Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush

The Southern Capitals - City Meets Bush journey is a premier 5-day guided holiday crafted to showcase the dramatic contrasts, rich heritage, and dynamic urban life of Southeastern Australia. Connecting Australia's largest harbor metropolis, Sydney, with the national capital, Canberra, and the cultural powerhouse of Melbourne, this itinerary weaves through historic regional hubs, scenic highland landscapes, and local agricultural traditions.

Designed for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of iconic city landmarks, historic regional architecture, authentic bush hospitality, and rich Indigenous art, this trip provides a comprehensive taste of the southeastern Australian corridor.

Key Itinerary Highlights & Destinations : Sydney to Canberra via the Southern Highlands

• Southern Highlands & Berrima: The journey departs Sydney early in the morning, heading south into the Southern Highlands wine region. Travelers pass through rolling hills and atmospheric historic villages like Berrima, renowned for its beautifully preserved Georgian architecture.

• Gold Creek Station: Experience authentic Australian rural life with a stop at Gold Creek Station. Guests enjoy an exclusive "Be My Guest" Aussie barbecue lunch hosted by local sheep farmer Craig Starr, accompanied by storytelling about pastoral life and sheep shearing demonstrations.

• Canberra Exploration: Arrive in Australia's purpose-built capital city. Take a self-guided tour or explore the stunning grounds of Parliament House, reflecting the political and architectural identity of the nation.

Canberra to Victoria's High Country (Wangaratta)

• Mt. Ainslie Lookout: Begin the day with a drive to the summit of Mt. Ainslie to take in sweeping panoramic views of Canberra's master-planned design by Walter Burley Griffin.

• Crossing the Murray River: Journey south across Australia’s longest river into Victoria's historic High Country.

• Beechworth Historic Precinct: Step back in time to the 1850s gold rush era in Beechworth. Explore historic honey and gold shops, galleries, and museums. Meet a local publican at a historic pub, sample afternoon tea at the town’s oldest hotel, or stop by the famous Beechworth Bakery before continuing to Wangaratta.

Wangaratta to Melbourne via Ned Kelly Country

• Glenrowan: Travel through the legendary region where Australia's most infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly, made his final stand in 1880. Learn local lore and historical accounts surrounding the Kelly Gang.

• Melbourne Sightseeing: Arrive in Melbourne, Australia’s arts, sporting, and culinary capital. Enjoy a comprehensive city tour taking in famous landmarks, gardens, and sporting precincts.

• Koorie Heritage Trust: Experience a guided galleries tour at the First Peoples arts and cultural center located in the heart of Melbourne at Federation Square. Afterwards, spend the afternoon uncovering hidden laneways, street art in Hosier Lane, and boutique cafes.

 Melbourne Exploration & Farewell

• City Immersion: Enjoy dedicated leisure time in Melbourne. Optional activities include taking in 360-degree views from the Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower, taking a day excursion to Phillip Island to watch the nightly Little Penguin parade, or dining along the Yarra River.

• Departure: Conclude the 5-day adventure after breakfast on Day 5 in Melbourne.