Highlights of the Hunter Valley and Murray River Sydney - Melbourne

The Highlights of the Hunter Valley and Murray River journey is an epic 14-day luxury travel experience connecting two of Australia’s grandest cities—Sydney and Melbourne—via some of the country's most celebrated countryside and inland waterways. Spanning world-class wine regions, scenic coastal stretches, national landmarks, and historic paddle-steamer river routes, this itinerary presents a quintessential taste of Southeastern Australia’s heritage, nature, and gastronomy.

The voyage transitions from overland luxury coach touring through New South Wales and Victoria to a 7-night river cruise along the mighty Murray River aboard the boutique luxury paddle steamer PS Australian Star. Guests enjoy intimate shore excursions, regional food-and-wine pairings, historical town tours, and scenic riverways lined with ancient red gum forests.

Key Itinerary Highlights & Destinations Sydney, Hawkesbury River & Hunter Valley Luxury

• Sydney Departure & Broken Bay Pearl Farm: The expedition commences in Sydney before heading north. Travelers embark on a guided boat tour along the scenic Hawkesbury River to visit the Broken Bay Pearl Farm, gaining rare insight into local Akoya pearl production and tasting freshly harvested regional oysters.

• Hunter Valley Wine Immersion: Arriving in New South Wales' premier wine-growing hub, guests stay two nights at the luxurious Spicers Guesthouse. The experience features curated wine tastings, vineyard strolls through native bushland grounds, and a gourmet winery lunch celebrating regional produce.

 NSW South Coast, Kiama & The National Capital

• Coastal Kiama: Journey south along the Pacific shoreline to Kiama, famous for its dramatic coastal blowholes, coastal cliffs, and seaside charm.

• Canberra Exploration: Travel inland into the Australian Capital Territory for a stay in Canberra. Highlights include an exclusive private guided tour of Parliament House, exploring national art galleries, and scenic outlooks overlooking Lake Burley Griffin.

Victoria’s High Country & The Murray River Cruise

• Milawa & Brown Brothers: Head into Victoria's High Country to the gourmet hub of Milawa. Guests enjoy a three-course paddock-to-plate lunch paired with fine wines at the renowned Brown Brothers Restaurant.

• Embarking the PS Australian Star: Board the newly appointed luxury paddle steamer PS Australian Star for a 7-night cruise along the Murray River. Featuring just 19 staterooms, the cruise offers an exclusive boutique atmosphere with all-inclusive dining and premium beverages.

• River Excursions & Historic Port Towns: Cruise past towering red gum forests and sandbars. Highlights along the river include:

  • Echuca Wharf & After-Dark Lantern Tour: Explore Australia's historic paddle-steamer capital, including a 1-hour night-time guided lantern tour uncovering ghosts and rich port history.

  • St Anne’s Winery: Take an insider winemaking tour from vine to bottle, concluding with grazing boards and wine tastings.

  • Silo Art Trail & Local Heritage: Discover regional history at Rochester and surrounding towns, exploring vibrant outdoor silo art and visiting local heritage sites.

  • Riverside Campfire Barbecue: Gather under the stars for an evening riverside BBQ, complete with live acoustic entertainment and a crackling campfire.

Farewell Melbourne

• Conclude the journey after disembarking and taking in the highlights of Melbourne, Australia's vibrant arts and culinary capital.