Brisbane to Sydney Adventure

Welcome to Australia! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting a 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe get out and explore Brisbane. Maybe jump on the free CityHopper ferry for a cruise along the river, or if you’re feeling active, go kayaking through the heart of the city. Perhaps you’ll wander to Howard Smith Wharves to grab a pint at a waterfront brewery. Or, maybe dive into local culture and modern art at the Queensland Cultural Centre. After your meeting, perhaps head out to dinner with your group and trip leader.

This morning, head to the famous Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast for some beach time. Brush off the sand and continue to Springbrook National Park for a short walk to the Natural Bridge rock arch, which was formed by the force of the waterfall over the basalt cave. Move on to Byron Bay, visiting Byron Bay Lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot some dolphins, whales and other marine life. Reach Byron Bay and settle into your accommodation for the next two nights.

Today is a free day to enjoy the coastal life of Byron Bay. Early risers might enjoy catching the sunrise, while others can enjoy the morning to sleep in. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Byron Bay, including a beginner’s surf lesson, a guided sea kayaking tour of the Byron Bay Marine Park or just relaxing at the beach. You’ll have plenty of options for food and drink today thanks to Byron’s thriving cafe, bar and pub scene. Perhaps get the group together for a dinner overlooking the water. Your trip leader can help with some recommendations.

This morning, head The Farm – a collection of micro-businesses on a working farm focusing on growing, feeding and educating through community farming. Maybe grab some breakfast here and add a few extra snacks for later. Move on to Yamba, where you might like to grab some lunch. After, you’ll take a walking tour of Red Rock with a local First Nations guide. Learn about the culture of the Gumbaynggirr people through stories, songs and the uses of native plants. Walk alongside The Solitary Island Marine Park Waterways and connect with Country as you learn more about Dreaming. After your walk, you’ll move on to Moonee Beach, where you’ll spend the night. Settle in, then head out to a dinner with your trip leader and group tonight.

This morning, you’ll visit Dorrigo National Park via the gorgeous Waterfall Way, known for its lush, subtropical rainforest – the last piece of the ancient subcontinent Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals relatively unchanged from their ancestors. Pop into the Rainforest Centre in the park, take a stroll along the skywalk or, if it’s better for you, explore the rainforest with your group. After, you’ll visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where you’ll meet the volunteers who work there and learn about how this organisation provides care and treatment for koalas needing rehabilitation. Then, drive to Port Macquarie, where you’ll spend the night.

Today, you’ll continue along the scenic coastal route. Along the way, stop at Crowdy Bay National Park for the easy-to-moderate Diamond Head Loop Walk that winds through forests of heath, paperbark and swamp mahogany at Diamond Head. While taking in the views of golden beaches and dramatic rock faces, keep an eye out for the quartz crystals in the cliffs that sparkle in the sun, giving Diamond Head its name. Whales and dolphins can sometimes be spotted off the coast, and you may even come across a mob of kangaroos between the secluded coves, beaches and forest trails. You’ll then have time to grab lunch before heading north to the famous Hunter Valley winery region. Once there, sit down for a sommelier-led wine tasting where you’ll hear about the winery’s history and varieties. Depart for Cessnock, your accommodation for tonight in the heart of the valley. When you arrive, maybe head out for dinner and chat about your adventures.

Leave your accommodation in Cessnock in the morning and travel south toward Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. On arrival, take in the sweeping coastal views from West Head Lookout and spend some time exploring the area’s beautiful short walking tracks, including viewing the fascinating Aboriginal rock carvings that highlight the region’s cultural heritage. Continue on to Akuna Bay for an optional lunch by the water, then make your way into Sydney. Finish the day with a leader-led orientation walk through the historic Rocks district, discovering its charming laneways, rich history and vibrant harbour-side atmosphere.