Australia In Style - Wine, Wildlife & City Chic
14 Days
from
$10,626*
Highlights:
Australia
(Melbourne, Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, Ayers Rock, Port Douglas, Sydney)
Trip Start/End:
Melbourne
/
Sydney
Tour Australia in style with this journey down under showcasing handpicked properties & quintessential experiences. From nature’s beauty at Ayers rock & on the Great Barrier Reef to Oz’s sophisticated wine country to stunning Sydney & Melbourne, you’ll want for nothing. With more adventures that can be listed, you’ll enjoy breakfast with kangaroos, waddle with penguins, dine al fresco in the Outback, safari by jeep, snorkel the reef, relax on the beach & much more.
NOTE: Tour does not include domestic airfare, which can be worked into your international ticket. You may also wish to speak to your travel agent about the Australian Air Pass with Qantas.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Melbourne
| - Transfer - Private - City/Hotel to Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| The Langham (5*) River Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Melbourne
| - At Leisure
- Lunch (not included)
- Shared - Penguins, Koalas & Wildlife - Mini-Coach/Guide
- Dinner (included)
| The Langham (5*) River Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Melbourne - Adelaide - Barossa Valley
| - Transfer - Private - City/Hotel to Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Adelaide - Barossa Valley [International Airport to The Louise] - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| The Louise (4.5*) The Vineyard Suite (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Barossa Valley - Kangaroo Island
| - Private - Breakfast with the Kangaroos - per person
- Transfer - Private - The Louise to Adelaide airport - Per Couple
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Airport (Private)
- Shared - Southern Stargazing (evening)
| Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) Flinders Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Kangaroo Island
| | Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) Flinders Suite (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Kangaroo Island - Ayers Rock
| - Transfer - Airport (Private)
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Longitude 131
- Longitude 131- touring program
| Longitude 131° (5*) Luxury Tent (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Ayers Rock
| - Longitude 131- touring program
| Longitude 131° (5*) Luxury Tent (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Ayers Rock - Cairns - Port Douglas
| - Transfer - Longitude 131
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Private - Cairns - Port Douglas - Vehicle/Driver
| Thala Beach Resort (4.5*) Eucalypt Bungalow (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Port Douglas
| - Shared - Outer Reef Cruise (with lunch) - Semi-Sub
| Thala Beach Resort (4.5*) Eucalypt Bungalow (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Port Douglas
| - Optional Activities - At Leisure
| Thala Beach Resort (4.5*) Eucalypt Bungalow (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Port Douglas - Sydney
| - Transfer - Private - Port Douglas - Cairns - Vehicle/Driver
- Flight (Not Included)
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Optional Activities
- Dinner (not included)
| Shangri-La (5*) Deluxe Darling Harbour (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 12
- Sydney
| - Private - Sydney Opera House - Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Shangri-La (5*) Deluxe Darling Harbour (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 13
- Sydney
| - Shared - 4WD Blue Mountain Wildlife Discovery - 4WD
- Lunch (included)
| Shangri-La (5*) Deluxe Darling Harbour (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 14
- Sydney
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Melbourne
The Langham, Melbourne
Day 1: Melbourne
Transfer between City/Hotel to Airport with private vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: The Langham (5*) Langham Hotel (5*), Melbourne reflects the essence of cultural life in Melbourne. Located only 30 minutes drive from Melbourne’s International Airport, the hotel is situated on Southbank by the Yarra River overlooking central Melbourne. The Hotel is an easy stroll from the city’s renowned fashion precinct, public gardens, alfresco cafes and nightlife. The rooms are rightfully regarded as the most comfortable and admirable among hotels in Melbourne. Each of the superb dining establishments at The Langham Melbourne is a showcase for culinary excellence. Step into the exclusive world of Chuan Spa and be delighted by: luxurious treatment rooms, over 40 beauty and health treatments, massage, hydrotherapy and body wraps, facials, intensive foot and hand therapies.
Hopping Kangaroo
Day 2: Melbourne
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Set out on a shared tour of the surrounding Melbourne area beginning with a visit to a boutique winery which overlooks the Westernport Bay area. Listen to the colourful tales and stories from your guide regarding the explorers, sealers and whalers who inhabited this fertile land. Travel to Phillip Island, known as the “wildlife island” for an opportunity to walk amongst the treetops of the Koala Conservation Centre to observe a protected Koala company. Continue trekking through the nature reserve, exploring the bush and wetlands for habitual wildlife, flora and fauna. Wildlife sightings include a wide range of birds and one of Australia’s famed marsupials, the Wallaby. This dynamic location is also renowned for its Penguins which come ashore each evening at dusk from their ocean feedings. These Penguins walk and talk there way loudly as they make their way through the sand dunes to their burrow nests. Make use of the boardwalk to snap some up close photos of the Penguins as they march. Enjoy a delicious fish and chip lunch at the Jetty Restaurant in the township of Cowes on Phillip Island.
Accommodation: The Langham (5*)
Barossa Valley
The Louise
Day 3: Melbourne - Adelaide - Barossa Valley
Transfer between City/Hotel to Airport with private vehicle and driver.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
Take a 75 minute transfer from the airport to the Louise.
Accommodation: The Louise (4.5*) The Louise (4.5*) is a relaxing, spacious, comfortable lodge full of pure opulence and sophisticated contemporary design surrounded by acres of quaint, natural Barossa Valley vineyard landscapes. It is ideally situated in the heart of the legendary Barossa wine country just one hour from Adelaide. The Louise offers amazing food, wine and fifteen inspired designed ensuites accommodations with private terraces and breathtaking views of the vineyard. Onsite is the Appellation Restaurant which is highly regarded as one of Australia’s finest dining destinations; where fresh, local ingredients, informed service and an award-winning extensive collection of wines ensure a truly memorable dining experience. The sports and recreational facilities include an outdoor pool and spa.
Kangaroo Island
Southern Ocean Lodge
Day 4: Barossa Valley - Kangaroo Island
Today, you will go on a private escorted early-morning drive to a nearby conservation park. Go on an easy walk before enjoying a gourmet breakfast in the park, surrounded by families of kangaroos.
Take a 75 minute transfer from the Louise to the airport.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
Transfer from between your hotel and the airport
When the night sky is clear take a journey and learn of ancient tales and mythologies derived from the Southern night sky. Sit back and gaze up to the unique and magical constellations of the Milky Way and Southern Cross.
Accommodation: Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) The Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) offers guests a complete and personal Kangaroo Island experience. A signature itinerary of guided excursions is designed daily and included in the tariff, allowing guests to encounter abundant wildlife in a 'zoo without fences' and discover the Island's unique natural attractions, often with exclusive access
Day 5: Kangaroo Island
Seal Bay is home to Australia’s third largest colony of Australian sea lions. Join our naturalist guide for an exclusive tour on the beach with these wild animals. Learn about their unique breeding cycle and the ongoing research programs implemented on site. After your up close and personal experience relax with morning tea at the picturesque Vivonne Bay.
Accommodation: Southern Ocean Lodge (5*)
Ayers Rock
Longitude 131° (5*)
Day 6: Kangaroo Island - Ayers Rock
Transfer from between your hotel and the airport
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
Longitude 131 will arrange transportation to escort you between the airport and property.
After arriving at Longitude 131° and settling in, meet in the Dune House for a 3pm departure to the Cultural Centre where you will learn the cultural and spiritual meanings of Uluru & Kata Tjuta. Afterwards you will travel to Uluru, where we will take a short walk into Kantju Gorge. On arrival at the gorge we will serve refreshments 'inside' Uluru and watch the sunset. You will return to Longitude 131° at approximately 7.15pm.
On your return, relax in the Dune House over pre-dinner drinks and canapés before enjoying a gourmet dinner with your fellow travellers or for a special occasion a private dinner by the pool or on the Dune Top.
Accommodation: Longitude 131° (5*) Luxurious, eco-sensitive and romantic, Longitude 131° (5*) offers immersion in the wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This award-winning luxury wilderness camp in Australia's Red Centre has achieved new heights in ecotourism the world over. Longitude 131° is a deluxe camping experience like no other and set atop an isolated sand dune close to the border of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. In the crisp, white linen of a king-sized bed guest find the serene, silent sleep of the desert. Guests awake to their own private view of the amazing sun rising over Uluru (Ayers Rock).
Walpa Gorge
Day 7: Ayers Rock
Depart Longitude 131° at 6am bound for Kata Tjuta. Upon arrival you will begin your journey with a guided tour of Walpa Gorge, where the natural history of Kata Tjuta is explained in great detail, learning how eons of weathering and continental upheaval have created what is seen today. You will return to Longitude 131° at approximately 10am.
Spend your afternoon at leisure or take the opportunity to enjoy any of our optional tours, such as a camel ride, Harley ride or helicopter tour over Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Enjoy sunset drinks and canapés on the Dune Top from 6pm. You will then be transferred to our outdoor dining venue, where you'll have an unforgettable dining experience under the stars. Return to the Dune House for complimentary after dinner drinks.
Accommodation: Longitude 131° (5*)
Port Douglas
Thala Beach Lodge
Day 8: Ayers Rock - Cairns - Port Douglas
Longitude 131 will arrange transportation to escort you between the airport and property.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
Transfer between Cairns airport and the beautiful town of Port Douglas with private vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Thala Beach Resort (4.5*) Luxury Port Douglas accommodation awaits you at Thala Beach Lodge Australia. Thala Beach Lodge is the only 5 star luxury hotel located on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas. The resort offers eco friendly accommodation options that are sensitively positioned amongst the resort's 145 acre property. Unique on site experiences are included in the room rate to make your stay with us extra memorable. Rainforest backs onto Thala's private beach frontage providing a natural setting for guests to relax in nature while still being within easy access of The Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest.
Port Douglas: Outer Reef
Day 9: Port Douglas
You will be picked up from your Port Douglas hotel and taken by shared coach along with fellow travellers for your experience of a lifetime. The friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance. You will travel to Agincourt Reef, a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. You can choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, just one metre underwater. Watch the fish feeding from Quicksilver's unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory or fly in a helicopter over the reef. Whichever way you choose you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder. The cruise includes morning tea and lunch. There is a $5 per person fuel surcharge payable directly to the catamaran company on boarding the catamaran.
Accommodation: Thala Beach Resort (4.5*)
Port Douglas
Day 10: Port Douglas
We all need time out now and again, enter a laid back tropical oasis with sophisticated worldly comforts with a small friendly village atmosphere. Go from business suit to barefoot and frantic to free. Refresh, restore and revitalise, in the aquamarine reef waters of the Coral Sea, the crystal creeks of Mossman Gorge, and the palm fringed golden sands of Port Douglas' Four Mile Beach.
Accommodation: Thala Beach Resort (4.5*)
Sydney
The Rocks
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Day 11: Port Douglas - Sydney
You will be picked up from your Port Douglas Hotel and taken by private car to Cairns City or airport.
Flight is required, currently not included in the quote.
A private transfer from the Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa, is provided.
From modern monuments to historic districts, the Australian capital Sydney boasts a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy including trips to the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Tower, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Try spending some time exploring the Harbour area with its many cafes and gift shops. Head out on a half day tour or picturesque harbour cruise. The SmartVisit allows visitors to visit the sight they want to see, on their own schedule. Ask your Travel Consultant for purchase details.
Accommodation: Shangri-La (5*) Shangri-La Hotel (5*) Sydney provides excellent lodging in the historic Rocks district. The hotel is within walking distance to the Museum of Contemporary Art and Museum of Sydney, two of the city's well-known cultural institutions. This property is ideally placed near Circular Quay for ferry transport to attractions around Sydney Harbour. It is also a short stroll to the famous attractions, such as Sydney Observatory and Customs House. Also close by is the popular Sydney Wildlife World. Different species of native animals can be spotted at this sanctuary. Shangri-La Hotel features 563 spacious rooms and suites that are equipped with modern amenities such as writing desk, Internet access and marble bathroom. Visitors can enjoy fine local cuisines at the hotel's Cafe Mix or at the Altitude Restaurant. Refreshing beverages are served at Blu Bar on 36.
Sydney Opera House
Day 12: Sydney
See inside the world’s most recognizable sails on The Essential Tour at the Sydney Opera House. Experience this miracle of architecture and engineering. A work of art that came into existence against impossible odds – to become one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world. Working with a new enriching, interactive audio-visual component where images are projected onto the fabric of the building – the guides will take you on an emotional journey, engrossing you in a story to rival any opera plot with its dramatic twists and turns. You’ll visit one of the major venues – where we live performance every day. Some 1,500 performances, in every genre you can imagine, are staged each year to audiences of around 1.5 million. You will be inspired!
Accommodation: Shangri-La (5*)
The Australian Koala
Day 13: Sydney
Set out today aboard a luxury 4-wheel drive vehicle to explore some of the many landmarks and sites around Sydney and the Blue Mountain Range. Begin with a visit to the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge before venturing onto a memorable visit to the Wildlife Park. See the powerful Australian Kangaroo and get up close and personal with some friendly Dingoes – and yes, even pat the cuddly Aussie Koala. Next it’s off to explore the historic Richmond area before travelling off the beaten path deep into the Blue Mountain Range. Enjoy a rejuvenating morning tea amongst the natural creatures that live in this bush. Experience real back country exploration as you view these vistas of magnificent cliffs and canyons of this World Heritage recognized area. Marvel at the sight of the Three Sisters monolith and the Australian Grand Canyon during your explorations. Enjoy trekking through the bush before feasting on a scrumptious country style lunch at a local Australian homestead. Upon completion of your tour a return transfer back to your accommodations is provided.
Accommodation: Shangri-La (5*) Day 14: Sydney
A private transfer from the Sydney airport to the city/hotel, or vice versa, is provided.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
The Langham
The Langham - Guest Room
The Langham (5*) - Melbourne
Langham Hotel (5*), Melbourne reflects the essence of cultural life in Melbourne. Located only 30 minutes drive from Melbourne’s International Airport, the hotel is situated on Southbank by the Yarra River overlooking central Melbourne. The Hotel is an easy stroll from the city’s renowned fashion precinct, public gardens, alfresco cafes and nightlife. The rooms are rightfully regarded as the most comfortable and admirable among hotels in Melbourne. Each of the superb dining establishments at The Langham Melbourne is a showcase for culinary excellence. Step into the exclusive world of Chuan Spa and be delighted by: luxurious treatment rooms, over 40 beauty and health treatments, massage, hydrotherapy and body wraps, facials, intensive foot and hand therapies.
The Louise Barossa Valley
The Vineyard Suite
The Louise (4.5*) - Barossa Valley
The Louise (4.5*) is a relaxing, spacious, comfortable lodge full of pure opulence and sophisticated contemporary design surrounded by acres of quaint, natural Barossa Valley vineyard landscapes. It is ideally situated in the heart of the legendary Barossa wine country just one hour from Adelaide. The Louise offers amazing food, wine and fifteen inspired designed ensuites accommodations with private terraces and breathtaking views of the vineyard. Onsite is the Appellation Restaurant which is highly regarded as one of Australia’s finest dining destinations; where fresh, local ingredients, informed service and an award-winning extensive collection of wines ensure a truly memorable dining experience. The sports and recreational facilities include an outdoor pool and spa.
Southern Ocean Lodge
Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) - Kangaroo Island
The Southern Ocean Lodge (5*) offers guests a complete and personal Kangaroo Island experience. A signature itinerary of guided excursions is designed daily and included in the tariff, allowing guests to encounter abundant wildlife in a 'zoo without fences' and discover the Island's unique natural attractions, often with exclusive access
Longitude 131° (5*)
Longitude 131° (5*) - Ayers Rock
Luxurious, eco-sensitive and romantic, Longitude 131° (5*) offers immersion in the wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This award-winning luxury wilderness camp in Australia's Red Centre has achieved new heights in ecotourism the world over. Longitude 131° is a deluxe camping experience like no other and set atop an isolated sand dune close to the border of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. In the crisp, white linen of a king-sized bed guest find the serene, silent sleep of the desert. Guests awake to their own private view of the amazing sun rising over Uluru (Ayers Rock).
Thala Beach Lodge
Thala Beach Resort (4.5*) - Port Douglas
Luxury Port Douglas accommodation awaits you at Thala Beach Lodge Australia. Thala Beach Lodge is the only 5 star luxury hotel located on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas. The resort offers eco friendly accommodation options that are sensitively positioned amongst the resort's 145 acre property. Unique on site experiences are included in the room rate to make your stay with us extra memorable. Rainforest backs onto Thala's private beach frontage providing a natural setting for guests to relax in nature while still being within easy access of The Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Port Douglas and the Daintree Rainforest.
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney Guest Room
Shangri-La (5*) - Sydney
Shangri-La Hotel (5*) Sydney provides excellent lodging in the historic Rocks district. The hotel is within walking distance to the Museum of Contemporary Art and Museum of Sydney, two of the city's well-known cultural institutions. This property is ideally placed near Circular Quay for ferry transport to attractions around Sydney Harbour. It is also a short stroll to the famous attractions, such as Sydney Observatory and Customs House. Also close by is the popular Sydney Wildlife World. Different species of native animals can be spotted at this sanctuary. Shangri-La Hotel features 563 spacious rooms and suites that are equipped with modern amenities such as writing desk, Internet access and marble bathroom. Visitors can enjoy fine local cuisines at the hotel's Cafe Mix or at the Altitude Restaurant. Refreshing beverages are served at Blu Bar on 36.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Australia
VISA/PASSPORT
American and Canadian citizens are required to have a valid passport to enter Australia. Americans and Canadians must enter with an Australian visa or, if eligible, through Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). The ETA replaces a visa and allows a stay of up to three months. It may be obtained for a small service fee. Airlines and many travel agents in the United States are also able to apply for ETAs on behalf of travelers. Please note that American citizens who overstay their ETA or visa, even for short periods, may be subject to exclusion, detention, and removal.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check information about the ETA, other visas, and entry requirements with the Embassy of Australia
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/australia.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Canberra.
Government: Constitutional Monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1901.
Language: The official language is English. Many other languages are retained by minorities, including Italian, German, Greek, Vietnamese, Chinese dialects and Aboriginal languages.
Religion: 27% Roman Catholic, 21% Protestant and smaller minorities of all other major religions.
Time: Australia spans three time zones: GMT + 10 (GMT + 11 from October to March, except Queensland; starts a month earlier in Tasmania). GMT + 9.5 (GMT + 10.5 from October to March, except Northern Territory). GMT + 8 (GMT + 9 from October to March, three-year trial in Western Australia until 2009 followed by referendum). Some states operate daylight saving time during the Australian summer.
Electricity: 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs are in use, however sockets are different from those found in most countries and an adaptor socket may be needed. Outlets for 110 volts for small appliances are found in most hotels.
Telephone: Country code: 61.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good in and around populated areas; access in some of the more isolated, outback and rural areas is limited. US handsets are not compatible.
Internet: Available throughout Australia. Internet cafes are prevalent in all capital cities and tourist towns, and individual hotels may also provide facilities. Wi-Fi access is increasing in cities and is mainly found in hotels, bars and cafes.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- International and Internal Flights - Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
Stay in the know: Subscribe to our newsletter to have our hand-picked trips & specials delivered to you!