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The ATDW website has had a makeover.
But our commitment to Australian tourism is as strong as ever.
The ATDW website has had a makeover.
But our commitment to Australian tourism is as strong as ever.
With its Victorian architecture, stunning gardens and edgy bar, culinary, fashion and live music scenes, Melbourne is an obvious start to any visit to Victoria. Its iconic laneways and alleys are home to some of the city’s best cafes, bars, boutiques and galleries. Explore these with your local guide, getting a real insight into what makes this cosmopolitan city tick. As Melbourne is widely recognized as the sporting capital of Australia you will also visit sporting areas including the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground - affectionately known as the ‘G’, Melbourne Park and Albert Park Grand Prix circuit. Why not enjoy a stroll in the Royal Botanic Gardens and tour the Shrine of Remembrance and learn about Australia’s wartime history. Or visit bayside areas including St Kilda (Melbourne’s summer playground) and take a walk along the beach-side promenade. Other attractions you may want to include in your day are the Yarra River, The Golden Mile, Royal Exhibition Building, Parliament House and the Fitzroy Gardens. The luxury of this private city tour allows you to get a comprehensive look at the city through a local’s eyes.
The Grampians is home to some of Victoria’s most stunning landscapes, along with fascinating history, sublime food and wine and buzzing regional centres. This two day tour of the National Park takes you on a journey to experience this unique landscape which rises out of the plains of western Victoria. The rugged mountain ranges mark the centre of this region and offer plenty of opportunity for outdoor pursuits such as hiking. The impressive ranges are renowned for their unspoilt natural beauty and feature spectacular lookouts with stunning panoramic views, picturesque waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, colourful wildflowers and abundant native wildlife. Visit the impressive Brambuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre and learn about the fascinating history of the indigenous people of this land. Explore the majestic Mackenzie’s Falls and be awed by the Boroka Lookout and the Balconies. Pay a visit to the townships of Ararat, Halls Gap and Dunkeld. This tour is perfect for active people seeking panoramic views and bush hikes, it is also ideal for lovers of fine regional produce as the Grampians is home to amazing restaurants and vineyards.
A trip to Phillip Island is a must for nature lovers and those seeking a unique Australian experience. The island is home to a collection of Australian native wildlife including the famous little penguins, fur seals and koalas. During your tour, come face to face with Australia’s most iconic marsupial at the Koala Conservation Centre. Explore the tree-top boardwalks to glimpse koalas in their natural habitat and wander the extensive trails through Australian bushland. Next make your way to the Nobbies Centre to see the wonders of the southern waters and walk the coastal boardwalks to catch a glimpse of the world’s second largest Australian fur seal colony at Seal Rocks. Then comes the real highlight. Every evening at sunset the little penguins come out of the surf and return to Summerland Beach. They waddle up to their burrows, just as their ancestors have done for thousands of generations, meandering straight past eager visitors who wait in anticipation for the night’s performance. Watch this miracle unfold in front of you from an exclusive platform away from the crowds with the Penguins Plus Experience and see these unique creatures return to their burrows in the sand dunes.
The Mornington Peninsula has been captivating visitors for more than 100 years. Attracted by the gentle hills, kilometres of sparkling bay beaches, rugged surf beaches and stunning coastal scenery, people flock to the Peninsula to enjoy all it has to offer, not least the food and wine. Some of the most picturesque wineries in Victoria can be found throughout this area. Regarded as a quality cool climate wine-growing region, you will find some of the best Australian examples of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. Enjoy private tastings, mouth-watering farm grown produce and meet a variety of artisans throughout this pristine coastal wine region. Lunch will be at a stunning vineyard restaurant. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure, sample more fine wine or try something a little different with a visit to the Main Ridge Dairy, Red Hill Cheese or Mornington Peninsula Chocolates. There is also the option to see Australia’s native wildlife at the Moonlit Sanctuary.
Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is an amazing experience at any time of the year. One of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometres along the southern coast of Victoria. Travel it and you will discover some of the world’s most inspiring scenery, an ever-changing hinterland and charming towns and hamlets. Marvel at the huge cliffs, roaring seas, tranquil coves, magnificent waterfalls and secluded beaches. Gain an insight into Australian surfing culture at Bells Beach, with rugged cliffs and big waves. Discover seaside villages such as the popular town of Lorne, where you can stroll on the stunning beach. As you continue driving you may see koalas in the wild at Kennett River. Indulge in quality local produce and fresh seafood opposite the sandy beaches of Apollo Bay. Head inland through the towering forests towards Port Campbell National Park to view the sculptured beauty of The Twelve Apostles. Many of these stacks of flat-bedded limestone raise 65 metres above sea level and are an inspiring sight to see. Visit Loch Ard Gorge and hear stories from your host about the tragic and romantic shipwreck whilst marvelling at the landmark. Return to Melbourne inland.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the excitement of Ballarat's gold rush days at Sovereign Hill. Set on a former gold mining site, this award winning outdoor museum recreates in fascinating detail the hustle and bustle of life in the 1850s. From gold digging to joining an underground gold mining tour – there is so much to do and see. Experience the excitement of the Red Hill Gully Diggings where you can pan for real gold and see a spectacular $100,000 gold pour. Venture underground on a fully-guided gold mine tour or catch a horse-drawn coach and tour the township. Guests can also visit working shops, hotels, schools, a theatre, crafts, a wheelwright, a candle maker, a confectioner and steam-driven machinery. Enjoy lunch at the New York Bakery; recreated based on advice from Alfred Reid, the son of John Reid, the founder of the original bakery that stood in Ballarat over a century ago. Be entertained by characters dressed in traditional goldfields costumes who are more than happy to pose for a photo – a great memory of your journey back in time.
Enjoy a scenic drive from Melbourne to the Victorian spa country to embark on a day of galleries, fresh produce, lush farmland and stone farmhouse buildings. Pause in the picturesque village of Trentham and enjoy morning tea at the famous Red Beard Bakery best known for its 100 year-old Scotch oven which is still in use to this day. Departing Trentham travel through undulating farming country to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. World famous for 72 mineral springs, you have the option to enjoy some time at a local spa where you can unwind with a massage. Alternatively tempt your taste buds with some wine tasting at one of the region’s cool climate wineries, soak up the European heritage with a visit to Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm or visit the Convent Gallery with picturesque gardens overlooking the township of Daylesford. Enjoy and savour a delicious lunch at one of Australia’s best regional restaurants the award-winning Lake House. Afterwards, be taken by the natural beauty of the Macedon Ranges Regional Park and Hanging Rock, famous for the world renowned film Picnic at Hanging Rock. You will be filled with fond memories as you enjoy the leisurely and relaxing drive back to Melbourne.
The mystery and majesty of the Victorian High Country has attracted locals to the area for generations; it is now caught the gaze of visitors from further afield. Get to know the real essence of country Victoria by venturing beyond the beaten path to epicurean gems such as Brown Brothers and Milawa Cheese. Witness glorious rural vistas, historic icons, and the changing of the seasonal landscape. Perhaps include a short hike to a waterfall or cycle along a rail-trail as part of your journey. On this relaxing full-day tour you will visit the highest calibre of regional wineries, and sample the finest local produce. This is Kelly Country and the Man from Snowy River region - your experience of rural Victoria will evoke the romance of bygone eras. Visit in Autumn and you will see one of Victoria’s most spectacular perennial sights the village of Bright. Red, yellow and burnt orange hues of trees and leaves that line the streets, creeks and parks will surely create lifelong memories. Return to Melbourne as the setting sun casts its long shadows over the Eucalyptus.
Is there a more seductive city than Melbourne after dark? See the city come alive at night. Marvel at the heritage buildings throughout the Golden Mile. Be mesmerised by St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens and the World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building. For dinner, soak up the atmosphere at one of Melbourne’s hottest dining spots or even grab a sidewalk table and enjoy classic pasta with a hearty local red wine in vibrant Little Italy. Fitzroy will give you a jolt. It is bohemian and alternative, with live music streaming from pubs and bars seven days a week. Take in the grandeur of St Kilda Road and witness Melbourne’s spectacular skyline. Revel in the stunning, panoramic views from the city’s highest building, Eureka Tower, or the southern hemisphere’s only giant wheel, The Melbourne Star. You will be captivated by the bright city lights below, spreading 60 kilometres to the horizon from the highest view point in the southern hemisphere. Round off the evening with a cocktail at one of Melbourne’s unique hidden bars or relax with signature Melbourne coffee and something sweet whilst being enchanted by Melbourne through the eyes of a local.
Just an hour’s drive from the city is the verdant landscape of the magnificent Dandenong Ranges, part of the Great Dividing mountain range which runs the entire length of the east coast of Australia. The Dandenongs are also home to Puffing Billy. Operating since 1900, this fully restored steam engine is Australia’s oldest surviving and most famous steam train. With lush fern gullies brushing past, and Mountain Ash towering overhead, Puffing Billy makes for a wonderful opportunity to relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air whilst the train makes its way through the temperate rainforest. Re-live the romance and charm of the bygone days of steam as you travel back in time on this historic, narrow-gauge railway on its original mountain track. Visit quaint townships nestled amongst the magical treeferns such as Sassafras and Olinda, where you can spend time browsing through the many wonderful art and craft shops. Or perhaps journey to the summit of Mt Dandenong for stunning views over the entire metropolitan Melbourne. Guests can stroll through the ancient rainforest at Grant’s Reserve and hand feed a variety of native Australian birds.
Get Inside and Outside to really experience Melbourne like a local. Start your day with a fun, relaxing bike ride in the great outdoors. Get your bearings as you explore Melbourne’s grooviest streets, parks, shops, cafes, hidden laneways and multicultural neighbourhoods by bike. Experience real Melbourne hospitality on this leisurely ride with a local guide. It’s the perfect way to start any Melbourne visit. After a bit of activity, kick up your feet and join your Melbourne Private Tours guide for a delicious lunch. A fun, city dining hotspot awaits with its culinary delights. You will be quick to see inside the heart and soul of the city, and come to realise just why the locals love Melbourne. To round out the day, climb inside your luxurious vehicle on a private city tour and, learn how this sophisticated, yet approachable city has been shaped and moulded. From the comfort of your vehicle you will explore The Golden Mile and heritage buildings, Federation Square, the Queen Victoria Market, Albert Park Lake and Melbourne’s beautiful beachfront. You will not find a better way to explore this amazing city, inside and outside.
Melbourne is a city renowned for great art and delicious food. People travel from far and wide to visit international exhibitions, laneway street art and taste the best food this city has to offer. There is no better way to experience this diversity than on a Melbourne food, art and Laneways walk. Visit historic laneways and architecturally significant buildings to discover hidden galleries, street art by renowned artists, sculpture and modern art. This four hour walking tour will guide visitors to the best of Melbourne’s ever-changing art scene from showcasing high end galleries to discovering significant art that is all around us on laneway walls and decorating our prominent boulevards. The Melbourne food scene is also explored – taste of some of Melbourne’s finest coffee and handmade chocolates, and get up to speed on the latest and greatest restaurants on food-filled Flinders Lane.
The ultimate way to experience the beauty and nature of Phillip Island. Spend the afternoon with exclusive access to one of the islands Nature Parks Rangers. They are passionate experts with knowledge of the island’s flora and fauna, unique and varied birdlife plus the fascinating indigenous Aboriginal history of this small yet diverse island. The tour is uniquely tailored to the passions and interests of the guests offering an insight into what is happening on the island away from the crowds. During your adventure, you will also come face-to-face with Australia’s most iconic marsupial at the Koala Conservation Centre and catch a glimpse of the world’s second largest Australian Fur Seal colony through the interactive cameras at the Nobbies Centre. Complete an unforgettable day with one of the world’s greatest wildlife wonders. Enjoy the sunset return of the Little Penguins on The Ultimate Penguin Tour, perfect for those who want a more personalised and intimate wildlife experience. This fully accredited eco-tour is restricted to no more than 10 visitors per night and is held on a stunning, secluded beach with guests receiving informative commentary by rangers through personal headphones as they view penguins with the use of night vision technology.
After a relaxing one-and-a-half hour drive from Melbourne, gain an insight into Australian surfing culture at Bells Beach. Visit the historic Split Point Lighthouse in Aireys Inlet, which is credited with saving hundreds of ships and thousands of lives along Australia’s treacherous shipwreck coast. Soak up the atmosphere of Victoria’s premier holiday town, Lorne before marveling at the cliff-hugging road that stretches between Lorne and Apollo Bay. It is one of the most spectacular roads in the world, home to monstrous cliffs, roaring seas, tranquil coves, and secluded beaches. En route, visit the wild koalas of Kennett River and get acquainted with some of Australia’s most colourful birds. Sample award-winning food and wines and panoramic views in a carefully selected restaurants in Apollo Bay. Next it is time to climb aboard your light aircraft and take one of the world’s truly great scenic flights. For the rest of the road you will be flying high. Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Twelve Apostles, Moonlight Head, The Cape Otway Light station, Gibson’s Steps and Loch Ard Gorge before a gentle touch down back in Apollo Bay. Travel through the majestic Otway Ranges on your way back to Melbourne.
One of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, the Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometres along the southern coast of Victoria. Travel it and you will discover scenery that will take your breath away. Gain an insight into Australian surfing culture at Bells Beach, and discover seaside villages such as the popular town of Lorne, where you can stroll on the beach. As you continue driving you may see koalas in the wild at Kennett River. Journey inland through towering forests towards Port Campbell National Park to get your first glimpse of the sculptured beauty of The Twelve Apostles. Emerging 65 metres above sea level these towers of limestone are an inspiring sight to see and are truly one of Australia's icons. Next visit the historic landmark of Loch Ard Gorge and hear tragic and romantic tales of shipwrecks. Take to the skies in your private helicopter for a scenic 75-minute return journey to Melbourne. Admire the wonders of the Great Ocean Road and the Otway Ranges from the air - a truly stunning sight - before landing at the Yarra River helipad. An awaiting car will then transfer you to your hotel.
Prepare to be inspired and delighted by this diverse, boot-shaped region. Your hosts own 27 acres of charming farm land that allows them to produce premium quality olives, grapes, herbs and veggies. They also raise sheep, chickens, fish, and turn amazing produce from local farmers into a range of delectable goodies. You will get a whole new perspective on the concept of Paddock to Plate. Spend time in the kitchen with the chef; cooking in a wood fire oven, with wood collected from fallen timber on the property. What you do on the day depends on the season; you may try your hand at curing olives grown on the farm, create handmade sausages in natural skins, make mouth-watering gnocchi, master the art of sourdough bread, or successfully roast and make great coffee. Later you will sit back, relax and enjoy the surrounds while eating and drinking some of the finest food and wine the Mornington Peninsula has to offer. After lunch take a drive down to sample cool climate wines with one of their favourite wine makers, taste freshly made goats cheese from a local dairy or savour succulent strawberries and cherries from the fruit farms in the area.
What a way to start your day - floating gently over the Yarra Valley. Let the breeze usher you along the corridors of grape vines and over The Yarra River as you take in the breathtaking views. Toast your flight with a sumptuous champagne breakfast at a nearby historic chateau with period fittings throughout. After breakfast, visit the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary. Regarded as one of Australia’s leading wildlife reserves, Healesville Sanctuary has over 200 species of Australian birds and animals in pristine Aussie bush land. Visit Dominique Portet vineyard where you will be treated to an exclusive behind-the scenes barrel tasting with Yarra Valley produce. The Portet family has been making wine for 10 generations, since the early 17th century. Now affable Frenchman Dominique Portet, a household name in Victorian wine circles, and son Ben, are continuing the tradition at this charming winery in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Continue exploring the region meeting local characters and sampling wine from boutique wineries such as Yarra Yering, Coldstream Hills and Yering Farm. Avoiding the crowds of the larger wineries – the tour will be tailored to suit your tastes. Finish with lunch at one of the regions picturesque vineyard restaurants.
On day one, visit Victoria's Great Ocean Road, an amazing experience at any time of the year. The Great Ocean Road stretches 243 kilometres along the southern coast of Victoria. Get an insight into Australian surfing culture at Bells Beach, with rugged cliffs and big waves. Discover seaside villages such as the popular town of Lorne, where you can stroll on the stunning beach. As you continue driving you may see koalas in the wild at Kennett River. Explore the magnificent rainforest of Mait's Rest and enjoy a trip up the Cape Otway Light station. On day two, take a stroll through the Melba Gully (or the Jewel of the Otway's) will awaken your senses. You willbe awe struck by the sheer cliffs dropping into the ocean at Gibson's Steps. Visit the world renowned Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge and take in the rugged, spectacular limestone coastline. This is all must do on Great Ocean Road. Take an unforgettable journey at Tower Hill Reserve. The reserve is a haven for wildlife and an fascinating ecological site. It provides an enthralling insight into the indigenous Australians that lived in the area 30,000 years ago.
Truly a city like no other, Melbourne boasts an eclectic mix of cultures and history. For Melburnians today, life revolves around food, fashion, the arts and sport. Take some time to really connect with the city, its people and their passions with this 'local's look' at Melbourne. Journey down the Golden Mile and learn how the discovery of gold shaped the city. Take in the grandeur of Melbourne's sporting precinct to help you truly understand this city's obsession with sport. Drive through the beachside suburbs stopping in St Kilda - Melbourne's playground where you can find people from all walks of life. No tour would be complete without a stroll through Melbourne's iconic laneways and arcades, home to world renowned street art, hidden bars and restaurants, independent galleries, eclectic boutiques and bustling cafes, which serve this caffeine addicted city. Meet the faces behind the produce at Queen Victoria Market. This vibrant historic landmark has been at the heart and soul of Melbourne for more than a century, offering everything from gourmet foods to clothing and souvenirs, with stalls passed down through generations. The tour culminates with a delicious two course lunch in one of Melbourne's hottest restaurants.