The Great Southern Coastal Getaway

Melbourne is the cool, artsy capital of the state of Victoria. Renowned for its laneway art, cafes, bars, restaurants and museums, there is no shortage of things to do, see, eat and drink. Grab a coffee on Degraves Street, see the murals on Hosier Lane or Blender Lane, pop over to St Kilda and stroll along the promenade or visit one of the many museums. For a spot of retail therapy, catch the 86 or 96 tram from the CBD to the bohemian Brunswick Street shopping district for an eclectic mix of second-hand vintage and high-end boutique stores. On the opposite side of the city, the Docklands open-air entertainment precinct boasts a myriad of public artwork, family fun activities such as glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and a variety of dining options lining the marina. Get there easily on the free City Circle tram, or wander over the Bourke Street footbridge. To make the most of your time in Melbourne, we recommend taking a city tour to get true local insight into this vibrant city.

The City Circle Tram service provides a free and convenient way to get around central Melbourne. Tourists, shoppers, office workers and families can use the City Circle Tram to travel to major attractions, shops and city events. An audio commentary provides details of city landmarks and major attractions such as the City Museum, Parliament House, Docklands, Federation Square, Melbourne Aquarium and the Princess Theatre. You can spend all day, or stay one hour - this is a perfect free version of a hop on-hop off service so that you can enjoy each of Melbournes sites with the added bonus of traditional Melbourne transportation. 

Escape to a world of natural beauty at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. Spanning over 94 acres, these gardens are home to more than 8,500 plant species from around the globe. Wander through lush landscapes, tranquil lakes, and themed gardens, each offering a unique horticultural experience. Highlights include the stunning Rose Garden, the serene Fern Gully, and the fascinating Guilfoyle's Volcano. Perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or guided tours, the gardens also offer educational programs and seasonal events. Whether you're a plant enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit oasis in the heart of Melbourne.

The Queen Victoria Market, fondly known as "Queen Vic" or "Vic Market," is a historic and vibrant open-air market in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 1878, it boasts over 600 stalls offering a diverse array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, dairy products, and specialty foods, as well as clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. Renowned for its high-quality food options, the market features dedicated sections like the Meat Hall and Dairy Hall, and hosts various events, including night markets and cultural festivals. Situated on the site of the original Melbourne Cemetery, the market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, reflecting the diverse and dynamic spirit of Melbourne. Easily accessible via public transport, Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a bustling traditional market atmosphere.

Experience the best of Melbourne in just three hours. This “complete” experience is meant to tell the whole story of Melbourne in an economical time - from how we got to be known as the world’s coffee capital, to where the find the best street art.
Your guide will entertain you with stories of Melbourne’s humble beginnings to the Gold Rush era that changed everything. Explore Chinatown and discover Melbourne’s multicultural edge. Hear the guide brag about the Melbourne cafe scene and then deliver the goods, as they buy you a famous Melbourne coffee! Finish up like a “fair dinkum” Aussie – at a pub of course! Let your guide grab you a cold beer (or soda/cider) and take questions and give advice on other Melbourne highlights.

Experience an unforgettable day exploring Phillip Island’s natural wonders! Begin at Moonlit Sanctuary, where you’ll meet iconic Aussie wildlife like koalas and Tasmanian devils, with optional close-up encounters. Then, unwind in the seaside town of Cowes—perfect for browsing boutique shops, relaxing by the pier, or enjoying a meal or craft beer. Next, soak up dramatic coastal views at the Nobbies Boardwalk, with the chance to spot seals and seabirds. End your adventure at the magical Penguin Parade, watching hundreds of little penguins return to shore at sunset. This tour offers the perfect mix of wildlife, scenery, and coastal charm.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.

Begin your journey by heading south to the charming town of Torquay, renowned as Australia’s surfing capital and home to the iconic Bells Beach. From there, follow the coastal road to Anglesea and Lorne, where a short detour to Erskine Falls is highly recommended. You can park near the 30-meter cascading waterfall or enjoy a refreshing walk through the lush rainforest to stretch your legs.

The stretch of road from Lorne to Apollo Bay is often described as one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world, with stunning ocean views and dramatic scenery at every turn. Apollo Bay, your destination, is the gateway to some of Australia’s most famous short and multi-day hikes, including the Great Ocean Road and the enchanting Otways rainforest. While in Apollo Bay, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Southern Ocean, stroll along the scenic coastline, or explore the rainforests, waterfalls, ferns, and sparkling streams that make this region so captivating.

As the sun sets over the hills of the Otways, a fascinating world comes to life. Potoroos, bandicoots, pademelons, and more awaken and begin their nightly rituals of feeding and foraging. Experience this magical transformation on the Dusk Discovery Wildlife Tour, where you'll have the chance to spot these amazing creatures as they emerge for the evening. This small, intimate tour, led by a knowledgeable conservationist guide, offers exclusive insights into the lives of some of the Otways' more elusive and rarely seen animals. Capture spectacular sunset photos and savor a small meal of local delights, accompanied by beer or wine, as you immerse yourself in this enchanting environment. Don't miss this unique Australian wildlife encounter – it's an unforgettable adventure!

The first part of your drive today will take you to the iconic Twelve Apostles, perhaps the most famous landmark on the Great Ocean Road, and stopping here is a must. You can park at the carpark and follow the paved path to the lookout, or to take some time and stretch your legs take the path down Gibson's steps to the beach. Descending these 86 stairs carved into the cliff face, and reaching the beach you are treated to a closeup view of these incredible rock formations. 3 minutes further along what is known as the Shipwreck Coast, you will find the stop-off point for Loch Ard Gorge, a glistening inlet of striking blue water surrounded by sheer sandstone cliffs. Beyond the town of Port Campbell, stop at the London Bridge and The Grotto for more stunning sights and photo opportunities.
Explore the coastal city of Warrnambool where you might be lucky enough to spot southern right whales calve off Logan Beach if you are travelling between May and October. From here, it's a 30-minute drive to your destination of Port Fairy

Journey to the dramatic cliffs of Cape Otway and discover the iconic lighthouse, a sentinel guarding the treacherous Bass Strait since 1848. Not just the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia, it's also considered the most significant, earning the nickname "Beacon of Hope" for countless ships. Climb the 90 meters to the top and be rewarded with panoramic ocean vistas. Imagine the relief of 19th-century migrants who, after months at sea, finally spotted this landmark, marking their arrival in Australia. However, Cape Otway's history is marked by more than hope. Standing on these cliffs, you'll learn about the region's shipwrecks, a somber reminder of the power of the ocean and the lighthouse's vital role in saving lives. A captivating blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and adventure awaits at Cape Otway Lighthouse.

Today, head along the coast to Portland. If you see a yellow flag outside the Visitor Information Centre, then it means that a whale has been spotted! Try your luck from one of the local vantage spots - in winter this can be either out on the breakwater or from the clifftop overlooking the bay, and in summer the best place is the Cape Nelson Lighthouse.
A popular side trip from Portland is to the Cape Bridgewater Blowholes and the Petrified Forest.
Continue through the town of Nelson, before crossing state lines into South Australia. Mount Gambier is the second-largest city in South Australia and has been built onto the slopes of a long-extinct volcano. Stop at the city's famous Blue Lake and the Umpherston Sinkhole to marvel its sunken terrace gardens.
From here it is another 1 hour 30 minutes to your final destination for the day, Robe.

Discover Mount Gambier, the vibrant heart of South Australia's Limestone Coast. Known for its stunning geological wonders, this charming town is home to the breathtaking sapphire waters of the Blue Lake and the locals' gem, Little Blue Lake. Don’t miss the chance to explore the lush underground garden at Umpherston Sinkhole, a true natural wonder. As you stroll through the town, admire the impressive heritage buildings, and enjoy a variety of shops, cafés, and restaurants. Beyond Mount Gambier, you'll find great day-trip spots like Robe, Penola, and the renowned wine region of Coonawarra. 

Your first stop out of Robe should be at the Cape Jaffa Lighthouse in Kingston SE. Built in 1872, it was originally located out at sea and it housed two families with enough storage to keep several weeks of supplies. The lighthouse was decommissioned, brought to land and converted into a museum in 1976.
Cross the Murray River and your next stop should be in Strathalbyn. The town has beautiful heritage buildings in the historic main streets and if you like historic vehicles, you can stop in at Gilbert's Motor Museum.
Next stop is Goolwa, a small town that was once a thriving river port for paddle steamers bringing cargo from upriver. There's lots of history here including the famous Cockle Train, which runs to Port Elliot from Goolwa’s wharf precinct alongside the River Murray, on the oldest steel railway in Australia dating back to 1887. It takes in spectacular coastal scenery with perfect views of the Southern Ocean.
From here it's just a short drive to your destination, Victor Harbor. This historic coastal town has been a favourite with holiday makers and local fishermen for generations. No visit to Victor Harbor is complete without hopping on the iconic horse-drawn tram to journey across the causeway and explore Granite Island.

Take a step back in time aboard the Cockle Train, traversing the oldest steel railway in Australia. Built in 1854, this iconic journey connects Goolwa on the River Murray to Victor Harbor on the coast. Your adventure begins at Goolwa Station, venturing across plains and charming towns like Middleton. Reach Port Elliot, where the station features a historical museum, before departing Port Elliot. The train ascends to the top of the coastal cliffs, you will experience some of the most picturesque coastal scenery on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The 30-minute ride concludes in Victor Harbor, where the train ingeniously turns on a giant turntable before heading back. One-way or round-trip tickets are available for purchase on the day, with flexible wait times at stations. Heritage railcars and diesel locomotives power this unique experience. But why "Cockle Train"? Early settlers used horse-drawn trains to gather cockles from the Murray mouth for bait, making it a cherished day trip. So, climb aboard and discover the charm of the Cockle Train!

Departs: Saturday, Sunday & Wednesday 10:00am, 12:15pm, 2:45pm
Tickets available on the day of travel, no need to book!

Embarking on a short 45 minute journey out of Victor Harbor you will travel through Encounter Bay and past the edges of the Fraser national trust before reaching Willow Creek, a winery haven. Passing through Parawa, allows time to perhaps take a short 10 minute detour to the Ingalalla falls, a short walk along an upstream creek will provide you with dotted picnic areas along the trail, before journeying on.
Up next is Delamere a tiny hamlet, the town was originally named 'Glenburn', make sure to stop for lunch or grab a photo at the authentic colourful mural art wall painted by the locals, located just by the general store. A short drive more and you will reach your destination of the day Cape Jervis, the main departure point for ferries crossing over to Kangaroo Island.

SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Cape Jervis (two hours south of Adelaide) and Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island. The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.

Setting out on a 45 minute drive you will head west on Middle terrace out of Penneshaw towards your destination Kingscote, the largest town on Kangaroo Island. Following along the coast you'll pass through Baudin Beach and Brown Beach before reaching Pelican Lagoon a protected seawater aquatic reserve. If you wish you can make a slight detour from Haines to Nepean Bay, here you will find the Kangala Kangaroo and wildlife rescue centre.

This 45 minute walking tour with National Parks and Wildlife Service will take you on a journey around Seal Bay, departing the Visitor Centre on a boardwalk path through the dunes. At the beach, remark at the sea lions as your knowledgeable guide interprets their behaviour and habits from a safe distance. On this memorable wildlife experience, occasionally spot members of the colony snoozing in the sand dunes or in the middle of the path. Seal Bay has the third largest breeding colony of Australian Sea Lions.

Today, take advantage of your free day to explore Kangaroo Island, renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant food and wine culture. Start at Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can walk among a colony of Australian sea lions. Explore Flinders Chase National Park to admire the iconic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, a natural rock formation alive with fur seals. For up-close encounters with native wildlife, visit Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, home to over 100 species, where you can feed kangaroos or even hold a koala. Thrill-seekers can head to Little Sahara’s towering sand dunes for exhilarating sandboarding experiences. Food lovers will relish fresh seafood at The Oyster Farm Shop, Ligurian honey from Millie Mae’s Pantry, or wines at clifftop cellar doors like Dudley Wines. Those seeking relaxation will find solace at Vivonne Bay, perfect for swimming or unwinding on its pristine sands. For hiking enthusiasts, the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail offers an immersive journey through unspoiled landscapes teeming with diverse flora and fauna. End your day with a sunset at Hanson Bay or stargazing under the island’s clear, star-filled skies.

Step into the story of Kangaroo Island’s wool legacy on this immersive 75-minute experience. Your journey begins in Australia’s only 9-metre Igloo Dome, where a breathtaking 360-degree cinematic presentation brings the island’s rich history to life, from early settlers to today’s wool farmers. Surrounded by sweeping coastlines, working farms, sheepdogs, and playful lambs, you’ll get a true sense of what makes this place so special. Then, enjoy a fully guided tour through one of Australia’s only vertical wool mills. Follow the journey of raw fibre as it's expertly transformed into beautifully crafted garments, from scouring and spinning to dyeing and knitting. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at sustainable production, local craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of Kangaroo Island.

For a truly unforgettable wildlife encounter, head to Raptor Domain, home to one of South Australia’s only free-flight Birds of Prey presentations. This is an experience not to be missed. Enjoy a captivating daily show where you’ll get up close with Australia’s incredible birdlife. Interact with friendly Barn Owls, share a laugh with Banjo and Paterson the cheeky Kookaburras, and marvel at the power and grace of Wedge-tailed Eagles and Black Kites. From chatty Cockatoos to aerobatic raptors, each presentation offers an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

If you want the opportunity to ride a Quad Bike through the beautiful countryside of Kangaroo Island than this tour is for you. Suitable for children from 6 years old, this family friendly tour gives you the opportunity to gain confidence on a variety of terrain while learning about the flora, fauna and history of the area from your experienced guide.

Leaving Kingscote you will embark on a 60km drive to your destination Penneshaw. Following the Playford Highway then turning left onto Hog Bay, will take you to Mt Thisby lookout, we recommend you take the short 500 step hike up to the top of Prospect Hill where you will be rewarded with amazing views of Kangaroo Island. After a little longer you will reach your destination of Penneshaw.

SeaLink Kangaroo Island’s ferry service operates between Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island and Cape Jervis (two hours south of Adelaide). The journey takes just 45 minutes for the 16km crossing.

Travel along the coastline of the St Vincent Gulf to the iconic McLaren Vale wine region. Here, you can visit galleries and taste wine at some of the 45 cellar doors, including Yangarra, d’Arenberg, and Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard. McLaren Vale is also a haven for foodies.
From here, it’s an easy 45-minute drive to central Adelaide. Wander the cultural boulevard of North Terrace – home to the South Australian Museum and Adelaide Botanic Garden.

Experience the charm and vibrancy of Adelaide, South Australia’s bustling capital, renowned for its rich cultural scene, beautiful parklands, and exceptional food and wine offerings. Known as the "City of Churches," Adelaide combines historic architecture with modern attractions, offering visitors a diverse experience. Explore iconic sites like Adelaide Oval, Art Gallery of South Australia, and the South Australian Museum, all reflecting the city’s deep cultural heritage.
For wine lovers, Adelaide is a gateway to some of the best wine regions in the world, including the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley. The National Wine Centre of Australia is a must-see, where visitors can learn about Australia’s rich wine history, explore an interactive wine experience, and sample some of the finest wines the country has to offer.
Stroll through the lush Botanic Gardens or enjoy a relaxing day by the River Torrens, surrounded by the city’s peaceful green spaces. For a taste of local produce, visit the Adelaide Central Market, offering an array of fresh food, gourmet treats, and artisan goods. Adelaide offers the perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an essential stop on any Australian itinerary.

See Adelaide by e-bike on this fully guided three hour tour. Start your morning off at Bloom Cafe where you will enjoy coffee and cake before your guide will set you up on you e-bike. Cycle along the picturesque River Torrens and visit popular sites including Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Zoo while your experienced guide tells you stories about this historic city. Enjoy a well deserved delicious charcuterie board and wine flight at The National Wine Centre of Australia before taking a stroll through the heart of the Botanic Gardens.

Indulge in a memorable day of wine tasting in one of Australia’s premier wine regions on the Uncork McLaren Vale, a unique tour hosted by Small Batch Wine Tours. This intimate experience takes you through the scenic vineyards of McLaren Vale, where you’ll discover boutique wineries known for their exceptional wines and craftsmanship.
Your expert guide will lead you to carefully selected wineries, allowing you to sample a variety of premium wines, including the region’s famous Shiraz. Learn about the winemaking process from passionate cellar door staff and enjoy behind-the-scenes insights into the art of creating small-batch wines. Throughout the day, savour a delicious two-course lunch, paired with fine local wines, set in a picturesque winery restaurant, offering the perfect backdrop for relaxation and indulgence.

With a growing small-bar scene, world-class art and music, and a festival calendar to rival that of any other Australian city, Adelaide is a destination worth discovering. Take time to explore its vibrant laneways, visit the iconic Adelaide Central Market, and go shopping in Rundle Mall. Slow things down and relax at the Botanic Gardens, jump on the iconic Popeye Cruise along the River Torrens, or take the tram out to Glenelg to explore the popular metropolitan beach, dine in one of the many foreshore restaurants, or even enjoy the beach cabanas in summer months.
Adelaide is also lucky enough to be surrounded by some of Australia's most famous wine regions, and a stop into one of the wineries or the National Wine Centre is highly recommended. A 30-minute drive east into the hills will take you to Hahndorf, the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, home to incredible food, strawberry fields and streets lined with artisan stores. On the way to Hahndorf, stop in at the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens and the Mt Lofty Summit for a coffee with a view. You may wish to return via Belair and stop at the iconic Windy Point Lookout on your way for even more phenomenal views over the city and beyond, especially at sunset.

Hop aboard, relax, and let your skipper take you through the history of iconic locations and famous ships as you cruise around. Heading along the Port River you will learn about the rich maritime history, and explore the interesting landmarks and vessels during your journey. Throughout the tour, your guide will have a presentation playing that shows the historical events in depth. Be amazed as you cruise past giant wrecks, half-submerged in the hidden backwaters of the Port River. Keep your eyes peeled as you head through the Dolphin Sanctuary - if you are lucky you may spot some of the local pod and during the summer months, their newborn calves, as well as the migratory shorebirds and threatened species.

This small group tour is guided by a local Adelaide foodie and includes a 90min stroll around the Adelaide Central Market, followed by a coffee. On the tour learn some history, meet the stallholders, hear their stories, and taste the premium foods grown and produced in the state. Tastings can include artisan cheeses, bush tucker, seasonal produce, and samples that showcase Australia's multicultural heritage.

Drop your vehicle at the Adelaide Airport as stipulated in your itinerary.