Sydney to Melbourne and Canberra Circle Drive

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).

Departing Melbourne at around 10.00 am, we enjoy panoramic views of the city and Port Phillip Bay as we cross the Westgate Bridge, Australia's longest at just under 2.6 kilometres in length. We pass by and learn a little about Victoria's second-largest city, Geelong, as we make our way towards the Surf Coast, with its enchanting beachside towns and powerful swells. We make a brief stop at the town of Anglesea, for a chance to walk alongside the beautiful Anglesea River, before continuing the scenic journey along the Great Ocean Road. At the township of Kennett River, we break for lunch (at your own expense) with an opportunity to stroll among the sweetly-scented eucalyptus trees to locate local koalas in their native habitat. There is a large koala population here and numerous sightings are guaranteed. From here, we travel onwards through the Otway Ranges to the Shipwreck Coast and the iconic rock formations of the Port Campbell National Park. Our first stop is Loch Ard Gorge where 52 lives were lost and only 2 souls survived the wreck of the Loch Ard in 1878. Your guide will recount the legend of the Loch Ard, bringing the gorge to life in a way you never imagined. We take time to explore here, with more rock formations to see, including the Razorback, the Dumpling Pots and the delightful Island Archway. As the sun approaches the horizon we make our way to our final sightseeing destination. Prepare to be amazed by the majestic monoliths of the Twelve Apostles. Enjoy a genuine spectacle watching the colours of the sky and the land transform in the evening light. We break up the homeward journey with a dinner stop (at your own expense) in the regional town of Colac. We then continue on, enjoying views of the illuminated city as we again cross the Westgate Bridge on the approach to Melbourne. With drop off right back to your inner city accommodation, you'll remember this day as a true highlight of your Australian holiday.

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.

Mount Ainslie Lookout One of Canberra's most beautiful vantage points at the top of Mount Ainslie. From the lookout, your guide will explain the growth of a young city, the two-tiered colonial and capital city history and point out places of interest and key attractions, all while you survey the tremendous design of Canberra's architect, Walter Burley Griffin. Duntroon Expect a drive through the grounds of the Royal Military College Duntroon - Australian Army's officer training establishment and perhaps to Mount Pleasant where you'll be delighted to an alternative aspect overlooking central Canberra. National Capital Exhibition Discover some further history of Canberra along with an up close look of Lake Burley Griffin & the Captain Cook Memorial. Museum of Australian Democracy (Old Parliament House) After a journey through the Parliamentary Triangle, we head to the Old Parliament House - home to the 'Museum of Australian Democracy" where you'll enjoy our own short guided tour to key parts of this magnificent building showcasing more than 50 years of Australia's political history. Australian Parliament House From the Old to the New, it's then just a short journey up the Hill to New Parliament House. Get a guided tour through Great Hall, Senate, and House of Representatives Chambers. We usually break for lunch at the Queens Terrace Caf, a caf with a variety of food options, sure to satisfy even the most diverse tastes. The Lodge As mid-afternoon rolls around, we'll leave New Parliament House for a drive through Canberra's diplomatic district - first passing by "The Lodge" - the primary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. We continue the drive through Canberra's diplomatic district where you can spot the embassies of different countries represented in Australia. Australian War Memorial We'll guide you around the central part of the Australian War Memorial before you'll have some free time to observe some of the many galleries dedicated to showing Australia's role in conflict. The final part of the tour is the Memorial's Last Post Ceremony where a dedication is made to those who have fallen in service for Australia. It often leaves no dry eye Highlights of Canberra Tour concludes Arrive back at your accommodation or the Jolimont Bus Centre.

Package ends upon dropping your car off in Sydney.