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    Owing to recent flight price increases this package is scheduled for repricing. Submit a booking enquiry to receive up-to-date pricing for your travel plan without obligation.

    A fully-guided adventure in Spring 2021. Discover the exquisite natural beauty and sublime solitude of Australia as you travel from Perth through south-west WA across the Nullarbor to South Australia and Victoria on this epic 15-day journey. Just once a year and this is your year!

    As you travel the southern regions of Western Australia and across the Nullarbor, one of this country’s iconic road journeys, you’ll appreciate a land of supreme contrasts. See the beauty in the colourful accents of wildflowers, stark landscapes, and enormous mines. Spend some time in Perth, Margaret River, and Busselton, before climbing Wave Rock and crossing the Nullarbor, watching for whales in the Bight. Be captivated by Australia again. Book today.

    Kings Park wildflowers
    Kings Park wildflowers
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    YOU PAY FROM AFTER GCASH TRAVEL CREDITS

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    THEME
    HIGHLIGHTS
    PRICE FROM
    AUD $4,399
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    TOUR ONLY
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    PHYSICAL LEVEL
    3/10
    Member offer

    3 months free membership

    Not yet a member? We will include 3 months' free membership with enough travel credits to get the maximum discount on this holiday.

    Trip Highlights

     

    There are so many highlights on this trip for you to enjoy. Kick-back, relax, and take in incredible river views with a drink in hand as you cruise the Swan River, delve into colonial history as you tour the Old Fremantle Jail, and enjoy the famous Busselton Jetty and it's underwater observatory, and much, much more!

    Sapphire Join departure

    Join this excellent, fully-guided tour today!

    Join as a couple, single or group and experience the fun and friendship of a bus tour. Groups save up to 20% per person. A professional tour director manages everything so you can relax. Book today.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire join departure package

    AUD $4,399pp twin-share [+ $2,696 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    • Nature
    • Special interest
    • Sightseeing
    • Rural towns
    • Wildlife
    • Learning
    • Gardens
    • Group activities

    Wildflowers wherever you go at this time of year

    The wildflowers of Western Australia are one of the most spectacular flower displays in the world. Between July and October, many parts of the state become blankets of colour with everything from tiny crimson myrtles, dainty smokebush, fiery mountain bells and over 150 varieties of orchids coming into bloom.

    Swan River cruise

    Enjoy an upstream cruise and a delicious buffet lunch as you meander through the Swan Valley Wine Growing Region and cruise past several local landmarks such as the Crown Casino, Belmont and Ascot Racecourses and Bayswater Wetlands

    Warren River Pemberton Tram journey

    See the karri forests, valleys, waterfalls, wildflowers and rivers of the Southern Forests area from a unique perspective - trundling along in a tram or steam train from a bygone age.

    More trip highlights:

    local_activity
    Perth Mint

    Originally the Perth Mint was opened in 1899 as a branch of the Royal Mint in London. Today it only produces collector’s coins and other “one off” things like the 2000 Olympic Medals. Tour the facilities and witness an exciting gold pour on your visit.

    local_activity
    Rottnest Island

    Located just off the coast in the warm clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Rottnest Island is a spectacular world of white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters, abundant marine life, rare marsupials and rich history. Spend a day exploring the island and meeting the friendly Quokkas! (Optional activity)

    local_activity
    Visit the famous Kings Park

    Kings Park is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner city parks. It is rich in Aboriginal and European history, contemporary culture and offers innovative design, displays and services. Explore King Park's gorgeous Botanical Gardens and enjoy spectacular views of the city skyline on the Lotterywest Federation Walkway.

    local_activity
    Busselton Jetty & Underwater Observatory tour

    Explore one of only six underwater observatories in the world at the Busselton Jetty! Enjoy a relaxing train ride along the length of the Busselton Jetty before descending 8-metres below the ocean’s surface where you will be lead through the natural wonders that create Australia’s greatest artificial reef.

    local_activity
    Discover Melbourne's famous street art

    Finish your journey in Melbourne and unveil the largest collection of street and public art in regional Australia. From fountains to monuments, from sculptures to street art, the many permanent and temporary works dotted throughout Melbourne are integral to the life and character of the city.

    local_activity
    Marvel at Kalgoorlie's Super Pit lookout

    Stand beside Kalgoorlie's Super Pit and gaze open-mouthed into one of the largest open-cut mines on Earth and the biggest gold mine in Australia.


    View the itinerary for a comprehensive view of the trip highlights.

    Member Pricing

    Sapphire join departure package
    Sapphire Join departure
    Join this excellent, fully-guided tour today!
    AUD $4,399pp twin-share [+ $2,696 GCash credits]
    • 15 days of touring and sight-seeing
    • 28 towns and other places of interest visited
    • 14 nights' top-class accommodation
    • 10 excellent excursions and activities
    • 13 cooked breakfasts, 13 dinners and 9 lunches
    • Luxury coach with professional tour guide/driver

    See full inclusions

    FAQ: Single, twin-share and more

    What is twin-share, triple-share and quad-share?

    The share-basis is about accommodation pricing. It does not mean that you share a room with a stranger.

    "Twin-share" is where two people occupy a hotel room (open-plan style) or other accommodation such as an apartment, usually a couple or two friends. This is the normal way accommodation is priced. The price is shared between two people. Most accommodation properties (eg. hotels) offer rooms with king, queen or double beds. Most offer the option of "twin" beds as well which actually means two single beds to accommodate singles sharing, couples wanting space and so-on.

    "Triple share" is where three people occupy the accommodation and share the price. "Quad-share" is where four people occupy the accommodation and share the price. Family apartments and hotel rooms usually include a king, queen or double bed and one or more single beds to handle triple and quad-share arrangements. Sometimes other bedding configurations are available as well.

    What is a seasonal adjustment?

    Some accommodation providers, especially in very popular holiday locations, have higher room rates for busy holiday periods (usually spring and summer holidays). We must make an allowance for those price variations if applicable.

    What is a single supplement?

    A "single supplement" applies to single travellers who want a room to themselves. Because the price is not shared, a "single supplement" applies. This additional amount is based on the single covering the entire accommodation component of the trip that would normally be split between two or more people.

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    Member offer

    3 months free membership

    Not yet a member? We will include 3 months' free membership with enough travel credits to get the maximum discount on this holiday.

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available HERE....

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    Inclusions

     

    Covering an immense distance at a leisurely pace, this trip serves as the perfect getaway for those looking to unearth some of Australia's most serene delights.

    Sapphire Join departure

    Join this excellent, fully-guided tour today!

    Join as a couple, single or group and experience the fun and friendship of a bus tour. Groups save up to 20% per person. A professional tour director manages everything so you can relax. Book today.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire join departure package

    AUD $4,399pp twin-share [+ $2,696 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

    "Australia's picturesque and rugged beauty was made to be explored."

    This is a first-class itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Inclusions list:

    Package inclusions:

    • 4 night's Silver-standard accommodation in Perth
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Pemberton
    • 2 night's Silver-standard accommodation in Busselton
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Kalgoorlie
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Balladonia
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Nullarbor
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Streaky Bay
    • 2 night's Silver-standard accommodation in Clare Valley
    • 1 night's Bronze-standard accommodation in Horsham
    • Tour director
    • Tour Perth Mint
    • Swan River lunchtime cruise
    • Pemberton Tram journey
    • Margaret River Chocolate Company visit
    • Busselton Jetty train and underwater observatory experience
    • Western Australian Maritime Museum visit
    • Old Fremantle Prison tour
    • Kalgoorlie Super Pit visit
    • Wadlata Outback Centre entry
    • Clare Valley Bungaree Station & Skillogolee visit
    • 14 breakfasts
    • 9 lunches
    • 14 dinners

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash travel credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

     

    At this time of the year, spring will have Perth and south west WA looking at its very best. Over five days you will discover Perth, Swan Valley and Fremantle. We then have some spectacular touring ahead of us.The spring wildflowers that the south west is so famous for; Margaret River, the great karri forests around Pemberton, and Wave Rock are all on the itinerary.

    As we head east we spend some time in Kalgoorlie, Australia’s largest Outback City! We will take in the sights before embarking on a memorable drive across the Nullarbor to the top of the Eyre Peninsula before finding our way into the Clare Valley and on to Melbourne.

    "A person susceptible to "wanderlust" is not so much addicted to movement as committed to transformation." - Pico Iyer

    Logistics Start City/Location Perth: To be advised.
    End City Melbourne: To be advised.
    Meeting & Pick-up Arrangements * If there are multiple pickups, we will advise timing in advance.
    Duration 15 days

    info * If joining this tour as a group we will arrange a meeting place and pickup time that best suits your requirements.

    Your day-to-day itinerary:

    Sapphire Join departure

    Join this excellent, fully-guided tour today!

    Join as a couple, single or group and experience the fun and friendship of a bus tour. Groups save up to 20% per person. A professional tour director manages everything so you can relax. Book today.

    READ MORE

    Sapphire join departure package

    AUD $4,399pp twin-share [+ $2,696 GCash credits]

    Our base package class includes all of the essential trip elements including activities and allows you the option to choose from a range of other daily inclusions. Very high quality Bronze or Silver standard accommodation applies.

    SHARE TYPES

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    DAY 1
    PERTH (3 NIGHTS)

    WA is full of adventures waiting to be discovered. Travel further, stay for longer and explore the wonders only WA can offer. Share the water with wild dolphins, or see the gorges of Kalbarri from a new perspective, in WA there's more in store than you could ever see.

    About today:

    Perth city

    Arrive into Perth and relax before beginning your adventure

    This Spring tour to Western Australia has it all We will explore Perth, visit the South West including Margaret River and the giant Karri Forests around Pemberton then, Wave Rock, and Kalgoorlie before “the drive” - across the Nullarbor into South Australia.

    Begin your adventure today in Perth. Our luxury coach will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation, where you will check-in before spending the rest of the day relaxing before the excitement begins tomorrow.

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    DAY 2
    PERTH - SWAN VALLEY

    About today:

    Perth Mint

    Explore Perth city and the Swan Valley

    We will spend the morning discovering the unique charm of Perth City, featuring the main city block with its unusual combination of skyscrapers and colonial architecture, including Parliament House, St Mary's Cathedral, and the Perth Mint. Originally the Perth Mint was opened in 1899 as a branch of the Royal Mint in London. Today it only produces collector’s coins and other “one off” things like the 2000 Olympic Medals. A gold pour will be conducted for us in the same way it was when the building was first constructed.

    Our touring also includes Kings Park for spectacular views over the city, South Perth foreshore and the river, with time for a walk through the tree tops along Federation Walkway. Then, onto the Swan River for an upstream cruise and a delicious buffet lunch. We will meander through the Swan Valley Wine Growing Region and cruise past several local landmarks such as the Crown Casino, Belmont and Ascot Racecourses and Bayswater Wetlands. Afternoon tea will be served later in the day and there will be some live on-board entertainment.

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    DAY 3
    PERTH

    About today:

    Rottnest Island

    Relax with a free day to enjoy at your own leisure

    Today is a free day for local shopping and sightseeing or an optional day tour to Rottnest Island. Located just off the coast in the warm clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Rottnest Island is a spectacular world of white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue waters, abundant marine life, rare marsupials and rich history. The day includes transfers from the hotel, return ferry to Rottnest, lunch, a semi submersible look at the underwater life off the Island’s coast and a guided coach tour - as well as some free time to relax and enjoy this tranquil place.

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    DAY 4
    PERTH - PEMBERTON (1 NIGHT)

    Nestled in a valley surrounded by the karri forests of the Gloucester National Park and the Pemberton Forest Park, Pemberton enjoys a cool climate with crystal clear streams, rich soils and friendly locals.

    About today:

    Warren River Pemberton Tram

    All aboard the spectacular Pemberton Tram

    An early start this morning as we tour south to Pemberton, a pretty timber town known for its magnificent tall trees. We stop at the famous giant (61 metre) Gloucester Tree - reputed to be the tallest tree-mounted fire lookout in the world. After some time to enjoy lunch, we board the Pemberton Tram for an unforgettable ride out of Pemberton, past the Saw Mill and deep into the Karri Forest. The tram meanders through the forest, crossing six bridges, stopping at the Cascades and at the Warren River Bridge where the Lefroy Brook joins the Warren River. Our tram then returns to Pemberton for our overnight stay.

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    DAY 5
    PEMBERTON - MARGARET RIVER - WILYABRUP - BUSSELTON (2 NIGHTS)

    In Busselton's calm turquoise bay you can take a 1.8-kilometre stroll or train ride over the Indian Ocean on the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere.

    About today:

    Busselton jetty

    Journey through Margaret River on your way to Busselton

    We are off to Margaret River this morning - a rich dairy cattle and timber region, with a reputation for fine wines and surfing. We have an appointment here at the Margaret River Chocolate Company for a fascinating insight into the world of chocolate. They make and sell a mouth-watering range of chocolate bars, chocolate coated delights, handmade truffles, novelty chocolates, chocolate sauces and much more.

    Afterwards, we are off to a little place called Wilyabrup!! Lunch will be at Aravina Estate. Located in the northern corner of the premium wine-growing region of Margaret River, close to the town of Dunsborough, Aravina Estate is nestled amongst the picturesque setting of expansive vineyards across the rolling hills, natural bushland and manicured gardens. 

    From here we transfer to the coast at Busselton The Busselton Jetty - extending 1.8 kilometres across stunning Geographe Bay - is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. That is where we are heading this afternoon! There is an Interpretative Centre and a small Jetty Train that we can use to reach the spectacular Underwater Observatory. Our accommodation for the next two nights is at Abbey Beach - a hotel in a Resort setting, located on the beach.

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    DAY 6
    MAMMOTH CAVE - CAPE LEEUWIN

    About today:

    Cape Leeuwin

    Explore Mammoth Cave and Cape Leeuwin

    Our drive today south along the Scenic Caves Road takes us past the actual Margaret River mouth to Mammoth Cave where we have arranged a guided tour. Just up the road is the Cave Works Interpretive Centre - an eco complex designed to describe the region’s fascinating limestone caves. Next is Cape Leeuwin, named after the Dutch ship Leeuwin which passed this point in 1622. This is the “land’s end” of the South West and the junction of the Indian and Southern Oceans.
    We have arranged a light lunch here with an optional visit to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse before heading back to Busselton.

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    DAY 7
    BUSSELTON - FREMANTLE - PERTH (1 NIGHT)

    About today:

    Fremantle Prison Tour

    Journey back through time in the famous Fremantle Prison

    It’s time to move north this morning, into the port of Fremantle. Our first appointment is at the Western Australian Maritime Museum which is perched on the shoreline of the Indian Ocean. The Museum is symbolic of Fremantle’s past, present and future, as a coastal city and port. It houses several unique galleries that explore WA's relationship with the sea and is home to the winning America's Cup yacht, Australia II, an Oberon class submarine, HMAS Ovens, Jon Sanders’ Parry Endeavour and many other iconic vessels from WA's maritime history.

    In the afternoon, we will visit the Old Fremantle Prison for a short tour and afternoon tea before heading into Perth for the night.

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    DAY 8
    PERTH - YORK - HYDEN - KALGOORLIE (1 NIGHT)

    The biggest city in the Australian outback, Kalgoorlie is a vibrant mix of gold rush history, grand colonial buildings and immense mining operations, surrounded by some of the most dazzling spring wildflowers and eerie gold-rush ghost towns.

    About today:

    Wave Rock

    Marvel at the spectacular Wave Rock

    We have an early start this morning to give us time to enjoy a visit to Wave Rock. We pass through York, the first township in the Avon Valley. This quaint village is full of really beautiful old buildings and there is little doubt that it is one of the best preserved and restored nineteenth century towns in Australia.

    Next stop is Hyden and our visit to Western Australia’s most famous landmarks, Wave Rock. Located just 4 kilometres east of Hyden, geologists believe the original formation was vertical but has been sculptured and coloured by chemicals over 2,700 million years to take on its wave like character. With our locally based guide to show us around it will be a fascinating visit.

    We then push through to Southern Cross and Coolgardie before arriving in Kalgoorlie, which will be our home for the night.

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    DAY 9
    KALGOORLIE - NORSEMAN - BALLADONIA (1 NIGHT)

    Balladonia takes its name from the Balladonia Station and the homestead which was built in the area after the first settlers arrived in 1879.

    About today:

    Kalgoorlie super pit

    Begin your journey across the Nullabor Plains

    Australia’s largest gold producing mine, the Super Pit, is here in Kalgoorlie. We will be “visitor inducted” to the KCGM Super Pit and view the mining operations from the safety of the Mine-Spec Tour Coach. The onsite CAT 793 Haul trucks are massive and the view of the Super Pit from Harvey Hut is breathtaking.

    We then head out onto the Nullarbor and make our way, via Norseman, to Balladonia for our overnight stay. Balladonia is a small roadhouse community located on the Eyre Highway in Western Australia. It is the first stop east of Norseman on our journey east across the Nullarbor Plain.

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    DAY 10
    BALLADONIA - NULLABOR PLAINS (1 NIGHT)

    The Nullarbor Plain is part of the area of flat, almost treeless, arid or semi-arid country of southern Australia, located on the Great Australian Bight coast with the Great Victoria Desert to its north

    About today:

    Bunda Cliffs

    Drive through the white sands of the Great Australian Bight

    Today we experience Australia’s longest piece of “arrow-straight” sealed highway (180 kms Balladonia–Caiguna). We travel through Madura Pass and Mundrabilla, between the Hampton Tablelands and Roe Plains to Eucla. We visit the Old Telegraph Station in the white shifting sands of the Great Australian Bight and call at the Bunda Cliffs for an incredible view of the vertical cliffs where the Continent meets the Southern Ocean. We may be fortunate enough to view some whales resting with their calves in the calm turquoise waters below us. This is an amazing sight - and so is the view along the cliff line.

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    DAY 11
    NULLABOR PLAINS - PENONG - CEDUNA - STEAKY BAY (1 NIGHT)

    The picturesque township of Streaky Bay is situated on coastline of Western Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, with more than 360km of spectacular coastline.

    About today:

    Streaky Bay

    Relax on a beach in Steaky Bay

    We travel across Yalata Aboriginal Land on our way into South Australia. We pass through Penong where dozens of windmills are used to pump water from the Artesian Basin to support the town’s water supply. We continue on through Ceduna which located on the shores of Murat Bay. The protected waters, sheltered bays and numerous sand coves ensure a plentiful supply of fresh seafood, including local oysters which, because of the bay’s crystal clear water, are some of the finest available in the country. Oysters from Coffin Bay are particularly well known, but the oysters from Ceduna and Streaky Bay are just as good.

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    DAY 12
    STEAKY BAY - PORT AUGUSTA - CLARE VALLEY (2 NIGHTS)

    The Clare Valley is a 90-minute drive from Adelaide and home to over 40 cellar doors and wineries, boasting some of the best Riesling in Australia

    About today:

    Wadlata Outback Centre

    Learn about the land's sacred Indigenous history

    We travel across to Port Augusta this morning. Located at the top of the Spencer Gulf, this town is a transport hub. The two main transcontinental highways (Eyre & Stuart) and the two main transcontinental trains (Indian Pacific & Ghan) cross here.

    Our first stop is at the Wadlata Outback Centre, where lunch will also be served. Through ‘hands-on’ displays and audio visual presentations we will learn about outback culture and the incredible achievements of both the Aboriginal and European people through graphic displays. The stories of John McDouall Stuart, who was the first European to cross the continent from South to North and other early pioneers are told at Wadlata.

    This afternoon we drive into the Clare Valley for our two night stay.

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    DAY 13
    CLARE VALLEY

    About today:

    Clare Valley

    Sample the region's finest wines and produce

    The Clare Valley, just two hours north of Adelaide, is famous for its wineries. The oldest winery in “the valley” is Sevenhill Cellars, established in 1851 by the Jesuit Brothers, however the first vines came from Bungaree Station which was established by the Hawker family even earlier in 1841.

    This morning we have planned a visit to Bungaree Station which is still run by Hawker family descendants and is one of Australia's parent merino studs. It is rather like a village, in a rural setting. Many of the buildings have been converted into exceptional historic accommodation. During our time here we will have the opportunity to view life as it was in the 19th Century. After a fascinating tour and a country style lunch we visit one of the Clare Valley’s most famous wineries, Skillogolee, a 60 hectare property just 8ks from Clare. It’s a boutique family owned winery with world class wines, hand crafted by a father and son winemaking team.

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    DAY 14
    CLARE VALLEY - KEITH - HORSHAM (1 NIGHT)

    Horsham, known as the Cosmopolitan Capital of the Wimmera, is a bustling commercial centre located on the banks of the Wimmera River in western Victoria.

    About today:

    Murray Bridge

    Cross the Murray Bridge and journey over the border into Victoria

    As we travel south today we pass through the Mount Lofty Ranges to the east of Adelaide and onto Murray Bridge. We then follow the Dukes Highway to Keith and over the border into Victoria. Our final night on tour is in Horsham.

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    DAY 15
    HORSHAM - MELBOURNE

    Venture into Melbourne's hidden spaces and iconic laneways and find an eclectic nightlife, tantalising food and wine, a dynamic arts scene and more.

    About today:

    Melbourne Street Art

    Return home after an unforgettable trip

    We have crossed the Continent and driven the full length of the Nullarbor Plain. Australia is vast, but with so much to see it’s never boring. As we arrive back into Melbourne the contrast between a large metropolis and some of the settlements and towns we have seen and stayed in, on the Nullarbor, couldn’t be more dramatic. Spend some time exploring the art-lined streets of the city before saying goodbye to your friends and heading home. We hope you have enjoyed the experience.

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    FAQ's for This Package

    No. Flights with member discount can be included in a package for you. Flights prices vary from different starting points so the final price will be confirmed before you decide to proceed.

    This is a fully-guided tour with organised activities as well as free time. You will be able to do other things that you might want to do away from the group. Let us know what you have in mind and we'll advise accordingly.

    Accommodation is supplied in all destinations on the included itinerary. They will be hotel-style accommodation rated Bronze or Silver standard. This means, very high quality accommodation. Bedding is arranged to suit the number of persons staying. All accommodation is subject to change subject according to availability however it will be as central as possible and very high quality.

    Yes, all listed activities are included. Some optional activities might be offered during the tour.

    When you arrive at each destination on your trip your tour director will show you around and point out places of interest.

    General Tour Package FAQ's

    Yes, the idea of our tour packages is to get you to the destinations on the itinerary where you can stay with the main group or go off on your own if you prefer. Flexibility is the essential ingredient.

    Yes, however please ensure that you mention this requirement so we can be certain that arrangements are made where needed. You do need to be traveling with a person who will provide personal assistance.

    Yes, and if rain is forecast you should be prepared with a compact umbrella or rainproof jacket as preferred.

    Yes we do. Dietary requirements affect included set meals and will be taken into consideration during the planning process.

    All tours can be operated on a "Group-guided" basis. A complete "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" manual is supplied to the group leader (trip organizer). Included is a comprehensive daily itinerary, driver instructions and information about each part of your tour to enable you to provide entertaining commentary. Also included are checklists and reminders about daily tasks. The end-result is easy-flowing trip organisation, fewer issues and very happy tour participants. Overall it means less stress and a lot more fun for everyone.

    If a tour director is supplied in an example tour package it will be shown as an inclusion. But this is very flexible and if not included as standard, can be arranged if preferred. If you are part of a social group such as Probus, the trip organiser will often enjoy taking on this role. We provide comprehensive information and guidance for "hands-on" trip organisers. This includes a "how-to" guide and starter information about the places visited on the tour.

    Yes, definitely. All charter tour packages are simply "templates" as a starting point for customising a tour to suit. We then we apply the discounts available to you, your club or corporate group.

    All tour packages are flexible. Various options are already published. (See the Pricing section for the tour you are interested in.) "Join departure" tour types are tours where you can join a tour group leaving on various departure dates. This suit couples and singles. If you represent a club or other group, please click the "Enquiry" button to request pricing for an exclusive charter to suit your group.

    See a list of standard inclusions on the package details page. Some packages have two or three different package classes with different inclusions. Select the optional package class to see included activities. Optional activities are shown separately. Your travel consultant will discuss optional activities with you so you can decide what to include or leave out of your itinerary. You can also swap and change activities. A price variance might apply.

    "Self-guided" (self-drive) is a trip designed for singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people (such as two to four couples) traveling together using a single car or 7 to 12-seater van depending on group size. It means that you drive yourself on the trip. "Group-guided" means the tour is for a larger group on a bus with a professional driver and the group leader (trip organizer) as tour director. A professional tour director can be supplied if required. A "fully-guided" bus tour is operated by a driver-guide or tour director. There are usually preset departures that you can join. Fully-guided tours can also be arranged exclusively for a group and this is called a "group charter".

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    FAQ: Tour package types and flexibility

    What is a "Self-guided" tour?

    This means you are in full control of your trip including driving. You will have a rental car (uncluded in the package) to get you around. The vehicle size varies according to preference and/or group size. Self-guided is aimed at singles, couples and groups of up to 8 people.

    Our job is to organise most things for you in advance saving you a lot of time, stress and money. You'll receive a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information plus a FREE Lonely Planet guide to fill in the gaps. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and to do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Group-guided" tour?

    Group-guided is aimed at groups of 12 or more people. "Group-guided" means you or another person runs the tour as would a tour director. A tour coach and professional driver is supplied.

    The included "Tour Manager Notes & Guide" helps you run the tour, plus you receive a FREE Lonely Planet guide. Included is a complete daily itinerary with lots of helpful information as a well as a driver itinerary.

    We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

    What is a "Fully-guided" tour?

    Fully-guided tours are aimed at larger groups on a charter basis, the same as "Group-guided", except that the tour is run by a professional tour director.

    Transport is a tour coach and professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance saving you a lot of time and money and ensuring a smooth travel experience. There is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously. A fully-guided tour means everyone can relax including the trip organiser.

    What is a "Join departure" tour?

    You join a fully-guided tour that starts on an available departure date. Small and large groups can join a departure, however the tour is focused on the interests of the broader group. You can appoint a leader specifically for your group if preferred to focus on separate interests.

    The tour is run by a professional tour director. Transport can vary from a 8 to 12-seater commuter bus, driven by the tour director, up to a 54-seat luxury coach with professional driver. We organise all aspects of the trip in advance and there is usually considerable flexible time at each destination enabling you to relax and enjoy the location and do things spontaneously.

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