Coastal and Wildlife Self Drive Explorer

Merimbula is a true gem on the enchanting Sapphire Coast, a small charming seaside town rising on the tree-clad hills around the tranquil waters of Lake Merimbula and Back Lagoon, in fact Merimbula itself is a name translating to two lakes. Beyond the coastal lakes, there is an abundance of coves and rugged beaches including the 6km long main beach which makes for stunning views and boasts a myriad of walking trails along the coast. Moreover there are seemingly limitless water-based activities for visitors to enjoy nearby to the town including fishing, swimming, surfing, boating, lake cruises, scuba diving, sailboarding and canoeing.

A popular holiday spot for over 100 years, Lakes Entrance has an easy seaside charm. Located on the edge of Ninety Mile Beach where the Gippsland Lakes meets the Southern Ocean, many of the local activities are water based. Lakes Entrance is renowned for its fresh seafood due to the many fishing trawlers operating in the area. Visit nearby scenic Lake Tyers, bordered by ocean and state forest. Boasting Australia's largest inland network of waterways, making it for the unique experience of getting around by boat, this Victorian town is well equipped with accommodation, services and facilities for those enjoying their coastal escape.

Cowes, laid out across a beautiful stretch of coastline on the north side of Phillip Island, it is the islands major town and commercial hub, a positively bustling spot during the holiday season with a number of seaside eateries and renowned restaurants. The foreshore offers fantastic coastal walks, safe swimming beaches, pretty picnic areas and the jetty is very popular fishing spot. Various seal watching cruises are also available in the area, proving the best way to see the fascinating fur seals up close. Cowes certainly makes for the ideal base whilst visiting Phillip Island, boasting more accommodation than anywhere else and just ten minutes drive from the iconic Penguin Parade.

Included today is entrance to 3 parks: Koala Conervation Centre, Chuchill Island Heritage Farm and Nobbies Centre included today is entrance to the famous penguin parade

Melbourne is Australia's cultural and sporting capital, known as much for its cafes, galleries, laneways and arcades, as for its major sporting events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Australian Open and AFL and cricket matches at the MCG. The city grew during the gold rush in the 19th century and much of this early architecture still stands today within the grid of easy-to-navigate streets of central Melbourne. From the historic buildings to the fantastic shopping precincts to the diverse bar and restaurant scene, a visit to Melbourne is all about experiencing the lifestyle that this vibrant city offers.

Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne with this immersive tour, guided by passionate local hosts. Embrace the city's unique blend of history, culture, and creativity, where every turn reveals something new. Whether you're a curious visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to Melbourne's soul. Spend a few leisurely hours with us and discover the magic of Melbourne. Finish with a one course lunch and a glass of local wine in a Melbourne hotspot (unaccompanied).

We pass through the Western Plains of Victoria on our way to the historic town of Ballarat. Ballarat boomed in the 1850s with the widespread discovery of gold in the district. Learn a little about the history as we enjoy morning tea here at the site of the infamous Eureka Rebellion. Continuing on our drive through the picturesque, volcanic plains, we pass through the town of Moyston, the birthplace of Australian Rules Football. We then arrive at the foot of the Grampians Range or Gariwerd in the local Jardwadjali language. On arrival, we immerse ourselves in the Australian bush with a gentle stroll to see the Silverband Falls. We next make our way into the township of Halls Gap for a lunch break (own expense). Keep an eye open for the local kangaroos and abundant birdlife that can be seen in the main street. After lunch, we head to the Wonderland Turntable trail for a short hike to the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the high rising rock walls, crisscrossed with layering and fault lines, showcasing the area's unique geology. Stunning panoramas await at Reeds Lookout which overlooks the towering Stringybark Forest and Victoria Valley. Next stop is MacKenzie Falls. No trip to the Grampians would be complete without a visit to these majestic waterfalls. Set in a gorge surrounded by eucalyptus forest, the water cascades down over the rocks, creating a tranquil scene enticing all the senses. Walk the Bluff trail along the top of the cliffs to the panoramic viewpoint of the falls or journey down the stairs to the base of the steep gorge and gaze up at this truly impressive waterfall. Our next port of call is the Boroka Lookout. Boroka provides panoramic views of the surrounding region, overlooking the town of Halls Gap and further afield to Lake Bellfield and beyond. We then make our way back into Halls Gap for a final opportunity to spot some of the area's wild kangaroo population before beginning our return to Melbourne. A dinner stop is made on the return journey to Melbourne, then we enjoy a stunning view of the illuminated city as we complete the return journey to Melbourne. With drop off right back to your inner city accommodation.

The Mornington Peninsula has long been a favourite destination for coastal holidays and cosy winter escapes. In the warmer months, swimming and surf beaches await whilst seaside restaurants and local markets provide an array of places to eat and drink. When the temperature drops, fireside dining and art exhibitions turn up the heat.Adventure gardens, marine activities and iconic attractions are here for the thrill seekers. While it's at Mornington Peninsula hot springs and day spas where you'll be amongst the chill seekers. The region's golf scene is excellent to enjoy throughout all seasons of the year. And there are countless wineries and cellar doors at which you can find your next favourite drop. A new generation of makers is excited to meet you on the Beer, Cider and Spirits Trail.Less than an hours’ drive from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula provides so many reasons to explore more of the things to do, places to go, and sights to see.

Midway along the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is truly the iconic destination on this incredible stretch of coastline. Nestled in the foothills of the Otway Ranges, the town is one of tranquil beaches, scenic clifftop walks and spectacular rainforests. Visitors can spot migrating southern right whales in the waters offshore between winter and spring as well as Aussie classics like kangaroos, koalas and wombats. Explore further beyond the town's cute cafes and discover the petrified forest, visit Australia's oldest mainland lighthouse or enjoy a bird's eye view of the rainforest from the treetop walk.

Located near the end of the Great Ocean Road, the charming fishing village of Port Fairy started as a whaling community in the early nineteenth century and retains much of its heritage from this period. One of the town's highlights is Griffiths Island and the Port Fairy Lighthouse, where bird-watchers will enjoy the plethora of birds about. Port Fairy also has a buzzing arts scene, with boutiques, antique stores, art and craft shops and an annual folk festival on offer, culminating to make this idyllic little spot the perfect stop on your Victorian roundtrip.

Mt. Gambier has two famous attractions, the Blue Lake and the Cave in the center of the city. As a consequence the town is known as "Blue Lake City" or the "City around a Cave". The lake is famous for its change of color from winter grey to intense blue in November each year. It remains blue until late March, and aside from its beauty, is the City's source of domestic water.

Adelaide is one of the nation's most beautiful and well-planned cities, with a great visual harmony and elegant style. It is harboured between the calm waters of Gulf St Vincent and the picturesque backdrop of the Adelaide Hills. An idyllic city centre is entirely surrounded by stunning green parklands and Adelaide Botanic Garden and the Oval. Rundle Street is a hive of activity featuring award winning restaurants, outdoor cafes, markets, elegant buildings and gardens. South of here is the Adelaide Central Market, offering a variety of fresh produce, tiny cafes and a vast array of goods.

An early morning pick-up from your hotel for a scenic coach transfer to Cape Jervis taking in the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula with its vineyards, coastal views and rolling hills. On arrival, board the SeaLink ferry for the 45-minute crossing to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Here you will board your luxury SeaLink coach and your local driver/guide will take you on a tour of South Australia's premier nature-based tourism destination. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park where you will be taken on a guided beach walk with an experienced guide and be amongst a colony of rare Australian sea lions. Get up close and see these wild creatures frolic and laze about - a truly amazing and unforgettable experience. A delicious two course lunch will follow your Seal Bay Conservation Park visit. Spend the afternoon in the Flinders Chase National Park, which was devastated in the worst fire to ever hit the island in January 2020. You'll see that the regeneration of the native bush occurs so quickly after the event and there will be many opportunities to take photos. As you travel through the park, keep an eye out for echidnas, wallabies, reptiles, and koalas. See the rugged coastline from walks around Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Remarkable Rocks provide great photographic opportunities, and the Admirals Arch boardwalk takes you down a rugged cliff face to reveal the spectacular rock archway, a natural nursery and safe haven for playful Long-nosed Fur Seals. Your last visit of the day is to the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park to feed some kangaroos and get up close to the Kangaroo Island Koalas while listening to the Keeper talk about the cuddly mammals. If time permits, there may be a photo opportunity to hold a Koala (additional cost). There is a possibility that you will see more kangaroos and wallabies on your return to Penneshaw for your ferry and coach transfer back to Adelaide.

Today is the end of your adventure. Until the next time!