
Southern Cross Discovery - Melbourne, Great Ocean Road, South Australia
18 Days | 15 Nights
Price per person from *
$5,899pp
*Based on double occupancy
Air/Land Inclusive
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Set off on an extraordinary journey through southern Australia, beginning with three vibrant nights in Melbourne before exploring the Great Ocean Road with an overnight stay in Apollo Bay. Discover the Coonawarra wine region, immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges, encounter incredible wildlife in Port Lincoln, and finish your adventure in Adelaide, savoring spectacular sights and touring highlights along the way.
- Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Melbourne, returning from Adelaide
- 15 Nights Superior/Standard Accommodation
- 8 Experiences includes Melbourne Laneways & Arcades, Coonawarra Wine Tour, Adelaide Roof Climb and 2 Port Lincoln Nature/Wildlife tours
- 12 Days Group C Car Rental including unlimited mileage
Description
Begin a memorable 18-day vacation through southern Australia, starting with round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Melbourne and returning from Adelaide. Upon arrival in Melbourne, enjoy a private transfer to the Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne, where you'll stay for three nights in a Perkins Room with daily breakfast. Explore Melbourne’s vibrant culture with a Laneways and Arcades Tour, uncovering hidden gems and enjoying a delightful lunch. Explore the city before venturing to Phillip Island to meet the colony of little penguins.
Pick up your rental car and drive along the Great Ocean Road to Port Campbell. See the amazing rock formations of the Twelve Apostles, which are huge stone pillars sticking out of the surf, carved over time by the crashing Southern Ocean waves. Port Campbell is famous for its own London Bridge - the broken arch.
Continue to Coonawarra, one of Australia’s premier wine regions, renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon and stunning vineyard landscapes. Spend two nights at Coonawarra Place Motor Inn in a King Spa Suite and enjoy a full-day wine tour, indulging in local flavors and hospitality.
Drive to Adelaide, the vibrant capital of South Australia, for two nights at Vibe Hotel Adelaide. Explore the famous Adelaide Central Market on an Early Riser Breakfast Tour and scale new heights with the Roofclimb Adelaide Oval, offering panoramic city views.
Travel to the breathtaking Flinders Ranges, staying two nights at Rawnsley Park Station. Discover the natural wonders of Wilpena Pound with a scenic flight, a full-day tour of Flinders Ranges National Park, and the serene Sunset on the Chace experience, featuring wine and canapés.
Conclude with three nights in Port Lincoln, the seafood capital of Australia, at the Port Lincoln Hotel. Embark on the Exceptional Seafood and Wildlife Tour and the Coffin Bay Oysters, Ocean, and Nature Day Tour. Overnight in Port August before returning to Adelaide for a final night at Vibe Hotel Adelaide, reflecting on an extraordinary vacation combining city highlights, coastal beauty, wildlife adventures, and culinary delights.
Price
Travel Dates |
Price* | |
---|---|---|
*Based on double occupancy | ||
May 1, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025 | from $5,899pp * | |
Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025 | from $5,999pp * | |
Jul 24, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025 | from $5,899pp * | |
Sep 1, 2025 - Nov 30, 2025 | from $5,949pp * |
*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on twin share. Single supplements apply. Advertised price valid for departures May 1 - Jul 13, 2025 & Jul 24 - Aug 31, 2025. Other date ranges available, however seasonal surcharges apply. Black-out dates apply. Airlines frequently change their prices as a result of fare increases. Seats and rooms are limited and subject to availability at time of booking. Prices are current at time of posting (4/16/2025) and may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed. Airfare is non-refundable once ticketed as per airfare rules. Travel Answers terms and conditions apply to change fees and cancellations. Packages must be booked by June 30, 2025. All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices based on availability. Visas are required for travel to Australia.CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531
Inclusions
- Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Melbourne, returning from Adelaide
- One-way Melbourne Private Airport/Hotel transfer
- 3-nights Melbourne, Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne, Perkins Room including breakfast
- Lanes and Arcades Tour including lunch
- Full-day City Tour and Phillip Island
- 12-days Intermediate Car Hire including unlimited mileage, pick-up Melbourne, drop-off Adelaide
- 1-night Port Campbell, Waves Port Campbell, King Spa Suite including breakfast
- 2-nights Coonawarra, Coonawarra Place Motor Inn, King Spa Suite
- Full-day Coonawarra Wine Tour including lunch
- 2-nights Adelaide, Vibe Hotel Adelaide, Deluxe Room including breakfast
- Adelaide Central Market Early Riser Breakfast Tour
- Twilight Roofclimb Adelaide Oval
- 2-nights Flinders Ranges, Rawnsley Park Station including Continental breakfast daily, a 30-minute flight over Wilpena Pound, a full day tour of Flinders Park NP and a bottle of wine on arrival
- Sunset on the Chace experience includes wine and canapes
- 3-nights Port Lincoln, Port Lincoln Hotel, Ocean View Balcony Room
- Full-day Exceptional Port Lincoln, Seafood and Wildlife Tour
- Full-day Coffin Bay Oysters, Ocean and Nature Day Tour
- 1-night Port Augusta, Majestic Oasis Apartments, Waterfront 1 Bedroom
- 1 night Adelaide, Vibe Hotel Adelaide, Deluxe Room including breakfast
- US/foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee
Exclusions
- Australian ETA Visa (AU$20/person) payable on application
- Car Rental does not include refueling charges, tolls, and Vehicle Registration Fee
Map
Itinerary
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Day 1 (Thu) - Depart USA
This evening make your way to Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight to Melbourne. Other gateway cities are available, please call for details and pricing.
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Day 2 (Fri) - International Date Line
During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.
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Day 3 (Sat) - Arrive Melbourne
After you clear Immigration and Customs, collect your luggage and meet your driver for your transfer to your hotel where you will spend the next three nights. The remainder of your day is at your leisure.
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Day 4 - Melbourne (B)
Discover the vibrant city of Melbourne and its rich history on a guided small-group tour. Explore iconic landmarks like Federation Square, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Albert Park Lake, and St. Kilda Beach. Marvel at Albert Park, home to the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the world-famous Melbourne sports precinct, where the Australian Open tennis tournament takes place. Enjoy a break to grab lunch (own expense) before heading to Phillip Island, renowned for its abundant wildlife and breathtaking coastal scenery.
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Day 5 - Melbourne (B,L)
Step into the enchanting laneways and hidden corners of Melbourne with this immersive tour, guided by passionate local hosts. Embrace the city's unique blend of history, culture, and creativity, where every turn reveals something new. Whether you're a curious visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to Melbourne's soul. Spend a few leisurely hours with us and discover the magic of Melbourne. Finish with a one course lunch and a glass of local wine in a Melbourne hotspot (unaccompanied).
Your afternoon is free to explore Melbourne at leisure.
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne
(Superior)
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Day 6 - Melbourne - Port Campbell (B)
Collect your rental vehicle and depart Melbourne via the West Gate Bridge, following the Princes Highway to Geelong, Victoria’s largest provincial city. Continue to Torquay, the gateway to the Great Ocean Road and Australia’s renowned surfing capital. Visit the iconic Bells Beach or the serene Erskine Falls nearby. The drive along the scenic coastline from Lorne to Port Campbell is often hailed as one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring routes in the world.
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Waves Port Campbell
(Standard)
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Waves Port Campbell
(Standard)
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Day 7 - Coonawarra (B)
Awaken early and return to the Twelve Apostles to see the sun rise before the crowds arrive. Return to the hotel for breakfast before hitting the road for a scenic drive to Coonawarra.
The drive from Port Campbell to Coonawarra takes you through a diverse landscape of rolling farmland, historic towns, and picturesque countryside, offering a serene escape from the coast. As you approach the Coonawarra wine region, the scenery transitions to lush vineyards and welcoming cellar doors, promising a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.
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Coonawarra Place Motor Inn
(Standard)
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Coonawarra Place Motor Inn
(Standard)
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Day 8 (Thu) - Coonawarra (B,L)
Experience the best of the Coonawarra wine region on a memorable small-group tour blending iconic wineries and charming family-owned estates. Begin with a visit to Wynns Coonawarra, the region’s pioneering winery established in 1896, for a behind-the-scenes tour and expertly crafted wine tastings. Capture a photo at the historic Coonawarra Railway Siding and learn about the area’s rich history, including its Terra Rossa soil, famed for producing exceptional wines. Enjoy a gourmet platter lunch before exploring renowned wineries such as Parker Estate, Majella Wines, and Raidis Estate. With top-rated service and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable Coonawarra experience.
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Coonawarra Place Motor Inn
(Standard)
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Coonawarra Place Motor Inn
(Standard)
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Day 9 (Fri) - Adelaide (B)
The drive from Coonawarra to Adelaide takes you through scenic countryside dotted with charming towns and vineyards, offering a peaceful and picturesque journey. As you approach Adelaide, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and bustling suburbs, leading you into the vibrant heart of South Australia’s capital. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the city at leisure.
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Day 10 (Sat) - Adelaide (B)
Begin your day with a freshly brewed espresso, tea, or hot chocolate as the Adelaide Central Market comes to life around you. Established in 1869, this iconic destination has become a hub for premium food and wine, beloved by chefs and food enthusiasts alike. After breakfast, embark on an engaging gourmet walking tour led by a local food expert. Meet passionate stallholders, sample a variety of multicultural delicacies made from South Australia’s pristine local produce, and soak up the vibrant energy of this culinary treasure.
Enjoy some free time before making your way to the Adelaide Oval for an unforgettable adventure with breathtaking panoramic views of the city as the sun sets, stretching from the Adelaide Hills to the coastline. Traverse the iconic roofline before reaching an open viewing deck, where you can sit and soak in stunning vistas of Adelaide Oval and beyond. For thrill-seekers, a daring lean-out point 164 feet above the ground adds an extra adrenaline rush. This two-hour experience includes a 30-minute safety briefing, approximately 80 minutes of guided climbing, and a debrief to conclude the adventure.
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Day 11 (Sun) - Flinders Ranges (B)
Depart Adelaide and drive through the Barossa to the Flinders Ranges. The Barossa is synonymous with great wine, from bold Shiraz to delicate Reisling. It is certainly worth a stopover and is only an hour's drive from Adelaide.
Located on the southeastern edge of Wilpena Pound, Rawnsley Park Station adjoins the Flinders Ranges National Park, 261 miles from Adelaide, a comfortable five-hour drive on sealed roads. Enjoy two nights in a 1-bedroom Eco Villa, offering magnificent views from every window. Villas are well spaced and truly feel like your own private sanctuary.
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Rawnsley Park Station, Eco Villas
(Superior)
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Rawnsley Park Station, Eco Villas
(Superior)
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Day 12 (Mon) - Flinders Ranges (CB)
Sit back, relax and let one of our experienced local guides take you on a 4WD adventure of a lifetime. Discover the spectacular scenery of the Flinders Ranges, see wildlife in its natural environment and abundant native flora, learn about the region’s rich geological history, and experience the Aboriginal and European histories of the area.
This evening, watch a brilliant Flinders Ranges sunset overlooking the stunning Chace Range, whilst enjoying a glass of sparkling wine and gourmet canapés prepared by the Woolshed Restaurant. The 40-minute drive through the property provides a great opportunity to see native wildlife unused to human encounters.
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Rawnsley Park Station, Eco Villas
(Superior)
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Rawnsley Park Station, Eco Villas
(Superior)
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Day 13 (Tue) - Port Lincoln (CB)
This morning enjoy a 30-minute scenic flight to gain an appreciation of the scale and grandeur of Wilpena Pound. You can also fly over the ancient landscapes of Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges.
After your scenic flight, it’s time to hit the road again and travel south to Port Lincoln via National Highway A1. The 271- mile journey takes you through South Australia’s striking landscapes, transitioning from the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges to the rolling farmlands and coastal vistas of the Eyre Peninsula. Along the way, enjoy picturesque countryside and the chance to spot native wildlife, making the journey as captivating as the destination.
On arrival in Port Lincoln, settle in for a 3-night stay at the Port Lincoln Hotel.
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Day 14 (Wed) - Port Lincoln (B,L)
Today, venture into the spectacular Coffin Bay National Park on a small-group guided tour and take the opportunity to go on a coastal walk and breathe in the fresh air, be on the lookout for kangaroos, emus, sea-life, reptiles and birdlife.
End your day visiting the region of Big Swamp – a ‘listed Wetlands of Australian Significance’ site, enjoy a local drop or two relishing the peace and serenity of the region.
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Day 15 (Thu) - Port Lincoln (B,L)
Experience nature and excitement while 4WDriving through massive sand dune systems, take a coastal hike and step onto untouched pristine beaches. Follow this up with a true wildlife highlight, arguably the best koala experience in Australia, sit back, relax amongst nature with a local drop surrounded by our diverse wildlife and walk away with wonderful memories.
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Port Lincoln Hotel
(Superior)
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Day 16 (Fri) - Port Augusta (B)
Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading north to Port Augusta. This charming coastal city is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. A must-visit is the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden, where you can marvel at unique plants and gain fascinating insights. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade and relax at a cozy café for coffee or lunch.
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Majestic Oasis Apartments
(Superior)
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Majestic Oasis Apartments
(Superior)
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Day 17 (Sat) - Adelaide
The drive from Port Augusta to Adelaide offers a scenic journey through South Australia's diverse landscapes. Along the way, stop at Wadlata Outback Centre in Port Augusta to delve into the region's fascinating history and indigenous culture. As you head south, consider visiting the charming town of Clare, nestled in the Clare Valley wine region, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class Rieslings. Another highlight is Lake Bumbunga near Lochiel, famous for its striking pink hues and perfect for a quick photo stop. As you approach Adelaide, take a detour through the Adelaide Hills to explore quaint villages like Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, offering unique shops, cafes, and bakeries. This drive combines natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights.
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Vibe Hotel Adelaide
(Superior)
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Day 18 - Depart Adelaide (B)
After breakfast, return your rental car to airport depot to board your return flights to the US.