Beach and Bush

Itinerary

Day 1 Sydney to Byron Bay

We cross Sydney’s magnificent Harbour Bridge and begin our trek northwards. Travel through the townships of Kempsey, Port Macquarie and Grafton on our way to Byron Bay, Australia’s most easterly point. We will stop en route for a roadside dinner. (L)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 2 Byron Bay

The perfect place to relax, Byron Bay is renowned for its great surf beaches and counter culture. We can take a scenic walk to the lighthouse, try a surfing lesson, go diving or even kayaking. Or just enjoy the worldwide cuisine from over a hundred different cafes and restaurants. The galleries and craft shops are also sure to be of interest. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 3 Byron Bay to Gold Coast

Time to cross the state border and enter Queensland via the Numinbah Valley, home of the “Natural Arch” – a spectacular waterfall that plummets through a stone archway into a rock pool below – then to the Gold Coast, Australia’s holiday playground. The restaurants here are great, as we’ll find out tonight. (B, L)
Overnight: Resort

Day 4 Gold Coast

A free day to choose your own activity. Stroll along the esplanade, hire a jet ski or maybe take in a theme park. The surfing is great too! Tonight we’ll sample the nightlife. (B, D)
Overnight: Resort

Day 5 Gold Coast to Fraser Island

A short drive to Queensland’s capital, Brisbane. Time here to explore the inner city complex followed by a visit to the Forest Glen Wildlife Park. On to Hervey Bay where we board our ferry to Fraser Island, followed by a 4 wheel drive excursion across the island to our surfside accommodation. En route we will check out the magnificent rainforests at “Central Station”. (B, D)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 6 Fraser Island

The world’s largest sand island awaits and the best way to see this magnificent national park is on an optional 4 wheel drive tour. Drive along unspoilt beaches, swim in pristine inland freshwater lakes and walk amongst sub-tropical rainforest. World Heritage listed Fraser Island is stunning. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Hotel

Day 7 Fraser Island to Capricorn Caves

Returning to the mainland via our 4 wheel drive vehicle we will visit beautiful Lake Birrabeen. Then it’s on to Rockhampton (Rocky), situated on the Tropic of Capricorn and known as the “Beef Capital of Oz”. Then to the geologically unique Capricorn limestone caves which we can access for an optional candlelit exploration. Wildlife abounds including kangaroos, echidnas, possums and of course the insectivorous bats. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 8 Capricorn Caves to the Whitsundays

This morning we drive to Mackay commercial centre of Queensland’s huge sugar industry, then to Airlie Beach – gateway to the Whitsunday Passage. We board our ferry at Shute Harbour for our short cruise to Long Island, one of the many beautiful islands that make up this very special waterway. (B, D)
Overnight: Resort

Days 9-10 The Whitsundays

Two days to relax on Long Island and enjoy the facilities of the Club Crocodile Resort. Experience one of the great bushwalks, try some of the many aquatic activities including jet skiing, perhaps a game of beach volleyball or just relax and enjoy a cocktail by the pool. (Bx2, Dx1)
Overnight: Resort

Day 11 The Whitsundays to Cairns

Returning to the mainland we continue on to Townsville, North Queensland’s largest city and headquarters for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Time for a quick stroll along the Strand and take in the sights of Cleveland Bay and across to Magnetic Island. This evening we’ll arrive in Cairns in time for a visit to the night markets. (B, D)
Overnight: Resort

Days 12-13 Cairns and Great Barrier Reef Option

Let yourself go on a huge range of optional activities available in Cairns. For the adventurous, white water rafting on the Tully River is a must. Or perhaps a day trip to the World Heritage listed Daintree Region. For those that want to experience an unforgettable trip to the Great Barrier Reef, you will have a full day to embark on an optional adventure aboard a magnificent cruising yacht with Passions of Paradise. (Bx2, Dx1)
Overnight: Resort

Day 14 Cairns

A short drive brings us to the village of Kuranda nestled in the rainforest at the top of the Manchester Range. Alternatively you can travel to Kuranda through the rainforest canopy on an optional “Skyrail” cableway journey. Either way the views are great! At Kuranda we have time to browse the local markets before we head back to Cairns for an optional visit to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn of the history and lifestyle of the local Tjapukai tribe. (B, L)
Overnight: Resort

Day 15 Cairns to Alice Springs

Our morning flight from Cairns takes us to the contrasting scenery of Alice Springs. After transferring to our accommodation, the rest of the day is free to explore this fascinating outback town. Tonight, grab a meal at a local restaurant. (B)
Overnight: Motel

Day 16 Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Resort

Our journey this morning takes us across some of the oldest river systems in the world on our way to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park home of mighty Uluru (Ayers Rock). After lunch we will visit the Cultural Centre for a great introduction to the area. Next a short drive to the Sunset viewing area to enjoy champagne and nibbles while we watch the fascinating change of colours as an outback sun sets on Australia’s most famous monolith. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 17 Uluru, Kata Tjuta National park and Kings Canyon

An early morning start as we head to the base of Uluru, (Ayers Rock) to experience the dawn, before we undertake a walking tour of the base of the Rock to learn the importance of the area to the Aboriginal people. Time is available for those who choose to climb to the summit of Uluru, undertake a scenic flight or perhaps a Harley Davidson ride around the base. Next up Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), before we head for Watarrka National Park and the appropriately named Kings Canyon. Tonight we set up camp at Kings Creek Station, beneath the outback stars. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Camping

Day 18 Kings Canyon

Today we explore Kings Canyon, a wonder of the Outback. Our walk along the rim above soaring sandstone cliffs takes us to the humble beginnings of Kings Creek. Along the way we will see some unique and ancient vegetation and tranquil waterholes at the Garden of Eden and the Lost City before we head back to Kings Creek Station for a chance to go quad bike riding before a night spent swapping stories around the campfire. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Camping

Day 19 Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

This morning there is time to experience an optional quad bike ride or an outback camel ride. On our return to Alice Springs we’ll visit Anzac Hill and check out the Royal Flying Doctor Base for a fascinating insight into the provision of medical services in the Outback. Our outback journey finishes here late in the afternoon. (B, L)