Margaret River and Sydney Indulgence
Explore Perth and nearby Rottnest Island with its famous Quakkas, cruise the Swan River and explore the Margaret River wine region. Then prepare for a journey of contrasts, from the barren expanse of the Nullarbor lush vineyards to vast goldmines, majestic mountains to cities of four million to ghost towns of four. Follow in the footsteps of those who dared to venture beyond city limits – the legendary adventurers, goldrush prospectors and bush pioneers who forged their lives in Australia’s spectacular yet unforgiving interior as you enjoy the journey of a lifetime aboard the Indian Pacific. Enjoy time in iconic Sydney, the capital of new South Wales with its magnificent harbour, Opera House and botanical gardens. Explore the quaint streets of the Rocks and the nightlife of Darling Harbour.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1-2 : UK - Perth
On arrival in Perth you will be met and transferred to your downtown hotel. The rest of the day is free. DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront.
Day 3 : Perth - Margaret River
Your adventure starts with a picturesque drive south to the fabulous Margaret River region, with several stops along the way. In Mandurah, a coffee break by the foreshore is followed by a visit to the Featured Wood Gallery and Museum in Bunbury. At Busselton, walk off your delicious lunch with a stroll along the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. After free time to browse the shops and galleries in the Margaret River township, it’s time to head to your accommodation for the night. 2 nights Margaret’s Beach Resort (B, L)
Day 4 : Margaret River
Today is a sensory overload of wonderful food, culture and scenery as you indulge in regional specialties with various respected local producers. You’ll treat your tastebuds to a tasting of locally roasted coffee, visit a local award-winning winery or two, experience the subtle flavours of extra virgin olive oils, savour a wine and cheese pairing, and top it all off with a stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Company. (B, L)
Day 5 : Margaret River - Perth
Today, you’ll head to Redgate Beach to hear stories of the shipwrecks that lie offshore, then it’s time to dive underground to explore the spectacular Mammoth Cave. The next stop is the majestic Boranup Forest, dominated by 60-metre-tall karri trees. You’ll also take a tour of the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia, Cape Leeuwin, before stopping for lunch in Augusta. After lunch, it’s time to return to your Perth accommodation for some time to relax. 2 nights DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront (B, L)
Day 6 : Rottnest Island
Make your way to Barrack Street Jetty, a short stroll from your hotel, and board the Rottnest Express bound for Rottnest Island, 22kms offshore. A 90-minute airconditioned bus tour around ‘Rotto’ takes you to some spectacular locations, including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the boardwalk lookout at the rugged west end. Enjoy a delicious lunch before exploring the island at your leisure – make sure you meet a quokka. Return to Perth by ferry in the afternoon. (B,L)
Day 7 : Board the Indian Pacific In Perth
This morning, you will join the Indian Pacific, departing Perth, before heading east through the delightful Avon Valley. Relax into the rhythm of this iconic train in your cabin or the Outback Explorer Lounge, in anticipation of your late-night arrival into Kalgoorlie. 3 nights Indian Pacific (B, L, D)
Day 8 : Indian Pacific, Nullarbor Plain
Wake to a spectacular Nullarbor sunrise. Relax throughout the morning, taking in the outback vistas before feasting on a regionally inspired menu of modern Australian cuisine and fine wines for lunch. Then it’s time to visit the extraordinary and slightly eerie ghost town of Cook, home to a thriving population of four. (B, L, D)
Day 9 : Indian Pacific, Adelaide
As the landscape changes again and rich ochre sands make way for forests and farmlands, you will arrive into Adelaide. After a rewarding Off Train Experience in the South Australian capital, return to the Indian Pacific to continue your journey toward Sydney. (B, L, D)
Day 10 : Indian Pacific, Blue Mountains and Sydney
Wake this morning to take in the full spectacle of the Blue Mountains on Sydney’s doorstep. After your arrival into Katoomba, select from a choice of mountain experiences before completing your epic transcontinental crossing at Sydney’s Central Station. (B, L) 3 nights ParkRoyal Hotel, Darling Harbour.
Defined by the glistening white sails of the opera house and built around one of the world’s finest harbours, Sydney is a world class city with a bustling nightlife, unparalleled dining and enviable beaches. Take a scenic ferry ride across the blue waters of the harbour to Manly, a surf town brimming with local restaurants and bars. Partake in an afternoon surf lesson or take a plunge in the rock pools lining the stretch of famed Bondi Beach. Spend some time in preserved colonial district of the Rocks where you’ll find markets selling hand crafted trinkets or perhaps enjoy a walking tour to learn about the first European ships who arrived here and the challenges these settlers faced. From lively food, prestigious museums, dynamic parks and an iconic skyline Sydney promises an unforgettable experience.
Day 11 : Sydney Harbour Lunch cruise
Enjoy a day relaxing and seeing the sights of this magnificent city. To enhance your enjoyment, we include a harbour lunch cruise aboard a modern 78ft cruiser designed to feel luxurious and super comfortable, so you’ll feel right at home. There’s plenty of room on board, and with expansive top, fore and after decks, you can get 360-degree views of the iconic attractions as you sail past. They think lunch should be a long, lavish affair, so they serve generous al la carte meals inspired by locally sourced, regionally inspired delights, paired with a selection of beers, wines, soft drinks and tea or coffee. Wines have been hand selected by a sommelier from some of the finest wine regions in New South Wales – so wine lovers are in for a real treat! (B, L)
Day 12 : Sydney
A free day to explore on your own. (B)
Day 13-14 : Sydney to UK
You’ll be transferred to the airport in time for your homeward flight. (B)