Wilderness, Wine and Wildlife Self Drive Holiday

Day 1 - UK to Perth

Arrive in Perth and transfer to your downtown hotel.

Day 2 - Pinnacles Experience

Today we have included a fantastic day tour taking you to the Pinnacle Desert. 

We head north away from the city towards Yanchep National Park for a quick comfort stop and an opportunity to see the koalas and kangaroos. Then it's onwards to Nambung National Park to see the mystical Pinnacle Desert for an easy paced walk through the fascinating landscape, giving you the opportunity to really embrace this amazing and mystical place.

If time permits, be sure to make a visit to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to learn more about the Pinnacles and the cultural and natural heritage of the area. 

Following the highlight visit to the Pinnacles, it's on to the lobster town of Cervantes. Once here, enjoy a behind-the-scenes factory tour on the processing of Western Australia Rock Lobster, followed by your included fish and chip lunch.  After lunch we head back down towards Perth to visit the iconic Swan Valley and sample some of the regions famed providores offering such delights as chocolate, nougat and gourmet nuts. 

Once we have had our fill of the gorgeous Swan Valley we head straight back to Perth down Guildford Road, returning to Perth in the evening. 

Day 3 - Rottnest Island Experience

Visit spectacular Rottnest Island, the “Emerald Isle in a Sea of Sapphire”, only 19 kilometres off the mainland coast. Join the most comprehensive guided tour of the island allowing you to explore the stunning beauty of this A-Class natural reserve in air-conditioned comfort, taking in the amazing fauna and flora of the island, stunning beaches, woodlands and incredible salt lakes - commencing with a unique historic train ride.

This 4-hour all-inclusive island tour takes in all of Rottnest's must-see locations featuring the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Oliver Hill Gun Fortification and Tunnels and the majestic look-out point at the rugged Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh.

All major habitats are covered on this amazing tour, including Rottnest's cultural and historical heritage ranging from maritime and military history right up to future developments. Finish the day by exploring the island settlement or enjoy a drink at the Rottnest Quokka Arms Pub.

Day 4 - Perth to Bunker Bay

Pick up your car and set off along the scenic coast to Bunker Bay in the beautiful Margaret River Region. Here, the white sands of Bunker Bay are sheltered by the Cape Naturaliste headland, creating gentle waves ideal for a relaxing beach experience. It’s also one of the rare north-facing beaches in the area, offering a unique perspective and serene atmosphere.

Day 5 - Explore Bunker Bay

Spend the full day relaxing on the idyllic beach or explore the nearby towns of Busselton and Yallingup.

Day 6 - Bunker Bay to Cape Lodge

Take a short drive to Cape Lodge, nestled in the heart of the stunning Margaret River region. This boutique country house hotel features its own vineyard, offering a truly immersive wine-country experience. As a member of the Luxury Lodges of Australia collection, Cape Lodge provides exceptional accommodations and impeccable service, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Day 7 - Explore Cape Lodge

Spend the full day enjoying the hospitality of Cape Lodge. Stroll through the grounds and vineyard, or laze by the pool, perhaps dine in the award winning restaurant.

Day 8 - Cape Lodge to Karri Valley

Today, take another short drive to Pemberton and the Karri Valley Resort, set on the tranquil shores of Lake Beedup and surrounded by the towering Karri Forest. Enjoy a scenic woodland trail or rent a canoe to explore the peaceful waters for a truly immersive nature experience.

Day 9 - Karri Valley

Spend a full day enjoying the wilderness and nature activities on offer in the Karri Valley.

Day 10 - Karri Valley to Mandurah

Head north and make a stop in the charming seaside town of Mandurah. With numerous gourmet restaurants and cafes lining the waterfront boardwalk, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing break.

Day 11 - Mandurah

Enjoy a day relaxing in the seaside ambience of Mandurah.

Day 12 - Mandurah to Adelaide

Today make the drive back to Perth airport returning your car hire before your onward flight to Adelaide. After checking into your hotel spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 13 - Explore Adelaide

A day at leisure to explore Adelaide. Perhaps take a walk along North Terrace, home to the Art Gallery of South Australia, and the South Australia Museum. Foodies should visit the Central Market, showcasing the freshest artisan produce from the region. Or you may wish to add one of our Adelaide experiences speak to your consultant about which tours are available during your stay. 

Day 14 - Adelaide to Flinders Ranges

Pick up your car and journey north to the stunning Flinders Ranges. Along the way, consider stopping in the Clare Valley, home to over 50 cellar doors nestled between the charming villages of Auburn and Clare an ideal spot for wine lovers to explore.

Day 15 - Flinders Ranges

Spend a full day enjoying the rugged beauty of the Flinders Ranges, with its fantastic walking trails and wildlife. There’s also an option for a scenic flight tour.

Day 16 - Flinders Ranges

A full day to explore the Flinders Ranges at leisure.

Day 17 - Flinders Ranges to Barossa Valley

Today head to one of Australia’s most famous wine producing areas, the Barossa Valley, with more than 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors.

Day 18 - Barossa Valley

Enjoy a full day in the Barossa, sampling the fine wines and gastronomic delights of the region.

Day 19 - Barossa Valley to Kangaroo Island

Take a short drive to Cape Jervis and board the ferry to Kangaroo Island. Known as Australia’s natural zoo, the island is teeming with diverse wildlife, including species found nowhere else in the world.

Day 20 - Kangaroo Island

Today we have included a guided tour of Kangaroo Island. 

Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park where you will be taken on a guided beach walk with an experienced guide and be amongst a colony of rare Australian sea lions. Get up close and see these wild creatures frolic and laze about - a truly amazing and unforgettable experience. A delicious two course lunch will follow your Seal Bay Conservation Park visit.

Spend the afternoon in the Flinders Chase National Park, which was devastated in the worst fire to ever hit the island in January 2020. You'll see that the regeneration of the native bush occurs so quickly after the event and there will be many opportunities to take photos. As you travel through the park, keep an eye out for echidnas, wallabies, reptiles, and koalas. See the rugged coastline from walks around Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Remarkable Rocks provide great photographic opportunities, and the Admirals Arch boardwalk takes you down a rugged cliff face to reveal the spectacular rock archway, a natural nursery and safe haven for playful Long-nosed Fur Seals.

Your last visit of the day is to the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park to feed some kangaroos and get up close to the Kangaroo Island Koalas while listening to the Keeper talk about the cuddly mammals. If time permits, there may be a photo opportunity to hold a Koala (additional cost).

Day 21 - Kangaroo Island to Melbourne

Make the journey back to the mainland to Adelaide airport for your onward flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival transfer to your chosen hotel spending the remainder of your day at leisure.

Day 22 - Great Ocean Road

Journey through the lush tree-fern gullies and towering mountain-ash rainforests. The imposing Twelve Apostles loom in the distance. Survey the grandeur of this iconic site from the cliff-top and stroll along the boardwalk. See Loch Ard Gorge and discover the romantic and tragic story of love and lives lost aboard the schooner Loch Ard in 1878. Explore Port Campbell National Park and delve into the tragic history of over 50 ships wrecked along this unforgiving coastline. Travel the length of the Great Ocean Road, built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932.

Day 23 - French & Philip Island

Spend a memorable day island-hopping from French Island to Phillip Island, immersing yourself in Australia’s charming wildlife and breathtaking ocean views.

The day begins with a ferry across Western Port Bay to secluded French Island. On arrival, enjoy a 4WD guided tour through this wilderness, where you'll observe koalas and other unique wildlife while learning about the island’s natural environment.

Next, we ferry to iconic Phillip Island, famous for its surfing, stunning beaches, and native animals. Enjoy a stroll in Cowes, with its lively pier, cafes, and boutiques.

A short trip to the Nobbies Boardwalk offers spectacular views of rugged sea cliffs and a seal colony. As evening falls, we arrive at the Penguin Parade, where you'll watch adorable penguins return to shore with expert commentary from rangers on their fascinating lives.

Day 24 - Melbourne to UK

Transfer to Melbourne airport for your onward flight home.