Wildlife Wonders of Victoria

Melbourne is the coastal capital of the state of Victoria. At the city's centre is the modern Federation Square development, with shopping, bars, and restaurants by the Yarra River. In the Southbank area, the Melbourne Arts Precinct is the site of Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria, with Australian and indigenous art. As the cultural capital of Australia, Melbourne has a hidden gem around every corner - Rich history, bustling laneways, rooftop bars, and world-class restaurants are just the beginning!

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Melbourne accommodation.

Melbourne is the cool, artsy capital of the state of Victoria. Renowned for its laneway art, cafes, bars, restaurants and museums, there is no shortage of things to do, see, eat and drink. Grab a coffee in Degraves Street, see the murals on Hosier Lane or Blender Lane, pop over to St Kilda and stroll along the promenade or visit one of the many museums. For a spot of retail therapy, catch the 86 or 96 tram from the CBD to the bohemian Brunswick Street shopping district for an eclectic mix of second hand vintage and high-end boutique stores. On the opposite side of the city, the Docklands open-air entertainment precinct boasts a myriad of public artwork, family fun activities such as glow in the dark mini golf, and a variety of dining options lining the marina. Get there easily on the free City Circle tram, or wander over the Bourke Street footbridge. To make the most of your time in Melbourne, we recommend taking a city tour to get true local insight into this vibrant city.

Start your adventure in Melbourne and join Explore Australia on this refreshing day tour as you explore the serene beauty of the Mornington Peninsula. Begin your journey with a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs at the Peninsula Hot Springs, where the soothing waters and tranquil setting provide the perfect start to your day. Afterwards, you will head to Murrays Lookout, where you can savor the breathtaking views of the bay. The lookout offers a picturesque vantage point, ideal for capturing stunning photos and appreciating the natural beauty of the peninsula. Your final stop of the day will be the Mt Martha Beach, home to the iconic bathing boxes. These vibrant, colorful structures are a photographer's dream, providing the perfect backdrop for that Instagram-worthy shot. This tour promises a delightful mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and memorable photo opportunities. 

Departing early from Melbourne, this small group day tour to Wilsons Promontory showcases the region's amazing highlights, all brimming with natural wonders. The journey begins with a stop at one of the many scenic lookouts, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas of the Prom's rugged coastline and pristine wilderness. You will visit Tidal River, a picturesque spot ideal for a leisurely walk or a picnic by the water. Afterwards, we head to Squeaky Beach, famous for its quartz sand that squeaks underfoot, offering a unique and memorable beach experience. The tour continues with a visit to either Mt Bishop or Mt Oberon, where you'll have the opportunity to embark on a hike to the summit and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, explore the lush rainforest of Lillypilly Gully, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Throughout the day, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls Wilsons Promontory home. Spot emus, kangaroos, and wombats as you explore the park, providing plenty of photo opportunities and unforgettable moments. Join this immersive day tour and experience the best of Wilsons Promontory's natural beauty and wildlife, all starting from the heart of Melbourne.

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The drive from Melbourne to Steels Creek takes you from the city’s hustle to the peaceful Yarra Valley. As you leave the suburbs, the landscape opens up to rolling hills and vineyards. The journey is scenic, with charming country towns and wide-open farmland along the way. The air feels fresher, and the pace slows as you near Steels Creek. By the time you arrive, you're surrounded by serene countryside, a true escape from the city.

Steels Creek, nestled in the heart of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, is a peaceful rural area known for its scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and abundant natural beauty. Just minutes from Yarra Glen, it’s a great spot for nature lovers, offering hiking trails and cycling routes that wind through the stunning landscape. The area is home to a selection of boutique wineries, where visitors can enjoy local wines while taking in the tranquil countryside views. Steels Creek is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet escape in a picturesque setting, with easy access to the broader Yarra Valley region.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of Victoria, Australia, Yarra Valley cellar doors beckon to those seeking a taste of indulgence and refinement. Each cellar door is a portal to the region's rich viticultural heritage, offering a sensory journey through the finest wines crafted with passion and precision.

Yarra Yering: Planted in 1969, Yarra Yering's unirrigated vines produce elegant, complex and powerful wines. Approachable as young wines, they have the ability to develop in the bottle for many years. Yarra Yering is one of Australia’s most iconic wineries with an outstanding international reputation. The Tasting Room is now open seven days a week with some of Australia’s most collected wines on tasting.

Tokar Estate: With majestic sweeping views of the Yarra Valleys finest vineyards, surrounding mountain ranges, stunning skylines and set in the picturesque dress circle of the acclaimed Yarra Valley, Tokar Estate is an ideal location in which to relax, soak up the Valleys beauty, taste some exquisite wines, and enjoy delectable cuisine.

Seville Estate: Seville Estate was awarded the Halliday Wine Companion 'Winery of the year' in 2019. From its first vintage, Seville Estate quickly established itself as one of the Yarra Valley's finest producers. Surprisingly in a region more renowned for its Pinot Noir, it was the Seville Estate Shiraz that received the most attention, quickly becoming one of Victoria's most sought after wines. Seville Estate has a picturesque location among rolling hills and pastures of the Upper Yarra Valley with the cellar door and winery nestled within a truly stunning garden of native plants. 

Balgownie Estate: Enjoy relaxed drinks and grazing on the deck immersed in the panorama of the valley. Unwind at endota spa located only footsteps from our restaurant and accommodation. Make Balgownie Estate your go-to destination for celebrating special occasions, romantic getaways, and quality time with family and friends.

Chandon: Established in 1986, Chandon Australia is a premium sparkling winery based in the Yarra Valley, Victoria. Dedicated to creating exceptional méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, Chandon crafts wines which are complex, expressive and reflective of their origins.

Punch Wine Room: Cellar Door experience for Punch and Friends of Punch wines. Wine tastings, sales by the glass and bottle. Enjoy wines matched with food from one of the wonderful Punch neighbours - wood-fired pizza and sourdough bakery, cheese platters.

Oakridge Wines: A must-visit Yarra Valley destination, Oakridge Wines is an award-winning winery, cellar door and restaurant, located in Coldstream. Regarded as one of Australia and the Yarra Valley’s most pre-eminent producers, Oakridge is renowned for its distinctive and age-worthy wines, especially revered for it's chardonnay and pinot noir.

The drive from Steels Creek to Healesville is a short, scenic journey through the heart of the Yarra Valley. Leaving Steels Creek, you’ll travel along quiet country roads with rolling hills and vineyards surrounding you. The landscape is dotted with patches of native bushland, offering glimpses of wildlife as you drive. As you approach Healesville, the town’s charm and its vibrant arts and food scene come into view. It’s a peaceful and pleasant route, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Set amongst the surroundings of Yarra Valley, spend your day being up close to 200 or Australians species- including the iconic Kangaroo and Koalas! Listen to the knowledgeable keepers showcase their presentations and gain insight into all the wonderful and amazing creatures on sight! Keep your eyes peeled for the Sky Birds Show, spot the iconic Aussie favorites, visit the endangered hospital and take a walk through the new Koala forest! The Healesville Sanctuary is a great day out to see some of Australia's top wildlife attractions in a non traditional zoo environment!

The drive from Healesville to Steels Creek is a peaceful journey through the scenic Yarra Valley. As you leave the lively town of Healesville, the road quickly transitions into quiet, country lanes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. The landscape becomes more rural, with native bushland and open fields along the way. It’s a relaxing route, where you can enjoy the calm of the countryside and maybe even spot some local wildlife. As you near Steels Creek, the serene atmosphere offers a perfect escape from the busy town.

The drive from Steels Creek to Phillip Island takes you from the peaceful Yarra Valley through open countryside and onto the coastal roads. You’ll pass rolling hills and small towns as you head south, with the scenery changing from farmland to ocean views. As you near Phillip Island, the relaxed coastal atmosphere takes over, welcoming you with its beaches and natural beauty. The island is a perfect spot for a peaceful escape.

Phillip Island is just 90 minutes from Melbourne. It is home to white-sand beaches, captivating coastlines, fun family activities, and world-class events, such as the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. See Little Penguins return to their burrows on sunset, watch inquisitive seals play at sea, go in search of whales, and be in awe of natural scenery on a coastal walk. You can also visit Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and taste delicious chocolate treats and even make your own chocolate creation on the spot.

Embark on an unforgettable voyage along the stunning coast of Phillip Island, where you will visit Australia’s largest Fur Seal colony. As your boat drifts within meters of thousands of seals in their natural habitat, you'll be captivated by the sight of these playful creatures leaping, playing, and going about their day. This unique experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the seals' behavior up close, as they bask on the rocks, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and interact with each other in the wild. The scenic beauty of Phillip Island's coastline adds to the magic of this adventure, providing a picturesque backdrop to the lively seal colony. Join us for an incredible journey that combines breathtaking landscapes with unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Wander tree-top boardwalks to watch koalas up close in their natural habitat. Take a walk through the woodlands, discover the range of trails and explore Australian bushland. You can also learn about amazing lives of koalas, and enjoy abundant colorful native birds, wallabies and echidnas.

Phillip Island is home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world. You will experience the magic of watching these amazing seabirds waddle home from the ocean. You will enjoy a seating viewing platform overlooking the stunning Summerland Beach or you can watch them from the boardwalks as well.

Today's drive time is just under two hours a scenic journey following along the coastline out of Phillips Island heading towards Melbourne one of the most liveable cities on earth. Continuing along Gippsland Highway you will reach Koo Wee Rup, Australia's largest asparagus growing town, make sure to check the observation tower to see the panoramic 360 degree view of the swamp reserve. If you are up to a slight detour, Cranbourne is 20 minutes away and offers the Royal Botanic Gardens- home to 25 endangered species and native plants. Before carrying on the final stint of the drive into the bustling city of Melbourne, while you are here make sure to delve into the lively laneways filled with art, music and eateries a real foodies dream.

Embark on a voyage aboard the Spirit of Melbourne, a luxurious floating restaurant where sophistication meets relaxation in perfect harmony. Step into a world of opulence and refinement as you are welcomed into an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. Take your seat at a beautifully adorned table and brace yourself for an adventure like no other. Prepare to be dazzled by a culinary symphony orchestrated by masterful chefs, each dish a masterpiece meticulously crafted from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Every bite is a revelation, a tantalizing fusion of flavours that celebrates Melbourne's vibrant heritage. As you indulge your senses, let your gaze wander through the expansive panoramic windows, revealing breathtaking vistas of Melbourne's iconic waterfront. Cruise along the majestic Yarra River, where each twist and turn unveils a new spectacle, a captivating tapestry of landmarks and cityscapes that dance in the moonlight. Let the ever-changing scenery cast its spell upon you, transforming your dining experience into a mesmerizing journey of discovery. From the vibrant hustle and bustle of the city to the serene beauty of the riverbanks, every moment aboard the Spirit of Melbourne is a testament to the magic of this cosmopolitan gem.

Explore more of Melbourne before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consultant about planning your next stop!