Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush

Journey through Australia’s Southern Highlands bound for Canberra, purpose-built with the goal of creating the finest capital in the world. Stop at historic Berrima, famous for its gaol and early colonial architecture, and then at Gold Creek Station you'll meet sheep farmer, Craig Starr. Gain a deeper understanding of life on the farm before joining the Starr family for a Be My Guest Aussie barbecue lunch. On arrival in Australia’s modern capital, you’ll embark on a tour through Parliament House with a Local Specialist. After a full first day, get to know your group over a Welcome Dinner at your hotel.

Venture out of the city and see it from above ascending the summit of towering Mt. Ainsley. The views are your perfect farewell to Canberra before crossing the mighty Murray River into the state of Victoria to take a step back in time and Dive Into Culture in one of Australia’s best-preserved gold rush towns, Beechworth. Wherever you explore in the Beechworth Historic Precinct, there’s plenty to see in the many historic buildings preserved from the gold rush days as well as in the honey and gold shops, galleries, and museums. Get the lowdown on the town over a chat with the publican of the historic local pub and enjoy afternoon tea in the oldest hotel in town. After a taste of the local fare, you'll travel to the nearby city of Wangaratta.

It’s a complete change of scene as we journey to cosmopolitan Melbourne where you’ll get your bearings on a city sightseeing tour. Discover why Melbourne has justifiably earned its reputation as one of the world’s most livable cities and delve into its Victorian history in the CBD, Southbank’s sprawling riverfront, arts district, and natural beauty at the Botanic Gardens. Immerse yourself in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on a guided galleries tour of our First Peoples arts and cultural centre, the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery. Cruise by the Crown complex and consider coming back this evening for one of its super-chef's restaurants, designer boutiques, or indoor amusement park. After seeing so much of what awaits, you’ll no doubt be eager to explore more of this stylish city. Fortunately, you’re staying in a centrally located area, opposite - a fun area that comes alive at night. Pop back to an area you’d like to get to know better or tuck into a delicious seafood dinner and watch the sunset on the banks of the Yarra.

It’s your last full day in Melbourne and you’ll want to make the most of it exploring on your own or joining an optional experience in or outside of the city. If you’re looking for a view, Melbourne Skydeck at the Eureka Tower, is the place for panoramic, floor-to-ceiling vistas of the city. Or perhaps exploring the city on foot with a History and Donuts Walking Tour is more your thing. Another option is a trip to Phillip Island to see the Little Penguins make their trek from the sea to their sand dune burrow homes - a totally unique wildlife encounter not possible anywhere else in the world. It’s hard to believe it’s only been four days, and oh what a journey it’s been! Back in Melbourne your spoilt for choices to raise a glass and celebrate the things we’ve tasted, learnt, seen and discovered over the last four days.

All good things must come to an end, as your travels through Southern Australia conclude, say a fond farewell to your fellow travellers before your transfer to Melbourne Airport (flights anytime).