Great Southern Journey: 40th Anniversary Loyalty Departure: 12 days Melbourne to Adelaide

Welcome to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. On arrival, make your way to the elegant Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, perfectly positioned in the heart of the city with sweeping views across the skyline and Port Phillip Bay. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to settle in, refresh after your journey, or enjoy a gentle introduction to the city at your own pace. 

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour through Melbourne’s iconic laneways, arcades and historic streets, guided by a former Scenic Tour Director. Discover the city’s heritage, vibrant street art culture and celebrated café scene, including a stop for a perfectly brewed local coffee.

Following the walk, enjoy a relaxed lunch before an afternoon at leisure to enjoy before dinner and an evening at the theatre.

Today, travel along one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes, the Great Ocean Road. Built by returned servicemen between 1919 and 1932 and dedicated to those who lost their lives in World War I, it stands as the world’s largest war memorial.

Journey along the dramatic Shipwreck Coast, stopping at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and learning the poignant story of the Loch Ard shipwreck. Continue to Warrnambool for your stay at Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs.

Discover Warrnambool’s coastal beauty and maritime history and visit Stingray Bay for your Scenic Enrich experience. Here, meet the extraordinary Maremma guardian dogs who safeguard the local Little Penguins and discover the inspiring story behind this world first conservation initiative. Enjoy a relaxed lunch before experiencing the dramatic “Shipwrecked” sound and light show at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village this evening.

This morning, visit the striking Blue Lake, nestled within an extinct volcanic crater and celebrated for its vivid cobalt hue. Continue west into South Australia, pausing in Penola to explore the Mary MacKillop Interpretive Centre and Schoolhouse to learn about Australia’s first saint. Later, arrive in Mount Gambier for your overnight stay at The Barn. This evening, dinner is served at the hotel’s renowned steakhouse.

After breakfast, depart Mount Gambier for the journey north-west through picturesque pastoral landscapes. Stop in charming Hahndorf, South Australia’s most famous historic village, to browse boutique stores and cafés. Continue to the renowned Barossa Valley and arrive at The Louise, set among vineyards with panoramic views, for your two-night Scenic Special Stay. This evening, delight in a fine dining experience at Appellation, paired with exceptional Barossa wines.

Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast featuring fresh, seasonal produce. Later, enjoy a visit to the famous Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, set on the original Barossa farm followed by a delicious lunch at Seppeltsfield. Browse the shop, sample regional delicacies and enjoy the tranquil lakeside before continuing to a local winery for a tasting experience. The afternoon is free to relax at The Louise or explore the lodge’s peaceful surrounds before a relaxed evening at leisure.

After breakfast, depart the Louise lodge for a wine tasting before driving south to Adelaide and transfer to the airport for your short flight to Kangaroo Island. Continue to the spectacular Southern Ocean Lodge, dramatically perched above the sea. Settle into your luxurious three-night Scenic Special Stay, including gourmet dining, premium beverages and guided activities. This evening, enjoy sunset drinks and a multi-course dinner showcasing the island’s exceptional local produce.

Wake to sweeping ocean views and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before venturing into Flinders Chase National Park. Discover the majestic Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, where raw coastal scenery and abundant wildlife create unforgettable moments. Return to the lodge for a gourmet lunch, then spend the afternoon at leisure – wander the coastline, spot native fauna, or unwind in the lodge’s serene spaces. This evening, enjoy another all-inclusive dining experience in a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.

Enjoy breakfast overlooking the Southern Ocean before departing on a guided visit to Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to a thriving colony of Australian sea lions. Learn about the island’s unique ecology and conservation efforts from expert local guides.

Return to the lodge for lunch, followed by an afternoon of included experiences or time to relax. Choose between guided coastal walks, relaxation at the lodge, or an optional spa treatment (additional cost). As the sun sets, gather for pre-dinner drinks and canapés, followed by a final spectacular dinner celebrating Kangaroo Island seafood and seasonal produce.

After a final indulgent breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Adelaide. On arrival, transfer to your centrally located hotel, the Sofitel Adelaide, perfectly positioned amid the city’s cultural, dining, and riverfront precincts. Enjoy a historical walking tour and then the remainder of the day is yours to relax, unwind, or stroll through the city before gathering this evening for your farewell dinner. 

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Transfers to the airport are arranged for your onward travels, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Scenic 40th Anniversary journey from Melbourne to Adelaide.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the journey will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.