilus Restaurant where we will experience a 5 course degustation menu with Australian wine pairings.

Meals Included: B |  D

Accommodation: Peninsula Hotel Port Douglas - Poolview room

Day 14 - October 1, 2018


Port Douglas to Cairns

Enjoy the morning at leisure. This afternoon we will transfer by our private vehicle to the Cairns Cruise Line Terminal to board our Coral Expeditions, four night Great Barrier Reef cruise.

For 33 years, Coral Expeditions has focused on small ship expedition cruises to remote and exotic destinations. Their fleet of three Australian-flagged and crewed ships were purpose-built for expedition exploration. With no more than 72 guests, there are no queues. Their fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensure that cuisine onboard is served fresh and small-batch, while their wines are Australian artisanal.

Our 4-night Cairns – Lizard Island – Cairns cruise is the perfect option to maximise the amount of time exploring the colourful coral gardens of the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef in such a short period of time. Enjoy a full day to discover two different sections of the rarely visited Ribbon Reefs, considered to be the most colourful and pristine reefs found anywhere along the entire length of the Great Barrier Reef. You will also have the opportunity to explore historic Cooktown and savour a full morning discovering spectacular Lizard Island.

Cruising Trinity Bay whilst enjoying welcome drinks and views of Double Island and the pretty seaside village of Palm Cove. This evening is the Captains Welcome Seafood Buffet.

Meals Included: B |  D

Accommodation: Coral Expeditions Cruise (upper deck stateroom)

These small ships are made for Exploration. There is a daily programme of lectures, briefings and themed movies. You will feast on locally sourced foods cooked especially for you. The shore excursion are designed to promote local interaction and cultural exchange. You will explore the Great Barrier Reef in comfort and be relaxed, as is the Australian way.

Day 15 - October 2, 2018


Cooktown

Discover the remote coastal outpost of Cooktown. Stroll the wide main street and view buildings dating back to the 1870’s. Walk to the botanical gardens where you may see Kangaroos and Wallabies. Visit James Cook Museum to see original artefacts from his ship “The Endeavour” and snorkel over the reef on a desert island or take a glass bottom boat tour. There is also the option for Scuba Diving (additional cost).

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Coral Expeditions Cruise (upper deck stateroom)

Day 16 - October 3, 2018


Lizard Island

Today enjoy the morning on Lizard Island, one of Australia’s most beautiful tropical islands. Discover the legend of the Australian heroine, Mary Watson and snorkel from the beach over the Giant Clam Gardens. There is an optional early morning hike to Cook’s Lookout for stunning views over the reef. The afternoon is spent at Ribbon Reef #9 on the rarely visited outer Barrier Reef where we can snorkel or scuba dive or even go out in the glass bottom boat (optional extra).

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Coral Expeditions Cruise (upper deck staterooms)

Day 17 - October 4, 2018


Ribbon Reefs and Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Today we have a full day to discover the pristine Ribbon Reefs. Ribbon Reef #3 / Rachel Carson Reef/ with snorkeling and optional scuba diving and glass bottom boat tours with the Marine Biologist. There will also be a Marine biology presentation at the on-board display tank.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Coral Expeditions Cruise (upper deck staterooms)

Day 18 - October 5, 2018


Depart Cairns for Sydney

This morning we cruise back into Cairns. After disembarking, we will transfer to Cairns Airport for our flight to Sydney. On arrival into Sydney, we will be transferred by private vehicle to our accommodation.

Remainder of the day and evening on our own – ask Jenny for recommendations as she has lots!

Meals Included: B

Accommodation: Park Hyatt Hotel Sydney - City Harbour Room

Day 19 - October 6, 2018


Sydney

After breakfast, we take in a Rocks walking tour, where we will hear tales of Sydneys’ fascinating past and colourful characters while experiencing the present. The Rocks is the site of the first colonial settlement in Australia in 1788 and has been home to various characters and events for hundreds of years. It is a vibrant, contemporary area of lively hustle and bustle set against the backdrop of historic splendor

Upon completion of our tour, we walk to the nearby Sydney Opera House. Here, we will enjoy a guided tour of this famous landmark. Our 60 minute tour offers the opportunity to experience the Sydney Opera House in its daily operation. Upon conclusion we will walk to our Circular Quay departure point to take in our lunch cruise.

Live like a local and spoil yourself on our exclusive sensational luncheon cruise. We step aboard a 52ft motor yacht for a unique, private four hour cruise experience. Our captain and host will share the rich history of Sydney Harbour and its foreshore as we take in the sites of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and the bays and coves of Sydney Harbour. We will enjoy a gourmet 3 course BBQ lunch with regional wines, local beers and 5 star service. Immerse yourself in all the activities that a private vessel offers, including swimming, fishing and kayaking- or just sit back and relax on the expansive sunbed and do nothing at all. At the conclusion of the cruise, it is just a short walk back to our hotel located in the Rocks.

Time to freshen up before dinner. Our final night together will be a wonderful restaurant in Sydney chosen by Jenny.

The O Bar and Restaurant

O Bar and Dining, where eating, drinking and beautiful views combine for an ultimate sensory overload. A place far above the ordinary, with food at its heart and Sydney at its feet. Chef and owner Michael Moore’s menu is an unexpected journey of contemporary dining inspired by a healthy eating philosophy; as unique as it is delicious. The circular space on the 47th floor turns constantly to reveal an ever-unfolding, 360-degree panorama. It’s this city’s most stunning place to enjoy fine food, exquisite cocktails and reflect on your incredible journey over the past 2 weeks in Australia.

Meals Included: B |  L |  D

Accommodation: Park Hyatt Hotel Sydney - City Harbour Room

Day 20 - October 7, 2018


Sydney
646051 3 Julie Fletcher

Breakfast is included this morning prior to check out.

This morning we transfer by private vehicle to the airport in time for our flights.

If you are staying longer, the transfer can be utilized when you are ready to leave Australia.

Meals Included: B

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