Audley Australia

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D i s c e r n i n g T r av e l l e r



Dear Traveller Having visited Australia on a number of occasions, I still often find many reasons to return, from rainforests to deserts, mountains to the world’s most impressive coral reef systems, this vast country provides a varied terrain and array of authentic experiences for the visitor. Despite its size, most of the country is virtually unpopulated and pristine, this coupled with a wonderful outdoor lifestyle contributes to a laid-back attitude, making travelling a real pleasure. In this brochure we have highlighted the various ways to explore Australia’s cities and wilderness, from one of the longest train journeys in the world on the Indian Pacific railway to the spectacular coastal roads which take you from Sydney to Brisbane or along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne. There are accommodation options to suit everyone along the way including Outback camps, private islands in the Great Barrier Reef and boutique city hotels with skyline views. So whether you are thinking of visiting for the first time or are planning a return trip, we hope this brochure reveals the breadth of experiences and contrasting regions that Australia has to offer.

Craig Burkinshaw, Founder

Introducing Audley I

t was a trip around Asia in the early 1990s that ignited Craig Burkinshaw’s passion for travel. On his return he was so keen to share his experiences that he founded Audley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. We offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’s interests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality and authenticity. Today this desire to share authentic travel experiences is undiminished and Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialist tour operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Australasia, North America, Antarctica and the Arctic.

Specialist knowledge

Tailor-made journeys

Speaking to one of our specialists is the best way to start planning your trip, whether you already know where you want to go or just have the seed of an idea. They can discuss your plans, offer advice and give you ideas and inspiration for your trip, before creating a detailed itinerary, which will be forwarded to you together with maps, accommodation descriptions and a price. The same specialist will then refine the plans until you are completely satisfied and will be on hand to answer questions from your very first telephone call until you return from your trip.

The beauty of tailor-made travel is that every trip is unique. Whether you want to stay in simple or luxurious accommodation, have great guides on hand or explore under your own steam, travel for one week or five, we can create a trip to match your tastes and budget. We can also design trips for a special occasion, whether this is a spectacular honeymoon or milestone anniversary. Throughout the brochure you will find suggested itineraries and some of our favourite places to stay, but these are all just for inspiration as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Our Australia specialists have all travelled extensively throughout the continent and in many cases lived there, so you can rely on their in-depth, first-hand knowledge. They regularly return to discover new hidden gems in each country, stay in the accommodation and meet our guides – many of whom are firm friends – as well as experience all the excursions and activities. We believe this is the only way that we can genuinely offer you a tailor-made service and enable you to experience a side of Australia that others might miss.

Planning your trip

Financial security All travel arrangements in this brochure that include a flight from the UK are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. Please see our booking conditions for more information. If your arrangements do not include any flights from the UK they are protected by a separate financial scheme, for further details please visit www.audleytravel.com/protect

Kangaroo in the outback

Contents Introduction 2-9 The Southeast 10-35 Exploring Sydney

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Sydney to Melbourne drive

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Exploring Melbourne

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South Australian Winelands

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The Northeast 36-45 Exploring the reef

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Red Centre & Outback 46-53 The Northwest 54-63 The Southwest 64-73 Exploring the Southwest

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Tasmania 74-82 Walking & trekking in Tasmania

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Travelling to Australia 83 Multi-region itineraries 84-85 Rail journeys 86 Useful information 87

Introduction

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Audley in

Australia A

ustralia is a vast country and offers a wealth of experiences to travellers. To help make sense of which area to visit and what to prioritise, we have separated the brochure into six regions. Rather than divide the country on state lines we prefer to show the areas that you are most likely to associate with when travelling in Australia. Below you will find an overview of each, giving the highlights and type of experience they can offer.

The Southeast

View over Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Crinoid, Great Barrier Reef

The Southeast is the major gateway to Australia and makes for a wonderful introduction to the country. Historic buildings and monuments dating back to the early convict settlers can be found alongside iconic modern sights that have put Australia on the world stage. The cosmopolitan cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane occupy wonderful coastal locations affording visitors all the diversity and energy of a modern city, with easy access to the ocean. Away from the buzz of the cities, you’ll find a quieter side of life where country towns, rolling farmland and beautiful national parks can be found together with miles of spectacular coastline and glorious surf beaches. This region includes the states of New South Wales, Victoria and parts of South Australia and Queensland.

The Northeast Home to one of Australia’s best known attractions, the Great Barrier Reef, the Northeast is an understandably popular destination. Although a trip here would not be complete without some snorkelling and islandhopping, the region is also home to ancient rainforests along the mainland coast which provide ideal conditions for a profusion of wildlife and birdlife. North of Cairns, the small communities of Palm Cove and Port Douglas provide attractive bases for visitors seeking to explore the region, or relax on the golden beaches. This region covers most of Queensland.

Spinifex pigeon, Kings Canyon

Aboriginal man, Arnhem Land

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Grape harvesting, Margaret River region

Red Centre & Outback The hot and dusty Australian outback epitomised by cattle stations the size of European countries, flying doctors, expansive red desert and spectacular rock formations, is a unique region. At its heart lies the easily recognisable Uluru (Ayers Rock), the adjacent domes of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and the wonderful Kings Canyon. The former telegraph outpost of Alice Springs is a town full of outback charm and is the region’s main transport hub, while further south, the less visited area of the Flinders Ranges showcases some spectacular gorges, abundant wildlife and the enormous natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound. This region covers parts of the Northern Territory and South Australia.

The Northwest Appealing to travellers with a pioneering spirit, the Northwest is Australia’s frontier country. A sparsely populated land of vast distances, it is rich in Aboriginal culture and stunning landscapes. From the harbour city of Darwin, you can explore the Kakadu and Nitmiluk national parks, venture into the wilderness of Aboriginal-owned Arnhem Land and take in outback escarpments, cooling billabongs and ancient rock art. Further west, The Kimberley is an area of dramatic rock formations, while the coastline reveals wild, unspoilt beaches. This region includes parts of the Northern Territory and Western Australia.


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Ningaloo Marine Park

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Gibson Desert

Alice Springs Heron Island

RED CENTRE & OUTBACK

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Simpson Desert SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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Fraser Island

Lake Eyre North

Brisbane

Lake Eyre South

Nullarbor Plain

Lake Torrens

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Bass Strait

The Southwest The relaxed riverside city of Perth is Southwest Australia’s most prominent attraction but the region offers far more to the inquisitive traveller. To the south of Perth the landscape is as diverse as it is scenic with fields of wildflowers, towering karri forests and miles of gorgeous beaches. The small town of Margaret River is home to some of Australia’s finest wines and organic produce. Further north, Exmouth is the gateway to the Ningaloo Reef and its remarkable marine life, which includes the mighty whale shark. This region covers part of Western Australia.

Tasman Sea

TASMANIA

Hobart

Tasmania

Combining regions

Compact and unspoilt, Tasmania is often overlooked by travellers but offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and some of Australia’s finest walking. The main city, Hobart, is a welcoming place, rich in convict settler history and Victorian architecture. It bursts into life for the December yacht race from Sydney before subsiding again into a somnolent charm. From here it is easy to reach superb national parks including Freycinet, Cradle Mountain, the Bay of Fires and Maria Island, with terrain ranging from glaciated mountains to dense forests teeming with wallabies, echidnas, Tasmanian devils and quolls, while seals and dolphins can be seen offshore.

With a comprehensive domestic flight network, extensive rail infrastructure and good roads across many parts of Australia, travelling around is relatively straightforward. As a result a trip to combine several different regions proves a popular way to experience the country. Start with a night or two in one of Australia’s modern cities before heading out to the country to experience local wildlife and excellent walking trails. Perhaps venture inland to sample life in the outback before finishing with some time on a beautiful beach. Throughout the brochure you will find a wide range of places, highlights and some of our favourite accommodation that is all intended to provide a flavour of what is possible. However, almost anything can be incorporated into an itinerary; please contact our specialists to start planning your trip.

Bay of Fires Coastal Reserve, Tasmania

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Experience

Australia A

continent in its own right, Australia is a land of extraordinary diversity in both its landscapes and experiences. You’ll find everything from tropical rainforests and lush gorges to fiery red deserts in the vast outback, while national parks, scenic winelands and idyllic beaches can be found close to its gleaming modern cities. The country brims with its own unique wildlife, way of life and indigenous culture and experiencing its great outdoors an essential part of any trip ‘Down Under’.

Aboriginal rock art, Arnhem Land

Surfing on Bondi Beach, Sydney

Aboriginal culture

Cities

Long before Europeans arrived in Australia the Aboriginal people made their home in this often inhospitable land. Within their nomadic communities a range of different languages were spoken, few of which have ever been recorded or researched. Their lives changed forever in the late 18th century with the arrival of convicts and early settlers. In Tasmania they were virtually wiped out, while in the major cities today – despite many well-meaning attempts at integration – Aboriginal communities remain largely marginalised. However, there are plenty of ways to learn more about Aboriginal culture during a visit and gain a different perspective on the country. We can organise access to some of Australia’s best rock art sites, arrange Aboriginal guides to explain the history and significance of the ancestral land, and recommend the best locations to experience an Aboriginal festival.

Australia’s cities are sophisticated and modern with an outdoor cafe lifestyle that blends a melting pot of cultures into an easy-going community. Sydney’s gorgeous views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and its wonderful beaches make it an integral part of most people’s first visit to Australia. Melbourne is equally enticing and offers both cosmopolitan charm and a vibrant arts scene. Elegant Adelaide is charming and surrounded by some of Australia’s best wine regions, as well as having the wonderful wildlife hotspot of Kangaroo Island on its doorstep. As the hub of Western Australia, Perth is surrounded by a plethora of attractions, from beautiful beaches to the historical architecture of Fremantle.

Outdoor activities Australia has been referred to as the ‘lucky country’, a term often attributed to its weather and desirable lifestyle and it would be shame to not include some outdoor pursuit on any trip here. Its national parks brim with excellent walking opportunities, from short, easy routes to more challenging multi-day walks and its beaches and reef systems boast an endless bounty of water activities. From cycling to sailing, kayaking to fly fishing, Australia offers something for everyone.

Skyline in Melbourne

New Year’s Eve fireworks, Sydney

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Sports & festivals Australians don’t need an excuse to hold a good party and with an almost obsessive level of sports fanaticism the calendar is jam-packed with festivals and sporting events, which occur all throughout the country. On the sporting front, choose from cricket and rugby games, the rough but fast paced ‘Aussie Rules’, through to international events such as the Australian Open tennis and Formula One Grand Prix. There are a wide variety of festivals and events also on offer, ranging from local fairs to world-renowned celebrations. You may choose to spend New Year’s Eve watching fireworks in Sydney, or take in the bizarre dryland boat racing in Alice Springs. If you like culture, food and wine, film or music, the mainstream or the quirky, you’ll find a festival or event to enrich your trip. Whatever your interests, our specialists will be able to give you details of events taking place during your visit.


Koala, Victoria

Food & wine

Wildlife

Though many Australians gravitate naturally to the barbecue, their cuisine is rich and varied. The influences of immigrants from the Mediterranean and spices from the Pacific and Asia, as well as an abundance of home-grown produce, have created Australia’s fashionable ‘fusion’ cuisine. Each of the southern states takes considerable pride in their wines; many are of world-class quality and all are eminently drinkable. Australia’s key growing areas include the Hunter Valley in New South Wales, the Yarra Valley on the outskirts of Melbourne, Clare and Barossa valleys in South Australia and the Margaret River region in Western Australia. Once you reach the outback, however, you are more likely to celebrate Australia’s long-lived culinary achievements: the ice-cold beer and the hot meat pie.

Australia is home to a distinctive natural environment and a remarkable variety of wildlife. The indigenous koala and kangaroo can be found in many regions, while in rural areas you may spot wallabies, wombats and echidnas. There is a wealth of birdlife across the country too. The waterways and oceans shelter marine life of all shapes and sizes from brightly coloured coral fish to turtles, dolphins, manta rays and the mighty whale shark. Crocodiles can be found in the swamps and creeks of the north; in the south Tasmania and Kangaroo Island provide havens for wildlife including penguins, sea lions and a range of endemic marsupials.

Reefs & beaches Australia is blessed with over 17,000 kilometres of beautiful coastline, endless beaches and two of the world’s best reef systems: the Great Barrier and Ningaloo Marine Park. The active can choose to learn to surf or sail, kayak with dolphins or swim with whale sharks and of course there are bountiful opportunities to explore its underwater delights. From stunning coastal walks and drives to idyllic island retreats and long lazy picnics on the beach, a trip to Australia will almost certainly involve time by its glorious coast.

Windmill in the outback

Outback Although most of Australia’s population lives along the coastline, many of its hardiest and most memorable characters live in the vast interior of the outback. As the roads head away from the major cities the trappings of sophistication fall away, and it is in the outback stations, where jackaroos (young farm hands) herd cattle by motorbike and helicopter, that you will experience the expansive horizons and wild beauty that seduced the first settlers. Exploring the outback is best done by 4x4 or light aircraft. The highlights are many but the mighty boab trees and remote red sands of The Kimberley, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Uluru are simply unmissable.

Wine tasting, Hunter Valley

01993 838 810 • Introduction

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Exploring

Australia A

ustralia is a vast country and getting your travel plans right can make all the difference to your trip. Although there are many options, the great distances involved often make it best to combine air and ground travel. Our specialists have extensive local knowledge and can help to tailor-make an itinerary that best fits your wishes and requirements.

Indian Pacific train, Perth

Rail

Motorhomes

Australia has some spectacular rail journeys, including the epic Indian Pacific (Perth to Sydney) and The Ghan (Adelaide to Darwin). Both trains offer sleeper carriages for a comfortable, stylish trip. A good network of railway lines extends along the entire east coast, with the incredible 1,600-kilometre route between Brisbane and Cairns being covered by the advanced Tilt Train, which offers business class seating with airlinestyle entertainment systems and restaurant car dining. Australia’s trains are an excellent way to cover large distances in comfort, whilst travelling through incredible scenery.

The freedom to explore at your own pace and stop wherever you want, makes travelling by motorhome a perfect way to see Australia. We have details on the many options, including van size, insurance requirements and suggested itineraries. It is worth remembering that you can hire a motorhome for just part of your trip; it can be a good option for a week touring the Margaret River region or the Great Ocean Road. In other parts of the country you may wish to drive a conventional car or consider other transport options. Our specialists can talk you through the choices and practicalities, but the one essential, especially in high season, is to book well in advance.

Self-drive

Vineyard, Margaret River region

Driving is a pleasure on Australia’s scenic, well-maintained and largely empty roads. Self-drive combines well with internal flights and we can book all of your accommodation in advance and provide you with clear driving instructions and a road atlas or sat nav, leaving you to enjoy the drive. Although some journeys can be challenging with unsealed roads restricting access to 4x4 vehicles only, the scenery rewards the effort.

Gibb River Road, The Kimberley

Gunlom Falls, Kakadu National Park

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Coaches & small group tours Often it is more relaxing for someone else to do the driving and considering the vast distances involved, you may wish to travel by coach between Australia’s major cities. Alternatively, you could opt to join a small group travelling by luxury minivan. The trips follow a set itinerary and are led by a skilled guide trained in local history and flora and fauna. This is often the best way to get Australia to reveal its finest secrets.


Daintree Rainforest

Accommodation

Guide in King’s Canyon

Guides Whether touring the outback on foot, the Daintree Rainforest by 4x4, the Tasmanian coast by kayak, or the Blue Mountains by light aircraft, a good guide can greatly enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the region. Australia is home to so many natural wonders and historical curiosities that a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide can add immeasurably to the experience. We pride ourselves on using only the best guides, all highly trained and aware of ecological, environmental and cultural sensitivities. In many cases they have ecological accreditations from the Australian government and operate only on a private or small group basis, minimising the impact on the sites visited and avoiding the crowds.

The range of accommodation in Australia is as diverse as the different regions of the country. In the big cities you can stay in boutique properties, often in restored historic buildings, luxury hotels with iconic views, or guesthouses tucked away in unlikely city centre locations. Outback stations in the country’s most remote and beautiful surroundings are perfect for those keen to experience the rural lifestyle and allow you to spot unique native wildlife, muster cattle or explore rock art with an Aboriginal guide. You can also choose from permanent tented camps, rainforest lodges and stunning island resorts. Throughout the brochure you will find some of our favourite places to stay, often little gems that we have discovered on our research trips, but do bear in mind that these are just a taste of the many available and we will be able to recommend properties to match your itinerary and preferences.

Canoeing, Nitmiluk National Park

Families Australia is the perfect family destination, offering a wealth of child-friendly accommodation and activity options. You can take advantage of its sun-soaked shores and water-based activities; snorkelling off the Great Barrier or Ningaloo reefs or perhaps swimming alongside dolphins or a leisurely paddle in a kayak. Family friendly walking trails are bountiful and for those who want to keep on the go there are always mountain biking excursions, surf schools, or horse riding in various parts of the country. Children and young adults will also love the opportunity to gain an understanding of the Aboriginal heritage of the country. Alternatively you could simply sit back, relax, and take advantage of the facilities on-hand in one of the child-friendly resorts on offer.

Snorkelling, Great Barrier Reef

01993 838 810 • Introduction

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The Southeast C

aptain Cook and the crew of The Endeavour landed in Southeast Australia in the 18 th century and were soon followed by a steady stream of settlers. The region became a key part of Australia’s development and today is home to many of the country’s biggest cities and iconic sights. Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane boast numerous attractions as well as an outdoor lifestyle that makes them among the most desirable places to live in the world. The museums, art galleries, architecture, beaches, restaurants and festivals here are some of the country’s most well-known and time spent exploring these cities and the dramatic landscapes between them is highly rewarding. A huge variety of self-driving routes traverse the southeast, linking prestigious wineries and golden beaches with majestic national parks and picturesque mountains. Follow dramatic coastlines past pretty coves and rock formations, venture inland to discover indigenous wildlife and rolling hills or stop to hike through eucalypt forests or scenic gorges. Southeast Australia’s greatest charm is its diversity, it’s a region that provides a taste of everything the country has to offer.

Audley in the Southeast

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Byron Bay

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The cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide have an enormous selection of accommodation ranging from large five star hotels to small boutique guesthouses. We have picked a few of our favourites to show the variety on offer, but they are just a selection of what is available. Away from the cities the rural coastal and inland regions of the Southeast, together with the national parks and wine regions, house a good choice of small B&Bs and luxury lodges. Whatever your preference, our specialists can offer recommendations to suit you.

Noosa Heads Brisbane

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We have been exploring the Southeast of Australia for years and have extensive knowledge and experience of all the major sights as well as its lesser-known attractions. While first-time visitors will not want to miss the iconic sights in and around Sydney and Melbourne, we are ready to offer some insider tips to help you get off the beaten track and discover more of this diverse region. We can recommend the best way to take in the Twelve Apostles and avoid the crowds, the restaurants to choose for views of the Sydney Harbour, and how to get to those hidden beaches that only the locals know about. From walking to wine, scenic drives to scenic flights, we can recommend the best experiences to maximise your time in the Southeast.

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Lakes Entrance

1 Sydney Australia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan city, boasting one of the finest harbours in the world. See pages 12-14

4 The Great Ocean Road A dramatic coastal drive that winds past cliffs, towering rock stacks, surf beaches and pretty seaside towns. See pages 24-25

7 Barossa Valley The place to indulge, with many of Australia’s finest wineries and a host of charming boutique accommodation. See page 28

2 Blue Mountains A picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site of rocky escarpments, eucalypt forests and scenic gorges making for excellent walking. See page 16

5 Adelaide Compact and full of character, Adelaide is filled with grand buildings, parks and galleries and has a thriving central market. See pages 26-27

8 Lord Howe Island A remote island fringed with beautiful reefs. See page 15

3 Melbourne A dynamic waterfront city with a rich multicultural heritage, lively arts scene, great festivals and events, and a mellow cafe culture. See pages 20-21

6 Kangaroo Island A short distance from the mainland, Kangaroo Island has a diverse array of wildlife and a selection of gorgeous beaches. See page 29

9 Brisbane A modern, welcoming city with a fabulous outdoor lifestyle fuelled by the miles of sandy beaches and the lush hinterland that surround the city. See page 32

Koala, Kangaroo Island

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Dominated and defined by water, Sydney is built around one of the world’s finest harbours, a splash of vibrant blue dotted with hundreds of sailing boats, cruisers and ferries. The harbour has a strong influence on the lifestyle and attitude of Sydney’s citizens and outdoor pursuits and a laid-back buzz are at the heart of this unforgettable city. Circular Quay, where the first European ships arrived, is a natural starting point and is set in the chic Rocks district which blends colonial history with contemporary arts and culture. Here, and elsewhere, you’ll find the unmistakable vibrancy that makes this city so dynamic. From lively food and arts scenes to prestigious museums, legendary beaches, numerous parks and a city skyline that is famous the world over, Sydney promises – and delivers – an exceptional experience.

Park Hyatt Sydney

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Sydney’s suburbs The archetypal Aussie pastime of ‘catching a wave’ is seen at its best in Sydney, with Bondi, Manly and Coogee beaches the most popular surfing centres. Away from the water, colourful suburbs such as Potts Point, Darlinghurst and Paddington support a thriving and colourful cafe culture; their elegant Victorian terraces and decorative ironwork contrasting sharply with the skyscrapers of the city centre. Wherever you end up in the city, you’ll notice its harmonious multiculturalism and distinct buzz. Sydney’s residents have an enthusiastic passion for life and seem energised by their spectacular setting, wonderful climate and easy-going lifestyle.

Harbour Rocks Hotel, Sydney Situated in the heart of the historic Rocks district, next to restaurants, bars and cafes, the Harbour Rocks is ideally placed to access all of Sydney’s major sights and attractions. This good value boutique hotel is housed in a former trading store and decorated in a chic, minimalist style. It has a wonderfully intimate atmosphere and excellent service as well as 59 simple but elegant rooms. Some feature superb views across Sydney Harbour and the luxurious Penthouse Suite looks down over the iconic Opera House. There’s a lovely garden terrace area and a good bar and restaurant on site.

Park Hyatt Sydney Occupying what is arguably the city’s most desirable location between the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, the Park Hyatt is regularly voted one of Australia’s finest hotels. Its calm sophistication and faultless service are unparalleled in Sydney and are matched by a wide range of facilities that include a rooftop pool, spa, dedicated 24-hour butler service and private jetty on the harbour. The 155 sleek, spacious rooms and luxurious suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows which open onto private balconies providing some of the best views of Sydney’s dazzling harbour. Harbour Rocks Hotel, Sydney


Manly Beach, Sydney

Street musicians at Paddington Market, Sydney

Surf boat on Bondi Beach, Sydney

The Rocks district, Sydney

Colourful houses in Paddington, Sydney

Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney, Harbourside

Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney

Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney

Located in Darling Harbour, the Adina features 114 sleek, modern, one and two bedroom apartments and studios. Studio rooms have basic kitchenettes while the apartments have a fully-equipped kitchen as well as full laundry facilities, and many have views over the harbour. There is a restaurant on site if you don’t feel like cooking, as well as a heated swimming pool, sauna and fitness centre. The hotel is within easy walking distance of Sydney’s major attractions, entertainment venues and best shopping areas and is surrounded by a host of cafes, restaurants and bistros.

Occupying a prime position in the historic Rocks district, the Shangri-La provides some of the best accommodation in Sydney together with stunning views of the harbour. The 565 rooms are extremely spacious and elegantly decorated and feature either city views, partial or full harbour views. The hotel has excellent facilities including a gorgeous spa, a sleek club lounge, indoor swimming pool and a great selection of restaurants and bars. We recommend trying the cocktail bar on the 36th floor which offers a breathtaking view of the harbour below.

Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney

Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney With sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, the Four Seasons has an enviable location in the historic Rocks district and is superbly positioned to take in the city’s key attractions as well as nearby restaurants and boutiques. The hotel combines elegance with a warm atmosphere and its 531 rooms and suites offer views of the city skyline or of the majestic Sydney Harbour. The hotel facilities are excellent with a choice of restaurants and bars including a poolside cabana during the summer months. The pool itself is the largest outdoor heated hotel pool in the city and is complemented by a luxurious spa. Adina Apartment Hotel Sydney, Harbourside

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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Sydney Opera House

Coogee to Bondi walk

Exploring Sydney There are few cities in the world that can compare with Sydney for aesthetic appeal. From the stylish skyline to the city parks and gardens, glorious coastline and harbour, it’s hard not to feel uplifted by your surroundings. Here are just a few of our favourite ways to explore the city. Harbour cruise Water is such a large and dramatic part of Sydney’s character that one of the best ways to experience the city is to get out on the harbour. A harbour cruise allows you to take in the city’s famous sights as well as secluded coves and idyllic beaches. Relax on the deck of a luxurious motor yacht or take a cooling swim before enjoying a delicious barbecue lunch served with locally-produced wines and beers for a truly memorable day. Learn to surf Immerse yourself in the Australian way of life with a surfing lesson at Sydney’s legendary

Private surfing lesson, Bondi Beach

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Bondi Beach. Wake early and see Bondi at its glorious best while trying your hand at this exhilarating sport – it’s the perfect way to start your day refreshed before going on to explore some of this vibrant suburb’s natural attractions and wide range of shops and restaurants. Lessons are designed for all ages and abilities and we can arrange them on either a shared or private basis. Coogee to Bondi walk As a city escape, the coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi really can’t be beaten. This six kilometre trail along the clifftops of Sydney’s eastern suburbs is one of our favourite walks and features stunning views, beaches, parks, bays and rock pools. A steady gradient means the walk is suitable for most and with benches looking out to sea as well as beaches and parks, there are plenty of opportunities to rest or swim. Finish the walk with a well-deserved cold drink at the famous Bondi Icebergs Swimming Club perched above its alluring sea pool. The Opera House Sitting proudly on the harbour’s edge, the Sydney Opera House is one of the 20 th century’s most distinctive buildings and despite its familiarity, it is still an arresting sight on first glance. The best way to see inside this iconic building is to attend an evening performance when you can also see the mesmerising theatre lights glittering on the inky harbour waters. Small groups of early risers can take a look behind the scenes as part of a tour, exploring restricted areas, viewing the architect’s original plans and perhaps even treading the boards.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Sydney has a skyline to rival any in the world and one of its finest structures is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, dubbed ‘the Coat Hanger’. Once you’ve seen the bridge from afar you can take the experience further by climbing to its highest point. You’ll be given a safety briefing and all equipment, and will then be guided along the bridge arches to the top for a spectacular view of the harbour and city below. Cottage Point While there are many ways to enjoy Sydney, a trip over the harbour by seaplane is simply unforgettable. Enjoy the city’s beauty from the air as you fly over Sydney’s Northern Beaches and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park before arriving in style at the private wharf of the charming Cottage Point Inn Restaurant. Situated on a broad reach of the magnificent Hawkesbury River, it has one of the finest waterfront locations in Sydney. The restaurant serves a creative, contemporary menu featuring plenty of local seafood and an excellent choice of wine. As you fly back into Sydney your pilot will take you over the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the perfect end to an incredible day.

Harbour cruise


View towards Lover’s Bay, Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island Just under two hours by air from Sydney, Lord Howe Island is a world apart. With quiet beaches and a pleasant year-round climate it appeals to visitors seeking a relaxing retreat from the city. The island is a particularly good option for those looking for a reef experience in the Australian summer when it’s the height of the wet season at the Great Barrier Reef. Regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the Pacific, this far-flung, volcanic outcrop rises dramatically out of the ocean and curves around an aquamarine lagoon. It is one of only a handful of islands awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for its collection of rare flora and fauna and prolific marine life.

Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island

White tern, Lord Howe Island

Forests envelop the island with native kentia palms and banyan trees at sea level and lush cloudforest on the mountain peaks. Fish can be seen in the shallow waters off its beaches and as visitor numbers are limited, the island is never crowded. Choose to snorkel among the brilliantly coloured coral, explore the forest along the many walking tracks, or simply soak up the sense of tranquillity as you gaze out to sea. We would recommend visiting the island for a minimum of three days to truly appreciate the wonderful landscape and have time to completely relax.

Green moon wrasse, Lord Howe Island

This beautiful lodge commands dazzling ocean and mountain views and provides a luxurious retreat perfect for a relaxing break. The nine spacious suites are decorated in sophisticated beach-house style, with island themed artworks and have generous decks with uninterrupted views. Decor is modern throughout and service is exceptional while remaining relaxed and personal. From the lodge, you can take a dip in the clear waters at one of the nearby coves, explore the kentia palm forests or hike to the top of Malabar Hill to marvel at the endemic birdlife and soak up the wonderful views over the lagoon. As the sun slowly dips, indulge in a soothing massage, sip a chilled drink on the terrace and wait for dinner to be served.

Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island

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Walker on the National Pass Trail, Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains The Blue Mountains National Park to the west of Sydney make a perfect retreat during the hot summer months. The 11,400 square kilometres of eucalypt forest, rare plants, waterfalls and gorges are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and numerous walking tracks lead through spectacular scenery to lookouts with panoramic views. The highest point, Mount Werong, is 1,215 metres above sea level and is set among rugged slopes and valleys that appear to be covered in a blue haze. Light reflecting off fine droplets of eucalyptus oil creates the phenomenon that has given the region its name. Katoomba (an Aboriginal word meaning ‘shiny, tumbling water’) is the main town in the region and is a good starting point for exploring the area.

The Three Sisters, Blue Mountains

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Lilianfels, Katoomba Hugging the edge of a spectacular valley, this historic country house is set in vast manicured gardens and offers some of the best views in the Blue Mountains. The 85 spacious guest rooms are traditionally decorated with swag curtains, subtle florals, deep armchairs and in some, canopied beds and open fireplaces. There’s a large lounge and cosy reading room full of old-world charm. There are two restaurants and the hotel also has its own spa and indoor and outdoor pools.

Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley

Greens of Leura, Leura This heritage-style B&B is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of the charming small town of Leura and offers a warm and hospitable base from which to explore the Blue Mountains National Park. The five themed bedrooms vary in size but all are decorated in a classical style with antique or replica furniture, rich brocades and in some, chandeliers and four-poster beds. The guesthouse also features a pretty communal courtyard and guest lounge where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly, sherry or port in the evenings with your hosts and other guests.

Set in a large conservation reserve, Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley offers indulgent luxury in a secluded part of the Blue Mountains. Along with breathtaking views and wildlife on your doorstep, the hotel features 40 contemporary, free-standing suites with private decks and swimming pools, as well as a choice of one, two and three bedroom villas. A number of activities are included in your stay such as horse riding, mountain biking and guided nature walks, or you can choose to get involved in one of the lodge’s conservation activities to help the protection of the valley and its wildlife. Alternatively, unwind in the spa and enjoy a treatment with the mountains as a stunning backdrop. Emirates One & Only Wolgan Valley


Vineyard in the Hunter Valley

Spicers in the Vines, Pokolbin Surrounded by its small, private vineyard with views rolling out to the stunning Brokenback Mountains, Spicers in the Vines is the ideal haven from which to explore the highlights of the Hunter Valley. The lodge’s 12 luxurious guest rooms are stylish and sophisticated and each comes equipped with open, wood-burning fireplaces, and granite bathrooms with separate spa baths and rain showers. There is an excellent restaurant on site serving up fresh seasonal produce alongside its award-winning wine list, an intimate spa and the option to join a guided wine tour around the estate and neighbouring wineries.

While it is perfectly possible to explore the Hunter Valley’s award-winning wineries on your own, a wine tour allows you to relax, indulge and leave the driving to someone else. A tour also gives you access to wine makers and private tastings which are otherwise inaccessible and will include visits to lesser-known boutique wineries which only the locals know about. Tours can be arranged on a shared or private basis and are led by informative and characterful guides and are often accompanied by a range of local culinary delights.

Spicers in the Vines, Pokolbin

Hunter Valley A popular weekend escape for many Sydney residents, the Hunter Valley is an attractive agricultural area renowned for its rolling fields, vineyards and excellent wineries. Aside from sampling the local wines, there is a range of activities to try including horse riding, cycling, golf and cookery classes. Nearby, a scattering of historic townships including Cessnock, Maitland and Pokolbin are perfect for an afternoon of exploration.

Wine tours

Wine casks being filled, Hunter Valley

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Tracks on the beach, Jervis Bay

Sydney to Melbourne drive Linking Sydney and Melbourne by a road less travelled, this route takes in some of Australia’s most magnificent coastal scenery and stunning national parks. Driving at a leisurely pace the route would take four to five days but we suggest extending it into a week’s journey with stays in apartments, guesthouses and B&Bs in the small, friendly towns in southern New South Wales and eastern Victoria. This route is highly recommended for those who have visited Australia before.

Paper Bark Camp, Jervis Bay

Sea Cliff Bridge, near Sydney

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NEW SOUTH WALES

Blue Mountains

Jervis Bay

CANBERRA ACT

VICTORIA y lle Va

Lakes Melbourne Entrance

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Phillip Island

Gippsland Lakes Parks Wilsons Promontory National Park

Sydney

Tilba Tilba

Merimbula Gipsy Point

South Pacific Ocean

Jervis Bay A couple of hours’ drive south of Sydney is the gem of Jervis Bay. Home to the dramatic ruins of a beautiful lighthouse and a colonial port which once rivalled Sydney’s harbour, there is significant cultural heritage to discover here. An ideal stop for a couple of nights, it’s a great place for walking, canoeing the creeks or renting a bike and exploring further afield. The botanic gardens offer further stretches of bushwalking and perfect picnic spots or you can spend a sunny afternoon at Green Patch Beach, famed for its clear waters, white sands and pods of dolphins. Keep an eye out for clouds of spray as humpback and southern right whales pass close to the shore between July and October on their annual migration.

Set on the outskirts of Jervis Bay among rugged wilderness, Paper Bark Camp allows you to get close to nature without sacrificing comfort. This unique property combines style, character and eco-sensitivity with the occasional inquisitive possum, and provides characterful accommodation in 12 safari-style tents on raised platforms. Approached through a leafy tunnel of trees, the tents are spacious and bright with large beds, simple yet elegant furnishings and an open-air en suite bathroom. In the early evening, stroll up to the ‘gunyah’ or meeting place for a delicious dinner.

Paper Bark Camp, Jervis Bay

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Common wombat, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Crimson rosella, Wilsons Promontory National Park

Gipsy Point Lakeside Resort Set on the edge of an attractive inlet in the heart of the majestic Croajingolong National Park, Australia’s World Biosphere Reserve, the modern, self-contained apartments of Gipsy Point Lakeside Resort are ideal for a relaxing stay. The 14 spacious, yet good value, apartments are set within landscaped gardens and all have fully-equipped kitchens and floor-to-ceiling windows. There is a small shop and gourmet hampers can be provided for a special picnic. We particularly recommend the Lakeview Apartments which come with lovely outdoor decks and sweeping views over the water.

Pelicans in Mallacoota Inlet, Gippsland Lakes Parks

Gippsland Lakes Parks A beautiful network of inland waterways, the Gippsland Lakes offer endless white-sand beaches lapped by gentle seas. Quiet canals and light winds make this a great place to sail, swim, kayak or fish and for the most part you will just have dolphins for company. The small towns of Metung and Lakes Entrance provide good bases from which to explore the region’s three coastal parks. At Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park you can cross the slim arm of dunes that separate the inland waterways from the magnificent Ninety Mile Beach. Lakes National Park is home to Lake Victoria and supports a network of bush trails surrounded by seasonal wildflowers including orchids. The least populated of the three parks, Lake Tyers State Park, has lofty eucalypt forests and calm waters, perfect for a day’s canoeing.

Bear Gully Coastal Cottages, near Wilsons Promontory National Park Bear Gully Coastal Cottages offer peace and tranquillity just a three hour drive from the bustle of Melbourne. Set on a ridge five minutes from the beach in Cape Liptrap Coastal Park, the four cottages are fresh and light and come with a full kitchen, a large deck and stunning views over the ocean towards Wilsons Promontory. Wallabies regularly graze in the grounds and it’s not unusual to sit on your deck watching dolphins in Waratah Bay. Wilsons Promontory National Park is an easy 35 minute drive away.

Wilsons Promontory National Park One of Australia’s most spectacular parks, Wilsons Promontory National Park lies on an exposed stretch of coastline near the end of the Sydney to Melbourne drive. This vast wilderness area is the mainland’s southernmost point and home to secluded beaches, rocky headlands, fern gullies, forests and tranquil rivers where native animals, including kangaroos, wombats and emus, thrive. The park is a great place for hiking and has numerous walking trails from under an hour to three days that lead you through rainforest to huge granite mountains and sweeping beaches. Gipsy Point Lakeside Resort

Bear Gully Coastal Cottages

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Rowers on the Yarra River, Melbourne

without being too minimalist and the suites, located on the top three floors, offer sweeping, panoramic views. The hotel has its own stylish restaurant and a leisure centre with an infinity swimming pool offering skyline views.

Melbourne Situated on the banks of the Yarra River, Victoria’s state capital is a fascinating blend of old and new. Historic houses and ornate shopping arcades sit next to the sleek, modern architecture of Federation Square and the Southbank, while the old laneways of the city centre play host to quirky stores and cafes. Melbourne is known as Australia’s cultural capital, hosting an eclectic calendar of exhibitions, festivals and events. It’s a dynamic and cosmopolitan place but also boasts impressive sporting facilities and its extensive range of gardens, parks and beaches provide a wealth of walking and cycling paths. Herring Island, in the middle of the river and accessible only by boat, is one of many great escapes and features an interesting sculpture park as well as plenty of space for barbecues and picnics.

Hotel Lindrum, Melbourne

The Langham, Melbourne

The Langham, Melbourne Grand, old-style luxury and exceptional modern facilities are on offer at The Langham, one of Melbourne’s finest hotels. On arrival you are met with an impressive sweeping staircase and the timeless elegance of a top international hotel. The 363 classically elegant guest rooms feature marble bathrooms and views over the city skyline or river. Despite its size, there is attentive service, an excellent spa and a choice of dining options. To top it all, the hotel’s location is superb, just a hop away from the Yarra riverbank and its abundant restaurants.

This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Melbourne and combines modern design with contemporary facilities and personalised service. The hotel takes its name from the Lindrum family of billiard and snooker champions, who once ran a billiard centre here. The 59 spacious rooms are beautifully appointed, with sophisticated decor complete with rich wood furnishings, classic polished floors and subtle colour schemes. The restaurant and bar are relaxed but luxurious while the billiard room features an original billiard table as well as memorabilia relating to the building’s former owners.

Crown Promenade, Melbourne Sleek and affordable, Crown Promenade is conveniently located just a short walk from the many bars, cafes and restaurants of Melbourne’s vibrant Southbank. The hotel has 465 spacious rooms that are bathed in light from the extralarge windows. The decor is contemporary Crown Promenade, Melbourne

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Hotel Lindrum, Melbourne


Melbourne Park during the Australian Open

Performing arts group at the Melbourne Festival

Kayak tour with Kayak Melbourne

Exploring Melbourne Melbourne packs a heady mix of healthy outdoor living and sporting fanaticism alongside a strong appreciation of cultural and gastronomic delights, making this an exciting city to visit at any time of the year. Home to some of the country’s finest restaurants, art galleries and a cafe culture that is worldrenowned, it’s no surprise that Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world. For its visitors there are a multitude of ways in which to take in its highlights. Here are a few of our favourite things to see and do. The laneways Taking a walk through any city is often the best way of understanding its character, and exploring Melbourne’s network of laneways and arcades on a local walking tour allows you to uncover some of the city’s hidden gems. Quirky art, graffiti and fly posters advertising the latest gig or concert have brightened up previously drab walls across the city centre, while independent eateries and pop-up coffee stalls jostle for space alongside boho boutiques and the galleries of young and emerging designers.

Street art and music, Melbourne

Aussie Rules training at the MCG

The Yarra River Perhaps Melbourne’s best asset is the Yarra River and a kayak tour along its waters offers visitors the chance to see the city from a totally different perspective. Look up at the skyline from the water and paddle past the docklands, buzzing restaurants of Southbank and the famous Flinders Street Station. Melbourne from the air One of the few cities in the world where it is possible to explore by hot air balloon, Melbourne looks even more attractive from the air in the early-morning sunshine. We can arrange a gentle but exhilarating trip that drifts right over the city centre, past skyscrapers and above many of the city’s great attractions.

Melbourne’s suburbs Take the tram or a leisurely walk across the river to South Yarra and you will enter one of Melbourne’s most affluent inner-city suburbs. Shopping, fashion and entertainment converge on busy Chapel Street which is lined with exclusive retail outlets, cafes, and the popular Jam Factory shopping and entertainment complex. Around the corner on Commercial Road is Prahran Market, one of Melbourne’s oldest. Boasting a large selection of gourmet foods and fresh produce, it’s a great place to pick up a picnic. Alternatively, hop on a tram and make your way to the popular beachside suburb of St Kilda and take a relaxing walk along the foreshore or dine in one of its fashionable cafes or restaurants. Sports & festivals Crowned the world’s sports capital, Melbourne is as renowned for its sporting passion as it is for hosting major international events and festivals. Local and international events are held across the city throughout the year including the Australian Open tennis tournament, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Formula One Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup horse race. The best-known sporting venue is the enormous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), home to both cricket and the home-grown Aussie Rules. Taking in a game – and a traditional Aussie meat pie – in the company of a local host offers a unique insight into Melbourne’s people and their passions.

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Colourful beach huts, Mornington Peninsula

Melbourne’s surrounds

Phillip Island

Spectacular scenery, an abundance of wildlife and numerous small, welcoming towns surround Melbourne and make for rewarding self-drive trips out of the city. A good selection of small, character guesthouses and B&Bs allows you to break up the journey and drive around at a leisurely pace stopping to admire the scenery, take a hike or explore the country towns as you go. Alternatively, a few places can be visited as part of a day trip from Melbourne.

Located one and a half hours from Melbourne, tiny Phillip Island provides a delightful diversion on your coastal journey and is well worth a visit in its own right. Aside from its penguins, the island is a great place to see many other forms of wildlife: shearwaters fly annually between here and Alaska, seals cavort around the rocks at ‘The Nobbies’ and koalas can be seen at the conservation centre. Along the rugged southern coastline facing Bass Strait you will find roaring surf beaches and every morning the pelicans are fed at San Remo in a display of leaps, flutters and squabbles. The main town, Cowes, makes a good stop for lunch and offers a range of lively restaurants specialising in fresh lobster and shellfish.

Mornington Peninsula Two glittering bays flank the Mornington Peninsula as it pushes out into the mighty Southern Ocean. Fertile hills and lavender farms roll down to a coast lined with beautiful beaches and tranquil harbours. Less than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Mornington’s laid-back lifestyle has attracted many chefs and wine makers, creating an unexpected gastronomic haven. The region has an unmistakably creative buzz and is home to artists and some of the country’s best-known painters. Local craft markets showcase their work. At the tip of the peninsula, Sorrento is a historic town acclaimed for its fine buildings, excellent eateries and colourful galleries. The nearby ferry at Portsea connects to the Great Ocean Road and is a great diversion from the main highway.

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Penguin Parade Summerland Beach on Phillip Island is most known for its nightly penguin parade when hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and shuffle through the spiky, clumpy grass to their nests in the dunes. We suggest taking a ranger-led tour to get up close to the animals and learn a little about their habits and lifecycle. You will sit with the ranger on a deserted beach away from the main crowd and will be provided with night goggles to watch the penguins’ antics as you listen to the ranger’s commentary through an earpiece.

Glen Isla Homestead, near Cowes Ideally located on a pristine sandy beach around 1.5 kilometres from Cowes, this 19 th-century homestead has been lovingly converted into an intimate boutique hotel with just six elegant suites located in the lush heritage gardens. Set between ancient oaks and magnolias and under the shade of mature Norfolk pines, the spacious rooms offer refined elegance and old-world charm as well as all modern comforts. Each features a private veranda with glorious garden views. The main homestead is surrounded by a shady deck where breakfast is served each day.


Glen Isla Homestead, near Cowes

Wine selection, Yarra Valley

View from Mount William, Grampians National Park

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges Less than an hour from Melbourne, the richly fertile Yarra Valley is dotted with orchards and flower farms, peppered with vineyards and sheltered by the verdant Dandenong Ranges. Here the Puffing Billy steam train winds its way through fern glades and mountain ash trees from Belgrave to the lovely village of Emerald. The William Ricketts Sanctuary has an amazing collection of Aboriginal sculptures, while the Healesville Sanctuary offers one of region’s best opportunities to see and interact with native Australian wildlife. A short distance to the east, the Upper Yarra Valley extends beyond Warburton in a wild tumble of rocky mountain streams, showing nature at its most beautiful.

Grampians National Park From the summit of Mount William the soaring ranges of the Grampians seem to roll into the distance like an endless series of breaking waves. Spanning close to 2,000 square kilometres, the region is accessible by foot or car. Marked trails lead through plains of riotously coloured wildflowers to Aboriginal rock art sites or the magnificent MacKenzie Falls. The Wonderland Loop Walk, although a little strenuous in places, takes you through the Silent Street Ravine to a string of rock formations and along a curving

Meringa Springs, Wartook Valley

DULC, Halls Gap, Grampians National Park

sandstone rock face called the ‘Elephant’s Hide’, with plenty of natural rock pools for a refreshing dip along the way. Our favourite trail is to Mount Wudjub-Guyan where the massive sandstone outcrops and eucalypt-covered slopes offer fabulously uplifting views.

DULC, Halls Gap, Grampians National Park Ideally located for exploring the dramatic beauty of the peaks, cliffs and native bushland of Grampians National Park, Down Under Log Cabins (DULC) provide the perfect base in the area. Four intimate cabins nestle among the trees and bushland, their design firmly respecting their natural environment but also indulging a chic, contemporary style. Rough-hewn timbers and gas fires combine with polished concrete floors, sunken baths and enormous windows that frame the glorious views. The cabins are linked by raised walkways or footpaths and are equally suited to families or couples; our favourite for couples seeking solitude is the two-storey cabin with the bedroom set high among the trees.

Meringa Springs, Wartook Valley, Grampians National Park Set on a hillside overlooking the Wartook Valley, this lovely property commands sweeping mountain views. There are two lodge rooms and three one-bedroom villas, all of which are beautifully appointed with polished wooden floors, timber beams and furniture fashioned from local red gum wood. Huge windows offer panoramic views and private decks and patios ensure you can sit outdoors and soak up the marvellous scenery at both sunrise and sunset. The lodge has a good restaurant and a lovely solar-heated infinity pool with far-reaching views over the nearby fields with their grazing kangaroos and the mountains beyond.

High Country The mountainous landscape to the northeast of Melbourne is known as the High Country and features a series of national parks as well as gourmet restaurants, boutique wineries and pretty villages. The high peaks, lakes and snow resorts, together with a rich history of gold discovery make this region well worth a visit as part of a self-drive route. Small, picturesque country towns surrounded by mountains, forests and rivers are scattered across the area making it the ideal environment for fishing, bushwalking or horse riding.

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Bay of Islands rock formations on the Shipwreck Coast

The Great Ocean Road One of Australia’s most scenic driving routes, the Great Ocean Road takes you from Melbourne along a stretch of rugged and dramatic coastline. The route passes through friendly seaside towns including Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Fairy, past famous surfing beaches and through dense forest backed by the Otway Ranges. One of our favourite reasons for taking the drive is to see the incredible natural rock formations carved out by the elements, including the famous Twelve Apostles, a series of magnificent rock stacks that rise up from the Southern Ocean. This drive is also well-suited to travelling by motorhome.

Apollo Bay This small fishing village was named after a local schooner and despite the town’s fame as a resting place for many shipwrecks, it remains popular with fishermen and is one of our favourite towns along this stretch of coastline. Set in the foothills of the Otway Ranges, there is a remarkable contrast between the craggy coastline here and the breathtaking forest wilderness just inland. A stroll will uncover some excellent cafes and restaurants, but make sure you continue to Mariners Lookout for a stunning view back over the bay with its long sandy beach.

Apollo Bay Guesthouse, Apollo Bay

Captain’s at the Bay, Apollo Bay

Captain’s at the Bay, Apollo Bay

Located close to the water’s edge, Apollo Bay Guesthouse is a magnificent French-influenced residence full of character and charm. Stained glass windows and crystal chandeliers, ornate ceilings, intricate wood panelling and antique marquetry furniture adorn the rooms in this highly elegant retreat. There are two en suite rooms in the main house that both have French doors to the sun deck overlooking the ocean and river, as well as a two-bedroom cottage in the grounds which is equipped for self-catering and ideal for families or couples travelling together.

This welcoming, contemporary B&B is within a stroll of the superb restaurants of tranquil Apollo Bay. It’s an intimate place with just 12 rooms and extremely friendly service. Rooms in the Captain’s Terrace have private gardens while the detached one-bedroom Captain’s Cottage and two-bedroom Captain’s Loft offer even more privacy. The decor throughout is modern but elegant and the communal areas are warm and inviting. A sumptuous Australian breakfast is served in the lounge and the dining room is a great place to relax with its huge open fire and displays on local maritime history.

Fish shop, Apollo Bay

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Coastal walking While the Great Ocean Road is famous the world over, its coastal walking path is far less known. With permits for less than 900 walkers a year, and only ten in a group at one time, walking provides a far more intimate way to get to know this remarkable region. Multi-day walking tours take in the best of its scenery and wildlife and include pick-ups from Melbourne, making it a great option for those who prefer not to self-drive or simply wish to stretch their legs for a few days. Four night tours include accommodation in an ecolodge freeing you up to carry the bare minimum as you walk and allowing you to return each night to a home-cooked dinner with fresh local produce and accompanying regional wine. The route runs from Apollo Bay in the east to the Twelve Apostles in the west, and will take you through tall forests and shaded gullies, and past remote beaches and towering cliffs finishing with an exclusive view of the famous sea stacks. A scenic helicopter flight back over the ground that you have just covered ends your experience in style.

Hopetoun Falls, Great Otway National Park

Riverside houses, Port Fairy

Coastal walking on the Great Ocean Walk

Port Fairy

Cape Otway Conservation Centre Set in extensive grounds and backing on to the Great Otway National Park, this ecotourism venture combines research, education and wildlife rehabilitation with a fantastic ecolodge and offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about local wildlife. Your hosts are an enthusiastic young couple who share their passion for the local area and its inhabitants and offer guided walks on a number of carefully designed paths that lead through the grounds. Home to one of the largest populations of koalas in all of Victoria, the award-winning centre attracts naturalists from all over the world. The conservation centre also cares for injured or orphaned wildlife, so you are likely to see baby kangaroos and koalas at close quarters as they are carefully nursed back to health. There are five en suite guest bedrooms, each with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Great Ocean Road

The Shipwreck Coast Blowholes roar and the ocean boils around towering rock stacks on this majestic stretch of coastline along the Great Ocean Road. Known as the Shipwreck Coast, it is the most spectacular section of the drive, passing the cavernous Loch Ard Gorge as well as the famous Twelve Apostles. Set off by a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, these limestone stacks are part of a procession of natural features that includes Pudding Basin Rock, Island Arch, the Blowhole and London Bridge. The region is best seen when the winds are fierce and you can appreciate the natural forces that have crafted the landscape into shape. Although it is possible to visit on a day tour from Melbourne, we recommend taking your time and spending a night or two in Port Fairy and Apollo Bay.

In the early 1800s a boat called The Fairy chose this tiny bay on the mouth of the Moyne River to shelter from a storm. Today the town that grew up here is a charming base from which to explore the famous Shipwreck Coast. Heritage buildings line the streets overlooking the busy harbour, a flourishing arts scene supports the open studios and galleries scattered about town, and a delightful Art Walk links them all together. The beauty of the coastline is at its best on nearby Griffiths Island, home to a colony of mutton birds, and on Lady Julia Percy Island where lava flows have created an almost flat clifftop. Although seen by many as an overnight stop, Port Fairy is well worth a longer stay.

Oscars, Port Fairy Set on the Moyne River with views out over the yachts in the marina, Oscars is an intimate boutique hotel with just five guest rooms. The hotel is beautifully appointed and decorated in a classic French provincial style, and the rooms are bright and elegant and feature all modern comforts. Breakfast is taken very seriously here and gourmet fare is served in the pretty dining room overlooking the river. Conveniently located just a short distance from many of the highlights of the Great Ocean Road, Oscars is an extremely tranquil place to break your journey.

Cape Otway Conservation Centre

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Rundle Street, Adelaide

Adelaide An enchanting city nestled between the Adelaide Hills and the long white sands of the coastline, Adelaide is full of gracious stone buildings and open parklands that give it a palpable sense of calm. Commanding public buildings mark the city’s cultural heart while to the north a lattice of bluestone cottages and al fresco restaurants make it a wonderful place to wander. The city prides itself on being the artistic capital of Australia and bursts into life during the acclaimed Adelaide Festival. Here too is the Australian Aboriginal Cultures Gallery with its extensive collection of artefacts and artworks. Venture beyond the city into the gorgeous Adelaide Hills for vineyards, bushland and bustling upcountry towns, or take the vintage tram to the cheerful seaside resort of Glenelg with its lovely swimming beach and open-air cafes.

The Art Gallery of South Australia

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Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide

Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, Adelaide

Set in an enviable location right in the heart of Adelaide, the luxurious Mayfair Hotel is a convenient city base. The hotel is situated in an impeccably renovated heritage building and the 170 stylish rooms and suites are beautifully laid out with elegant furnishings in pale, neutral tones. Much attention has been paid to the aesthetic appeal of the property and the attractive communal spaces are ideal for relaxing after a day exploring the city. The hotel’s signature Mayflower restaurant and bar offers excellent dining while the exclusive Hennessy rooftop bar and terrace is a great place to soak up the atmosphere at the end of a long day.

Majestic Roof Garden Hotel, Adelaide An unrivalled base from which to explore Adelaide, the Majestic is conveniently located just around the corner from the shops, bars and plentiful eateries on vibrant Rundle Street, and just a short walk from the grand, historic buildings on North Terrace. This inner-city hotel is streamlined and modern, yet small enough to retain a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The 120 rooms are furnished in a contemporary style with exceptionally comfortable beds and spacious, luxurious bathrooms. The rooftop garden is a wonderful addition and makes the perfect place to relax at the end of the day.

Mayfair Hotel, Adelaide


Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills

Sir Donald Bradman statue, North Adelaide

Fountain in Victoria Square, Adelaide

Pier at Glenelg

North Adelaide

Adelaide Hills

On the northern side of the River Torrens, affluent North Adelaide has numerous parklands and gardens as well as a superb collection of heritage buildings. A walk along the tree-lined streets will take you past imposing mansions, independent art galleries and atmospheric old pubs. O’Connell Street offers a diverse selection of some of the city’s finest Italian, Asian and modern Australian cuisine and just a short walk away is cosmopolitan Melbourne Street, packed with classy cafes and elegant restaurants ideal for outdoor dining. North Adelaide is also home to the Adelaide Oval, considered one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world.

A short drive north out of Adelaide brings you into the Adelaide Hills and some of the region’s most scenic countryside. A journey through the forested hillsides and pretty bushland reveals small towns, quaint villages, farm homesteads and the occasional vineyard. One of the best reasons to visit though, is the local markets that take place every week. Freshly baked bread, the purest extra virgin olive oil, herbs, nuts and plenty of wine, cheese and meat are all on sale. Some of the markets are food only, while at others you can also buy arts and crafts. One of the largest markets is the monthly Stirling Market with around 80 stalls. The street is closed during the market, so you can enjoy the village ambience of one of the Adelaide Hills’ prettiest towns.

Buxton Manor, North Adelaide Historic Buxton Manor, a heritage property situated in leafy North Adelaide, is an Arts and Crafts mansion once owned by a respected South Australian jurist. Today it has been lovingly converted to provide four superb suites that retain all the building’s original splendour. The rooms are set in a beautiful garden and laid out in period style with decorative fireplaces, gilt mirrors and handsome antique furnishings. Full breakfast provisions are left for you so you can have a relaxed start to your day before setting out to explore the city’s attractions which are all within walking distance.

Bakery stall, Central Market

Dolphin watching Adelaide’s seaside suburb of Glenelg makes for an enjoyable day out from the city centre and is a popular destination for dolphin watching. A trip on board a catamaran allows you to follow these curious creatures and get up close as they swim and jump metres from the bow. Should you wish, you can also jump into the water and use the catamaran’s flotation device so you can swim right next to them.

Buxton Manor, North Adelaide

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Wine tasting at Kingsford Homestead

Seven Hill Cellars vineyard, Clare Valley

Wine tasting, Barossa Valley

South Australian Winelands It is no accident that the National Wine Museum is located in the heart of Adelaide. South Australia is where some of the greatest Australian wines are produced and an amazing array of vineyards are located within a short journey of the city. We can arrange specialised tours to the area’s well-known vineyards, but also some of the lesser-known estates too where you can meet the local vintners at their cellar doors. For those with time to spare there are some wonderful boutique properties where you can stay and immerse yourself in the local food and wine traditions at your leisure. It’s also worth considering timing your visit to coincide with one of the many local markets and festivals which are popular throughout these regions. Magill Estate, Adelaide On the edge of Adelaide, Magill Estate is a well-established winery dating back over a hundred years. Known for producing The Grange, one of the region’s finest wines, the estate is open to the public and offers a behind-the-scenes tour to learn the secrets of winemaking. The tour explores the vineyard as well as its underground tunnels and heritage-listed bluestone cellars. There is also an excellent contemporary restaurant serving inventive, seasonal food. Barossa Valley The Barossa is Australia’s best known wine-producing region and just an hour’s drive northeast of Adelaide. The area was first settled in 1842 by German immigrants who soon established a picturesque string of townships that include Lyndoch and Tanunda. Today, Barossa Valley retains its colonial charm with plenty of heritage buildings adding greatly to the region’s warmth and character. With over 50 wineries scattered across the valley there’s ample opportunity to sample the renowned product.

Abbotsford Country House, Barossa Valley Situated at the southwestern corner of the beautiful Barossa Valley, the colonial-style Abbotsford Country House is blessed with magnificent views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling farmland framed by sun-baked ranges. The eight guest suites are named after prominent local families. Each has its own character and is lovingly decorated with antiques, furniture collected from Scotland and Australia, and quality fabrics and drapes. It is perfectly placed for exploring the region’s many vineyards and restaurants and your hosts will help you make the most of your time. After a day’s exploring you might wish to play petanque or croquet on the lawn and enjoy a glass of wine on the main homestead’s wide verandas as you watch the sun set.

Kingsford Homestead, Barossa Valley

Kingsford Homestead, Barossa Valley Set in pretty, rolling countryside close to world-class wineries, Kingsford Homestead is an elegant property dating back to 1856. Since that time it has been largely used as a working farm before a brief period of fame as the set for an Australian TV series, McLeod’s Daughters. The current owners have sensitively renovated the homestead and it now provides the most luxurious accommodation option in the region.

The homestead’s seven suites combine contemporary style with a nod to the past, while there is an excellent restaurant on site, a private cellar and a refreshing pool to relax in after a day of wine touring. Clare Valley Famous for a world-class Riesling, the narrow Clare Valley is home to a number of boutique wineries and an emerging gourmet food scene. Within the valley there are several small country towns, galleries and local museums, and the ‘Riesling Trail’, a gentle 35-kilometre cycling trail that provides a scenic link between the valley’s cultural attractions and its cafes, restaurants and cellar doors. Clare Valley is just a two-hour drive north of Adelaide.

Thorn Park by The Vines, Clare Valley Thorn Park by The Vines is a luxurious country homestead located on the edge of Seven Hill in the Clare Valley. Boasting lovely bush and vineyard views, the house has been beautifully furnished with an elegant collection of antiques and artworks as well as unusual pieces collected during the owners’ travels. The guesthouse has three charming guest rooms decorated in a refined and classic style, as well as an extensive library, attractive central lounge and an outdoor deck. However, the highlight is the food, with gourmet contemporary Australian cuisine served from an open galley kitchen and complemented by local wines.

Thorn Park by The Vines, Clare Valley

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Kangaroo with her joey, Kangaroo Island

Coastline at Hanson Bay, Kangaroo Island

Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island

Molly’s Run, Kangaroo Island

Seal pups, Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island Kangaroo Island was part of mainland Australia during the Ice Age but in the thousands of years of isolation since, has developed unique characteristics and distinct sub-species of flora and fauna. The island’s diverse landscape provides habitats for sea lions, fur seals, endemic kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, platypus, goannas, possums and bandicoots, and during the winter, whales pass by the coastline. Over 45 species of plant are endemic to Kangaroo Island, and over 32% of the island is protected in national or conservation parks. The island is 150 kilometres in length, and with the added attractions of white sandy beaches, eucalypt forests and endless red dirt roads, it provides a wealth of wildlife experiences in one destination.

Molly’s Run is a Mediterranean-style villa with just three suites overlooking Smith Bay. Set in lush, native gardens that are home to a wide variety of birdlife, the villa offers an extremely tranquil setting and stunning sea views. The beautiful suites open onto a paved veranda on the ground floor and offer views of the surrounding countryside from their upstairs French windows. Each morning you’ll be greeted by your gregarious hosts with a delicious homemade breakfast complemented by a continental spread of local Kangaroo Island provisions such as muesli and the island’s honey. The courtyard is ideal for al fresco dining in the summer months, and with prior arrangement, dinner of fresh local produce is served.

Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island Located on a clifftop among the pristine coastal wilderness of Kangaroo Island is one of Australia’s finest lodges. The spectacular Southern Ocean Lodge has jaw-dropping views along with luxurious modern decor and impeccable service. The 21 stylish suites stretch out along the clifftop and feature sunken lounges, immense walls of glass, private terraces overlooking the crashing ocean below, and every creature comfort imaginable. Fine dining is a highlight of a stay here, with local produce featuring on the menu and served in the dining room with its sweeping views. Naturalist guided tours of the island’s sights ensure a stay is truly memorable.

Remarkable rocks near Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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Surfer heading for the beach, Byron Bay

Sydney to Brisbane Drive North of Sydney, the Pacific coast corridor is home to some of Australia’s most beautiful coastline, with miles of perfect beaches, green rolling hills and friendly seaside towns. Travelling along the Pacific Highway that runs from Sydney to Brisbane, you will pass massive sand dunes, quiet fishing villages, lush wineries and rare subtropical rainforest and you can surf, fish, dive or whale watch along the way to the sun-drenched capital of Queensland.

Port Stephens The delightful sheltered bay of Port Stephens, two and half hours’ drive north of Sydney, offers coastal scenery typified by volcanic peaks and clear bays fringed with near-deserted beaches. You can see wild dolphins at Nelson Bay or take a short boat ride to unspoilt Broughton Island which is known for its wealth of flora and fauna. Along with being a popular spot for naturalists, the island boasts secluded beaches and fascinating bird and marine life, and is a great location to spot migrating whales. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of Tilligerry Creek and spot napping koalas or take a 4x4 tour of the largest sand dune system in Australia.

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Byron Bay

QUEENSLAND Lamington National Park

Brisbane

Coolangatta Byron Bay

Indian Pacif ic Blue Mountains

Coffs Harbour

Bellingen

NEW SOUTH WALES

Port Macquarie

Hunter Valley

Port Stephens Sydney

South Pacific Ocean

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100 miles

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161 kilometres

A bohemian, free-spirited place located on the most easterly point of Australia, the coastal town of Byron Bay is well known for its beaches, surfing, diving and whale watching. The town has a thriving arts scene and boasts a number of galleries, colourful local markets and shops, a relaxed vibe and plenty of activities for visitors. There is a good choice of cafes and restaurants and with so much going on, it’s a great place to break your journey. Head inland from the gorgeous coastline and you will find a tropical mix of fruit farms and rainforest along with the ancient Mount Warning Volcano.

Byron at Byron Lily Pily Country House, Bellingen A great place to stop on the Sydney to Brisbane drive, Bellingen has a thriving arts scene and atmospheric accommodation at the Lily Pily Country House. This simple yet stylish guesthouse offers a secluded stay in beautiful surroundings. Each of the three suites is individually decorated in a cosy, classical style and has a private balcony overlooking the river and mountains. There’s a comfortable lounge with sofas and an extensive selection of books, making it the ideal place to while away the hours. Gourmet breakfasts are served until midday and private dinners are also available.

Set in lush rainforest only five minutes south of Byron Bay, the contemporary Byron at Byron blends comfortably with its natural surroundings. The 92 spacious suites are simple but elegant and feature a kitchen and a separate lounge and dining area. At the heart of the resort, the main building has wide-open verandas overlooking the rainforest. The atmosphere is laid back and guests can relax and enjoy the spectacular outdoor surroundings, walk to a lovely beach, swim in the 25-metre infinity pool or enjoy a treatment at the spa. The resort facilities also include a tennis court, a fully-equipped gym and a poolside sauna.


Lily Pily Country House, Bellingen

Byron at Byron

Surf Life Saving Clubs With so many people living close to the coast, beach culture is simply a way of life in Australia. Make a visit to any beach and you will be sure to see the red and yellow flags of the Surf Life Saving Organisation and there is a good chance that a Surf Life Saving Club will be close by. The Gold Coast has several clubs and with the promise of an inexpensive meal, great sea views and an authentic local atmosphere, a visit is a great way to experience Australian local life. Visitors are warmly welcomed and given temporary club memberships. Female satin bowerbird, Lamington National Park

Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim

Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim

Gold Coast & Hinterland The final section of the Sydney to Brisbane drive takes in some breathtaking scenery around the coastal towns of Coolangatta, Southport and Surfers Paradise. While the coast becomes increasingly developed as you approach the city, the broad golden sands and crashing surf remain a wonderfully impressive sight. There is a wealth of things to do for both couples and families but if you tire of the coast you can head inland to a dramatically contrasting landscape of steep hills and emerald valleys. With a cooler climate and a pace of life that becomes increasingly sedate the further you travel, the lush mountain ranges of the Hinterland shelter small, friendly townships, fruit farms, dense forest and a wealth of wildlife.

Surrounded by Main Range National Park and part of the wider UNESCO-listed Gondwana National Park, Spicers Peak Lodge is a luxurious mountain retreat located only two hours southwest from Brisbane. This stunning lodge offers accommodation that is both contemporary and classic in design, with a choice of ten suites in the main lodge and separate one or two bedroom private lodges in the surrounding grounds. There is an extensive range of complimentary activities to choose from including 4x4 tours, mountain biking, birdwatching and private picnics. The lodge also acts as the final accommodation on the multi-day Scenic Rim Trail which wends its way through the majestic mountain range surrounding the property. Alternatively, guests can choose to do nothing and spend their days taking advantage of the lodge’s award-winning restaurant, its massage room, lounge area and infinity pool.

Lamington National Park A short distance from the coast lies the wonderful Lamington National Park. Set at the foot of the McPherson Ranges and straddling some of Queensland’s most impressive landscapes, it is home to an implausible array of orchids and ferns, an abundance of Australian animals and is one of the country’s best regions for birdlife. Take a bushwalk and you will encounter everything from the noisy pitta to the glossy black cockatoos that flit through the towering eucalypt canopy. A highlight of the park is the canopy walk that meanders through the treetops providing fantastic panoramic views.

O’Reilly’s Guesthouse, Lamington National Park The O’Reilly family who own and run this guesthouse combine their passion for their surroundings with friendly country hospitality and are keen to share their local knowledge with guests. The lodge commands magnificent views across mountains and valleys and environmental sustainability is a key part of a stay. The 111 guest rooms range from simple garden-view rooms with red cedar shutters to spectacular villas on stilts overlooking the valley. The family takes pride in its excellent nature discovery programme which includes bush walks and 4x4 tours through the vast rainforest pitted with waterfalls, outlandish ferns and orchid gardens.

O’Reilly’s Guesthouse, Lamington National Park

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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View across the Brisbane River

Brisbane Located in the southeastern corner of Queensland, Brisbane is a modern international city with a striking centre contained by the looping flow of the Brisbane River. With a reputation for country hospitality and a slower pace of life than the cities further south, Brisbane is a relaxed place to explore but has still seen significant development in recent years. The region boasts one of the best climates in Australia and a stroll through the city centre will take you past a wonderful selection of restaurants and cafes that spill happily onto the streets. Brisbane plays host to a thriving arts and culture scene, exciting sporting events and has a city beach within the Southbank Parklands.

New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites, Brisbane A stylish boutique hotel with a rich and intriguing history, New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites is set in a glorious Art Deco building that retains its period style. Inside, a sultry palette of greys, blacks and metallics combines with designer furniture and period charm to create a distinctly luxurious style. The 50 rooms and lofts are elegantly decorated in a modern but classical way with free-standing baths and in some, four-poster beds. There’s a beautiful restaurant and a popular bar that specialises in cocktails, while the heart of Brisbane’s centre is just a few minutes’ walk away.

Capri by Fraser, Brisbane Sleek, modern and minimalist, Capri by Fraser is a large, contemporary hotel with a wide range of rooms and facilities. Bright artworks, living walls and a chic, designer style give it a sense of character, while its location in the heart of the city and within easy walk of the City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane River, makes it a very convenient base. There are 239 rooms ranging from stylish studios and Capri club rooms with a small kitchenette to the apartment-style executive suites with full kitchens and laundry facilities. The hotel also features an indoor pool with steam rooms and sauna, and an excellent restaurant.

New Inchcolm Hotel & Suites, Brisbane

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Australian wildlife Australian wildlife is unique and beautiful but sometimes quite elusive. The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was established at Fig Tree Pocket on the Brisbane River in 1927 and allows visitors to get up close to some of Australia’s most lovable creatures. A guided cruise leaves from the city centre and takes visitors up the river to the centre passing through the city’s outer suburbs and an inner-city colony of fruit bats along the way. Once you arrive you can meet a koala, walk with dingoes, hand feed kangaroos or even work as a keeper for a day.


Kayaking on the Noosa River

Dingo, Fraser Island

Capri by Fraser, Brisbane

Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, Noosa

Mount Beerwah and Coonowrin, Glasshouse Mountains

Noosa & The Sunshine Coast

Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, Noosa

Attractive bays and headlands overlooking glorious sandy beaches make up the Sunshine Coast, a beautiful stretch of coastline north of Brisbane. The upmarket seaside town of Noosa is the largest community in the area and its relaxed atmosphere, excellent shopping and dining, and sandy beaches make it a popular destination for Australians, especially during the Christmas break. The hub of the town is the smart, tree-lined Hastings Street which comes alive at night with al fresco restaurants perfect for people-watching. Head a short distance inland and the verdant bushland is dotted with a series of steep-sided peaks known as the Glasshouse Mountains that are ideal for a day’s walking, while the nearby Australia Zoo offers an excellent opportunity to observe Australian wildlife.

Set on a hillside blanketed in rainforest, Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is a stylish, contemporary retreat in a secluded location just a short walk from the centre of town. The resort offers 198 suites and villas suitable for both couples and families. All are decorated in a crisp, modern style and feature kitchens and balconies, some with views across the neighbouring Noosa National Park. You’ll also find a fantastic freeform swimming pool, a 25-metre lap pool, day spa, gym and steam room while the restaurant is the perfect venue for a sunset drink or evening meal.

Glass on Glasshouse, Glasshouse Mountains Well located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland and surrounded by attractive bushland, Glass on Glasshouse provides stylish accommodation and wonderful views. Each of its three luxurious cottages features a well-appointed kitchenette, a fireplace for winter nights, free-standing baths and a lovely deck with barbecue. Most memorable however, is the spectacular floor-toceiling glass wall that frames amazing views of the mountains. A number of good walks are accessible close by while several sandy beaches are a short drive away. A tasty breakfast is included during your stay.

Noosa Everglades Travel a short distance from Noosa and enter an unspoilt world of natural beauty and wildlife. The Noosa Everglades are a relatively undiscovered area that are best explored on a leisurely cruise that weaves through a series of magnificent lakes and wetlands. Home to an abundance of remarkable birdlife, your skipper will take the time to point out the different species as you glide past. If you feel like being a little more active we can arrange for you to leave the boat behind and explore the region by canoe. You will paddle a Canadian-style canoe along tranquil mirrored waterways before stopping at a historic loggers camp for a tasty barbecue lunch.

Fraser Island A short ferry journey from the mainland is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fraser Island. Stretching over 120 kilometres in length, it is the largest sand island in the world. It is a place of exceptional beauty, with lush rainforests, expansive white-sand beaches flanked by vividly coloured cliffs, and over 100 freshwater lakes, some tea-coloured and others clear blue. We recommend exploring as part of a guided small 4x4 group tour that we can arrange for you either as a day trip from Noosa, or part of an exciting overnight adventure.

Glass on Glasshouse, Glasshouse Mountains

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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South Australia New south wales

Barossa Valley Adelaide

Blue Mountains

Grampians National Park

Sydney

Victoria Melbourne

Port Fairy Apollo Bay

Southeast Discovered This tour is a great introduction for a first-time visitor to Australia. It features the highlights of the Southeast region, including time in Sydney and Melbourne, driving along the dramatic Great Ocean Road, visiting the wineries of Barossa Valley and the rugged Blue Mountains. Day 1

Arrive in Adelaide and take a stroll around the historic homes of North Adelaide.

Day 2

Visit Adelaide’s Central Market for local produce before taking the tram out to the suburb of Glenelg.

Day 3

Pick up your hire car and travel to Barossa Valley.

Day 4

Spend the day wine tasting and exploring local markets.

Day 5

Travel east into Victoria and the Grampians National Park.

Day 6

Explore the stunning national park on one of its many walking trails.

Splendid fairywren, Lamington National Park

Day 7

Continue onwards to the small coastal town of Port Fairy.

When to go

Day 8

Enjoy the rugged coastal highlights of the Great Ocean Road today and travel onwards to Apollo Bay.

Day 9

Relax by the beach, or take to the nearby Great Otway National Park for some more walking.

Day 10

Drive to Melbourne.

Day 11

Explore the city’s laneways before taking a tram out to St Kilda.

Day 12

Fly to Sydney and spend the afternoon in the historic Rocks district.

Day 13

Take an early morning surfing lesson before embarking on a scenic coastal walk from the iconic Bondi Beach.

Day 14

Pick up your hire car and travel west to the Blue Mountains.

Day 15

Enjoy a walking tour of the mountains and the afternoon exploring at your own leisure.

Day 16

Travel back to Sydney and take in a performance at the Opera House.

Day 17

Take your onward flight from Sydney.

Evening light on Sydney Opera House

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

T 01993 838 810

Getting around A trip to the Southeast usually starts with a flight into Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, all of which have daily international services. Once in the Southeast the cities can be explored on foot or by using local transport, including trams in Melbourne and Adelaide. A comprehensive domestic flight network enables easy access around the region while one of the most pleasant ways of travelling between Sydney and Adelaide is by train. The beautiful landscape of the Southeast is best explored by car as part of a self-drive itinerary.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33 33

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3

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33 The best time to travel. 3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

The Southeast is a good destination to travel to all year round. The seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere with a defined summer and winter for much of the region. The further north you travel the milder the climate with the temperatures around Brisbane remaining above 20C (68F) even in winter. Time difference: GMT+11 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans. Twelve Apostles, the Great Ocean Road

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Suggested itineraries New south wales

Sydney

Fraser Island

Queensland Noosa

Jervis Bay

Spicers Peak Lodge

Brisbane Byron Bay

Victoria

Tilba Tilba

Phillip Island

Adelaide

Sydney

New south wales

Melbourne Lakes Entrance

Lord Howe Island

Bellingen

Gipsy Point

Kangaroo Island Melbourne

Hunter Valley

Wilsons Promontory National Park

Port Stephens Sydney

Coastal Explorer

East Coast Beachcomber

Southeast Highlights

This is a comprehensive tour of some of the Southeast’s most spectacular coastal scenery linking two of Australia’s most vibrant cities. Travel by car between small towns stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.

This itinerary focuses on the sun-drenched coastline north of Sydney stopping at a number of seaside towns and inland lodges before concluding on the gorgeous Sunshine Coast near Brisbane.

This itinerary includes some of the Southeast’s undisputed highlights without needing to hire a car. Enjoy cosmopolitan cities, fantastic wildlife viewing, gourmet food and wine, a multi-day walk and the stunning Lord Howe Island.

Day 1 Day 1

Arrive in Melbourne. Explore the laneways and in the evening take a walk along the vibrant Yarra River.

Day 2

Take a tram out to St Kilda. In the afternoon stroll around the galleries of South Yarra.

Day 3

Enjoy a morning balloon flight over the city before taking a tour of the MCG stadium.

Day 4

Drive south to the pretty Phillip Island and enjoy the Penguin Parade in the evening.

Arrive in Sydney and take in the Botanical Gardens and the Opera House. Take the ferry to Manly and stroll the esplanade. In the afternoon enjoy the spectacular coastal walk from Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach.

Day 2

Visit Adelaide’s Central Market for local gourmet produce before taking the tram out to the beach suburb of Glenelg.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and drive to Hunter Valley.

Day 3

Day 4

Spend the morning exploring before joining a wine tour.

Take an early flight across to Kangaroo Island in time for a full day of touring.

Day 4

Enjoy another full day of touring before taking the short flight back to Adelaide.

Day 5

Fly to Melbourne and take a walk along the Yarra River and into the stunning botanical gardens.

Day 6

Explore the laneways before boarding a tram out to the vibrant beachside suburb of St Kilda.

Day 5

Hit the Pacific Highway and travel north to Port Stephens. Take an evening stroll along Birubi Beach and watch the surfers.

Drive east to Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Day 6

Explore small, hidden bays and see wildlife in its natural habitat.

Days 6-7 Drive to the pretty town of Bellingen.

Day 7

Continue to Lakes Entrance.

Day 8

Day 8

Spend the day exploring the lakes and waterways and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner. Continue north to the coastal village of Gipsy Point.

Day 10

Go boating or fishing on the beautiful waterways.

Day 11

Day 12

Day 13

Day 14 Day 15

Day 16

Explore the small towns along the coast en route to the picturesque village of Tilba Tilba. Drive north to Jervis Bay and spend the afternoon swimming in one of the many secluded coves. Day to explore the Jervis Bay National Park, an ideal spot for bushwalking. Arrive in Sydney. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise of Sydney harbour. Take the ferry across to Manly and stroll the esplanade. In the afternoon enjoy the spectacular coastal walk from Coogee Beach to Bondi Beach. Take your onward flight from Sydney.

Arrive in Adelaide. Spend the afternoon exploring the city.

Day 2

Day 5

Day 9

Day 1

Continue to Byron Bay. Take a walk up to the scenic lighthouse, the most easterly point of the country.

Day 9

Explore the glorious beaches around Byron Bay and go kayaking with dolphins in the afternoon.

Day 10

Travel to Spicers Peak Lodge.

Day 11

Spend the day touring at the lodge before enjoying a gourmet dinner.

Day 12

Head back towards the coast stopping en route at the Glasshouse Mountains National Park. Spend the afternoon exploring.

Day 13

Travel to Noosa, the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

Day 14

Enjoy a day trip over to Fraser Island, exploring the largest sand island in the world by 4x4.

Day 15

Relax on Sunshine Beach in Noosa.

Day 16

Travel to Brisbane and spend the afternoon around the landscaped Southbank district.

Day 17

Take your onward flight from Brisbane.

Days 7-10 Embark on three days of guided walking along the scenic Great Ocean Walk. Pass rugged coastal cliffs, forest trails and get a private viewing of the Twelve Apostles. A helicopter flight is included before returning to Melbourne. Day 11

Fly north to the vibrant city of Sydney. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Rocks district.

Day 12

Take a scenic seaplane flight over the city and enjoy a gourmet lunch on the edge of the beautiful Hawkesbury River.

Days 13-15 Fly to the pristine Lord Howe Island. Spend time exploring and witness its underwater delights on a glass bottomed boat, or enjoy a walking trail or mountain bike ride. Day 16

Return to Sydney and enjoy a night at the Opera House.

Day 17

Take your onward flight from Sydney.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southeast

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The Northeast H

ome to some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery including endless white-sand beaches, magical reefs and lush tropical rainforest, the Northeast just begs to be explored. It’s a region with as much to discover offshore as there is on land, with the phenomenal Great Barrier Reef its biggest draw. One of the world’s most remarkable places to snorkel and dive, the sheer scale of this vast natural wonder is difficult to comprehend. Kayak over vibrantly-coloured corals, marvel at the extraordinary marine life or sail between islands fringed by white sands and blanketed in lush forest. It’s simply unforgettable. Back on land you can explore the charming towns that act as gateways to the reef or head inland to a bucolic, undulating landscape of forested valleys interspersed with lakes, fruit farms and small country towns. To the north you can walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest which boasts remarkable biodiversity, lose yourself on the remote and untamed Cape York Peninsula or be guided around Aboriginal rock art galleries by a community elder for a compelling insight into indigenous culture and history. Torres Strait Islands

Audley in the Northeast

Cape York

Cape York Peninsula

Lizard Island

Gulf of Carpentaria

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Daintree Rainforest

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Mount Isa

Orpheus Island

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Atherton Tablelands

Port Douglas Palm Cove Cairns

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Crystalbrook

Townsville

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Airlie Beach Whitsunday Proserpine Islands

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Great Artesian Basin

Heron Island

QUEENSLAND

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

1 Great Barrier Reef Snorkel, dive or simply cruise on one of the natural wonders of the world. See page 42 2 Sailing Cassowary, Daintree Rainforest

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ral Co

From beautiful island resorts to rainforest ecolodges, beachfront apartments and overnight cruises on the Great Barrier Reef, the Northeast offers a huge array of interesting accommodation options. In the more remote locations the choice of accommodation is limited but properties often have stunning views. Whatever your preferences, our specialists will hand pick properties to suit you.

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Visitors to the Northeast are spoilt for choice with plenty to see and do. When it comes to visiting this hugely scenic region there are a number of highlights, but we’ve also discovered opportunities to get well off the beaten track to enjoy the magnificent scenery. We can advise how best to combine your time on land with the Great Barrier Reef and explain how a visit to other regions of the country can be incorporated into your trip if you wish. We have explored the region in depth and have a wealth of knowledge to help you decide what to include in your itinerary.

Sail around the wonderful Whitsunday Islands, dropping anchor in sheltered, unspoilt bays far from the madding crowd. See page 44

Gladstone

South Pacific Ocean Fraser Island

3 Cooktown Visit this small outpost in the far north for a step back in time and a lesson in colonial history, while a trip out with an Aboriginal elder offers a totally different perspective on the area. See page 41 4 Daintree Rainforest

Explore the lush rainforest canopies and creeks of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience the forest by night when it comes alive with the calls of exotic animals. See page 40

5 Atherton Tablelands Take a journey through the Atherton Tablelands discovering artisan produce, waterfalls, lakes and an array of birdlife. See page 39

Beaches Hire a bicycle and ride the length of the golden Four Mile Beach at Port Douglas, sip a coffee at a beach cafe in Palm Cove or be dazzled by the amazing white sands of Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays.

Guugu Yimithirr people, Cooktown

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northeast

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Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas

Cairns

Port Douglas

Although it’s the third largest city in Queensland, Cairns is a small and welcoming place situated on a coastal strip between the lush slopes of the Great Dividing Range and glittering Trinity Bay. The city has few attractions of any note but acts as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforests to the north. Now well-established as a hub for visitors, a whole host of tours depart daily for the surrounding areas. The city has an attractive outdoor swimming lagoon and a vibrant marina and its esplanade is home to a string of cafes and restaurants making it ideal for a short stroll.

The popular town of Port Douglas is located about 70 kilometres north of Cairns, perfectly poised for access to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Despite the addition of new hotels, holiday homes and a new golf course, it manages to retain its lovely, casual, village-like atmosphere. The tree-lined Macrossan Street is filled with outdoor eateries, small shops and galleries and there is an open-air market as well as an attractive marina. The real draw however, is the glorious golden sands of the gently curving Four Mile Beach.

The Shangri-La, Cairns Conveniently located by the marina and adjacent to the esplanade, the luxurious Shangri-La provides easy access to restaurants and shops and is a perfect base for exploring the area. Designed in a contemporary style, the hotel has 255 rooms decorated in a pared-back, minimalist style with bright modern artworks and a private balcony with views of the tropical gardens or the marina and mountains. The waterfront North Bar and Kitchen serves modern Australian dishes while the hotel also has an attractive swimming pool, gym and terrace perfect for watching the yachts sail by.

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Thala Beach Nature Reserve, near Port Douglas Tucked away on a private headland, this lodge, an Audley favourite, offers complete seclusion on the northern tip of a stretch of untouched coastline. It is surrounded by verdant bush, native wildlife and has spectacular views of the sea. The resort features 83 rooms in total, with four different types of bungalow, some close to the beach, others higher up the headland and nestled among the native forest. All are elegantly designed, comfortable and spacious. The open-air central lodge houses the well-regarded Ospreys Restaurant which is a great place to relax and enjoy the views.

Peninsula Boutique, Port Douglas In the heart of Port Douglas, across from the palm-fringed Four Mile Beach, this small property provides comfortable accommodation with an intimate atmosphere and friendly, attentive service. The al fresco restaurant has views of the ocean and serves the freshest of seafood, while the small, tiered, landscaped pool has a waterfall and sheltered sun deck. There are 34 spacious suites each decorated with stylish, modern furnishings and contemporary art. All have a kitchenette and a private balcony or deck with views of the ocean or overlooking the pool.

Shantara Resort, Port Douglas Shantara Resort is a small complex offering 54 up-market apartments. An adult-only resort, it’s a tranquil retreat offering personalised service in a friendly, relaxed environment. The self-contained apartments are contemporary in style and range from spacious studios to one and two bedroom apartments with either a Jacuzzi or direct access to one of the resort’s two pools. There is also a gym and a day spa on site. The Shantara is located close to the restaurants of Port Douglas and is just a short walk from Four Mile Beach.


The Shangri-La, Cairns

Peninsula Boutique, Port Douglas

Reef House Boutique Resort & Spa, Palm Cove

Thala Beach Nature Reserve, near Port Douglas

Shantara Resort, Port Douglas

Millaa Millaa Falls, Atherton Tablelands

Palm Cove

Atherton Tablelands

Captain Cook Highway

Located just 25 minutes’ drive north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a sleepy town with an appealing, laid-back village atmosphere, lush tropical environment, streets fringed by coconut palms and a long stretch of white-sand beach. Several small cafes, restaurants and shops line the esplanade and a high concentration of spas can be found around the town. The idyllic setting encourages relaxation, but day trips can be arranged out to the Great Barrier Reef should you wish.

A short distance inland, Atherton Tablelands is a region of lush forests, crystal-clear lakes and thundering waterfalls. Small country towns pepper the beautiful scenery which is fed by high rainfall and rich volcanic soil, making this a productive farming district. There are several limestone caves, rock pinnacles and Aboriginal rock art sites to explore, and the mirror lakes of Eacham and Barrine are beautiful swimming and picnic spots. A hike along one of the many rainforest tracks offers plenty of birdwatching opportunities and also the possibility of spotting the elusive platypus.

The 80 kilometre Captain Cook Highway that connects Cairns with the small community of Mossman offers visitors to the area the opportunity to experience one of the most scenic drives in Australia. This ribbon of road winds between rainforest-clad mountains and the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea with numerous uncrowded beaches and stunning viewpoints along the way. Without stopping, the drive would take around 90 minutes but with plenty of tempting places to break the journey it is worth allowing at least half a day.

Reef House Boutique Resort & Spa, Palm Cove In the heart of Palm Cove, Reef House is a delightful whitewashed, colonial-style building just steps from the beach. The hotel prides itself on its excellent service and attention to detail and provides a sophisticated but laid-back environment in which to relax. The 69 rooms range from spacious doubles to four-bedroom apartments; all are bright and airy with elegant furnishings and a cooling sea breeze. You can share a complimentary glass of punch with other guests in the Brigadier’s Bar during the candlelit Twilight Hour, dine in style in the hotel restaurant or simply enjoy a dip in one of the three swimming pools.

Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat, Malanda This wonderful property, set high up on a range in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands, has fantastic views of the surrounding rainforest canopy and mountains. Accommodation is self-contained in one of nine superb, hand-built timber treehouses that vary in size and can cater for between two and six guests. All have private balconies, kitchens and wood-burning stoves ideal for cooler evenings. The lodge is surrounded by private tropical forest and is next to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Wooroonooran National Park. The friendly hosts live on site and are happy to offer advice on walks and tours of the region. Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat, Malanda

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northeast

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Forest canopy, Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Rainforest

Daintree Wilderness Lodge, Cape Tribulation

The Daintree Rainforest, north of Cairns and Port Douglas, is part of the Wet Tropics UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a national park renowned for its stunning scenery and exceptional biodiversity. The lush forests, clear rivers, tumbling waterfalls and pristine beaches that make up the park are a significant habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna. In fact, the rainforest is home to around a third of Australia’s mammal species and huge numbers of birds.

A small and intimate option offering utter tranquillity and total seclusion, Daintree Wilderness Lodge is a perfect natural hideaway. The lodge is just a 90-minute drive north of Cairns but feels a thousand miles away due to its unique and stunning setting. The seven cabins are scattered through the rainforest and are connected by a series of raised boardwalks. Propped up on stilts and designed to have minimal impact on the sensitive environment, the cabins are extremely comfortable and have a glass viewing roof allowing you to experience the rainforest canopy from within your room.

Exploring the rainforest You can explore some of the riches of the Daintree Rainforest as part of an enjoyable day tour from Port Douglas, Palm Cove or Cairns. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation before boarding a boat to take a cruise on the Daintree River to experience the vivid and noisy birdlife and possibly spot the occasional crocodile basking on the river banks. Arriving on the northern side of the river you will continue into the breathtakingly beautiful rainforest past gorges, creeks and rugged, jungle-clad mountains to the deserted beaches of Cape Tribulation. After a tasty lunch, an informative walk with your guide will uncover ancient plants and local wildlife, followed by an afternoon visit to a tropical fruit orchard renowned for producing delicious ice cream.

Silky Oaks Lodge, Mossman

Silky Oaks Lodge, Mossman This stunning ecolodge overlooks the Mossman River and is an idyllic and luxurious base from which to explore. With an award-winning spa on site and an excellent restaurant there is no sense of ‘roughing it’ despite the location. The 36 beautiful timber treehouses either overlook the river or are nestled within the rainforest and are designed in an understated, tropical style and decked out in natural tones and timbers. Each treehouse has huge glass doors opening onto wide verandas where a hammock is perfectly positioned to make the most of the views. Daintree Wilderness Lodge, Cape Tribulation

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James Cook Historical Museum, Cooktown

Crystalbrook Lodge, Crystalbrook

Development road, Cape York Peninsula

Aboriginal art, Cooktown

Cape York Peninsula

Mungumby Lodge, near Cooktown

Stretching to the most northerly tip of Australia, the Cape York Peninsula is an unspoilt tropical wilderness characterised by a rugged landscape of rivers, gorges, rainforests and mangrove wetlands. The Cape is accessible via a paved inland road or the far more rewarding Bloomfield Track (accessible by 4x4 only) that traverses the rainforest to Cooktown. There are very few communities of any size en route but the fabulous Lion’s Den Hotel, some three hours along the track, is an ideal stop for a cold drink.

Cooktown Named after Captain Cook who spent a number of weeks here repairing the Endeavour after running aground on the Great Barrier Reef, Cooktown is an attractive little place with a number of historic buildings and an excellent local museum. A hundred years after Cook’s arrival, gold was discovered and the town expanded rapidly, attracting prospectors, preachers and peddlers. Today, Cooktown is again a quiet backwater, but it’s a charming base from which to explore the region. You’ll find deserted coast and breeding turtles at Archers Point, diverse birdlife in the wetlands at Keatings Lagoon and spectacular rock art at the Quinkan Galleries and the Black Mountain National Park, an area shrouded in Aboriginal legend.

This lodge, south of Cooktown, is on the northern edge of the Daintree Rainforest and offers ten simple timber bungalows set among beautiful gardens crammed with a dazzling array of tropical plants and birdlife. The spacious and airy main lodge has open living areas overlooking Mungumby Creek and a good restaurant serving gourmet country cooking. The hosts are friendly and welcoming and are happy to offer advice and arrange tours of the local area, however you can just walk straight into the forest and discover jungle waterfalls and an astonishing array of wildlife right on the doorstep.

Crystalbrook Lodge, Crystalbrook Situated in the remote and rugged outback of North Queensland, this hidden retreat offers an extremely unique experience. The lodge is perched on the end of the spectacular Crystalbrook Lake, a 40 minute scenic flight from Cairns. Surrounded by a vast outback station and home to a staggering range of wildlife, guests can explore by foot or boat, discover nearby limestone caves and aboriginal rock art, try barramundi fishing or simply relax and enjoy the amazing wide open spaces. Accommodation is in one of five simple, elegant courtyard suites and dinner is served overlooking the lake.

Mungumby Lodge, near Cooktown

Aboriginal sites There are a number of Aboriginal sites across the Northeast and exploring them with an Aboriginal guide can offer a far greater insight into their history and significance. South of Cooktown, brothers Linc and Brandon Walker of the Kubirri Warra clan reveal their traditional hunting grounds and show visitors how to throw a spear; while the impressive Quinkan Galleries to the west offer some of the region’s most impressive rock galleries with their origins and significance explained in an excellent cultural centre.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northeast

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Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef The Northeast is perhaps best known for the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder of the world that extends 2,000 kilometres along the coast. The reef shelters an underwater kaleidoscope of marine life and colourful coral, while above water there is an abundance of idyllic islands. Some are tiny specks crowded with seabirds others densely vegetated and encased in rock. Out of 2,000 islands fewer than 20 accommodate visitors and standards range from basic campsites to remote luxury resorts. A handful of our favourites are shown here. Some stand out for the distinctive nature experience they offer, others for their privacy. Alternatively, you can visit a number of islands on a cruise or by sailing boat.

Snorkelling from Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

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Orpheus Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef One of the most northerly islands of the Great Barrier Reef, this is also one of the more exceptional. The entire island is a national park with a mountainous interior fringed by 24 superb beaches. It is one of Australia’s beautiful hideaways and guests can go bushwalking in search of wildlife and panoramic reef views, take a motorised dinghy to explore deserted coves or simply swim to vivid underwater gardens. There are 40 rooms, suites and villas on the island, all beautifully furnished in a simple but sophisticated style. The elegant beach view rooms are set in tropical gardens while the lavish Villa and Pavilion perch high above the Coral Sea and feature private pools and spectacular wraparound views of Anchor Bay, Osprey Island and Sunset Beach.

A luxurious retreat in a beautiful setting, Orpheus Island Resort is the perfect place to relax and explore the magnificent Great Barrier Reef. There are just 14 rooms on the island, all located within a few steps of the beach and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. It’s an extremely tranquil place, set on a sheltered bay which is ideal for swimming, kayaking, or paddle boarding. Guests can also take a day trip to scuba dive on the outer reef or pilot a motorised dinghy around the island to discover the many secluded bays. Decor is chic and modern, there’s an enormous infinity pool and a great restaurant with magnificent views – or you can take a picnic lunch to your own private beach.

Orpheus Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef


Aerial view of Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands

Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Islands

Heron Island, Whitsunday Islands

Qualia, Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Islands

One & Only Hayman Island Resort, Whitsunday Islands

Whitsunday Islands The 74 islands that make up the Whitsundays are located in a beautiful spot on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Surrounded by sparkling azure waters and a wealth of marine life, the majority of the islands are designated national parks, uninhabited and accessible for all to enjoy. Many are blessed with stunning beaches, perhaps the most well-known is Whitehaven, found on Whitsunday Island, the largest of the 74. Frequently named as one of the top ten beaches in the world, the seven kilometres of pristine white silica sand is dazzlingly beautiful. The eight islands that are inhabited offer a range of accommodation and attractions.

Qualia, Hamilton Island Whitsunday Islands

Heron Island, Whitsunday Islands

The fantastic Qualia, located in a secluded corner in the north of Hamilton Island, is a truly superb property. Built in a chic, contemporary style with an attractive blend of natural timber, glass and stone, the hotel is the epitome of understated luxury. Set high among the eucalypts, the design capitalises on the sea breeze and affords amazing views of the Whitsundays, the Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef beyond. Each of the 60 spacious pavilions is free-standing, surrounded by tropical bushland and provides uninterrupted sea views. The resort has a spectacular infinity pool, wonderful spa and two excellent restaurants.

Hamilton Island

One & Only Hayman Island Resort, Whitsunday Islands

Located close to the coastal town of Gladstone, Heron Island is a coral cay right on the Great Barrier Reef. Here you can swim off the beach into an endless garden of coral and come face-to-face with a kaleidoscope of marine life. Heron is also one of the few places where you can take a guided reef walk to learn about the unique ecology of the Great Barrier Reef. There are 109 rooms on offer including Turtle Rooms, which overlook the gardens, and Heron Beachside Suites, which offer direct access to the beach. But for the greatest privacy, take the Beach House, set in a grove of trees with a private boardwalk leading directly to the shore.

Hamilton Island, a popular destination for Australian holidaymakers, is the most developed of the Whitsundays with a good choice of accommodation options, a nice village atmosphere, several restaurants and a lovely yacht club close to the picturesque and compact harbour. Despite this, 70% of the island is attractive natural bushland and beaches. Access to the island is easy with regular launch crossings from the mainland and a small airstrip with flights from a number of cities on the east coast.

A short distance from Hamilton Island is Hayman Island, home to the luxurious One & Only Hayman Island Resort. The distinctive white property is set in beautifully landscaped botanical gardens which overlook a lagoon-styled pool, swaying palm trees and a long stretch of powdersoft sand. All 160 of the spacious rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces, while the beach villas come complete with pools and large day beds. The resort offers daily activities suitable for both couples and families, spectacular snorkelling and diving, first-class restaurants and a luxurious spa to relax in. The resort is accessed via private boat or charter helicopter.

Green turtle, Whitsunday Islands

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northeast

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Semi-submersible boat, Great Barrier Reef

Helicopter over the reef near Heron Island, Whitsunday Islands

Diving on the Great Barrier Reef

Exploring the reef The Great Barrier Reef just begs to be explored above and below the water. Go scuba diving to reveal ribbon reefs and colourful corals or take an exciting snorkelling trip to see exotic marine life. If you would prefer not to get wet, you can view underwater marine life from a semisubmersible or glass-bottom boat. Alternatively take a journey on a sailing boat to see the reef from a different perspective. Snorkelling & Scuba Diving There are a multitude of great dive spots along the Great Barrier Reef with some amazing coral gardens to explore and colourful creatures to discover. Depending on your level of experience and available time, you can choose to dive close to shore near Port Douglas or Cairns or head to the Outer Reef, which requires a longer boat journey but promises even more impressive sights. We can arrange a variety of day cruises or multi-day liveaboard trips to cater for all abilities. May to October is typically the best time to dive on the reef as the waters are calmer and there is less rain and fewer storms.

Coral Expeditions

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Whitsunday Getaway The Whitsunday Getaway is a spacious 41-foot catamaran which offers four comfortable en suite cabins with air-conditioning and simple, modern styling. Its three-night expeditions are designed to take in the highlights of the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and guests are given plenty of opportunity to snorkel and explore the Great Barrier Reef’s underwater coral gardens. The food is very good and the service is relaxed but efficient.

Whitsunday Bliss Whitsunday Getaway

Coral Expeditions If you are finding the choice between staying on the mainland or the various Great Barrier Reef islands a little difficult, your solution may lie in a small ship cruise that links several of the islands, reefs and rainforests. Coral Expeditions offer three, four or seven-night cruises around the unspoilt reef system between Cairns and Lizard Island. The ships are large enough to ensure the modern comforts are not overlooked, yet small enough to access reef and island sites inaccessible to larger vessels. In the company of just 44 guests, the excellent crew ensures that your travels through this huge marine park are both personal and memorable. You are free to do as much, or as little, as you like. Go snorkelling, take a guided rainforest walk, attend a presentation by the resident marine biologist or simply take the time to relax on the spacious decks.

This modern, stylish sailboat provides a luxurious way to see this beautiful region and accommodates just six guests in its three private master cabins. Guests are treated to days of swimming, snorkelling and exploration of the Whisundays, while the two attentive crew members tend to their every need, including serving quality meals throughout. The Whitsunday Bliss can be chartered on a private basis or it has scheduled, three-day, two-night sailings.

Whitsunday Bliss


Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Cooktown Lizard Island

Palm Cove Cairns Cooktown Daintree Rainforest Port Douglas Cairns

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Hamilton Island

Flights into the Northeast typically arrive into Cairns directly or via a connecting service from Brisbane or Sydney. This allows for a number of different stopover options if you wish to break up the journey, and allows the Northeast to be easily combined with other parts of the country. Within the Northeast we would generally recommend a hire car allowing you to travel at your own leisure and enjoy the fantastic scenery. Although roads are typically of good quality, well maintained and smooth, if you cross the Daintree River north of Port Douglas, the Bloomfield Track is unsealed and is accessible by 4x4s only. Small aircraft flights connect the many islands off the coast while, for a more relaxed option, cruise boats and sailing ships operate throughout the Great Barrier Reef.

Northeast Discovered

History, Reef & Rainforest

Showcasing the beauty of the Northeast, this itinerary takes you to a number of the Great Barrier Reef islands on board a five day cruise, combined with visits to the mainland attractions of Port Douglas and the Atherton Tablelands.

This is a diverse itinerary for those wishing to see the beauty of the rainforest, explore Aboriginal land, learn about settler history and incorporate a sailing adventure through the Whitsunday Islands.

Day 1

Arrive in Cairns. Transfer along the Captain Cook Highway to your hotel in Port Douglas.

Day 2

Take a stroll along beautiful Four Mile Beach and visit the boutique shops and galleries in Port Douglas.

Day 3

Enjoy a day trip into the Daintree Rainforest. Take a cruise on the Mossman River keeping an eye out for crocodiles before going for a guided walk through the rainforest.

Day 4

Day at leisure in Port Douglas.

Day 5

Take a drive inland to the Atherton Tablelands, stopping at roadside food stalls to sample the local produce.

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Atherton Tablelands

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The Northeast has a largely tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The best time to visit is between May and October, when the days are warm and sunny and the humidity levels are bearable. In contrast, the months from December to March are hot and humid with the possibility of heavy rain and occasional tropical storms. The rainforests north of Cairns can attract wet weather at any time of year and the nights can feel cool.

Day 6

Spend an active day bushwalking past waterfalls and lakes on one of the scenic trails that wind through the Atherton Tablelands.

Day 7

Travel to Cairns and board your cruise, which will head north of Cairns late this afternoon.

Day 8

Snorkel, dive and enjoy activities on-board as well as a visit to historic Cooktown.

Day 9

Enjoy the morning on Lizard Island and uncover its underwater delights.

Day 10

Explore the pristine Ribbon Reefs and either snorkel, dive or take a glass bottom boat tour, before returning to Cairns.

Time difference: GMT+10 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Day 11

Disembark this morning and take your onward flight.

Stay longer You may wish to extend your time in Daintree Rainforest and fully explore the area.

Day 1

Arrive in Airlie Beach and start your three-day sailing adventure this afternoon.

Day 2

Visit the beautiful Whitehaven Beach and spend the day swimming, snorkelling or simply relaxing on board.

Day 3

Spend the morning exploring the Whitsundays before returning to Airlie Beach. Take an afternoon ferry transfer to Hamilton Island.

Day 4

Enjoy a day at leisure and explore the island and its extensive walking trails.

Day 5

Fly to Cairns and drive north to the Daintree Rainforest. Check in to your rainforest lodge.

Day 6

Cruise the Mossman River looking for crocodiles before exploring the rainforest walking trails.

Day 7

Drive north to Cooktown.

Day 8

A day to explore the natural surrounds of your lodge.

Day 9

Spend the morning taking in the history of Cooktown then take a trip out to Aboriginal land with a local guide.

Day 10

Travel to Palm Cove via the impressive Quinkan Galleries.

Day 11

A final day to relax by the beach.

Day 12

Drive back to Cairns for your onward flight.

Stay longer Extend your stay with either a unique outback experience at Crystalbrook Lodge or time on one of the beautiful islands of the Great Barrier Reef.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northeast

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Red Centre & Outback T

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I he Australian outback is a land of adventure, of stories of human endeavour and toil, and a place of breathtaking beauty. Synonymous with rusty red sand and bright blue skies, this region epitomises the pioneering spirit of the country and even today its residents Ican live hundreds I I of kilometres from their nearest neighbour. Uluru (Ayers Rock) is by far the most-known attraction yet despite its familiarity, it remains an astonishing sight. Nearby are the undulating rock domes of Kata I I Tjuta (the Olgas), another sacred Aboriginal outcrop, and a tour with a local guide will reveal ancient rock art and medicinal plants as well as offering an insight into traditional beliefs. You can hike around rugged canyons, drive along deserted roads, learn to herd cattle, camp under endless night skies glittering with stars or just soak up the unforgettable desert views. Whatever you choose to do, a trip here offers a very different type of experience for the visitor. The vast, untouched landscapes make you question your own place in the world and marvel at the tenacity and innovation of those who live here. I

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The Red Centre and Outback is a vast area that encompasses almost every Australian state and territory. We have defined the region to include the arid landscape at the heart of Australia as well as the desert scrubland that stretches into the southeast and northwest of the country. It’s one of our favourite regions of Australia, but does come with certain challenges due to its sheer size. While many parts of the region are remote and off the beaten track, there are a number of highlights that can get very busy during peak season. We can recommend how to avoid the crowds by seeing sights such as Uluru from a different vantage point.

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Options throughout the region are somewhat limited with the challenges of the vast landscape influencing the scale of infrastructure and development. There is, however, a diverse range of accommodation styles that are unique to the region and go nicely alongside a range of hotel offerings, including luxury camps, eco-villas and a sprawling wildlife conservancy.

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Exploring the Flinders Ranges National Park

National Park One of Australia’s most recognisable landmarks, a visit to Uluru at sunset when the rock appears to glow is a magical experience. See pages 50-51

3 Kings Canyon Hike around the rim of Kings Canyon and descend into the sheltered valley known as ‘The Garden of Eden’. See page 49

2 Alice Springs The old telegraph town of Alice Springs has plenty of outback charm and provides an excellent base to explore the region. See page 48

4 Flinders Ranges National Park The dusty red desert and rocky escarpments of the Flinders Ranges have a strange natural beauty. See page 52

Robe

Bush tucker Learn how to gather traditional food and medicinal plants with an Aboriginal guide.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Red Centre & Outback

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Ormiston Gorge, West MacDonnell Ranges

Alice Springs ‘The Alice’, as this town is affectionately known, has come a long way from its origins as a remote telegraph station. Founded in the 1800s and marooned in the desert, it is a great place from which to explore the Red Centre. The town is easily covered on foot and the view from nearby Anzac Hill gives a wonderful sense of just how remote this community is. A visit to the Museum of the Royal Flying Doctors provides a fascinating insight into how people have adapted to this immense environment, while west of Alice, the marvellous Desert Park reveals the secrets of the plants, animals and Aboriginal artefacts of the unusual Australian desert. As night falls the landscape reveals another side as countless stars light up its undulating surface.

Double Tree by Hilton, Alice Springs

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Double Tree by Hilton, Alice Springs The Double Tree by Hilton is ideally located just ten minutes’ walk from the town centre and offers superb views across the West MacDonnell Ranges. The hotel is set in native gardens and the 243 contemporary rooms and suites are attractively decorated and all come with their own private balconies. The hotel has two restaurants, a casual bistro and a fine dining restaurant, as well as a large swimming pool with pool bar, a health club and two tennis courts.

MacDonnell Ranges Running east and west of Alice Springs, this rugged series of mountain ranges dominates the surrounding desert plains and is easily accessible on either a day trip from the town or as a detour on the drive to Kings Canyon. In the West MacDonnell Ranges, Simpson’s Gorge is the first of a series of attractive natural features; another is Standley Chasm, a slender gorge whose sides glow a marvellous red in the desert light. At Ellery Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole is an excellent swimming pool, while Serpent Gorge, slightly further west, has a lovely walking trail leading to a lookout with a spectacular view. The East MacDonnell Ranges host some Aboriginal sites of the local Aranda people and walking trails thread past spectacular quartzite cliffs and red river gums.

Larapinta Trail The 223-kilometre Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s finest bushwalking tracks, weaving past vast flood plains, rocky outcrops and exposed ridge lines. Visitors can tackle a section of the trail on a challenging six-day walk across the wild and untamed landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges which covers up to 72 kilometres of beautiful desert scenery. Each evening walkers are accommodated in stylish semipermanent wilderness campsites which come complete with hot showers and a heated dining tent. Luggage is transported by support vehicles, allowing you to walk with only a small day pack.


Alice Springs

Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park

Aerial view of the West MacDonnell Ranges

Kings Canyon & Watarrka National Park Southwest of Alice Springs is Watarrka National Park, a scenic landscape of rugged ranges and ravines that serve as a refuge for an array of plants and animals. Within the park is Kings Canyon, Australia’s largest and most spectacular gorge, carved into a rocky plateau with vast, sweeping views. Its richly coloured sandstone walls plummet to the ‘Garden of Eden’ where tranquil pools, cycads (large palm-like plants) and a maze of eroded domes are sheltered from the sun overhead.

Aboriginal dot painting, Alice Springs

Kings Canyon Rim Walk The six-kilometre walk around the rim of this impressive gorge allows you to see the canyon in all its glory. The walk is rocky at times and a little steep at the beginning, but is well within the scope of the reasonably fit and sure-footed. For the less agile, a creek walk leads along the canyon base through the woodlands, with plenty of waterholes for a cooling dip.

Kings Canyon Resort, Watarrka National Park Designed with the utmost sensitivity to the environment, the Kings Canyon Resort offers comfortable accommodation that blends in with the surrounding area. The 128 simple rooms overlook beautiful bush scenery and provide a welcome retreat after an active day of hiking around the canyon. The hotel has a restaurant and bistro, an outback grill, and the option to dine privately under the stars. There’s also a swimming pool and tennis court as well as a choice of cultural tours, guided canyon hikes, helicopter tours and quad bike adventures through the cattle country of Kings Creek station.

Driving the Mereenie Loop If you enjoy exploring off the beaten track and possess a sense of adventure, then the Mereenie Loop is well worth considering. Starting close to the Kings Canyon Resort and concluding near the small community of Hermansburg to the south of Alice Springs, this 200-kilometre route allows you to drive directly from the canyon to the West MacDonnell Ranges. The route requires a 4x4, though the road surface is generally good, except following rain. It’s a lovely drive through beautiful desert country and is a scenic alternative to the much longer highway that many people take en route to Uluru. A permit to drive through Aboriginal land can be arranged locally.

Kings Canyon Resort, Watarrka National Park

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Red Centre & Outback

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Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park In the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the mystical domes of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) rise up from the desert dunes with a wholly unexpected beauty. These iconic rock formations rest on the sacred lands of the Anangu people and form the basis of many of their Dreamtime beliefs, which are explained in the local cultural centre. A visit at sunset, when Uluru is awash with flamboyant colours that change and move by the second, is simply unforgettable. A short drive away, Kata Tjuta (an Aboriginal name meaning ‘many heads’) is a series of 36 rock domes that create a system of haunting gorges and valleys. Of equal spiritual significance to Uluru, Kata Tjuta is far less visited and holds a more serene and silent charm.

Sails in the Desert, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park The most luxurious accommodation option in the Ayers Rock Resort is the Sails in the Desert hotel. Set in manicured gardens at the heart of the resort, the interior decor is stylish and contemporary yet reflects Aboriginal heritage and culture in its artworks and fabrics. Outside, huge sails provide shade from the desert sun while solar panels generate power and native trees flourish on green lawns that attract a variety of birds. The hotel has 228 well-appointed rooms and suites, a swimming pool, various restaurants and an art gallery showcasing Aboriginal art.

Sails in the Desert, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Nestled behind sand dunes and hidden from view, Ayers Rock Resort reflects sensitivity towards the environment and respect for the area’s traditional Aboriginal owners. The resort includes several hotels, one and two-bedroom apartments and a campground, so there is a wealth of accommodation to choose from. The Outback Pioneer provides good value, the more upmarket Desert Gardens Hotel offers additional comfort, while the Emu Walk Apartments are ideal for families or friends travelling together.

Desert Gardens Hotel, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

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Outback dining With a largely dry, warm climate, the outback is an ideal environment for al fresco dining and is home to plenty of open-air restaurants. There are few locations however, that can rival the dining experience of Tali Wiru. With Uluru as an impressive backdrop, you will sit in a comfortable dining area on top of deep red sand dunes and relax with a champagne sundowner as you soak up the views before enjoying a gourmet dinner. There is also the option of an early morning tour to watch the sun rise over Uluru, before enjoying a tasty bushman’s breakfast.


Walkers approaching Uluru

Aerial view of Kata Tjuta, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Longitude 131º, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Mount Conner

Longitude 131°, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Intimate, stylish and occupying an unsurpassed position in one of the most spiritual places in Australia, this marvellous wilderness camp has 15 luxury pavilions, each one individually styled and dedicated to Australian outback pioneers. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows provide each pavilion with an uninterrupted view of Uluru, while spacious balconies with a day bed and fireplace allow the ultimate stargazing opportunity. Longitude 131º also features a swimming pool, an excellent restaurant and a selection of signature experiences to enhance your stay in the Red Centre.

Mount Conner In an area of remarkable rock formations, Mount Conner is often overlooked in favour of its more renowned neighbours. Located 100 kilometres east of Uluru, outside the national park, this flat-topped rock is one of the other great monoliths of the region. It is situated on a vast private cattle station and set among desert dunes and spinifex grass. We can arrange visits from Uluru with a company that has exclusive access to this site, allowing guests to witness the Red Centre well and truly away from the crowds.

Exploring the rocks Any exploration of the area should start with a walk around the base of Uluru, which gives a taste of its sheer size and majesty. On closer inspection the rock reveals caves filled with ancient art and permanent waterholes that feed the thriving array of flora and fauna. At Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) you’ll encounter a series of giant majestic domes, once part of a single rock that was even larger than Uluru itself. Some of the rocks are bunched close together with only narrow, precipitous crevices between them. Others, rounded and polished by the wind, are spaced apart creating a number of wonderful walking trails. The impressive ‘Valley of the Winds’ trail wanders through the Olga Gorge and leads to an immense cliff face and lovely rock pool. The whole area is not only geologically impressive, but also a highly spiritual centre for Aboriginals and features prominently in legends about ‘The Dreaming’, the time of creation. A major part of the appeal of the region is listening to the legends and history of the Aboriginal people and learning traditional bush skills. We can arrange a small group or private tour around Kata Tjuta and Uluru

and extended multi-day tours that also feature the other sites of the region. Escorted by guides with a rich local knowledge and the ability to adapt each experience, you will be able to explore less-travelled routes and visit private viewing areas. You can take interpretative bush walks to learn about the region’s ecology, walk through the gorges as rock walls blaze with the light of the setting sun, visit the engaging cultural centre and tour around the rocks themselves, viewing cave paintings and learning about the indigenous Anangu people.

Anangu guide, Red Centre

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Aerial view of Wilpena Pound, Flinders Ranges National Park

Flinders Ranges National Park Located 250 kilometres north of Adelaide, the rugged Flinders Ranges extend some 300 kilometres and incorporate several national parks and a wilderness sanctuary. The ranges encompass a great diversity of stunning outback scenery, rich with magnificent gorges, waterholes, sandstone escarpments and desert, making it an excellent area for bushwalking, scenic flights and photography. While the landscape is the main attraction, there is a variety of wildlife too; eagles circle in cloudless skies, emus casually cross the road and kangaroos doze lazily in the grass. The central part of the region is largely contained within the Flinders Ranges National Park and one of its most remarkable features is Wilpena Pound, a vast natural amphitheatre ringed with sheer cliffs and jagged rocks that dramatically change colour according to the light.

Rawnsley Park Station, Flinders Ranges National Park

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Arkaba, Flinders Ranges National Park

Emus, Flinders Ranges National Park

Rawnsley Park Station, Flinders Ranges National Park Nestled at the foot of the majestic Flinders Ranges is Rawnsley Park Station, an outback resort offering eight luxury eco-villas. It’s an ideal place to get away from it all, set on a secluded site yet within easy reach of the main Rawnsley Park facilities. The stylish and contemporary villas boast uninterrupted views of Wilpena Pound and the surrounding ranges and are designed to complement their natural surroundings. The villas are totally self-contained and have the latest environmental design features including rendered straw-bale walls, polished timber floors and overhanging eaves to provide shaded walls. Carefully-placed windows and doors allow natural breezes to pass through the entire building. Each villa features a spectacular large retractable skylight offering night sky viewing from the comfort of your bed, a fully-equipped modern kitchen, and an expansive outdoor veranda with barbecue.

A vast private nature conservancy surrounded by the spectacular sandstone bluffs of the Flinders Ranges, Arkaba offers guests a unique and luxurious outback and wildlife experience. The homestead dates back to 1850 and offers five beautifully furnished guest rooms, while the homestead pool, which overlooks a creek, provides a welcome area to relax in the midday heat. Arkaba provides a multitude of ways in which to discover the rugged beauty and wildlife of the region, including a three-night Arkaba Walk, where guests sleep out under the stars in style.

Arkaba, Flinders Ranges National Park


Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip

Darwin south australia

Flinders Ranges National Park new south wales T he

victoria

Southern Outback Explorer This self-drive itinerary is perfect for those with less time and provides a great contrast as it incorporates two distinct landscapes. Starting in the south in the parklands and gardens of Adelaide, it continues into the hills of the Clare Valley, an agricultural area of verdant vineyards and forests. The landscape then changes as you reach the Flinders Ranges and greenery gives way to rusty red desert and rocky escarpments. Day 1

Arrive in Adelaide and spend the day strolling around the historic homes of North Adelaide.

Day 2

Visit the bustling Central Market. Catch the tram to the beach suburb of Glenelg in the afternoon.

Day 3

Travel north from Adelaide into the wine-growing region of the Clare Valley.

Day 4

Explore some of the boutique wineries of the Clare Valley.

Day 5

Drive to the edge of the Flinders Ranges National Park and check in to your outback accommodation. Take a scenic afternoon flight over Wilpena Pound.

When to go ~

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With no international direct flights to Alice Springs or Uluru, connecting flights via Sydney or Melbourne are the most convenient option for visitors travelling to the Red Centre and Outback. Adelaide and Darwin also offer good entry points to the region. Alternatively, you can opt for the slower, but more atmospheric journey into the outback aboard The Ghan railway (see page 86). In this part of Australia, well known for the Flying Doctor service, light aircraft offer access into the furthest corners of the outback and operate transfers into some of the more remote cattle stations. Self-driving is perfectly feasible despite the rugged landscape with a network of roads and a scattering of roadhouses (fuel stations) along most routes. Although the main roads across the region are sealed, many are not and if you plan to travel off road it is essential you use a 4x4. This region combines well with other parts of Australia.

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The Outback and Red Centre region has a dry climate that is extremely hot and sunny from December to March and from June to August there are pleasantly warm days and cold, clear nights. While the region can be visited all year round, the best times to travel are between May and October when the temperatures are more favourable for walking and exploring. Time difference: GMT+7.5 to 8.5 hours

Day 6

Day 7

Enjoy a morning 4x4 tour along the ridge. In the afternoon grab a pair of binoculars and take a bush walk in search of wildlife. Drive across to an outback pub for lunch. In the evening take a drive to one of the ridges for sunset.

Day 8

Journey back to the Clare Valley.

Day 9

Travel back to Adelaide and spend the afternoon exploring the botanic gardens.

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

northern territory

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The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Kakadu National Park

Day 10

Kings Canyon

Outback Life This itinerary provides a comprehensive insight into life in the outback and is ideal for those seeking a unique trip. The itinerary includes a taster of the Kakadu National Park, a train journey through the desert, and an exploration of some of the most dramatic rock formations. Day 1

Arrive in Darwin.

Day 2

Explore Darwin’s sights before taking in the Mindil Beach markets.

Day 3

Travel to the edge of the Kakadu National Park and spend the afternoon enjoying activities on the Mary River floodplains.

Day 4

Take a full day adventure to explore the scenic and cultural sights of the Kakadu National Park.

Day 5

Spend your morning relaxing before returning to Darwin.

Day 6 Board The Ghan railway for your journey south. Spend the night in your sleeper cabin watching the outback disappear into the horizon as dusk falls. Day 7

Arrive in Alice Springs. Visit the Museum of the Flying Doctors and climb to the top of Anzac Hill for a fine view of the MacDonnell Ranges.

Day 8

Spend your morning shopping for Aboriginal art before travelling to Uluru, enjoying a rustic outback station dinner en route.

Day 9

Rise early for a morning tour of the base of Uluru. In the afternoon walk through the boulders of the Kata Tjuta domes, a great place for photography.

Day 10

Move on to Kings Canyon and spend the afternoon hiking around the rim of the canyon.

Day 11

Travel back to Alice Springs in time for your onward flight.

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Stay longer Extend your journey with a short hop across to Kangaroo Island or by adding on a multi-day luxurious walk through the Flinders Ranges National Park.

Alice Springs

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Stay longer Venture further afield to Arnhem Land and the Nitmiluk National Park, to experience Aboriginal culture and incredible landscapes.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Red Centre & Outback

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The Northwest F

or many, the epic landscapes and big skies of the Northwest epitomise the Australia of the imagination. The wonderful scenery and immense scale of this vast, unspoilt wilderness holds a tantalising promise of adventure. Here distances are measured in days and the region’s authentic frontier feel and resilient population give it all the charm and character of a ‘real’ Aussie experience. A series of magnificent national parks protect immense landscapes and deserted mountains as well as ancient rock art galleries and Aboriginal traditions. Getting out on foot allows you to grasp intricate details in the monumental surroundings as you walk through native bush, around towering rock domes and along rugged gorges. Alternatively, cruise down rivers in search of crocodiles, paddle through majestic canyons or simply relax on the chalky-white beaches of the coast. Meeting the people who live here, from Aboriginal artists to the graziers who run some of the world’s largest cattle farms, you’ll be struck by the richness and complexity of life in this remote and untouched region.

Audley in the Northwest

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The Northwest is the most remote region in the country and although getting around can be time-consuming, it’s the variety of travel and the feeling of truly getting away from it all that is a big part of its appeal. Our Australia specialists will explain how to make the most of your time and recommend routes to suit you. They can arrange everything from private touring of Aboriginal rock art sites through to luxury cruises of The Kimberley. We also have first-hand knowledge of driving in the region, including the Kakadu National Park and the isolated Gibb River Road, a highly recommended 600-kilometre bush track that makes an unforgettable trip for those craving a little adventure. Alternatively, we can plan a small group tour accompanied by a guide. For many, this is the best way to take everything in, sitting back in comfort as someone else does the driving, guiding and interpreting and then cooks you dinner at the end of the Exmouth day. To cover some of the greater distances, Karijini K Ka rj rijini at ar National Park light aircraft flights are Ningalo oo also a good option. Ningaloo

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Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) NORTHERN TERRITORY

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3 Arnhem Land 7 Broome A huge area of unspoilt Enjoy the laid-back charm and Papunyya Papunya wilderness, home to Aboriginal stunning coastal scenery of this MacDonnell Ranges Kings Canyon Ca an nyyo n yon on traditions and ancient rock art. cosmopolitan seaside town. Wata at rr rrka N National Na ational on nal Ch Watarrka Chambers Chambe C ham rrs Pillar P kMt Park r Uluru-Kata Erldunda Erld E l dunda d nda a page 61 See page 59 Tjuta See _ National benezer e uta nal Ebenezer _

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4 Nitmiluk National Park

Relax on board a river cruise through the dramatic Katherine Gorge. See page 57 5 Purnululu National Park Marvel at the unique beehive formations at this mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage Site. SeeGreat page r 60 Austr Australian tralian

8 Cruising The Kimberley

Discover The Kimberley from the comfort of a purpose built cruise vessel and explore the region’s dramatic coastline and gorges. See page 61

Take in the colourful Indian Pacific Lake Johnston markets andtosoak up the Lake L La akke Perth P Pe rth Lakke from Dundas Lake D Du sunset one of the city’s Fremantle l Bight Hope Lake Lake La Cape Arid Arriid National Park 6 Gibb River Road La aGilmore kecafes. Lake waterfront Gilmo m re pe Sharpe Bunbury Search out the highlights of See page Esperance 56 ra Esp Yallingup Y Margaret ingup The Kimberley on a self-drive Margaret ett River e River R 2 Kakadu National Park Pemberton P embe berton or small group tour along this Augusta n Albany Alba A lb banyExplore this UNESCO World a historic stockman’s route. Denmark ark e c Heritage Site and itsestunning rn O See page 60 h t Souwildlife and array of scenery, Aboriginal heritage. See page 58

Twin Falls, Kakadu National Park

Agile wallaby, Nitmiluk National Park

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northwest

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Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin

Darwin Blessed with a tropical climate more closely resembling that of its Asian neighbours, Darwin is a melting pot of cultures with a distinct and easy-going charm. The city is set on a low bluff overlooking a large harbour and is a very easy place to navigate. The centre has mainly modern, low-rise architecture interspersed with the occasional historic building or monument and lush parks teeming with thick hedges of bougainvillea and frangipani. On the waterfront boulevards lined with palm trees play host to elegant developments and high-end restaurants fuelled by the city’s new-found wealth. Add to this some balmy weather, beautifully vivid sunsets, great dining and the bustling seasonal Mindil Beach market, and Darwin becomes the perfect starting point for exploring the Northwest.

Mindil Beach market, Darwin

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Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Darwin

Mantra on the Esplanade, Darwin

Situated in the Waterfront precinct, this property offers stylishly furnished accommodation on the seafront promenade in this popular part of Darwin. The Adina has a total of 121 rooms from studios to two-bedroom apartments all of which feature crisp, modern decor. All the apartments come equipped with full kitchens and laundry facilities and many offer fantastic views of the harbour. Facilities include a restaurant as well as a gym, pool, Jacuzzi and spa, and is a short walk from cafes, restaurants, boutiques and parks.

Mantra on the Esplanade, Darwin Located on Darwin’s picturesque esplanade, these award-winning suites are the ideal base for exploring the city centre as well as relaxing after touring the nearby national parks. The hotel has 204 rooms which range from standard doubles to three-bedroom apartments, each tastefully furnished in a simple, modern style. All the apartments have kitchen and laundry facilities, plus private balconies perfect for enjoying one of Darwin’s beautiful sunsets. The hotel also has an inviting swimming pool and an excellent restaurant serving a modern Australian menu with Asian influences, though there is also a wide choice of dining options within walking distance. Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Darwin


Termite mound, Litchfield National Park

Blue-faced honeyeater, Nitmiluk National Park

Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park

Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk National Park Remote and beautiful, Nitmiluk National Park is home to the rugged Katherine Gorge, one of the territory’s most stunning natural attractions. The gorge is often mistaken for 13 separate bodies of water, but is, in fact, one continuous fissure carved out by the mighty Katherine River. The park is also home to a wealth of wildlife and offers fantastic walking opportunities. Alternatively, try hiring a canoe and paddling your way as far as your energy affords or hopping on board a boat for one of the informative daily cruises. The town of Katherine lies around 30 kilometres from the gorge and offers the perfect base from which to explore the park’s highlights.

Located only two hours from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is not only one of the territory’s most accessible national parks but also one of its most spectacular. It can be visited as a day trip from Darwin or as part of a longer tour of the region but shouldn’t be missed. The park sits on a sandstone plateau and is scattered with pockets of lush rainforest, impressive waterfalls that cascade into crystal clear pools and soaring termite mounds that can grow over three metres in height. Litchfield is one of the best areas in the region for bushwalking, and the rock formations of the Lost City provide the site for one of its most impressive walks, however the park’s main attractions are, without doubt, its waterfalls and swimming holes, which offer refreshing respite from the powerful sun.

Touring in the Top End One of the best ways to explore the remote Northwest is to join a small group tour or arrange a private guide. Our firm belief is that good-quality guides with a deep understanding and knowledge of the region are crucial to your appreciation of this magnificent part of the country. One guide, Sab Lord, was raised in Kakadu alongside local Aboriginal people and shares a mutual respect and passion for their values and their land and consequently retains exclusive access to many of the region’s most significant cultural sites.

The Lost City, Litchfield National Park

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View from the top of Gunlom Falls, Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park One of the country’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with a rare listing for both its natural and cultural importance, this extraordinary park is the undisputed highlight of the region and an absolute must on any visit to the Northwest. The park covers almost 20,000 square kilometres of exceptional natural beauty and great biodiversity, its landscapes sheltering a bewildering variety of habitats and wildlife. Thundering waterfalls plummet from towering escarpments and floodplains and billabongs are festooned with animals and birds. To add to this heady mix, Kakadu is also home to some of the country’s finest and most accessible Aboriginal rock art sites which offer a vivid insight into this rich culture. While Kakadu can be visited as a day trip from Darwin, we recommend taking a few days to enjoy its highlights.

Wildman Wilderness Lodge near Kakadu National Park

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Bamurru Plains, near Kakadu National Park Inspired by the luxury camps of Africa, this exclusive lodge offers a unique experience in a superb bush setting. The purpose-built camp is located on the coastal floodplains of the Mary River close to Kakadu National Park, with each of its ten safari tents designed to blend in with the surrounding bush. The floodplains form one of the most significant ecosystems in Australia and are home to an immense diversity of wildlife. An extensive touring programme is integral to guests’ stays with 4x4 safaris, airboat tours, fishing and helicopter flights all available. Although accessible by road, Bamurru is best reached via a scenic charter flight from Darwin.

Wildman Wilderness Lodge, near Kakadu National Park Located amid lush wilderness and the seasonal floodplains of the Mary River Wetlands, this environmentally-sensitive lodge offers guests the perfect introduction to the Northwest’s wildlife. The communal lodge with its restaurant, bar, lounge and swimming pool acts as the focal point of the resort. Around it are ten elegant, air-conditioned cabins and 15 luxury safari tents all decked out in a stylish, contemporary manner. Guests can enjoy a range of activities including wildlife-focused cruises and walks, as well as a full day tour to the Kakadu National Park.

Yellow Waters cruise Kakadu National Park is home to a staggering amount of birdlife with one third of Australian species found here. At least 60 species are concentrated around its extensive river systems and floodplains, collectively referred to as Yellow Waters. Boat trips operate throughout the day, however, we recommend taking either a sunrise or sunset tour as the landscape is at its most photogenic and the wildlife most active. During the two-hour cruise you are likely to encounter saltwater crocodiles lurking on the muddy banks, buffaloes on the floodplains and a cornucopia of birds such as eagles, whistling ducks, kingfishers and brolgas.


Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park

Aboriginal rock art, Arnhem Land

Bamurru Plains, near Kakadu National Park

Escarpment, Arnhem Land

Arnhem Land

Davidson’s Arnhemland Camp, Arnhem Land

This immense swathe of land remains one of Australia’s most culturally significant regions. Blessed with wild coastlines, rainforests and soaring escarpments, it is an area of rugged beauty and bountiful wildlife. Billabongs are home to both enormous crocodiles and dainty jacana, and on rocks and boulders frill-necked lizards and goannas stretch out in the sun. Most importantly, travelling to Arnhem Land brings you in contact with Aboriginal artists and some of the country’s most powerful cultural sites and ancient rock art galleries. Visitors are restricted by decree of the traditional landowners, however, we work with a select handful of guides who have access to this special place.

Davidson’s Camp is set in one of the northwest’s most pristine locations, nestled against the Arnhem Land escarpment and fringed by idyllic billabongs, floodplains and rainforest. The 20-cabin camp offers guests a scenic introduction to this beautiful region as well as the opportunity to visit Mount Borradaile, one of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal sites. You will have sole access to over 70 kilometres of this lush and unspoilt region and its magnificent Aboriginal rock art and sacred sites. Access to the camp is by light aircraft from either Darwin or Kakadu which affords fantastic views of the river systems, floodplains and the Arnhem Land escarpment.

Cobourg Peninsula A wilderness area of coves and bays littered with sandy beaches, mangroves and rainforest. Cobourg Peninsula is located in the western reaches of Arnhem Land, an hour’s scenic flight from Darwin, the peninsula is home to dugongs, dolphins, crocodiles and loggerhead turtles, and has a rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture. Offering some of the best fishing opportunities in the country, excellent walking and an incredible diversity of environments, it is a feast for nature lovers and a relatively untouched gem.

Aboriginal rock art For Aboriginal people rock art represents the story of life’s journey. It is a record of their traditional knowledge, their bond with the land, their culture and their beliefs. Australia’s rock art galleries represent a historical archive of what is believed to be the oldest living culture in the world and some sites are thought to date back over 50,000 years. While Aboriginal rock art can be found in various parts of Australia, the Top End and, in particular, Kakadu National Park and the Arnhem Land region, have the highest concentrations and some of the finest sites in the country.

Airboat at Bamurru Plains, near Kakadu National Park

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Crossing Pentecost River, Gibb River Road

The Kimberley Representing one of the world’s last frontiers, The Kimberley is immense in all senses of the word, its landscapes and rugged beauty are on a gargantuan scale. Ancient mountain ranges separate cattle stations the size of small countries, thundering waterfalls plummet into magnificent rock pools, and cave systems containing some of the oldest known Aboriginal rock art give a healthy reminder of the timelessness of this land. Covering an area three times the size of England, and with a population density considered to be the lowest on Earth, it is no exaggeration to say that The Kimberley is a land of true diversity and isolation. The region has a rich colour palette with blood-red deserts, forest-filled gorges and empty golden beaches.

Gibb River Road There is no better adventure playground than The Kimberley and linking many of the region’s most appealing landscapes is the Gibb River Road. The ‘Gibb’ is a dusty, sinuous 600-kilometre track originally built to transport cattle. Travelling with a small group is a popular way to explore and tours are led by passionate guides with trips ranging from four days to over two weeks. Alternatively, we can design a self-drive itinerary for you, taking advantage of the diverse accommodation on offer, including cattle stations and permanent campsites. 60

El Questro Homestead, The Kimberley Perched proudly over the magnificent Chamberlain River, this beautiful homestead has just nine guest rooms. Each room is air-conditioned and decorated in an elegant, modern style and has a private veranda overlooking the garden and river. Most memorable of all is the Chamberlain Suite which is cantilevered over the river and has floor-to-ceiling windows as well as a wraparound veranda offering majestic views of the gorge below. The food here is superb and guests can dine on the sweeping communal veranda or a quiet cliffside above the gorge.

Emma Gorge Resort, The Kimberley Nestled in the foothills of the fiery Cockburn Ranges, this charming resort offers 60 comfortable tented cabins and a warm outback welcome. The resort is located in a vast wilderness park, its accommodation and swimming pool set among native trees and landscaped gardens. The meandering Emma Creek leads to the gorge itself and a refreshing swimming hole at the base of a picturesque waterfall. Barbecues of fresh fish and Kimberley beef are a speciality of the open-air restaurant, while the resort’s many tours offer access to this immense property and its myriad wildlife.

El Questro Homestead, The Kimberley

Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Purnululu National Park protects one of The Kimberley’s most famous geological landmarks, the Bungle Bungle Range. A region of thousands of black and orange striped rock domes, or ‘beehives’, the area provides spectacular walking trails through wind-hollowed cathedrals of rock and immense chasms in which a hidden world of gorges and pools awaits. Scenic flights in open-sided helicopters offer exhilarating views of these fascinating formations, but it is on foot that you can reach the best sites, appreciate the wealth of Aboriginal rock art and sacred burial grounds, and experience the constant chatter of rainbow bee-eaters and flocks of noisy budgerigars. The park has a couple of accommodation choices, though it is also possible to visit on a day trip from the small town of Kununurra.


Camels on Cable Beach, Broome

Cable Beach, Broome

Mitchell Falls, The Kimberley

Landscape along the Gibb River Road

Bungle Bungle rock formations, Purnululu National Park

Broome This laid-back seaside town just oozes charm and character. Once the pearling capital of the world, the fortune seekers that came here from around the globe helped shape Broome’s wonderfully eclectic atmosphere. It is this cosmopolitan beachside allure along with its unique architecture, diverse dining options, relaxed attitude and great range of accommodation that make it such a rewarding place to visit. Broome’s best known sight is Cable Beach with its incredible sunsets and unexpected camel rides. Pure white sand stretches as far as the eye can see which contrasts dramatically with the bright turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and the rich ochre cliffs that form a backdrop to the beach. On top of all this, Broome acts as a perfect gateway to the highlights of the nearby Kimberley region.

True North, The Kimberley

Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Broome Perfectly situated steps away from the dazzling white sand of Cable Beach, this resort epitomises ‘Broome style’: a collision of Asian and colonial cultures captured in an East/West fusion of architecture, artefacts and landscaped gardens. Of the 230 rooms there is a broad variety of room types to choose from, ranging from simple, contemporary studios to suites, bungalows and villas, all of which are stylishly decorated with polished wooden floors, handcrafted furnishings and original artwork. The resort also boasts several restaurants and extensive leisure facilities including both adults-only and family-friendly swimming pools. This is an excellent option for a few days of relaxation in Broome.

True North Although the majority of visitors to this remarkable wilderness travel the inland route, The Kimberley coastline, which can only be accessed by sea, is equally majestic. North Star Cruises have over 30 years’ experience in the region, and their luxurious vessel True North is the most modern of its kind, purpose-designed for exploring The Kimberley’s coastal waters, its secluded beaches, river gorges and waterfalls. With a maximum of 36 passengers and 22 staff, True North offers an unparalleled level of personalised service and its multiple expedition boats and the vessel’s own helicopter provide exciting access to the highlights of this remote and spectacular region.

Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Broome

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northwest

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Kakadu National Park Darwin Litchfield National Park

Arnhem Land Nitmiluk National Park

northern territory

Northwest Adventure This self-drive itinerary through the Top End takes in a remarkable diversity of wildlife, natural wonders and Aboriginal rock art sites, with visits to three of its national parks – Kakadu, Nitmiluk and Litchfield and a day trip to the cultural highlight of Arnhem Land. Blue-winged kookaburra, Litchfield National Park

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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Getting around Most visitors will access the Northwest via Darwin, a hub for both domestic and international flights, and also a start or end point for The Ghan train journey (see page 86), which plies a route through the middle of the country. Visitors tend to start their trip from this point or connect onwards to Kununurra or Broome, both gateways to The Kimberley region. Tours and hire cars can be picked up from either of these locations and full instructions will be provided if you are self-driving. To access some of the more remote parts of the region light aircraft flights are an excellent option. In addition, the extensive Australian domestic flight network allows visitors to combine the Northwest with other parts of the country.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Day 2

Day exploring Darwin’s sights before taking in the Mindil Beach markets.

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Day 3

Collect a hire car and head southwest to Litchfield National Park. After exploring the highlights here, continue on to the Nitmiluk National Park.

Day 4

Full day enjoying a river cruise and the sights of the Nitmiluk National Park.

Day 5

Depart Nitmiluk today and drive to the small town of Cooinda in the Kakadu National Park.

Day 6

Enjoy a full day tour with a small group.

Day 7

Wake early for a sunrise cruise on the Yellow Waters. Continue your drive through Kakadu to the town of Jabiru. Perhaps enjoy sunset at the cultural site of Ubirr this evening.

Day 8

Join a small group tour and spend a full day touring the natural and indigenous sites of Arnhem Land.

Day 9

Travel onwards to a lodge on the edge of the Kakadu National Park.

Day 10

Spend a full day enjoying the lodge and its surroundings and an airboat safari on the Mary River Wetlands.

Day 11

Go birdwatching, wildlife viewing or simply relax at your lodge.

Day 12

Return to Darwin.

Day 13

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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33 The best time to travel. 3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The Northwest has very distinct wet and dry seasons which frequently define the ways in which you can travel, particularly for self-drivers exploring on unsealed roads. The dry season runs roughly from May to October; the wet from November to April. During the dry season days are long and sunny with very little chance of rainfall, while the wet season is characterised by high levels of humidity, heavy downpours and some dramatic thunderstorms. Rivers swell, gorges refill and unsealed roads often become impassable during this time. The best times to travel are June or July when the gorges and swimming holes are still likely to have a good amount of water but not enough to make river crossings too challenging. Most small group tours operate during the dry season only and we would suggest that self-drivers should avoid the wet season and the ‘cusp’ months of May and October, which could either still be wet (and impassable) or very hot. Time difference: GMT+8 to 9.5 hours

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

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Arrive in Darwin. Afternoon at leisure exploring the city’s parks and gardens.

When to go

Prices

Aboriginal rock art, Kakadu National Park

Day 1


Suggested itineraries Darwin

Darwin Darwin

King George Falls

Kakadu National Park Arnhem Land

Mitchell River National Park Gibb River Road Bell Gorge

Kununurra northern territory

Broome

Purnululu National Park

Highlights of the Northwest This is the ultimate Northwest experience and a fantastic itinerary for taking in the best of what the Top End and The Kimberley have to offer. Visit the remote reaches of Arnhem Land, enjoy two days of private touring through Kakadu National Park; while in The Kimberley you will take an exciting day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Purnululu National Park. Day 1

Arrive in Darwin. Afternoon exploring the city.

Day 2

Light aircraft flight to Arnhem Land. Explore the area’s natural attractions.

Day 3

Discover stunning Aboriginal rock art sites with your guide. Try your hand at barramundi fishing or take a billabong cruise.

Day 4

Your private guide will meet you and spend the afternoon touring otherwise inaccessible parts of Arnhem Land.

Day 5

Enjoy a full day of private touring in the Kakadu National Park.

Day 6

Spend the morning swimming in a remote waterfall before being dropped off at the wonderful Bamurru Plains.

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Explore the Mary River Wetlands on an exciting airboat safari. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the lodge’s pool and spotting local wildlife. Take a scenic flight via Darwin to Kununurra. Transfer to your accommodation in The Kimberley. Cruise through some of El Questro’s dramatic gorges and in the afternoon take a 4x4 tour. Take a scenic flight over the Purnululu National Park. In the afternoon enjoy more touring or relax at the lodge.

Day 11

Fly back to Darwin and enjoy an evening at Mindil Beach markets.

Day 12

Travel to the airport for your onward flight.

Geikie Gorge

Kings Cascades

El Questro

El Questro

Horizontal Falls Purnululu National Park

Purnululu National Park Broome

Fitzroy Crossing western australia

northern territory

western australia

northern territory

The Kimberley Uncovered

Cruising The Kimberley

This itinerary is ideal for anyone who enjoys the freedom of driving themselves and wishes to discover the majestic landscapes of The Kimberley, explore its waterfalls and swim in its hidden waterholes.

This itinerary is perfect for visitors who wish to take in the awe-inspiring and untouched landscapes of The Kimberley from the comfort of a purpose built adventure cruise ship.

Day 1

Arrive in Darwin. Spend the afternoon exploring.

Day 2

Fly to Broome and relax on Cable Beach.

Day 3

Embark on your self-drive and head to Bell Gorge, via Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek national parks.

Day 4

Spend a day at leisure enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Gibb.

Day 5

Continue your adventure along the Gibb River Road stopping at the rustic Drysdale River Station.

Day 6

Arrive at the Mitchell River National Park and spend the afternoon exploring the park on foot.

Day 7

Day 8

Spend a full day at leisure and perhaps take a helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls.

Day 1

Arrive in Broome and explore the cosmopolitan town centre.

Day 2

Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful Cable Beach.

Day 3 Board True North and enjoy your first of many memorable sunsets. Day 4

Awake to the remote landscapes of The Kimberley coast and experience the immense tidal range at the Horizontal Falls.

Day 5

Fish for barramundi, go hiking, or take a helicopter flight over the unique eco system of Montgomery Reef.

Day 6

Enjoy the wealth of tours and get wet at Kings Cascades as True North manoeuvres under the falls themselves.

Day 7

Take in a variety of wildlife at the Hunter River and enjoy a hike to Jackson Falls.

Day 8

Witness one of the world’s oldest known rock art sites and perhaps take a helicopter picnic at Eagle Falls.

Day 9

Spend the day hiking or taking a helicopter to the top of the mighty King George Falls.

Head back to the Gibb River Road and continue your route.

Days 9-10 Drive to El Questro and spend time enjoying the host of activities on offer. Day 11

Drive to Purnululu National Park.

Day 12

Explore the domes of the Bungle Bungle on foot or by helicopter.

Day 13

Drive to Fitzroy Crossing.

Day 14

Explore Geikie Gorge on board a river cruise before returning to Broome.

Day 11

Cruise through some of El Questro’s dramatic gorges and in the afternoon take a 4x4 tour.

Day 15

Spend a final day at leisure in Broome.

Day 12

Day 16

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Take an exciting flight over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Purnululu National Park.

Day 13

Fly onwards to Darwin and enjoy an evening at Mindil Beach markets.

Day 14

Make your way to Darwin airport for your onward flight.

Day 10 Disembark True North and transfer to the El Questro Homestead.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Northwest

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The Southwest A

ustralia’s southwest is a sparsely populated region where serene and untouched landscapes are interspersed with pretty coastal towns, picturesque vineyards and vast national parks. Apart from cosmopolitan but laid-back Perth and the colonial port of Fremantle, nature is the main attraction. You can snorkel along the Ningaloo Reef admiring colourful coral and a huge array of fish, go whale watching from the coastal towns of Albany and Denmark, or go bushwalking through carpets of wildflowers and forests of giant karri trees. The region has a very sedate pace of life as well as a pleasant, temperate climate which makes it a relaxing place to explore. Kilometres of beautiful beaches are washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and numerous lush valleys are dotted with wineries. The Margaret River region is particularly well known for its fine wines and gourmet restaurants, both of which benefit from the rich agricultural land in the area. Despite all this, the Southwest is often overlooked by visitors but its sweeping scenery, languid pace of life and isolated charm make it well worth exploring.

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Chichester National Park Millstream Port Chichester Cape Range National Park National Park Karijini ExmouthNational Park Cape8Range National Park Karijini Ningaloo Exmouth National Park Marine Collier Range Park Ningaloo National Park Marine KennedyCollier Range Coral Park Bay Range National Park National Park Kennedy Carnarvon Coral Bay Range Shark National Park Bay 161 kilometres

Carnarvon Shark Bay

Monkey Mia

Lake Carnegie Lake Carnegie Lake Wells Lake Wells

WESTERN AUSTRALIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Kalbarri National Park

Geraldton Cervantes

Nambung National Park

Lake Moore Lake Moore

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Rottnest Island

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Lake Dora Lake Dora Lake Disappointment Lake Disappointment

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Take the ferry over to Rottnest Island for a relaxing day touring the glittering bays and sheltered coves by bicycle. See page 66 3 Fremantle Explore the port city of Fremantle, learn about its historic buildings and take in the bustling market. See page 67

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1 Perth Stroll through leafy Kings Park for a splendid view across the Swan River to the city skyline. See page 66

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Kalgoorlie Indian Pacific

I I PerthFremantle Rockingham Rottnest Island Fremantle Bunbury Rockingham 4 Yallingup Margaret River Bunbury Augusta 5 6 Yallingup Pemberton Margaret River Albany Augusta Denmark Pemberton an Oce Denmark Albany

2 Rottnest Island

Fremantle market entrance

Hedland

Denham 7 Kalbarri Kalbarri National Park

Accommodation Perth has a good selection of international hotels to suit most tastes and budgets but demand frequently exceeds supply. There are also a number of small, characterful guesthouses here and in the other urban centres, where accommodating hosts and a more personal experience bring a real taste of the Southwest to your stay. Beyond the main towns there is limited choice of accommodation, but there are a few gems that we can recommend.

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The Southwest has long been one of our favourite parts of Australia and we know the area extremely well. While the region is often overlooked by visitors, it is well worth including on an itinerary and the lack of other visitors allows you to explore at leisure and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and sense of isolation for which it is well-known. There’s a huge variation in the climate between the north and south of this region and we can advise the best way to combine both areas to take in each of their main highlights and self-drive routes to get to some of its hidden gems. Whether your interest is wildflowers or whale sharks our specialists can design an itinerary to get the most of this diverse region.

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Audley in the Southwest

4 Margaret River The small charming town of Margaret River is known for its lush forests, lovely coastal scenery, fine wines and excellent food. See page 69 5 Tree Top Walk A leisurely stroll along the 40-metre-high Tree Top Walk provides amazing views of the Valley of the Giants. See page 71

Esperance

6 Albany

The seaside town of Albany rewards visitors with a collection of pretty colonial buildings, dramatic coastal scenery and a choice of wonderful beaches. See page 70 7 Kalbarri National Park An area of stunning coastline and rugged gorges. See page 71 8 Ningaloo Marine Park

The clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean shelter the colourful Ningaloo Reef, an exotic underwater world filled with vibrant coral, brightlycoloured fish, friendly dolphins and whale sharks. See page 72

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View of Perth skyline across the Swan River

Perth Compact, welcoming and very laid back, the modern city of Perth is the capital of Western Australia and the region’s main hub. The city is located on the sweeping Swan River a short distance from the coast and is blessed with a stunning natural setting and consistently blue skies. Despite rapid development, Perth retains a very easy-going attitude complemented by galleries, bars and restaurants. From Kings Park, set on a city-centre escarpment, you’ll get sensational views over the skyline and river. A short drive west and you arrive at the suburbs of Cottesloe, Scarborough and Sorrento which share a glorious stretch of Indian Ocean coastline, affectionately known as the Sunset Coast. The sheltered swimming beaches and walking and cycling paths here make it a retreat favoured by locals.

Como The Treasury, Perth

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The Richardson Hotel & Spa, Perth Sophisticated yet understated, the Richardson is a stylish boutique hotel located in leafy West Perth, overlooking Kings Park and perfectly positioned between the central business district and the fashionable shopping area of Subiaco. Its 74 spacious and elegant rooms feature uncluttered, contemporary decor and the suites have the added benefit of a large balcony. This, coupled with the personalised service and superb facilities, makes for a truly luxurious stay. The hotel has a lovely spa as well as ‘Opus’, one of Perth’s finest restaurants, which serves fresh, inventive cuisine and has its own wine annexe.

Como The Treasury, Perth This luxury hotel is housed in grand 19 th-century state buildings in the historic heart of the city. The hotel retains much of its period charm in the high ceilings adorned with ornate cornicing, the carved columns and well-worn floorboards but the decor is firmly modern in style. There are 48 spacious guest rooms and suites all decorated in a chic, pared-back manner. The Wildflower restaurant on the top floor boasts panoramic views, while the Long Chim, an Asian restaurant is extremely popular. The hotel also has a craft beer bar as well as an excellent spa, a large gym and a spectacular glass-enclosed swimming pool.

The Richardson Hotel & Spa, Perth

Rottnest Island An easy day trip from Perth, Rottnest Island is home to a variety of bird and animal life including the quokka, a small kangaroo-like marsupial. There are several quiet beaches, gorgeous bays and an accessible coral reef for those keen on snorkelling or diving. With no private motor vehicles permitted, visitors are encouraged to rent bicycles and cycle around the island and this lack of traffic creates a wonderfully mellow atmosphere. Regular ferries make the short journey back and forth from the mainland each day.


Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park

Little penguin, Rockingham

Cottesloe Beach, Perth

Quokka, Rottnest Island

Perth’s surrounds Venture out of Perth and there are some fabulous landscapes to explore. The obvious starting point is the coastline. Travel south and the Indian Ocean sparkles invitingly, lapping against beautiful beaches and providing a wonderful playground for locals and visitors alike. The coast is dotted with marinas, parks and small seaside suburbs, windswept beaches for walking and sheltered bays ideal for swimming. North of Perth the coastline is less developed and more rugged with sand dunes, wild beaches, rocky bays and coves. Inland there are olive groves and small farming towns and a number of beautiful national parks. Among them is the Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles Desert, a series of eerie limestone formations sporadically scattered over vast yellow sand dunes.

Organic market stall, Fremantle

Cycling on Rottnest Island

Fremantle

Rockingham

Located 20 kilometres to the south of Perth, the port of Fremantle retains a colonial charm thanks to a rich collection of restored 19 th-century buildings found throughout the small city centre. Browsing the many craft stores and galleries, or pausing for a coffee at a pavement cafe makes for a wonderfully relaxing morning. From Friday to Sunday the thriving Fremantle market, a local institution, is well worth a visit for its bustling atmosphere and vast array of interesting stalls.

This small coastal town 45 minutes drive south of Perth is known as the gateway to the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. The islands within the park are important seabird nesting sites and include a colony of little penguins on Penguin Island and rare Australian sea lions on Seal Island. The cavernous reefs offer good snorkelling and diving and it is possible to arrange trips to swim and snorkel with the bottlenose dolphins that are commonly found here.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southwest

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Road through a karri forest, Margaret River region

Exploring the Southwest Heading south from Perth we would recommend following the picturesque coastline that extends along the edge of the Indian Ocean down to Cape Leeuwin, the most southwesterly point of mainland Australia. En route you’ll pass through the pretty towns of Busselton and Bunbury in Geographe Bay before arriving in the Margaret River region which is famed for its fertile agricultural land and wonderful wines. This area is ideally suited to travelling by motorhome or self-driving with overnight stops in characterful accommodation. Flora & fauna The southwest of Australia is home to a wealth of flora and fauna including some spectacular wildflower displays. The rugged landscape of the region comes alive with a blaze of brilliant colours and lush scents from June to November. For six picturesque months, approximately 12,000 plant species including pink boronias, red and green kangaroo paw, magenta paperbark blossom and orange-flowering banksias carpet a wide area and it is estimated that over 60% of these species are endemic. Some of the most majestic Australian forests are also found here. The karri and marri forests of the Beedelup and Warren national parks in the southwest are home to trees up to 300 years old and shelter a wide variety of native animals and plants.

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Food & wine The region’s clear, crisp air and temperate climate provide ideal conditions for farming and much of the land south of Perth is dedicated to the production of fine foods and wines. Vine-clad hillsides and fertile orchards can be found alongside dairy farms and olive groves, while the rivers and nearby ocean are a great source of fresh fish and seafood. This rich regional harvest has attracted a number of award-winning chefs to the area and dining out here is a real pleasure. Some of the best restaurants are in the wineries themselves, which are renowned for producing the country’s highest quality wines. Many of the wineries open their doors to visitors and offer tastings of their complex cool-climate cabernets and elegant, dry chardonnays. We can also help arrange either private or small group tours to give you behind-thescenes access to the best wineries.

Kangaroo paw, native to the southwest

Walkers on the Bibbulmun Track

Walking the Bibbulmun Track Considered one of the country’s notable scenic walking trails, the 1,000-kilometre Bibbulmun Track snakes its way through the stunning landscapes of the southwest on its journey between Kalamunda in the Perth Hills and Albany in the south. With the track divided into well-marked sections, it’s possible to take on just a portion of the trail. We recommend taking in a section that hugs the south coast to the west of Albany, which has varied terrain, coastal scenery and sheltered swimming spots.


Hand-picked grapes, Margaret River region

Coastal walk, Margaret River region

Bunker Bay on Cape Naturaliste

Margaret River region The small town of Margaret River is located in an idyllic spot just a short distance from the coast. Surrounded by forests and lakes, it makes a good base for exploring the region. Life moves at a very leisurely pace here and exploring the wineries and lingering over lunch is a key attraction. However, the region, which stretches from the tip of Cape Naturaliste down to Cape Leeuwin on the edge of the Southern Ocean, is also known for its remarkable natural beauty. Perhaps the best way to explore is on foot, walking through ancient forest and woodland or taking a delightful coastal route along wellmarked trails that thread their way along the clifftops and past surfing beaches.

Dessert at the Cullen Winery, Margaret River

Rosewood Guesthouse, Margaret River Set in lovingly tended gardens in the heart of Margaret River, Rosewood Guesthouse is ideally located to explore and enjoy all that the region has to offer. The restaurants, shops and galleries of the small town are all within easy walking distance and the beautiful coastline is just a short drive away. All six guest rooms are individually decorated and designed with comfort and convenience in mind. The hosts provide warm hospitality and great home-cooked food and having lived in Margaret River for years they are able to help introduce you to the many highlights of the region.

Pullman Resort Bunker Bay, near Margaret River This stylish, contemporary beachside resort is perched on Bunker Bay, a short distance north of Margaret River. Set among landscaped grounds and native bush, overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean, it is a wonderfully relaxing place to stay. Unwind by the infinity pool or follow a meandering wooden walkway down to the private white-sand beach. The hotel has excellent facilities and its 150 bright and spacious villas and studios are decorated in a simple but elegant style and come equipped with their own kitchen or kitchenette and an outdoor courtyard or deck.

Pullman Resort Bunker Bay, near Margaret River

Rosewood Guesthouse, Margaret River

Cape Lodge, near Margaret River Sitting on the edge of a lake, a short distance from the town of Margaret River, this charming lodge is set among fields of vines, manicured gardens and native forest. The 22 rooms and suites are extremely comfortable, beautifully furnished and have either a courtyard or balcony. The lodge has a lovely swimming pool, a tennis court and the exceptional restaurant, with an al fresco deck overlooking the lake, serves fresh local cuisine and some of the region’s finest wines.

Cape Lodge, near Margaret River

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southwest

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Torndirrup National Park

Albany One of Australia’s most picturesque and well-preserved seaside towns, Albany has a spectacular location as well as a fine collection of colonial buildings including old convict jails, churches and cottages dating back to the 19 th century. The major attraction of the town is whale watching, with southern right, blue and humpback whales regularly spotted close to the coast between May and November. Nearby, there are a number of pristine beaches popular for swimming, while the rugged coastline of the Torndirrup National Park provides some scenic hiking trails.

Beach House at Bayside, Albany Just a short walk from the beach, this charming guesthouse is set in a beautiful location. Beach House at Bayside has eight comfortable rooms and is managed by a friendly and enthusiastic couple who have lived in Albany for many years and are passionate about its beauty and heritage. The rooms are all smart and elegant, some have private balconies or courtyards, while the two-storey garden suite has a separate lounge area. After a good night’s sleep and a breakfast of fresh local produce in the sunny courtyard, take a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy the breeze and ocean views.

Cape Howe Cottages, near Albany Set in a private nature reserve a short distance from Albany, Cape Howe Cottages offers six secluded retreats nestled in the native forest. The spacious cottages are built to blend in with their surroundings and are spaced out across a large area. Each is individual in style, with cosy, modern decor and full kitchen and laundry facilities. The property sits next to the West Cape Howe National Park and with walking trails and a quiet beach close by, the cottages make an ideal place to relax for a few days.

Gloucester National Park

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Beach House at Bayside, Albany

Pemberton Located in a picturesque valley surrounded by karri forests, green pastures and rolling vineyards, Pemberton is a popular little town. Nearby, truly magnificent karri trees stretch skywards to heights of over 50 metres. Some of these gargantuan trees, the world’s tallest hardwoods, once acted as fire lookouts and the adventurous can scale some of the designated climbing trees for spectacular views. As well as the trees there is a wealth of activities available including canoeing, mountain biking and hiking on one of the several walking trails in the nearby Gloucester National Park. The town has a good selection of restaurants and cafes and the timber heritage is maintained through a working timber mill with several galleries showcasing local products.


Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk Travelling east from Pemberton towards Albany, the award-winning Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk can be found close to the town of Walpole. This much-visited 600-metre walk across a series of raised bridges and elevated walkways provides panoramic views of the giant karri and red timbered jarrah tree canopies. The walk has been designed as a fun, interpretive experience and leads visitors past these monoliths of the forest. Nature’s Window, Kalbarri National Park

Perth to Exmouth drive

Monkey Mia & Shark Bay

Australia’s west coast is truly stunning and this exciting self-drive option between the cosmopolitan city of Perth and the coastal town of Exmouth is perfect for those who crave wide open spaces and unadulterated natural attractions. En route you will encounter stretches of rolling countryside and farmland punctuated by pockets of desert with eerie limestone formations, empty national parks pitted with deep gorges and blood-red escarpments, and an endless string of deserted beaches fringed with calm, turquoise waters. Closer to Exmouth the colourful reefs of the Ningaloo Marine Park provide a grand finale to the journey. Monkey Mia and the Pinnacles are the most popular attractions along this route but elsewhere this coastline remains largely unvisited, resulting in a warm and friendly welcome from locals wherever you choose to stop.

Monkey Mia is a popular resort famed for its clear turquoise waters, white sandy bays and bottlenose dolphins. It’s a very popular spot and interaction between humans and dolphins is very carefully monitored. While the dolphins are undoubtedly the highlight of any visit, this area is also rich in Aboriginal history and indigenous guides offer a range of walking and kayaking tours to help visitors understand the cultural significance of the region. Only a few kilometres away, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shark Bay provides a far less commercial experience. The park is home to an extraordinary range of marine life and a host of walking trails linking sea cliffs, vibrant red dunes and tranquil lagoons where coral, mangrove and seagrass meadows are home to nesting turtles, whales and dolphins.

Bottlenose dolphins, Shark Bay

Kalbarri National Park Nestled at the mouth of the Murchison River and surrounded by a stunning coastline of soaring river gorges and bays, this park is known for its craggy landscapes, carved over millions of years in to towering sandstone cliffs and curious rock formations. This is a particularly popular place from June to August as wildflowers erupt and cover the park with a riot of colour. The nearby town of Kalbarri is a welcoming place and a good base for exploring the area. Walking trails of various lengths wind their way through the park with a number featuring excellent scenic lookouts. We recommend taking the popular Loop Walk, which takes walkers to various viewpoints including the park’s well-known site, Nature’s Window, a natural rock arch that superbly frames the upstream view of the Murchison Gorge.

RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Monkey Mia Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage region, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort overlooks Dolphin Beach. There are 100 rooms as well as a campsite. Rooms are very comfortable with simple, modern decor and garden or beach views. Our favourites are the Superior Beach View rooms which are less than a metre from the beach. Facilities include a swimming pool, tennis court, spa and restaurant.

Murchison Gorge, Kalbarri National Park

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southwest

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Ningaloo Marine Park This astonishing marine park is home to one of the region’s most precious natural resources, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. This is one of the world’s longest fringing reefs as well as one of the few where you are able to swim from the beach straight to the coral, making its clear, warm waters perfect for snorkelling. The reef is home to a huge variety of marine life, with over 500 species of fish and 220 species of tropical coral.

Echidna, Cape Range National Park

Whale sharks While playing home to a plethora of marine life year-round, including myriad fish and kaleidoscopic coral, it is from April to July that the park really springs to life. The annual pilgrimage of whale sharks to these waters attracts marine biologists and divers from

Whale shark, Ningaloo Marine Park

Aerial view of Ningaloo Reef

around the world. Ningaloo Marine Park is the only place in Australia where whale sharks reliably appear each year, and despite being the biggest fish in the sea, snorkellers are able to swim close to these gentle giants. Diving & snorkelling on the reef Ningaloo Marine Park has shallow lagoons and deeper offshore waters, home to a dazzling and diverse array of sealife of all sizes, from graceful manta rays to turtles, dugongs and dolphins. With the reef starting so close to the shore, experiencing all this could not be easier. While we can organise a boat trip for you, it is simple to just put on a mask, walk off the beach and drift-snorkel to experience the colourful attractions beneath the surface.

Emu, Cape Range National Park

Cape Range National Park Blessed with a stunning array of mountain and coastal scenery, this rugged national park sits proudly on the tip of the Northwest Cape Peninsula. Riddled with caves, canyons and limestone gorges and fringed with over 50 kilometres of pristine beaches and the turquoise waters of the Ningaloo Marine Park, it is a fascinating place to explore. Two lovely wilderness trails weave through the park showcasing its diversity of flora and fauna, which includes kangaroos, emus, echidnas and large lizards, while at Yardie Creek the trail along the gorge cliffs takes you to a deep canyon inhabited by rock wallabies. The small towns of Exmouth and Coral Bay are close by and provide an ideal base from which to explore the area.

Sal Salis, Cape Range National Park

Sal Salis, Cape Range National Park Set just metres away from the Ningaloo Reef in the white-sand dunes of the Cape Range National Park, this exclusive camp combines nature with luxury. Sixteen spacious wilderness tents have been designed to blend into the surrounding landscape. To preserve the fragile environment, all power is solar generated and water usage is very carefully monitored. While the emphasis remains on eco-luxury there are few compromises. Each tent is equipped with a comfortable bed and stunning views; the food is excellent and the attentive staff are on hand to help co-ordinate tours around the local area.

Cape Range National Park

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Alpine mint, Cape Range National Park


Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Rottnest Island

western australia

Perth

Fremantle

Cape Range National Park

Exmouth

Monkey Mia

Kalbarri National Park Margaret River

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Tree Top Walk

Albany Nambung National Park

Getting around

Rottnest Island

Most visitors to the Southwest fly into Perth or Exmouth and then collect a hire car and self-drive around the region. The roads are well maintained and largely empty with very little traffic away from the main urban centres. Domestic flights operate regularly between Exmouth and Perth and on to other regions of Australia. The Southwest can easily be combined with other parts of Australia and forms a natural extension to a trip to the Northwest.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33 33

3

3

western australia

Coral Bay

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33 33 33 33

33 The best time to travel. 3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

The Southwest experiences a largely pleasant climate with temperatures never proving too cold even from June to August. The months from December to March can be hot and the further north you travel the greater the humidity. October and November, and April and May are perhaps the nicest months to travel if you are looking to combine both the north and south of the region.

Southwest Uncovered This well-paced itinerary reveals the natural beauty of the Southwest. Starting in Perth you will visit beautiful national parks, idyllic small towns and discover the glorious coastline of both the Indian and Southern oceans. Day 1

Arrive in Perth. Spend the afternoon strolling through Kings Park and the botanical gardens.

Day 2

Take a ferry trip across to Rottnest Island and hire a bicycle to explore.

Day 3

Hop on the train to Fremantle and spend your day exploring the markets and historic centre.

Day 4

Drive to Albany.

Day 5

Walk the streets of this historic maritime town and explore convict jails, old taverns, whaling ships, settlers’ cottages and grand National Trust homes.

Day 6

Take a visit to the rugged Torndirrup National Park.

Day 7

Travel close to the Southern Ocean along the coastal road to Walpole and take the Tree Top Walk.

Time difference: GMT+8 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Day 8

Drive towards Margaret River and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Day 9

Enjoy a morning walk along coastal trails keeping an eye out for migrating whales. Spend the rest of your day visiting the local boutique wineries.

Day 10

Day 11

Return to Perth. Spend your evening watching a beautiful sunset at a restaurant in Cottesloe.

Western Australia Coastal Explorer Travel the empty roads north of Perth on this itinerary that includes a rich diversity of attractions and scenery. Experience spectacular national parks, wild coastlines, historic towns and the amazing marine life of the area, including whale sharks, manta rays and turtles. Day 1

Arrive in Perth. Spend the afternoon exploring the city.

Day 2

Take a ferry to Rottnest Island and hire a bicycle to explore.

Day 3

Take the train to the port town of Fremantle, spend your day wandering around the markets and historic centre.

Day 4

Drive north to Nambung National Park and explore the remarkable Pinnacles Desert.

Day 5

Continue to Kalbarri National Park and take one of the walking trails past canyons and dramatic rock formations.

Day 6

Travel to Monkey Mia.

Day 7

Enjoy a relaxing day at Monkey Mia with the dolphins and unwinding on the beautiful beach.

Day 8

Drive along the coast to Coral Bay.

Day 9

Enjoy your first underwater foray on the Ningaloo Reef.

Day 10

Continue onwards to Exmouth. Walk from the beach to snorkel over bright coral and marvel at the marine life.

Day 11

Spend the day exploring the amazing Cape Range National Park.

Day 12

Fly from Exmouth to Perth. Travel out to Cottesloe Beach to watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Day 13

Travel to the airport for your onward flight.

Take your onward flight.

Stay longer Extend your trip and add on a few days in Exmouth to explore Ningaloo Marine Park.

Perth Fremantle

Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Southwest

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Tasmania W

ild, remote and beautiful, Tasmania was long considered a backwater by mainland Australians but with thriving food and art scenes, lively festivals and a pristine environment, it has gained a reputation as an outstanding destination. In many ways Tasmania is a microcosm of Australia’s best bits; you’ll find ancient rainforest, jagged mountains, pure white beaches and haunting convict history. Hobart, the island’s capital, is enjoying a regeneration and visitors are flying in to sample the atmosphere of one of Australia’s most liveable cities. Outside the city, rolling farmlands give way to spectacular coastal scenes where sapphire-blue waters wash onto chalky-white sand. Sail or kayak along the shores, spot seals, dolphins and penguins, or simply enjoy the purest of air. To the west is untamed wilderness, the craggy mountain peaks and shimmering glacial lakes lending themselves to scenic hiking trips and multi-day adventures. Combine all this with a flock of artisan producers quietly building a reputation for superb food and wine and the island being home to a cornucopia of unique wildlife and you’ll see why Tasmania has become the country’s most talked-about destination.

Audley in Tasmania King Island

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Southwest National Park

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3 Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Take an hour-long stroll around the enchanting Dove Lake or a multi-day trek across the mountainous ridge. See page 78 4 Freycinet National Park Either sit back and relax, take to the waters or hike to your heart’s content in this beautiful coastal region. See page 80

Port Arthur

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1 Hobart Compact and walkable, take time to explore its waterfront and visit its striking Museum of Old and New Art. See page 76

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2 Port Arthur Travel to the isolated Tasman Peninsula for a fascinating insight into Australia’s most significant convict site. See page 77 Eastern grey kangaroo, Maria Island

50 miles

Stanley

Accommodation The excellent range of accommodation in Tasmania ensures there are options to suit everyone. With an eclectic collection of properties spread throughout the island you can choose to stay anywhere from a converted jam factory to a relaxing coastal retreat, charming B&B or luxury wilderness lodge. We pride ourselves on not only having unearthed the best of what Tasmania has to offer, but being able to recommend the most appropriate choice to suit your budget and itinerary.

Flinders Island

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Cape Barren Island

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We are big fans of all things Tasmanian and have years of experience designing itineraries that demonstrate just why we have fallen in love with this beautiful state. Our specialists have walked, toured and wildlife spotted their way across this beautiful island and can advise the best way to incorporate Tasmania’s key highlights with its lesser-known gems. As the distances are on a relatively small-scale, we tend to recommend a self-drive itinerary to take advantage of the great range of accommodation on offer and intersperse some beautiful drives with short walks, beach visits and stops at local markets. Alternatively, we can arrange itineraries for those who prefer to sit back and let someone else do the driving, such as private 4x4 wilderness tours, small group tours, or by carefully linking a couple of the multi-day hikes on offer.

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5 Maria Island An island of beautiful scenery and unique wildlife. See page 82

Walking Choose from a multitude of walking options, ranging from short strolls through to multi-day adventures. See page 82

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Victoria Dock, Hobart

Hobart With a beautiful harbour setting, handsome Georgian architecture and flourishing arts, food and festival scenes, Hobart is one of Australia’s most laid-back and enjoyable cities to visit. Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, it is Australia’s second oldest city but today it effortlessly blends this early settlement history with a youthful and lively exuberance. The opening of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in 2010 signalled a city-wide regeneration and trendy restaurants and bars now vie for attention along the waterfront, markets are flooded with artisan produce and vintage collectibles and there’s an unmistakable air of optimism right across the city. With a dramatic mountain backdrop and wonderful coastal setting, the city also offers a good introduction to the island’s wildlife at the nearby Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart

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The Islington, Hobart Set in a grand old Regency house on a hill overlooking the city, this small luxury hotel is one of Hobart’s best options. Its period charm and character and sweeping views of Mount Wellington make it a very special place to stay and with just 11 guest suites the atmosphere is intimate and service highly personal. There are five rooms in the main house and six in a modern extension but all are beautifully furnished with a mix of Tasmanian antiques and contemporary design. The rooms and communal areas play host to a large collection of original artwork while the lush ornamental garden provides a relaxing setting.

The Henry Jones Art Hotel, Hobart This former jam factory has been inventively converted into a low-rise, boutique hotel. The original structure has been preserved in its entirety and contrasts dramatically with the stylish, modern interiors and contemporary artwork on the walls. From its beautifully-crafted staircase to the restored machinery and all-glass atrium, the hotel reflects the influence of its rich colonial trading history. Each of its 56 rooms is unique but all feature exotic timbers and modern comforts. The hotel boasts over 300 artworks, one of the best restaurants in the city and arguably the best location, right on the edge of the harbour.

Hobart paddle This fun kayaking tour provides a unique perspective on Hobart’s harbour and waterfront, and exploring these waterways reveals the city’s hidden charms. The tour is led by an expert guide who offers insightful commentary as you paddle along the historic shoreline and explore both old and new parts of the city from Salamanca to the docks. You’ll even get a snack of fish and chips delivered directly to your kayak.


The Neck lookout, Bruny Island

Salamanca Market stall, Hobart

The Islington, Hobart

Port Arthur

Bruny Island

Strahan & the Gordon River

A haven for wildlife along with superb coastal scenery, Bruny Island is teeming with marine and birdlife. Excellent day trips to the island operate out of Hobart and include a boat adventure around some of the tallest coastal cliffs in the world. Curious dolphins often sidle up to the vessel and sea eagles and albatrosses can be seen gliding overhead. There are a number of walking trails on the island and fully guided weekend adventures can also be arranged for those who wish to explore in more depth (see page 82).

Located at the head of the Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s west coast, Strahan is the last outpost of civilisation until the southern tip of Argentina. The town’s extreme isolation heavily influenced its history as it was seen as an ideal setting for the relocation of convicts. Sarah Island in the middle of the harbour became home to Europe’s worst criminals who were sent here to work, felling the mighty Huon pines that lined the banks of the Gordon River. Developed on the back of the local timber industry, Strahan is now one of Tasmania’s most attractive towns featuring old timber buildings, a scenic port and a natural backdrop of mountains and thick native bush. Taking a morning cruise into the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park offers an awe-inspiring view of one of Tasmania’s undisputed wilderness highlights.

Port Arthur The historical convict sites around Port Arthur represent one of Australia’s most significant heritage areas and provide a detailed record of the settlement of the country. Described by Governor Arthur as a ‘natural penitentiary’, Port Arthur’s ‘impenetrable’ jails were situated on the Tasman Peninsula, connected to the mainland by an isthmus only 100 metres wide. Port Arthur housed 12,500 convicts between 1830 and 1877, representing the largest, and one of the most brutal, prisons in Australia. The impressive ruins are one of Tasmania’s most visited sites and an absolute must for anyone interested in convict history.

Macquarie Harbour, Strahan

Exploring Tasmania’s wilderness Covering almost one-fifth of Tasmania and encompassing several national parks, the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area is pristine. Immense mountain peaks and glacial lakes are surrounded by towering Huon pines and twisted myrtle which form one of the last expanses of virgin temperate rainforest in the world. There are various ways to explore the area from multi-day treks along rugged trails, a scenic steam-train journey which runs between Strahan and Queenstown, and an enchanting cruise on the Gordon River, which offers a walk through ancient forest and a visit to the penal colony of Sarah Island.

Fur seals, Bruny Island

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Tasmania

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Dove Lake, Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park

Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park Lake St Clair and Cradle Mountain are two of Tasmania’s most beautiful locations with dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. Spectacular mountain peaks overlook deep gorges and glacial lakes and thick eucalypt forests open out in to wild moorlands reminiscent of Scotland. There are a series of walking opportunities in the park including a gentle hike around Dove Lake, a summit walk to Cradle Mountain peak, and the six day Overland Track (see page 82). Throughout the park you are highly likely to encounter wallabies, wombats and possums, while the nearby Devils@Cradle sanctuary offers a fascinating insight into the plight of the Tasmanian devil.

Pumphouse Point, Lake St Clair Set in an isolated position at the southern end of the Overland Track and overlooking the beautiful Lake St Clair, Pumphouse Point is a boutique property with just 18 spacious rooms. The rooms are divided between The Shorehouse on the water’s edge and The Pumphouse, which occupies a stunning position on the end of a 250-metre jetty over the lake. Both buildings are decorated in sleek, contemporary style and the rooms have large windows, many boasting fantastic lake views. You can enjoy kayaking or fly 78

fishing on the lake or one of many walking or mountain biking trails. Otherwise, guests can relax in the lounge around the open fire.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge Located on the edge of the spectacular Cradle Mountain National Park, this wilderness lodge offers a touch of luxury in this untouched landscape. The lodge has 86 rooms in four different styles from warm and cosy pine cabins to absolute indulgence in the King Billy suites. Evening meals are a feast of excellent food and wine served up next to a roaring log fire – the perfect way to end a day of exploration. A range of walking trails spider out from the lodge, while the park’s visitor information centre and famous Dove Lake Walk are just moments away. Cradle Mountain Lodge also offers a variety of ranger-led walks throughout the park, including nocturnal wildlife spotting, as well as a host of other tours.

Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge

Tasmanian devils Despite their iconic status, the future of the Tasmanian devil hangs in the balance with the devastating devil tumour facial disease reducing their population to an endangered level. Sightings of wild ‘Tassie devils’ are now quite rare, however, a visit to the Devils@Cradle sanctuary, on the edge of the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park allows you to get up close to these elusive animals, join a nocturnal feeding tour and learn about the conservation programme and the work being done to ensure their survival.


Pumphouse Point, Lake St Clair

Cataract Gorge, Launceston

4x4 wilderness tours There is no better introduction to all things Tasmanian – food, wine, wildlife and wilderness – than a private 4x4 tour where you are accompanied by a driver-guide. While tours can be completely tailored to suit your interests, we would highly recommend they include a visit to one of the island’s national parks. Your guide can take you to some of the island’s most scenic spots, revealing Tasmania’s unique flora and fauna while keeping a look out for Tasmanian wildlife. Tours include delicious food washed down by some of the state’s finest beers and wines. Tamar River through Launceston

Launceston Set at the convergence of three of northern Tasmania’s largest rivers, the Tamar, North Esk and South Esk, Launceston is the island’s second city and the gateway to the north. Elegant Victorian and Edwardian properties line the city’s streets and its small harbourfront has an extensive boardwalk. With a relaxed but sophisticated attitude and a thriving food and wine scene, the city is a popular stop in any Tasmania itinerary. Within walking distance of the city centre, Launceston’s Cataract Gorge is a beautiful river canyon with vertiginous walls.

Ashton Gate, Launceston Behind the distinguished whitewashed walls of Ashton Gate’s weatherboard façade you will discover a peaceful refuge with a warm and homely ambience. Built around 1880 and lovingly restored to provide modern comforts, the guesthouse retains many of its original features. The nine spacious, well-appointed rooms, are decorated in period style and feature cast-iron beds and open fireplaces. Outside beautiful English-styled gardens surround the house and a delightful enclosed courtyard makes a tranquil place to relax. Ashton Gate is conveniently located close to Launceston city centre and its harbourfront.

Peppers Seaport, Launceston The characterful Peppers Seaport benefits from a charming waterfront location. With a nautical theme throughout, the hotel is bright and airy with muted colours, a contemporary design and a relaxed ambience. The hotel features 60 spacious and comfortable rooms and its open-plan guest areas face the harbourfront boardwalk, which is home to some of the city’s best cafes and restaurants. In the centre of Launceston and only a short walk from the beautiful Cataract Gorge, the property’s convenient location makes it a good choice for both city and regional exploration.

Food & wine Tasmania is blessed with rich and fertile soil and productive farming areas that supply the markets and restaurants of the region with some of Australia’s finest produce. While best known for its award-winning, cool-climate wines and fresh seafood, wherever you travel you will encounter wonderfully fresh artisan foods. From wild trout fished out of highland streams to craft beers and whiskies, speciality cheese and honey, and home-made chocolates and fudges, there is something for all taste buds. Those particularly interested in food can time their visit to Tasmania with one of its many food-related festivals or join a cooking course run by one of its passionate local chefs.

Ashton Gate, Launceston

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Tasmania

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Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park Freycinet National Park is a stunning destination and for many a highlight of their journey to the island. Located on the southern tip of the Freycinet Peninsula, the park is dominated by the imposing pink granite outcrops of the Hazards Mountain Range which, alongside its lush forested wilderness, is home to a wealth of bird and animal life and beautiful walking trails. The park has majestic coastal scenery, and Wineglass Bay is without doubt its most well-known beach. Its chalky-white sand, turquoise water and crescent-moon shape is one of Tasmania’s best-known images. This spectacular park is an ideal spot for hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting and simply relaxing.

Freycinet Lodge, Freycinet National Park Boasting a spectacular coastal location between the beautiful Great Oyster Bay and the mighty Hazards Mountain Range, this charming wilderness lodge has won numerous environmental awards for its sympathetic and unobtrusive design. Guests can choose from a range of accommodation options but each of the 60 cabins features warm, contemporary styling, a private balcony and a secluded bush setting. The lodge’s main building serves as the perfect communal area and offers panoramic views of the bay below. There are two restaurants to choose from, a cosy bar, tennis courts and a gallery featuring local art.

Freycinet Cruise The beautiful coastline of Freycinet National Park is best seen from the sea and a cruise is a great opportunity to soak up the scenery as you pass dramatic cliffs and remote, deserted beaches. Cruise to Wineglass Bay and learn about the Aboriginal and whaling history of the area as well as the marine and bird life. Albatross, mutton birds and dolphins are all common in this area and between September and November you are likely to see whales as they migrate southward.

Saffire, Freycinet National Park

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Saffire, Freycinet National Park The luxurious Saffire lodge occupies one of the Freycinet Peninsula’s most idyllic locations with views of the pink Hazards Mountains from each of its full-length windows. The lodge itself is striking; its organic, flowing curves reflecting the ocean surroundings and blending into the landscape. The main building is shaped like a giant manta ray and is home to Saffire’s fine-dining restaurant, while the 20 luxury villas are furnished in a contemporary style and feature private courtyards. Some of the villas also have a private plunge pool. Service here is impeccable and it is an ideal place to simply relax. Away from the lodge a host of activities await, from guided walking tours, canoeing and birdwatching to fishing and visiting a local oyster farm.

Bay of Fires Coastal Reserve Blue seas, brilliant-white sands and large granite boulders covered in bright orange lichen, make the Bay of Fires Coastal Reserve a stunning blaze of colour and one of the most picturesque stretches of coast in the country. The sand on this coastline is said to be among the world’s whitest and native wildlife, including wallabies and wombats can be seen in abundance, either while exploring portions of the coastline by car, or on a wilderness walk.


Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Strahan

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Bruny Island

Tasmania’s compact size lends itself well to a self-drive itinerary with excellent guesthouses and accommodation options dotted around the island allowing you to choose the pace of your tour. While there are a number of winding stretches of road which do require extra care, particularly on the rugged west coast, Tasmania’s empty roads and relatively short distances make driving here very appealing. However, if you’d prefer to have someone else do the driving then we can arrange a private guide or for you to join a small group tour. Tasmania’s main gateways are Hobart and Launceston, which are both serviced by domestic flights and act as hubs for tours and self-drive itineraries.

When to go

Hobart

This self-drive itinerary offers the perfect introduction to Tasmania’s highlights and covers the entire island, taking in its stunning array of landscapes from the sweeping beaches of the east to the pristine wilderness of the west. Day 1

Arrive in Launceston and spend your afternoon at leisure.

Day 2

Make your way to the northeast of Launceston and the start of a full afternoon and evening of private touring.

Day 3

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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More than anywhere else in Australia, Tasmania enjoys four distinct seasons, each with its own unique pleasures and appeal. Its summer months (December, January, February) are often warm and sunny and this is our favourite time of the year. The months of March, April, October and November are calm and sunny and ideal for walking while June, July and August are cold and snow is common on higher ground.

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Drive to Cradle Mountain – Lake St Claire National Park.

Day 2

Explore the region’s walking trails and then learn about its unique local wildlife at Devils@Cradle.

Explore the city of Hobart visiting the historic buildings on the waterfront.

Day 3

Cruise from Hobart to Bruny Island for the start of your small group walking tour. After a walk to the east coast shuck fresh oysters and prepare yourself for your first gourmet dinner.

Day 4

Spend the day walking and wildlife spotting before visiting a local farm to collect fresh ingredients for your evening meal.

Day 5

Take an exciting boat trip back to Hobart, via some of the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere for more wildlife spotting opportunities.

Day 6

Catch the ferry across to Maria Island and start walking the trail with your guide and small group.

Day 7

A full day’s walk over several kilometres of beautiful beaches. Take an afternoon swim to cool down.

Day 8

Head inland as your walk traverses grand forests of giant blue gums and climb Mount Maria in the afternoon for glorious views of the island.

Day 9

Conclude the walk and return to Hobart invigorated and recharged.

Day 10

Take your onward flight.

Day 6

Enjoy a morning cruise to explore the wildlife and history of the Gordon River. Spend your afternoon relaxing.

Day 7

Travel from the mountainous west coast to the welcoming city of Hobart.

Day 8

Drive to Port Arthur and walk around the ruins and museum. In the evening enjoy a seafood meal in one of Hobart’s excellent restaurants.

Day 9

Take an exhilarating wildlife cruise around the rugged cliffs of Bruny Island and learn about its wildlife.

Day 10

Continue on to the picturesque Freycinet National Park and head straight up to Wineglass Bay Lookout for stunning views.

Day 11

Tour the Freycinet Peninsula on an informative cruise and take in Wineglass Bay from the water.

Time difference: GMT+11 hours

Day 12

Get off the beaten path with this action-packed itinerary that combines two of the island’s best multi-day walks; the Bruny Island Long Weekend and the Maria Island Walk. Using the welcoming city of Hobart as a base, this is a great itinerary for those with limited time or who don’t wish to self-drive. Arrive in Hobart. Head up to the peak of Mount Wellington for a panoramic view of the city and coastline below.

Spend the morning walking around Dove Lake before driving onwards to Strahan. Take in an evening performance to learn of the region’s rich convict history.

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

Tasmania Walking & Wilderness

Day 1

Day 5

33 The best time to travel. 3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

Bruny Island

Port Arthur

Classic Tasmania

Day 4

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Freycinet National Park

Hobart

Getting around

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Maria Island National Park

Launceston Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park

Return to Launceston in time for your onward flight.

Stay longer Explore more of Tasmania and head to the western side of the island and the rugged Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park.

Fishing boats, Victoria Dock, Hobart

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Darlington, Maria Island National Park

Bay of Fires Coastal Reserve

Walking on the Cradle Mountain Overland Track

Walking & trekking in Tasmania Tasmania offers splendid walks for all levels of fitness. There are over 300 kilometres of established trails that take you into rainforests, along coastal cliffs, beside lakes and seas and over jagged mountain peaks. Below is a list of our favourites. Cradle Mountain Huts Walk Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair are the start and end points for the 64-kilometre Overland Track, which is regularly hailed as one of the greatest wilderness walks in the southern hemisphere. The walk is spread over six days and follows a track through moorlands, forests and along freshwater streams. Accommodation is in well-appointed huts along the route. As well as the wildlife and scenery, this trek is brought to life by the local guides who enhance the journey with their knowledge and understanding of the flora, fauna, geology and history. This walk covers variable terrain and is suitable for those with medium to high levels of fitness.

Fresh oysters on Bruny Island Long Weekend

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Bay of Fires Walk Discover breathtaking beaches, dramatic landscapes and local wildlife on this magnificent four-day trek along the edge of the Mount William National Park and the extraordinary Bay of Fires. The white sandy beaches and shimmering waters are a key attraction, however, the area is also rich in Aboriginal history and wildlife with echidnas, possums, wombats, Tasmanian devils and eastern grey kangaroos found here. The first night is spent in a permanent bush camp and is followed by two nights in the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge. Most of the route is along beaches and rocky headlands and will suit anyone with a moderate level of fitness. The longest day covers 14 kilometres. Maria Island Walk Starting from Hobart, this four-day walk celebrates all things Tasmanian with a compelling mix of wildlife, wilderness and fine local food and wine. Expert guides lead the walk and bring the island to life as you wander through towering eucalypt forest, climb dramatic sea cliffs, relax on untouched beaches and learn about local wildlife and convict history. We suggest that a moderate level of fitness is adequate for this walk, with distances of up to 13 kilometres covered each day. Accommodation is in environmentallyfriendly wilderness camps for the first two nights followed by a night in a restored heritage-listed home.

Bay of Fires Walk

Bruny Island Long Weekend This short, small group tour allows you to experience the scenery, wildlife and produce of Tasmania over three days. Covering approximately 26 kilometres of bush and beach terrain, this is one of Tasmania’s more relaxed walks and includes a wildlife cruise, which adds to the diversity of the experience. You’ll spend each morning walking and afternoons visiting the local oyster farm and one of the southernmost wineries in the world. The island is home to numerous wallabies and echidnas, along with an abundance of birdlife, while a large number of marine mammals can be spotted on your cruise. Accommodation is in a purpose-built campsite with permanent raised tents, comfortable beds and hot showers.


Travelling to Australia T

ravelling to Australia is a great adventure and despite the long distance involved there are many things you can do to make your journey as pleasant as possible. Unless you are planning an epic overland expedition, getting to Australia means taking a long flight, but if you take care of yourself in the air and allow some time to acclimatise once you arrive you will quickly feel ready to explore.

Spice souk, Dubai

View of skyline from Victoria Peak, Hong Kong

Choosing your flight to Australia is an important feature of any itinerary. Fortunately there is a choice of excellent airlines and the standards of service are high. The airline cabins are well designed, with excellent on-board entertainment displayed in seat-back screens and each airline offers varying levels of leg room, known as seat pitch, depending on your choice of travel class. The average seat pitch in economy is 32 inches, 38 in premium economy, 60 in business and 80 in first, although these do vary.

Stopover Cities There is no airline, as yet, that flies to Australia non-stop so why not take advantage of this and stop off for a few days en route? Breaking your journey on the way out and back allows you to explore different destinations and can help you acclimatise to the time difference in Australia far quicker. We can organise tailor-made travel arrangements in a wide number of cities and ensure you experience the best of any destination that you choose. Here are a few of the most popular places to stop en route to Australia.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Singapore

Hong Kong Experience the buzz of one of Asia’s great cities by stopping in Hong Kong. Famous for its busy harbour and glittering skyline, the former colonial trading hub turned modern-day metropolis is the perfect stopover for a few days. Enjoy a tram ride up to Victoria Peak for incredible views of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the surrounding islands, take the Star Ferry across the harbour as dusk falls and the skyline starts to light up, and try the fresh dim sum in the bustling Stanley Market. Singapore Merging the skyscrapers and buzz of a bustling city with a melting pot of traditions which have come from Chinese, Indian, Malay and British influences, Singapore offers a rewarding juxtaposition of old and new and a fascinating stop-over destination. Choose to shop until you drop in leading fashion retailers, visit local markets and ancient temples in China Town and Little India and enjoy stunning sun sets over the Singapore Strait.

Los Angeles The most common stopover for travellers flying westwards is Los Angeles and it provides a good starting point if you wish to explore some of the USA’s great national parks. The city itself is a non-stop, hedonistic playground with fantastic weather, miles of great beaches, excellent shopping and plenty of iconic sights familiar from film and TV. If you have a couple of days here we would recommend an afternoon at Santa Monica for a stroll along the beachfront, a visit to chic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, dinner in glitzy West Hollywood and a trip up to Griffiths Observatory near the Hollywood sign for a great view out over the urban sprawl below. Dubai Start your trip with some sunshine on the beaches of Dubai or end it with some tax-free shopping, haggling for a bargain in the atmospheric old souks or gleaming shopping malls. Dubai has an abundance of luxury hotels, an emerging number of excellent restaurants and offers a wealth of activities should you wish to keep busy. There are several championship golf courses, 4x4 sand dune excursions, a huge array of water sports including a fabulous water park and hot air balloon trips out over the desert. With hot sunny weather virtually all year round, however, it is the beach or pool that often proves most popular.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Travelling to Australia

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Suggested multi-region itineraries Darwin

Kakadu National Park Port Douglas Cairns

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Australia Uncovered This wonderful itinerary covers many of our favourite locations across the northern half of Australia combining the national parks and cultural sights of the Top End and the Red Centre with time at the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Day 1

Arrive in Darwin. Explore the city.

Day 2

Day exploring Darwin’s sights before taking in the Mindl Beach markets.

Day 3

Collect a car and head to the Kakadu National Park.

Day 4

Join a small group tour and spend a full day touring the scenic and cultural sites of Arnhem Land and Kakadu.

Day 5

Explore some of Kakadu’s sights independently before travelling to Cooinda.

Day 6

Cruise the Yellow Waters and see a multitude of birdlife and crocodiles before travelling back to Darwin in the afternoon.

Day 7

Fly to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, via Alice Springs, and this evening dine out under the stars.

Day 8

Go for a morning walk around the base of Uluru in the company of a local guide. In the afternoon visit the domed rocks of Kata Tjuta.

Day 9

Fly to Cairns. Transfer along the Captain Cook Highway to your hotel in Port Douglas.

Day 10

Relax by Four Mile Beach and spend the afternoon browsing the shops of Port Douglas.

Day 11

Take a cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef for a day of snorkelling or diving.

Day 12

Join a small group tour and spend the day exploring the wonders of Daintree Rainforest.

Day 13

A final day at leisure to relax by the beach.

Day 14

Return to Cairns for your onward flight.

Aerial view over the Great Barrier Reef

With so much variety in Australia you may choose to concentrate on exploring just one of the regions in this brochure but the most popular itineraries we arrange often feature a combination of two or more regions. A visit to one of the cosmopolitan east coast cities gives a great introduction to Australia while a trip inland to the Red Centre and Outback reveals vast open spaces and a different pace of life. Combine this with a relaxing break on a beautiful beach and you have a great blend of Australia’s best experiences. Although it is possible to enjoy a multi-region trip in under two weeks, you may feel a bit rushed. If you are able to spare a little longer you will have the time to see more of the country and relax by including a few leisure days. We have extensive experience of what works in Australia and would be happy to make recommendations and create an itinerary to suit your interests and requirements.

Koala, Kangaroo Island

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Australia specialists to start planning your itinerary.

T 01993 838 810

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to Australia on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans. Blue Mountains, Sydney

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Port Douglas

Port Douglas Cairns

Cairns

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Noosa Flinders Ranges National Park

Perth Sydney

Margaret River

Brisbane

Adelaide Kangaroo Island Melbourne Grampians Port Fairy National Park

Sydney

Classic Australia

Coast to Coast

Family Australia

This fantastic itinerary visits some of the most iconic sights of Australia at a reasonably relaxed pace. Beyond the cosmopolitan city of Sydney you will visit spectacular national parks, the rugged outback and discover the beautiful Great Barrier Reef.

Linking a number of Australia’s best attractions on the east and west coast, this varied itinerary gives a great overview of the diversity that the country has to offer, including beaches, vineyards, outback, wildlife and the Great Ocean Road.

Australia has something for the whole family. This great trip combines a number of the country’s highlights at a relaxed pace. Visit Sydney, Brisbane and the Northeast, taking in beautiful beaches and unusual wildlife with opportunities for plenty of fun activities.

Day 1 Day 1

Arrive in Sydney. Take a walk around the historic Rocks district.

Day 2

Visit the Opera House for a backstage tour. Take an afternoon cruise on the harbour.

Day 3

Enjoy a morning walk through the botanical gardens. In the afternoon walk the clifftop trail from Coogee to Bondi.

Day 4

Leave Sydney behind and take a day trip to the Blue Mountains.

Day 5

Take a flight to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. In the afternoon visit the domed rocks of Kata Tjuta, a great place for photography.

Day 6

Day 7 Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Rise early for a morning tour of the base of Uluru. That evening dine out under the stars.

Day 2

Arrive in Perth and take a stroll through Kings Park.

Day 1

Explore cosmopolitan Fremantle and its colourful markets.

Arrive in Sydney. Set out to explore the city on foot.

Day 2

Take the ferry to Manly. Learn to surf or body board. That afternoon visit the Aquarium in Darling Harbour.

Day 3

Travel inland to the Blue Mountains. Take a nature walk and keep a look out for kangaroos and koalas.

Day 4

Fly to Brisbane. Visit the landscaped lagoon and parklands of Southbank.

Day 5

Spend a day exploring the nearby attractions.

Day 6

Travel to Noosa. Spend the afternoon on the beach.

Day 7

Relax on the beach or by the pool.

Day 8

Visit the largest sand island in the world, Fraser Island, on an exciting 4x4 trip. In the evening return to Noosa.

Day 9

Fly to Cairns and travel north to the seaside town of Port Douglas.

Day 10

Take a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to snorkel over the reef or view the corals and marine life from a glass-bottomed boat.

Day 11

Explore the Daintree Rainforest.

Day 12

Spend the day relaxing on Four Mile Beach.

Day 13

Return to the airport for your onward flight.

Day 3

Collect a hire car and drive south to the vineyards of Margaret River.

Day 4

Spend the morning beachcombing before enjoying an afternoon wine tour.

Day 5

Return to the airport for your flight to Adelaide. Enjoy an afternoon in the city’s botanic gardens.

Day 6

Visit Adelaide’s central market for breakfast before making your way to the beach suburb of Glenelg.

Day 7

Travel north to the Flinders Ranges National Park.

Day 8

Fly to Cairns. Transfer to Port Douglas.

Enjoy a day exploring the stunning Flinders Ranges landscapes.

Day 9

Travel across the Mossman River and into the Daintree Rainforest. Return to Port Douglas in the evening.

After a scenic flight return to Adelaide in the afternoon.

Days 10-11 Take an early flight to Kangaroo Island for two full days of touring.

Take a trip out to the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to snorkel over the reef or view the corals and marine life from a glass-bottomed boat. Spend a relaxing morning on Four Mile Beach before exploring the shops, galleries and marina of Port Douglas. Return to Cairns for your onward flight.

Day 12

Fly back to Adelaide and drive to the rugged Grampians National Park.

Day 13

Spend the day walking through the national park.

Day 14

Drive to Port Fairy.

Day 15

Start your journey along the Great Ocean Road and drive past the iconic Twelve Apostles.

Day 16

Relax by the waterfront of Apollo Bay or explore the nearby Great Otway National Park.

Day 17

Travel to Melbourne.

Day 18

Spend a day touring the city’s fantastic cafe culture.

Day 19

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

www.audleytravel.com/australia • 01993 838 810 • Multi-region itineraries

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Perth

Blue Mountains Adelaide

Sydney

Australia by Train Take an unforgettable trip across Australia on the Indian Pacific, one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, travelling from one coast to another. This itinerary is a great blend of fantastic sights and stunning scenery and with no driving involved you can sit back, relax and take it all in.

The Ghan rail journey, Alice Springs

Rail journeys The scale and diversity of Australia means it is ideally suited to exploring by train. With several spectacular rail journeys to choose from this mode of transport offers a genuinely memorable experience and a different perspective on the Australian landscape. A network of railway lines cut through mountain ranges and deserts, past meadows and forests, rivers and oceans affording passengers a wonderful range of vistas as they travel through the countryside. Travelling by train is often recognised as more than just a means to an end and in Australia it is certainly an experience to be remembered. Australia has two iconic long-distance rail journeys that provide an opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the country and allow you to get on and off at different locations. If you want to minimise flying and would rather not drive, a train journey is an excellent alternative. Relax into the rhythmic motion of the train and sit back to gaze at the changing scenery that passes by. You will arrive at your destination feeling you have experienced far more of the country.

Indian Pacific The Indian Pacific is one of the world’s great rail journeys extending across the entire length of Australia. Connecting the Indian Ocean in the west with the Pacific Ocean in the east, the train takes four days and three nights to complete the 4,352-kilometre route between Perth and Sydney via Adelaide. As with all great train journeys the Indian Pacific reveals some beautiful scenery as it traverses a varied landscape of outback deserts, farming land, lush valleys and mountain ranges. This isn’t just one of the longest train journeys in the world, but also one of the most memorable. The Ghan The second of Australia’s great long-distance train journeys, The Ghan cuts through the heart of the country running from Darwin in the north to Adelaide in the south. This historic track extends 2,979 kilometres and follows an old pioneer route through the red deserts of the Australian outback. The train stops at Alice Springs, which provides an opportunity to get off for a few days and take an excursion to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Cabins There is a choice of carriages on board both The Ghan and Indian Pacific that we would recommend. Choose from Gold Service which offers comfortable cabins with compact en suite facilities and seats that convert into a sleeper berth in the evening, or upgrade to Platinum Service with larger cabins with full en suite bathrooms. Platinum and Gold Service guests on both trains can dine in the attractive restaurant cars where all meals and beverages are included.

Indian Pacific railway

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Day 1

Arrive in Perth. Check into your hotel and set out to explore the city on foot.

Day 2

Catch the train to Fremantle and spend the afternoon strolling through the historic maritime streets.

Day 3

Board the Indian Pacific. Settle into your carriage as the train passes through fertile valleys and wheat fields.

Day 4

Relax on board as the train travels across vast outback desert.

Day 5

Arrive in Adelaide in the morning. (During September and October a three-day stop is possible here).

Day 6

Take a tram to Glenelg and spend the day at this charming seaside suburb.

Day 7

Enjoy an excursion to Barossa Valley and indulge in some local wine tasting.

Day 8

Reboard the Indian Pacific. Travel northeast through farming land.

Day 9

Journey through the majestic Blue Mountains before arriving in Sydney. That evening enjoy a tasty meal with views of the Opera House.

Day 10

Spend the morning walking along the stunning coastal path from Coogee to Bondi. In the afternoon take a cruise on the sparkling harbour.

Day 11

Take a morning walk around the beautiful botanical gardens with views of the Sydney skyline and famous Harbour Bridge. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.


Useful information

Surfing competition, Sydney

AITO Membership Audley is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Audley abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.co.uk.

Kata Tjuta, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Contact us

Flights

Address:

Australia is well served by international flights from the UK with direct routes to all major cities across the country and a broad variety of stop-over options available. Although most flights to Australia originate in London, more direct flights are opening up from other regional airports. We use all the reputable airlines that fly into the region but if you are interested in travelling in premium economy, business or first class, please mention this to your specialist as it can affect your choice of airline.

Audley Travel, New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom. Telephone: 01993 838 810 Email: australia@audleytravel.com London Office: Audley Travel, Monsoon Building, 1 Nicholas Road, London W11 4AN, United Kingdom.

Honeymoons A honeymoon to Australia offers a little bit of everything. Whether you are looking for indulgent relaxation on a pristine beach, the opportunity to explore the country’s iconic sights, vast outback or lush rainforests, or the chance to venture well off the beaten track, Australia has it all. Sydney and Melbourne provide a dynamic start to a honeymoon with plenty to see and do. Inland there are national parks to explore and wildlife to spot while the beaches of the Northeast and islands of the Great Barrier Reef are particularly appealing for a chance to relax in a choice of excellent hotels.

Responsible Travel We’re passionate about travel, but also deeply aware of the responsibility we have to the people and places we visit. We believe that a visit from an Audley traveller should have a positive impact on the destination and, wherever possible, bring real benefits. We always endeavour to use locally owned hotels, work with local guides and operators, and promote community and wildlife projects. For more information about travelling responsibly and the charities and projects we support please visit www.audleytravel.com/rt

Terms & Conditions and Travel Insurance Your booking is subject to the Terms and Conditions of Audley Travel, which we will include with your personalised itinerary and can also be found on our website. It is vital that you have adequate travel insurance and we are able to suggest a number of policies either for the duration of your trip or on an annual basis.

Photography in this brochure We would like to thank the following photographers for the images used in this brochure: Alamy, Audley staff, clients and suppliers, AWL images, iStockphoto, Hamilton Lund, Melissa Gibson, Robert Harding, Ron Tan, Superstock, Tom Evangelidis, Tourist Boards. All images used in this brochure were obtained in good faith by Audley Travel Group Limited and in the belief that all necessary consents and clearances were obtained for their use. However, if you believe that unauthorised use has been made of an image belonging to you please contact us on 01993 838 040.

Visit our offices

www.audleytravel.com

If you would like to discuss your travel arrangements in person we welcome personal visits, please call in advance to arrange an appointment with one or more of our country specialists. Our offices are at the New Mill, a 17th century converted wool mill on the outskirts of Witney, ten miles west of Oxford on the edge of the Cotswolds. We also have an office in west London, if this is more convenient for you.

Our website is packed with information, features and advice covering all our destinations across the globe. On the site you can browse by theme, special interest or region as well as viewing additional accommodation options and itineraries that are not featured in this brochure. You can download all our brochures online or contact us via the website where there is the option to tell us about your plans so that we can start tailoring your itinerary.

www.audleytravel.com/visit-us

Useful information

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New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom Telephone: 01993 838 810 • Fax: 01993 838 010 Email: australia@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.com

This brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forest Stewardship Council ,® using vegetable inks. Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC® environmental certifications. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure, we kindly request that you recycle it. The paper used in this brochure has also been carbon balanced.


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