Day 1:Arrive Melbourne  (D)

This morning those passengers travelling from Brisbane will meet with the Tour Host at Brisbane Domestic Airport for the flight to Melbourne. Interstate passengers will meet the host and group at Melbourne Airport. Over the next few days, we’ll soak up the magic of autumn and enjoy an unforgettable journey for both the eyes and the palate. Winding roads take us through pockets of mist and hidden gardens, with leaves glowing in shades of amber, crimson and gold. After a short drive from Melbourne Airport, we arrive at Cleveland Estate and check into our beautiful rural retreat, surrounded by rolling vineyards and peaceful bushland. Highlights of the estate include its historic homestead, cosy cellar door and stunning views that really come alive in autumn. We’ll kick things off with a hearty Welcome Dinner at the Lost Watering Hole Brewery, where you can enjoy German style craft beers and a relaxed country atmosphere.

Day 2: Gardens – Chocolate – History – Wine – Gin  (B-L-D)

We begin the morning wandering through the Kyneton Botanic Gardens, where tranquil pathways and towering trees are lit with soft shades of amber and gold. From there, we make a stop at Sisko Chocolate, where handcrafted chocolates are carefully created using premium ingredients, offering rich, indulgent flavours that are sure to warm the heart. We then continue to Mount Macedon Winery, set across 80 acres of picturesque farmland, for a leisurely lunch surrounded by sweeping countryside views and the unmistakable charm of the season. From here, we head to one of the region’s most iconic landmarks, Hanging Rock, where a touch of mystery and history lingers in the landscape. Our afternoon continues with a tasting at Hanging Rock Winery, before we return to our rural retreat to freshen up for the evening. As twilight approaches, we visit Gindu Gin Distillery to enjoy a tasting flight of locally crafted spirits, followed by a relaxed and hearty dinner at Holgate Brewhouse, where you can unwind with a Belgian style dubbel to round out the day.

Day 3: Daylesford (B-MT-D)

Today begins with a journey through landscapes painted in autumn’s richest hues, where golden leaves and crisp air set the perfect tone. Travelling on to Daylesford, we arrive at Lavandula Farm, offering a taste of Europe in the fall with its charming stone buildings and rustic surrounds. Here, we have time to browse The Barn, which features a range of thoughtfully crafted products for the body and soul, before enjoying a delicious morning tea. Nearby, we visit The Convent Gallery, nestled atop Wombat Hill Botanical Gardens, boasting sweeping views over the countryside and township below. You’ll then have time at leisure to explore Daylesford, wandering through its gallery rooms, artisan shops, hidden boutiques, cosy cafés and charming laneways that make this town so inviting in autumn. As the afternoon drifts into evening, we return to Cleveland Estate for a pre-dinner wine tasting in the cellar, awakening the palate before settling in for a memorable dining experience at the Carriage House Restaurant, the perfect way to end the day.

Day 4: Story Book Garden – Champions – Surf Breaks – Depart Melbourne (B-L)

Before departing the area, we visit Forest Glade Gardens, an historic private garden that feels like something out of a storybook, with vibrant autumn colours, winding paths and beautifully manicured grounds. We then travel to Woodlands Historic Park, home to the grand Woodlands Homestead and Living Legends racehorses. Here, history comes to life as we meet some of Australia’s finest retired racehorse champions, including several Melbourne Cup winners. These remarkable horses are admired and respected and seeing them up close is a truly special experience. Our Farewell Lunch is held at Three Blue Ducks, set within the unique Melbourne surf park, where rolling waves create a memorable setting. Three Blue Ducks is known for its focus on fresh, seasonal produce and paddock to plate dining, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and reflect on the journey. With hearts and cameras full, we then make our way to the airport for our onward journey home.

Flights should be scheduled to departure from Melbourne no earlier than 3.30pm.

* Please note that tour itineraries are subject to change at any time by the tour company and are not guaranteed