INTRODUCTION
Fantastic beaches, tropical and temperate rainforests,
deserts of red rock and sand, snowy mountain peaks, inland river wetlands,
coastal rock formations, aboriginal art and culture, goldfields, wineries
and gourmet food, vibrant cities, welcoming people and of course lots of
kangaroos, emus, koalas and other furry animals ! Where else but
Australia.
It is very difficult to appreciate the vastness
of Australia. The fact that it is an island and a single country seems to
create the impression that it is comparable with the size of other islands
or countries. In fact its land area is close to that of all the countries
of Europe combined. The south is temperate where skiing is possible on the
mountains in winter (June to September) but it can rise to over 40 deg. C
in summer. The north is tropical with just the wet
and dry seasons. The population is sparse and mostly
concentrated into the cities of the south and east (Perth in the west and
Darwin in the north being the only significant exceptions). Although a single
country, the states like to guard their independence by maintaining separate
administrations and regulations.
Although Australia is famous for its endless deserts
the most diverse areas are in the east and south which are reasonably accessible
by road. There is an excellent network of National Parks which protect most
of the areas of natural beauty but accommodation and entry permits are often
strictly limited and need to be booked well in advance. For this reason it
helps to have an at least partially predetermined itinerary
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SERVICES WE OFFER
Australia is so enormous that unless you have a great deal of time and resources
it is impossible to see it all in one visit. The first step towards a successful
holiday is to work out what most interests you that you can see comfortably
within the time and resources that you have available. We can help by making
suggestions and preparing itineraries. Of course many people have a specific
goal such as visiting relations and then wish to venture out from there.
Our services are tailormade and we therefore try to provide whatever it is
you need. We have British and Australian personnel so we see the country
from the perspective of both a visitor and a local.
Unlike many operators we do not just offer international standard hotels
or predetermined itineraries (although we can offer these too) and we are
not tied to any particular companies. We can put together any of the options
described to make up unique arrangements for you which could include for
example Rail, Plane, Vehicle Hire, Accommodation, Camping, Walking permits,
Rafting, Canoeing, Diving, Coach Tours, 4WD Safaris, Cruises and Flying Tours.
You just tell us what you want and we will do the necessary research to prepare
a proposal and quotation free of charge and without obligation.
We also arrange vehicle hire and accommodation in New Zealand in hotels or
in homestays where you can stay with a Kiwi family on a farm in a country
home or a town bed and breakfast (many with private guest bathroom facilities).
There are far too many options to be able to describe them all here so this
Dossier merely gives a general description of some of the ways of organising
a tour.
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SIGHTS AND ACTIVITIES
Many outdoor activities are centred on the excellent network of National
Parks. These cover every type of landscape from the depths of the Great Barrier
Reef to the snowy peaks of Kosciusko National Park, from the lush beauty
of Cradle Mountain Lake St. Clair Nat. Park to the stark Pinnacles of the
Nambung National Park. These are the places to go to see wildlife and for
walking from day hikes to full treks. For conservation reasons the number
of people allowed to stay in the Parks is often limited and permits need
to be obtained well in advance.
Special interest holidays could include winery tours, whale and dolphin watching,
wildflower tours, river and sea cruises, great rail journeys and four wheel
drive safaris.
If you are looking for an active holiday there is organised trekking, cycling,
canoeing, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking and sailing among tropical islands.
This Dossier gives a general description of some of the possibilities but
we will always do our best to arrange whatever combination of activities,
accommodation and transport suits you.
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ACCOMMODATION
Whereas most operators only offer mainstream (expensive) hotels we can arrange
a wide range of accommodation such as country cottage hideaways, bed and
breakfast homestays and farmstays as well as everything from motor inns to
luxury resorts.
The main categories of accommodation are:
Self Contained Cottages, Chalets And Units.
There are charming self contained cottages hidden away in quiet corners all
over the country. Each one is different but they are often complete houses
with full facilities. They can be timber, mud brick or stone and are usually
attached to a vineyard or farm. Many camp sites in National Parks and other
scenic spots also have self contained chalets or "units" and self catering
apartments can also be arranged in cities.
If you want to get out onto the land, try a farm host or country retreat
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Bed and Breakfast.
Bed and Breakfast accommodation is a relatively new concept in Australia
but has proven to be very popular. As such there are a growing number of
places available in the major cities, towns and countryside. The standard
is often higher than expected and it provides an excellent opportunity to
experience the natural friendliness of the Australian people. We can individual
places or organise a "voucher booklet" so that you can choose the individual
places locally.
Hotels and Motels.
In Australia the word for Pub is "Hotel" some of which have accommodation
and some do not. This explains why the word "Motel" is more often used for
accommodation. If you are looking for 4-5 star comfort with full facilities,
we can book accommodation at any of the big hotels such as Sheraton, Hilton,
Hyatt, Regent etc. We can also arrange more moderately priced accommodation
at Inns, Lodges, Motels and Hotels in most of the country. Companies that
offer a voucher system are Flag Inns, Best Western or Budget. Some of these
properties have pools, restaurants etc. and this is far more common in Australia
than Europe.
Resorts.
High quality resorts offering excellent facilities and service are available
for those who want an all-in-one holiday. Many offer a wide range of recreational
activities such as golf, diving, horseriding, tennis etc. A select few are
exclusive hideaway resort with only a limited number of guests at any one
time.
Booking Accommodation
We will arrange your accommodation and/or your transport once we have agreed
an itinerary to suit your requirements. In some of the most scenic places
accommodation is very limited and it is therefore essential to book well
in advance other places have plenty of choice so you might prefer to use
vouchers or go as you please and book in on arrival. Some National Parks
restrict entry by issuing permits for walking trails or use of camping sites
and these also need to be booked.
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TRANSPORT
Car, camper van or 4WD hire.
This is the most popular way to travel, at least in the eastern states where
most of the roads are paved. The road around the perimeter of Australia is
now paved all the way. It pays to keep in mind that the distances are vast
and itineraries have to be tailored to suit the time available. You could
spend a couple of weeks just driving across the desert but most people prefer
a route with plenty of stops in the varied landscapes of the east. Rates
start from about £30 per day depending on the class of vehicle.
Rail.
A great way to cover some of the vast distances between places in Australia
is by train. There is a good rail network connecting all the main cities
and many small towns along the way. But the real thrill is to take one of
the classic rail journeys from east to west (4350 km), up the east coast,
or into the outback. Cross the central desert region on the famous Ghan Train
or the Nullabor Plain on The Indian Pacific. There is a new service run by
the Orient Express from Sydney to Brisbane and Cairns. Travel in the romantic
syle of these classic rail journeys. Travelling by train is not cheap, especially
in a first class sleeper, but it is an ideal way of seeing the countryside.
We can book your rail ticket in advance to avoid disappointment on arrival.
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Plane.
Because of the great distances, there is a comprehensive system of internal
flights. However flying within Australia can be expensive, even bearing in
mind the vast distances and the best prices can usually be obtained by buying
your internal flights as part of your international ticket.
Coach.
There are scheduled coach services between the main towns which will get
you from place to place but of course this means spending a lot of time on
the main roads.
Coach Tours.
There are several companies which have tours to the main places of interest
by coach with accommodation provided. There are also camping tours by coach
which get you out into more remote areas, limited of course to where a coach
can go.
Flying Tours.
For those who like the view from the air or are short of time, there are
a couple of companies which operate tours by private propeller driven plane.
In a few days you can cover a lot of ground with everything organised for
you and, in the wet season, this may be the only way to see some of the remotest
areas.
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DESTINATIONS IN AUSTRALIA
MELBOURNE AND VICTORIA
Melbourne
Melbourne is the Garden City of Australia, whose diversity of cultures reflects
a fascinating blend of lifestyles. Although it still retains much of the
grand nineteenth century architecture and formal parks built by its founders,
influences from all over the world can be found in its restaurants, markets,
galleries and businesses. The city centre is compact and easy to get around,
especially on one of the famous trams. You can hop on in the city centre
and end up at the beach. Or spend the morning at the National Gallery and
then cross over the road to picnic in the park. The Queen Victoria market
is great for bargain hunters or there are the boutiques of South Yarra or
the avant-garde shopping, galleries, and restaurants of Fitzroy.
Around Melbourne.
Ride a steam engine through rainforest, meet koalas, kangaroos emus and more
at Healsville Wildlife Sanctuary, see the Fairy Penguins, pan for gold at
Sovereign Hill, or sample a fine Chardonnay at one of the Yarra Valley
wineries...There's something for everyone and all less than 2 hours drive
from Melbourne.
Around Victoria
In Victoria you can hike in the mountains and swim in the sea all in the
same day. But we suggest you take your time to enjoy some of the beautiful
National Parks and spectacular coastline. The Great Ocean Road, etched into
the cliffs, winds its way passed wild surf beaches and cosy coves. The famous
12 Apostles rock formation rises out of the sea. The sandstone grags and
canyons of Gariwerd (The Grampians) stand out amongst the flat pasture land
of the Western District. In the east much of the coastline is preserved within
National Parks including Wilson's Promontory, the 90 mile beach and
Croajingalong. The lush, fertile Gippsland region contrasts with the dry
Mallee of the north west of the state. Victoria also has mountains for winter
skiing or walking in the spring or summer. Get a real taste of Aussie bush
with a trip into the High Country where much of Australian folklore is set.
And don't forget to call in at a few wineries on the way through. We can
arrange a truly indulgent weekend at the Howqua Dale Gourmet Retreat, set
in the bushland of the High Country, where the emphasis is on fine food and
wines. Accommodation, all meals, beverages, wines and recreational facilities,
horse-riding, tennis and fishing are included in the price of £290 for
the weekend ( Fri night- Sun afternoon.) Or perhaps try a 6 day Gourmet Cycling
Tour of Victoria. We can arrange any kind of accommodated or flexible self
drive itineraries using our first hand knowledge of the place. We also have
self-guided or escorted walks in Gariwerd NP, the Great Ocean Road and Phillip
Island. These are pleasant (rather than strenuous) walks where you will stay
in comfortable cabin accommodation. (SeeWalking in Australia below.)
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SYDNEY AND NEW SOUTH WALES.
Sydney
Vibrant and cosmopolitan, Sydney combines glamorous shopping and al fresco
dining with historic sights, golden beaches and a warm Mediterranean-like
climate. Its relaxed, outdoor lifestyle centres around one of the most stunning
natural harbours in the world. The Harbour Bridge towers over the old city
as outcrops of new high-rises indicate the new city. The famed Opera House
juts out into the water at Bennelong Point and is an extraordinary architectural
piece. The historic Rocks area contrasts with the new facilities at Darling
Harbour. Wander through the Botanical Gardens or Taronga Zoo, visit some
of the fine museums or take a ferry across the harbour just for the views.
Around Sydney
Just minutes away to the north and south of the city you'll find white sand
beaches such as Bondi, Manley or Coogee. The Blue Mountains, just over 100km,
from Sydney offer spectacular views of deep gorges, craggy rocks and the
blue-green eucalyptus forest. The blending of this natural beauty with the
picturesque towns make this a delightful place to stay. Sample wine in the
Hunter Valley or cruise the Hawkesbury River both north of Sydney. Or there
is the dramatic escarpments and plateaus of the Southern Highlands to the
south.
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Around NSW
Within a few hours drive you can have long stretches of coastline virtually
to yourself. This is the beauty of Australia. With thousands of miles of
coastline and a relatively small population even in the height of summer
it is possible to find beautiful beaches without the crowds! On the other
hand, the popular surf beaches of Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and others, attract
local crowds in the summer and at weekends which give the place a lively
atmosphere. To the south there are long white sand beaches, primary forest
and plenty of indigenous fauna.
Whales and dolphins can be seen at certain times of the year. For those who
love mountains you must visit the unique snow-gum forests of the Snowy Mountain
Range. Skiing in the winter or ideal bushwalking, through fields of wildflowers,
in the spring and summer. We can organise a self-drive itinerary with or
without accommodation or short breaks from Sydney.We also have self-guided
or escorted walks in the Blue Mountains and the Snowy Ranges. These are pleasant
(rather than strenuous) walks where you will stay in comfortable cabin
accommodation. (SeeWalking in Australia below.)
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CANBERRA AND CAPITAL TERRITORIES
Canberra is a city created specifically to be the capital of Australia and
was laid out on a grand scale around a lake named after the cities'designer
Burley Griffin. The major feature of Canberra is the new Parliament House
which is buried under the central peak of the city and incorporates Australian
themes throughout its design. Tours of the New and Old Parliament Houses
are conducted daily. Being the diplomatic centre of Australia there are many
embassies and cultural buildings including The National Gallery of Australia
which contains 70, 000 works including Aboriginal, White Australian and European
art. You might need a cruise on the lake or a drive out to Tindbinilla Nature
Reserve after taking in all that! Canberra was carved out of the bush which
still surrounds it and The Snowy Mountain Range can be reached as a day trip.
HOBART AND TASMANIA
Hobart
Bound by the picturesque Derwent estuary and the mighty peaks of Mount
Wellington, the historic city of Hobart combines old world charm with a thriving,
modern community. A good example is Salamanca Place where
Georgian sandstone warehouses have been converted into modern shops, restaurants,
cafes and pubs. The new end of town is noted for those wanting to try their
luck at the Wrest Point Casino. It is also the ideal base from which to explore
the wild yet tranquil beauty of Tasmania. Day trips to the historical settlements
of Richmond or Port Arthur can be arranged.
Around Tasmania
Choose any corner of Tasmania to explore and you will find extaordinary natural
beauty. In the east is Freycinet National Park with the purity of Wineglass
Bay. In the north there are quaint fishing villages and miles of rugged
coastline. The South West National Park is as wild as nature comes with dense
moss inlaid forests and untamed beaches. The south not only has great coastline
but Huon forests and the magnificent Hastings Caves. As for the centre, we
saved the best for last. Cradle Mountain- Lake St. Clair National Park is
a World Heritage site for its outstanding beauty. There is also the Walls
of Jerusalem known for its dramatic cliff wall formation. The Franklin and
Lower Gordon National Park for those brave enough to try the whitewater.
Here you can choose to trek or take the easier option of relaxing by the
open fire in a cosy lodge with the occasional stroll to keep in touch!
Being such a compact island, Tasmania is ideal for a self-drive package or
an adventure holiday. A typical 7 day itinerary including car hire and B&
B accommodation starts from £250 per person based on twin share. We
can arrange treks from 2-10 days with camping or lodge accommodation. Be
warned though, the weather is unpredictable and even in the height of summer
snow falls on the higher country. The classic 8 day Overland Track trek in
the Cradle Mountain lake St Clair National Park costs from £390 per
person. All hiking equipment (except boots and clothing) and meals included.
For those seeking remote natural beauty try a 10 or 14 day Wilderness Discovery
tour by boat, plane and car to the remote corners of Tasmania (prices on
Request.)
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ADELAIDE AND SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide
Surrounded by graceful parkland, award-winning vineyards and a rugged unspoilt
coastline, Adelaide combines fine living with outstandingnatural beauty.
You can fill the days by shopping in the Central Market,Walking through the
Botanical Gardens,visiting the Tandanya Nationalboriginal Culture Institute.
And at night there is the Adelaide Casino or catch a show at the Festival Centre.
Around Adelaide
The Adelaide Hills run along the eastern rim of the city and provide excellent
views over the city and parkland. For those who prefer the beach Glenelg
is only a 30 minute tram ride and has grand 19th Century architecture. And
for the wine buffs McLaren Vale has 46 wineries and is only half an hours
drive from the city.
Around South Australia
Barossa Valley, also famous for it's wineries, can be explored in a day trip
but there are many quaint towns that offer B&B or accommodation nd its
the kind of place where you should take your time. 250km north of Adelaide
lie the Flinder's Ranges. These spectacular mountains that stretch over 400km
into the outback are noted for their rich colours, majestic peaks, historic
ruins and Aboriginal Rock paintings. When in season the wildflowers here,
especially in Wilpena Pound, are a sea of colour. Kangaroo Island is a must
for those wanting to see koalas, kangaroos, nesting Fairy Penguins or even
sea lions. Much of South Australia is desert with the Nullabor Plain in the
west and the Simpson Desert, Tirari Desert and Sturt Stoney Desert in the
north. Some of the Australia's toughest roads such as the Birdsville and
the Oodnadatta Track stretch through this country to link South Australia
to its neighbouring states. The outback town of Coober Pedy is noted for
its opal production. We will arrange coach trips 4 Wheel drivetours or self
drive (2 or 4WD) with accommodation.
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PERTH AND WESTERN AUSTRALIA (W.A)
Perth
Compact, sociable, great weather, loads of shops, restaurants and pubs, Perth
has a young tmosphere and is especially easy to get around on the free inner-city
bus. King's Park which overlooks the city and its beautiful bay is a great
spot for a picnic or a stroll. Built on the Swan River and not far from the
beach Perth is a capital of watersports. If you are unfortunate enough to
get a rainy day perhaps a visit to the West Australian Museum which houses
Aboriginal artefacts, geological and marine displays, or a guided tour of
the Art Gallery of W.A.
Around Perth
Just 12 km from Perth you will find miles of white-sand and blue water.
Cottlesloe, Scarborough and others beaches are popular with locals. The nostalgic
and beautiful sea-side town of Fremantle is at the mouth of the swan River.
It makes an interesting contrast to the modernity of Perth with its museums
and old stone buildings. There are also some of the best restaurants in the
west. A short ferry ride will take you to the pure beaches of Rottnest Island.
Feed the Quokkas- it's only place in the world you can!
Around Western Australia
W.A is Australia's biggest state with nearly 1 million square miles of land!
It ranges from harsh inland deserts to its tropical forests in the north
with over 12000 miles of coastline. You can see whales or touch dolphins
along the coast both north and south of Perth. Where does one start? For
those with limited time, a 5-10 day trip in the south west can incorporate
superb beaches, magnificent Karri forest, boutique wineries, historical towns
such as York or the old whaling station of Albany, the Stirling Range, known
for its wildflowers, and return via the Golden Wheatlands. This can be as
a self-drive or in a small group or in a coach. A journey north can take
you through some impressive coastal scenery with great diving at Ningaloo
Reef or the dolphins at Monkey Mia. Or you can travel inland along the Great
Northern Highway. If Broome is your destination, flights can be arranged
from Perth and accommodation at one of the resorts or hotels. Take a camel
ride along the unspoilt beaches, visit pearl farm or use it as a base to
travel to the rugged Kimberleys, with its gorges and rockpools,or the amazing
Bungle-Bungle rock formations. 4WD tours or accommodated self drive or a
fly-drive package are possible. A 14 day self-drive from Perth to Broome
including stops at Monkey Mia and Ningaloo Reef. From £975 per/person.
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DARWIN AND THE NORTHERN TERRITORY
Darwin
In the Northern Territory, Darwin contrasts city life with tropical wilderness,
Aboriginal culture sites and an obvious influence from Asia. Beyond, the
wild, tropical beauty of the Northern Territory unfolds... Darwin has the
feel of a country town with all major facilities. The markets reflect the
mixture of the population as does the Museum and Art Gallery of the NT. Visit
a crocodile farm, cruise the Adelaide river or picnic at the beach.
Around Darwin
Learn about the culture of the Tiwi people on a trip to Bathurst and Melville
Island. A 1 or 2 day trip to Litchfield National Park is a great introduction
to the stunning beauty of the tropical north.
Around the Northern Territory
Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage Site, famous for its spectacular
waterfalls, rockpools, wonderful birdlife and vegetation of the Yellow Waters
Billabong and the many sites significant to the Aboriginal people. Access
is possible by 2WD and recommended in the dry season (May-September). Following
the one major highway south will take you to the modern town of Katherine.
A cruise along the river will take you through a series of gorges known as
Nitmiluk or the Katherine Gorge. The red sandstone canyon walls rise steeply
up 60 metres from the cool waters of the Katherine River. Continue along
the Stuart Highway to the unofficial capital of The Red Centre, Alice Springs.
Apart from the local sights this is the stepping off point for the world
famous Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park (Ayers Rock and The Olgas).
There is much more to this area including the dramatic cliffs of the MacDonnell
Ranges, King's Canyon, Stanley Chasm, and the surprisingly lush oasis of
Palm Valley. The contrasting red, blue and greens and splendid light of this
area are a photographer's dream. To experience the vastness of Australia
it is worth travelling overland to The Centre. Coach trips can be arranged
from Melbourne, Adelaide. Self drive is also possible. For those who do not
have the time it is possible to fly into Alice Springs. Fly- In Tours to
the Rock and surrounding areas can also be arranged. For an exhilarting
experience we can can offer treks which range from 4-22 days in either Kakadu,
Nitmiluk Katherine Gorge) or The Red Centre.
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BRISBANE AND QUEENSLAND
Brisbane
With its sophisticated yet laid-back lifestyle and glorious climate, Brisbane
is truly the capital of the Sunshine State; gateway to beautifulwhite beaches,
rolling surf and magnificent temperate rainforest. South Bank Parklands is
a whole complex of fun and adventure or perhaps the Queensland Cultural Centre
is more appealing or The Boardwalk which provides a collection of speciality
shops.
Around Brisbane
The Gold Coast is 42km of white sand beach, which runs from the NSW border
to Southport, south of Brisbane. It offers a full range of hotels and
entertainment including Dreamworld, Seaworld and Warner Bros Movie World.
This makes it a great place for families and young travellers. To the north
of Brisbane is the Sunshine Coast. Slightly less developed than the Gold
Coast but the beaches are equally beautiful. Other excursions from Brisbane
can include, Lamington National Park, or the magnificent Fraser Island.
Around Queensland
There is a gradual change from temperate to tropical as you travel north
to Cairns and beyond. Almost 2000 km of coastline with The Great Barrier
Reef being the main attraction. Throughout this strip there are a series
of islands that have been developed for tourism. Some offer tranquil "hideaway"
bungalows, some have larger resorts but all have glorious turquoise waters
fine white sand beaches, great food and a great atmosphere. You can snorkel,
dive or just admire the reef on a day trip from Proserpine, Townsville, Cairns
or Port Douglas or cruise to uninhabited islands on your own Yacht! Cairns
itself doesn't have a beach but we can arrange accommodation at a comfortable
resort just 15 minutes from Cairns. This also makes a perfect base for trips
to the Daintree Rainforest, the rolling hills of the Atherton Tablelands
and 4WD trips right up the Peninsula. We can organise 4WD, trips ranging
from 5-14 days or perhaps drive up to Cape York and cruise back down. Sailing
in the whitsunday Islands. We can also arrange a visits to various Aboriginal
communities in the far north that have set up their own tourist programme.
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SYDNEY TO MELBOURNE SELF-DRIVE (A Typical Itinerary)
(7 days)
There are many alternative routes which could include
Canberra, the Snowy Mountains and winery regions for example. The itinerary
given below concentrates mainly on the magnificent east coast
scenery.
Day 1- Sydney to Berrima (122km, 2 hours). Leave the busy pace of Sydney
to enjoy the peaceful rolling hills of the Southern Highlands. The historical
town of Berrima, where every building is heritage classified, reflects the
colonial pioneering days. The courthouse and gaol is now a museum. The
magnificent Fitzroy Falls at the head of a deep narrow gorge is a must to
visit. Overnight in a B&B in the town.
Day 2- Berrima to Jervis Bay. (Approx. 2 hours) As you drop from the highlands
to the coast it is a stunningly beautiful drive. After passing through Nowra
it is only about 20km to Jervis Bay. According to the local people the sand
here is whiter than any other beach in Australia! There is also a large nature
reserve with primary forest and the 90m cliffs that plunge into the sea at
at Perpendicular Point. Overnight in B&B or hotel.
Day 3- Jervis Bay to Tathra (Approx. 300km, 4 hours) This journey follows
the coast, passing through towns and villages. A short detour to the historical
settlement of Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba is recommended. South from this
point the main highway goes inland. You can continue to follow the coast
but the road is unpaved allow an extra hour. Tathra is on the Sapphire Coast
at the mouth of the Bega River. A side-trip to Bega is also recommended.
Overnight in a Guesthouse, 5 minutes walk from the beach.
Day 4- Tathra to Cape Conran (Approx. 300 km, 4 hours). A visit to Ben Boyd
National Park for a short walk to the Pinnacles, or perhaps a swim, is highly
recommended. Eden is a fishing village that used to be a base for whaling.
In the right season it is still possible to see whales and dolphins along
this coast. We cross over the border into Victoria and the lovely tall forests
of red-tipped gum trees. Cape Conran has several long, windswept and deserted
beaches at the mouth of the Snowy River. The Chalets are on an isolated point
set in the bushland beside the beach. You may want to extend your time at
this magnificent beach hideaway.
Day 5- Cape Conran to Wilson's Promontory. (Approx. 380 km, 5 hours). Today
is the longest day on the road but the destination is well worth it. After
passing through the lush grazing lands of Gippsland we arrive at Wilson's
Promontory National Park. This superb wilderness offers rugged coastline,
pristine beaches, thick vegetation and an abundance of wildlife including
wombats, kangaroos and emus. Overnight in a chalet inside the National Park
if available, otherwise in a B&B outside the Park.
Day 6- Wilson's Promontory. We love this place so much we have allowed an
extra day for walking or relaxing. Swimming outside of the peak of summer
is only for the brave since the water can be very cold.
Day 7- Wilson's Promontory to Melbourne.(Approx. 240km, 3 hours). Return
to the South Gippsland Highway for the most direct route, however a diversion
along the Great Ridge Road through the Strezleckie hills offers spectacular
views. (Allow 1 hour more). Arriving into Melbourne we can arrange accommodation
at a B&B on the outskirts of town in the delightful Dandenong Ranges
or a hotel closer to the city centre.
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This tour, including car rental (pick up in Sydney drop off in Melbourne),
acccommodation starts from £495 per person based on 2 people travelling.
From Melbourne you can of course fly anywhere or
you could continue your journey either in a loop back to Sydney via the wineries,
wetlands and mountains or on to Adelaide via The Great Ocean Road and the
Gariwerd (Grampian Mountains) and on through the Red Centre from
there.
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SOME AUSTRALIAN GROUP TOURS
Gourmet's Cycle Tours - 6 day tours that combine the great
Aussie outdoors with the finest locally grown food and wines. Perhaps the
most enjoyable way to see Australia. Departures: Jan, Feb., May, Sept. and
Nov. Includes accommodation , all meals and some wines, land transport where
required, bicycle rental and maintenance, comprehensive guided sightseeing
excursions, and experienced guide (and gourmet expert). See Australai Dossier.
The Tasmanian Wilderness - 4 to 9 day treks in the spectacular
wilderness of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park. Departures: Jan-May
and Sept.-Dec.
Includes All camping equipment, transfer from the meeting point to the start
of trek, meals, services of experienced guides (in a ratio of 1:3 passengers)
Outback Adventures - 4WD, camping trips and coach trips. Regular
departures throughout the year. See Australia Dossier.
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NEW GUINEA (Ask for our New Guinea Dossier)
New Guinea Classic- 12 days exploring the jungles, highlands,
rivers, beaches and local cultures of this exotic place. Departures: All
tours depart weekly all year. Price: £2125 U$3400 Price include
accommodation at comfortable lodges or hotels as well as the Sepik Spirit
"floating lodge", land transfers, most meals. Price does not include any
flights.
New Guinea Extravaganza - 14 days includes nights in Port Moresby
Price: £ 2300 U$3700.
New Guinea Panorama 12 days, as the Classic but omits Mt. Hagen
Price: £ 2000 U$3200
New Guinea Vista - 9 days including Ambua Lodge, Sepik river
cruise and Karawari Lodge Price: £ 1650 U$2700
New Guinea Encounter - 8 days including Ambua Lodge, Karawari
Lodge Mt. Hagen Price: £ 1150 U$1850
New Guinea Experience- 8 days including Malolo Beach, Karawari
and Ambua Lodges Price: £ 1150 U$1850
Also ask about the special annual Mt Hagen show tour.
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What Arc Journeys Offers
Small Group & Exclusive Tailormade Holidays at standard tour
rates
Arc Journeys specialise in designing personalised itineraries to suit
your requirements which need cost no more than a standard tour. You tell
us what you would most like to do and see and we prepare itineraries for
you to consider- it's as simple as that! The result is more than just a holiday,
it is a unique experience. Whether you want a totally tailormade service
or a combination of standard tours we will arrange it and we provide quotes
free of charge and without obligation.
We can arrange all this and more:
ROMANTIC HIDEAWAYS, HUG AN ORPHAN ORANGUTAN,
DOG SLEDDING IN THE ARCTIC, CRUISE IN THE GALAPAGOS,
ESCAPE THE MILLENNIUM, SNORKEL CORAL REEFS,
CLIMB VOLCANOES, WHALE-WATCHING, GREAT
TRAIN JOURNEYS, JUNGLE RIVER CRUISES, GOURMET'S
CYCLE TOURS, EXCLUSIVE HOTELS OR LOCAL HUTS, TREK
THE HIMALAYAS OR THE ANDES, CAMEL, HORSE, ELEPHANT OR WALKING
SAFARIS, APPRECIATE ARCHITECTURE, ARTS, CRAFTS, TEXTILES,
MUSIC, FESTIVALS, DANCE AND CUISINE.
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Arc Journeys Destinations
South East Asia
Visit ancient temples and traditional villages, relax
in exclusive hideaways, witness colourful festivals, learn about textiles,
local cooking or music and dance, cruise jungle rivers, meet orangutans or
trek the jungles and volcanoes .... We are acknowledged experts on this region;
this is what the Indonesia, Malaysia & Singapore Handbook says about
us: "Arc Journeys have excellent cultural and natural tours run by people
who understand and care for the country, its people and environment."
Australasia
Meet the koalas & 'roos, visit the wineries, stroll deserted beaches,
dive The Reef, climb The Rock, experience the open spaces and untouched
wilderness. Escape the crowds. Accommodated self-drive, treks, 4WD tours,
gourmet cycle tours...indulge in the Aussie way.
India and The Himalayas
Walk through small villages among 8000m peaks, receive blessings from a Buddhist
Lama, stay in magnificent palaces, search for rhino and tiger. Himalayan
treks, rail journeys, camel & horse safaris, palace hotels, houseboats
or homestays...
Africa
Meet the curious lemurs, look out for the Big 5, climb Kilimanjaro, visit
villages where time has stood still. Luxury lodges or camping expeditions,
Self-drive or escorted 4WD safaris, horseback safaris, rail journeys, treks,
fly- in tours ......
South America
Discover the mysteries of the Incas, explore colonial towns and Indian markets,
hear the music and festivals, trek the Andes, take great train journeys,
cruise the Amazon and the Galapagos, meet blue footed boobies and giant turtles.
Small group tours and tailormade itineraries.
The Arctic
Dog sledding, polar bears, birds & whalewatching, cruise Alaska, Greenland
or rivers, touch an iceberg, see the Northern Lights or midnight sun, experience
the wilderness of the Arctic. Small group tours and tailormade itineraries.
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CONTACT DETAILS
Email 
David Halford Travel 102 Stanley Rd Cambridge CB5 8LB UK
UK Tel 0207 681 3175 Fax +44 0207 6813175
Australia Tel & Fax +61 3 9923 6158
Home page http://www.travelarc.com
Alternative website
http://members.aol.com/ArcJourney/index.htm
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