Day 1: Sydney – Hunter Valley  (L-D)

This morning those passengers travelling from Brisbane with the Tour Host will meet at Brisbane Domestic Airport for the flight to Sydney. Interstate passengers will meet the host and group at Sydney Domestic Airport. Today, we arrive in Sydney where we will meet our friendly Coach Captain and fellow travellers as we begin our exciting journey together. Our destination today is the beautiful Hunter Valley, the largest wine region in New South Wales with the first stop at renowned Peterson House, home to a stunning cellar door boasting more than 30 varieties of sparkling wine. Enjoy the opportunity to sample a selection of these award-winning wines before sitting down to a delicious meal in the acclaimed restaurant. With its beautiful sandstone walls, exposed aged timber trusses, and spectacular vineyard views, Peterson House provides the perfect setting to relax and enjoy our Welcome Lunch. Afterwards, we continue on to our charming accommodation where we settle in and unwind ahead of the wonderful experiences to come. This evening we come together for dinner in the hotel. Please check with reservations before booking your flight. There will only be one group arrival transfer.

Accommodation: Voco Kirkton Park, Hunter Valley – 4 star – or similar (2 Nights) 

Day 2: Hunter Valley (B-L-D)

The beautiful Upper Hunter Valley is renowned for producing some of the finest thoroughbred horses in the world, and today we will enjoy a fascinating insight into this prestigious industry. After breakfast, a knowledgeable local guide will join us on the coach as we travel through the picturesque countryside to visit one of the region’s acclaimed horse studs. Here, we learn about the breeding and raising of world class thoroughbreds while taking in the stunning rural scenery and magnificent estates the Hunter is famous for. Following our visit, we enjoy a relaxed lunch nearby before indulging in a delightful wine tasting featuring some of the Hunter Valley’s local favourites. This afternoon, we return to our accommodation to relax before tonight’s Dinner at the popular Harrigan’s Hunter Valley, where we can unwind and have wonderful evening with our fellow travellers.

Day 3: Hunter Valley – Dubbo (B-L)

This morning we travel to the charming town of Merriwa, where we have the opportunity to view the impressive Merriwa Art Silo. This striking mural features a flock of sheep wearing bright red socks standing amongst a vibrant canola field, a tribute to the town’s much-loved annual Festival of the Fleeces. As we explore the area, discover how this incredible silo artworks have become an important part of regional Australia’s culture and identity. From here, we continue our journey to Dunedoo to see another remarkable silo artwork, this one celebrating Australia’s champion racehorse Winx and her famous jockey Hugh Bowman, who was born in the region. The mural beautifully captures the spirit of Australian racing and honours one of the country’s greatest sporting partnerships. We stop for a lunch at the Hotel Dunedoo before continuing through the scenic countryside on our afternoon drive to Dubbo. Upon arrival, we check in and then have the evening at leisure, giving you the opportunity to explore some of Dubbo’s local dining options.

Accommodation: Matilda Motor Inn, Dubbo – 3 star – or similar (2 Nights) 

Day 4: Dubbo  (B-L-D)

Today we enjoy a wonderful day exploring Taronga Western Plains Zoo, home to more than 1,100 animals from across the globe, including many rare and endangered species. Set across expansive open plains, the zoo offers a unique experience where many animals roam freely in large natural habitats. Instead of traditional cages or fences, clever use of dry and water-filled moats allows you to enjoy uninterrupted views while learning about the zoo’s important conservation work. We begin with a guided drive through the zoo, where a knowledgeable local guide will join us onboard to explain the open-range design and provide fascinating insights into the animals, habitats, and behind-the-scenes operations that make this zoo so unique. Along the way, you may spot giraffes, rhinos, zebras, big cats, and many other incredible animals in beautifully designed environments that closely resemble their natural homes. During the day, we stop to enjoy a light lunch before there is time to further explore the zoo at our own pace. Whether you choose to wander the walking trails, visit your favourite animals, or simply relax and take in the surroundings, today promises to be an enjoyable and memorable experience for all. This evening, we come together for dinner at the Dubbo RSL, where we can relax and share the day’s stories and experiences.

Day 5: Dubbo – Orange (B-D)

Today we travel to Parkes, home to one of Australia’s most famous scientific landmarks, the CSIRO Radio Telescope, affectionately known as “The Dish.” On arrival, explore the fascinating astronomy and space science exhibitions while learning about the important role this remarkable facility has played in space exploration and astronomical discovery. Standing proudly against the country landscape, the impressive 64-metre telescope, known as Murriyang, has been operating since 1961 and continues to remain at the forefront of international research thanks to ongoing technological upgrades. As we explore the visitor centre, discover the incredible stories behind the telescope’s involvement in major space missions, including its famous role in relaying the Apollo 11 moon landing to millions around the world. We then continue to the Henry Parkes Centre to visit the popular Kings Castle Elvis Exhibit, an engaging interactive display that brings to life many of the highs and lows Elvis Presley experienced throughout his extraordinary life and career. Relax and choose from local café and dining options for lunch (at own expense) before we continue our journey through the beautiful Central West to Orange, where we check in to our accommodation and then enjoy dinner together.

Accommodation: Mercure, Orange – 4 star – or similar (2 Nights) 

Day 6: Parkes Elvis Festival (B)

Excitement is in the air today as we immerse ourselves in the fun and energy of the famous Parkes Elvis Festival! Get ready to see plenty of Elvises throughout the day from talented tribute artists to enthusiastic fans dressed in sparkling jumpsuits and vintage fashion, the festival atmosphere is truly unforgettable. Our first stop is the much-anticipated annual Street Parade, one of the highlights of the festival. Find your spot along Festival Boulevard and enjoy the colourful procession of Elvis themed floats, vintage and classic cars, marching bands, performers, and entertainers as they make their way through the streets of Parkes. The lively atmosphere, music, and community spirit make this a fantastic experience for everyone. Throughout the day, the Cooke Park Main Stage comes alive with music, entertainment, and a range of fun competitions, including the ever-popular Miss Priscilla competition, Elvis Look-A-Like contests, and the Cars of the Era Show, showcasing the classic automobiles that once ruled the roads during the golden age when Elvis ruled the airwaves. Today you have free time to soak up the festival atmosphere, browse the market stalls, enjoy the entertainment, and experience the unique charm that makes this event so popular each year. At the designated time, we regroup with the coach for our transfer back to Orange. Breakfast is included at the hotel today, while lunch and dinner will be at your own expense, giving you the opportunity to sample some of the local food and festival offerings at your leisure.

Please note: The official Elvis Festival program has not yet been released. Any optional events or activities attended on this day will be at your own expense.

Day 7 : Orange – Canberra (B-L-D)

After breakfast we farewell Orange and begin our journey towards Bathurst, Australia’s oldest inland colonial settlement. Rich in history and shaped by the discovery of gold during the 1850s, Bathurst remains one of regional New South Wales’ most significant and picturesque towns. On arrival, we enjoy a drive around the famous Mount Panorama Circuit, home of Australia’s most iconic motor race, the Bathurst 1000. When the racing isn’t underway, this world-renowned track becomes a public road, giving you the unique opportunity to experience the circuit for yourself while taking in spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. From Bathurst, we continue to nearby Oberon to visit the magnificent Mayfield Gardens, one of the largest privately owned cool-climate gardens in the world. Set within a stunning 5,000-acre working farm, the gardens began as a modest project before growing into the breathtaking attraction you see today. We have time to wander through the spectacular gardens at our own pace before we come together to enjoy a delicious lunch at Mayfield Gardens. Later this afternoon, we continue our journey to Australia’s national capital, Canberra. We check into the hotel and have time to freshen up before meeting for dinner.

Accommodation: QT Canberra – 4 star – or similar (2 Nights) 

Day 8: Canberra (B-L-D)

Following breakfast we begin the day with a visit to Capital Hill, the focal point of Canberra and home to Australia’s impressive Parliament House. Here, we are introduced to the meeting place of the nation as a knowledgeable guide leads us through this remarkable political landmark. Exploring the grand halls and chambers, we gain a fascinating insight into the daily workings of Australian democracy, the history of Parliament House, and the important role it plays in shaping the nation. We then enjoy lunch at the beautiful Queen’s Terrace Café, located within Parliament House and offering lovely views across the capital. This afternoon, we continue to the Australian War Memorial, one of the nation’s most significant and moving landmarks. Wandering through the impressive exhibitions and solemn ceremonial areas, experience the powerful stories and history that have shaped our nation. Highlights include the Hall of Memory, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Pool of Reflection, and the Roll of Honour, which lists the names of more than 102,000 Australian servicemen and women who lost their lives in war. Our visit concludes with the deeply moving Last Post Ceremony. This unforgettable tribute includes the national anthem, a piper’s lament, the sharing of an individual story, the reciting of the Ode by Defence Force personnel, and concludes with the haunting sound of the Last Post a truly emotional and memorable experience. Tonight, we come together one final time to enjoy a special Farewell Dinner at the award-winning Waters Edge Canberra, the perfect addition to the wonderful memories and experiences shared throughout our tour.

Day 9: Depart Canberra (B)

After breakfast at the hotel, our superb Wine, Wildlife, Elvis and Canberra tour comes to an end as we make our way to the airport. As we say our farewells and return home take the time to reflect on the many experiences we’ve shared along the journey from Wine and Horses in the Hunter Valley, to the incredible Art Silos, the excitement of the Elvis Festival, history, beautiful countryside scenery, fascinating attractions, great food, and wonderful new friendships formed along the way. Please check with reservations before booking your flight. There will only be one group departure transfer.