| Countries Visited:
Australia |
Tour Type: Coach Tour
Tour Duration: 13 Days (12 Nights)
From: Sydney to Sydney
Tour Code: ESKS
Operator: AAT Kings |
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 Click Map To Enlarge
Tour Description
If you have just 13 days to tour the best of Australia, this fully escorted coach travel from Sydney return, is the easiest way. Start at the top with a Canberra Parliament House tour, then rise even higher with a chairlift ride on Australia's tallest mountain, Kosciuszko. Come down to bushranger Ned Kelly's level, then rise to cosmopolitan culture of 'magnificent Melbourne'. Smell the oceans of the Great Australian Bight from the Great Ocean Road, and bite the produce of the Barossa, Mildura and Yarra regions. Stay 2 nights on Australia's quintessential Kangaroo Island with its Remarkable Rocks and wildlife. Go for mountains, lakes, oceans, history, architecture, wildlife, wine & great food on this great tour! Tour Inclusions:
- Full Buffet Breakfasts (12) (B)
- Lunches (2) (L)
- You are invited Dinners (1) D
- Hotel Dinners (6) (D)
- Welcome Drink
- All Purpose Travel Wallet & Map
- Hotel Porterage Included
- Twin share rooms with private facilities
in centrally located hotels
- Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach
with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts,
reclining seats, panoramic windows
- Tour with an experienced, professional
Tour Director and Tour Driver
- Airport transfers (Day prior from
Sydney Airport – flights anytime;
Day 13 to Sydney Airport – flights
to depart after 8.00pm)
Included Tour Highlights:
- Gold Creek Sheep Station
- Tour of Parliament House
- Kosciuszko National Park
- Explore historic Beechworth
- Travel the Great Ocean Road
- The amazing Twelve Apostles
- Tour the spectacular Coorong
- Tower Hill Game Reserve
- View the mysterious Blue Lake
- 2 nights on Kangaroo Island
- Sea Lions at Seal Bay
- Mysterious Whispering Wall
- Barossa Valley wine region
- Chateau Yaldara Winery
- Banrock Station Wetlands
- Picturesque Riverina District
- Spectacular Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains
- Aboriginal Cultural Experience
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Day
1 |
Sydney - Canberra
Today our highlights are a barbecue lunch, sheep shearing demonstration at a working sheep station, a city tour of Australia's capital city Canberra and a guided tour of Parliament House. This evening enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director and fellow travelling companions. Stay: Novotel, Canberra (L/D) |
Day
2 |
Snowy Mountains
Visit charming Cooma, gateway to the Snowy Mountains, for morning tea. See Lake Jindabyne and stunning mountain scenery in Kosciuszko National Park, where there is time for an optional chairlift ride. We also enjoy a journey along the picturesque Alpine Way and a unique overnight stay in one of the Bed & Breakfast properties in historic Beechworth. Beechworth is Victoria’s best preserved gold rush town with its carefully restored colonial buildings and historic precinct. Its 19th century streets showcase an eclectic mix of galleries, collectables, handcrafts, old pubs, cafes, provedores, restaurants and lots more. Stay: Boutique Country Accommodation, Beechworth (B) |
Day
3 |
Melbourne
Get to know Beechworth with a tour and some free time to explore the legendary Beechworth Bakery with its fresh pastries and sweets, as well as the antique shops and galleries. Later we’ll see the museum then it’s on through Glenrowan and Ned Kelly country to culturally diverse and cosmopolitan Melbourne. A dinner option tonight is onboard the distinctive Colonial Tram Car Restaurant. Stay: Crowne Plaza, Melbourne (2 nights) (B) |
Day
4 |
Melbourne ‘Free Time’
Today Melbourne is all yours to explore. You’ll have time to discover some of the secrets of this exceptional city - a myriad of cafés, galleries, museums, markets, restaurants, laneways and parks await you. Or if you want to get out of town you can take a tour to Phillip Island's Little Penguins, the Yarra Valley’s wineries or Sovereign Hill’s goldmine. You’re spoilt for choice. (B) |
Day
5 |
Great Ocean Road
Hold on to your seats today for one of the world’s great road trips - The Great Ocean Road. We’ll get plenty of photo opportunities along this gorgeous coastal road, including stops at surfingmecca Torquay, world famous Bells Beach, a visit to the amazing Twelve Apostles, before finishing the day in the whale watching capital of Warrnambool. Stay: Country Comfort, Warrnambool (B/D) |
Day
6 |
Tower Hill - Mt. Gambier
This morning we visit Worn Gundidi at Tower Hill State Game Reserve. The area was a rich food source for the Koroitgundidj people whose descendants retain links with this country. Our guide will provide us with an Aboriginal perspective about flora, wildlife, volcanic formations, bush existence and medicinal practices. Then marvel at the pristine vistas before we continue through picturesque Port Fairy, along the coast and over the border to South Australia. We skirt the Lower Glenelg National Park into Mt. Gambier for a city tour and stop to look at the spectacular and mysterious Blue Lake. Stay: Chardonnay Lodge (B/D) |
Day
7 |
Adelaide
We travel to Penola in the heart of the
Coonawarra, where Australia’s first saint
Mary MacKillop founded the order of the
Sisters of St. Joseph. Then on through
Naracoorte, en route to Adelaide, the
gorgeous ‘City of Churches’. Stay: Intercontinental Adelaide (B) |
Day
8 |
Victor Harbor
First up seaside Glenelg then we continue on to the picturesque coastal village of Victor Harbor on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Here you’ll have some free time to explore, maybe take a walk to Granite Island and see some sensational coastal views. Next we travel by ferry to Kangaroo Island for our two-night stay. Tonight we’ll have dinner at the Aurora Ozone Hotel, overlooking the spectacular Backstair Passage. Stay: Aurora Ozone Hotel, Kangaroo Island (2 nights) (B/D) |
Day
9 |
Kangaroo Island
Today we explore Kangaroo Island! At
Seal Bay we’ll take a guided tour along
the beach among the Australian sea
lions. We’ll experience more great photo
opportunities at the Remarkable Rocks
and Admiral’s Arch. We’ll also do some
koala, wallaby and kangaroo spotting within the 33,000 hectare Flinders
Chase National Park. G You are invited
by the Hannaford family to Middle River
for a Shearers Feast. Relax with a predinner
drink on the croquet lawn (try
your hand at a spot of croquet or perhaps
spot some wildlife by torchlight) then
stroll to the old shearing shed, built from
old sugar gum trees and corrugated iron,
for a candle-lit casual dinner, prepared
from local produce. A night to remember! (B/L/D) |
Day
10 |
Barossa Valley
We leave Kangaroo Island, ferrying back to Cape Jervis, then we’re off through the Adelaide Hills today, we stop at the mysterious Whispering Wall then travel to the picturesque Barossa Valley - taking in some sensational panoramic views from Mengler Lookout - then it’s on to the real business - a winery visit - to Chateau Yaldara for a tour and tasting! We’ll also visit the Angas Park Fruit Centre then relax and watch the sunset over the vineyards at Barossa Valley Novotel Resort – what a way to end the day! Stay: Novotel Barossa Valley Resort (B/D) |
Day
11 |
Barossa Valley - Mildura
This morning we visit Banrock Station and its Interpretive Centre where you can learn about the fascinating wetlands. Travel on to Mildura, a charming oasis by the Murray River, often referred to as the Mediterranean in the outback, with its picturesque citrus groves and vineyards. Tonight you'll have the opportunity to sample the array of fresh food and wine at one of the local restaurants. Or simply relax at the hotel. Stay: Mercure Hotel, Mildura (B) |
Day
12 |
Banrock Station
This morning we visit Banrock Station and its Interpretive Centre where you can learn about the fascinating wetlands. Travel on to Mildura, a charming oasis by the Murray River, often referred to as the Mediterranean in the outback, with its picturesque citrus groves and vineyards. Tonight you'll have the opportunity to sample the array of fresh food and wine at one of the local restaurants. Or simply relax at the hotel. Stay: Country Comfort, Wagga Wagga (B/D) |
Day
13 |
Blue Mountains - Sydney
Our scenic journey through mid western New South Wales is packed with Australian icons. From a stop-and-see of Don Bradman ’s birth place, to Bathurst and a hot lap of Mount Panorama, to the impressive World Heritage listed Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters, we finish up at Sydney in the shadows of one of the great Australian icons – the Harbour Bridge. And here our Grand Southern Discovery ends. You will be transferred to Sydney Airport for your onward flight. (B) |
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Itinerary is based on 2012 departures. Click on the icon to the left if you would like to view the 2012 brochure online. |
Tour Prices
Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability. |
| START DATE |
END DATE |
BROCHURE
(Twin Share) |
BROCHURE
(Single) |
OUR
SAVINGS |
OUR
PRICE |
| 13 Mar 2012 |
22 Mar 2012 |
AU $4,295 |
AU $5,215 |
Save $195 |
AU $4,100 |
| 27 Mar 2012 |
05 Apr 2012 |
AU $4,295 |
AU $5,215 |
Save $195 |
AU $4,100 |
| 03 Apr 2012 |
12 Apr 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 17 Apr 2012 |
26 Apr 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 22 May 2012 |
31 May 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 05 Jun 2012 |
14 Jun 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 28 Aug 2012 |
06 Sep 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 11 Sep 2012 |
20 Sep 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 16 Oct 2012 |
25 Oct 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 30 Oct 2012 |
08 Nov 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
| 04 Dec 2012 |
13 Dec 2012 |
AU $3,999 |
AU $4,964 |
Save $180 |
AU $3,819 |
*Tour Status: 'G' tours are guaranteed to depart.
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Tour Discounts & Options:
Tour options, extras, upgrades and discounts! |
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Click on the descriptions below for more detail. We will apply all valid discounts automatically to your quote to provide you with the best possible price. Terms & Conditions apply to the discounts below.
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General Information
The information below relates to this itinerary only. |
Tour Operator: AAT Kings
An AAT Kings escorted coach tour is the hassle-free freeway to holiday. Everything has been arranged in advance so travellers don't have to worry about getting lost, finding attractions and reading maps or speeding tickets. On an AAT Kings tour, there is a perfect balance of planned sightseeing and free time for independent exploration or just relaxing and doing nothing at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, AAT Kings have one of the newest coach fleets in Australia. Their modern and luxurious Mercedes Benz and Scania coaches are equipped with air conditioning, reclining seats, seatbelts, restrooms, two door access, ample legroom and large panoramic windows, so you won't miss a thing.
AAT Kings have designated certain departures as Guaranteed Departures, which means they have reached minimum passenger numbers and will definitely run as scheduled. Global Journeys continue to add Guaranteed Departure status to tours online as they achieve minimum numbers. If you book on a non Guaranteed Departure AAT Kings will determine if the tour will operate no later than 6 weeks prior to departure. If the tour is withdrawn we will work to offer you a suitable alternative. If you aren't happy with the options offered any money paid on your booking will be refunded.
This depends on the touring style you are booking. Short Break bookings will receive e-documentation. If you are booking an AAT Kings escorted tour (Premium, Cost Saver, Explorer or Camping) you will receive paper documents in a complimentary leather travel wallet as well as luggage labels and a useful booklet containing valuable holiday information. You will also receive a map of the region you are visiting when you get on tour.
Documents for AAT Kings guided tours are delivered to the hotel or address you are staying at prior to your tour depending on the tour type chosen. We also provide you with a tour itinerary and arrival instructions by email, once we have all your flight information and personal details.
To suit all different holiday styles AAT Kings offer a range of different touring types.
- Premium tours are guided by a Tour Director and Driver and include more luxurious accommodation and facilities, more meals and exclusive dining experiences as well as extra sightseeing and cultural highlights.
- CostSaver tours are designed to offer value for money with clean and comfortable accommodation, breakfast daily, some dinners and plenty or free time, while also benefiting from an expert Tour Director and Driver throughout.
- Explorer tours are run in our luxury mini-coach vehicles and average around 20 travellers. These active itineraries explore less accessible locations, stay in a mix of Premium tour standard accommodation and character-filled boutiques and are escorted by a dedicated Driver guide.
- Short Breaks showcase the highlights of a region or city in a short time, they allow extra flexibility as standalone or pre or post tour options. Short Breaks are run by our expert Driver guides.
With such a diverse range of destinations and touring styles there is no set age or type who travel with AAT, you can expect a wide-range of like-minded travellers. Families with children, young couples, baby boomers, solo travellers, small groups and more can be found on our Guided tours.
There is certainly no age limit for touring, with children as young as 6 through to seniors travelling, however, the general demographic tends to be over 40.
As AAT Kings is sold internationally you will also find that there are people from all over the world on their tours, particularly North Americans, British, Europeans and many Asian nations.
Depending on the tour you choose and the time of year you are travelling our group sizes can vary from fewer than 21 people up to 50 people, so there is a great opportunity to mingle and make new friends.
While it’s not compulsory in Australia or New Zealand, tipping is becoming an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis. Likewise on your AAT Kings tour, if you feel that your Tour Director, Driver, Driver guide or Private cook has done an excellent job, then we would recommend tipping up to the equivalent of AU $5 per day. However, it’s not compulsory. It is up to you!
The beauty of travelling with AAT Kings is that you won't be travelling alone. You'll have a group of like-minded travellers and soon to be friends to share in the experience with. They also offer a room matching service on all Guided tours (not applicable on Explorer or Short Breaks) so you don't have to pay a single room supplement. AAT Kings room matching service means they will work to match you with another solo traveller of the same sex but if they can't they will provide a single room at no extra cost.
Yes, they can accommodate children, however they must be over 6 years of age. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. AAT Kings do recommend that people travelling with children consider whether the itinerary is suitable, in particular the activities involved and the duration of the tour to ensure children’s comfort.
We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on AAT Kings including more FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on what to expect on tour, and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their tours. Read more> (NB: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).
Airport Transfer Information
Free Airport Transfers
AAT Kings offers a hotel or airport transfer at the start and end of your tour, or in-conjunction with pre or post accommodation booked with Global Journeys & AAT Kings. All flight information must be given to Global Journeys at least 6 weeks prior to departure so that transfers can be booked. If you book your own pre or post accommodation then transfers cannot be included.
AAT Kings Short Breaks in the Northern Territory only include airport transfers in Ayers Rock (these meet all incoming flights and leave Ayers Rock 2 hours prior to your departure flight time). In Alice Springs and Darwin they have a range of transfer options negotiated at competitive prices.
Terms & Conditions:
Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!
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