All recommended sites & everything else can be located & checked out with a few clicks - most have 10 photos showing views, food, beds, scenery, facilities, goods - everything you need to make an informed decision & links to all of them.
Just click on any marker, then on the traffic arrow and a 2nd location for instant detailed public & private travel information including routes, distances, times, frequency, transfers & stop locations.
Your holiday - Your way
COUNTRY GUIDE
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BEST TIME TO GO - All year round
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In the south Spring is September to November, Summer is December to February, Autumn is March to May and Winter is June to August. Summers are hot/dry and winters are cold/wet.
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Up north is tropical and there are two seasons. The wet (Nov - Apr) and the dry (May - Oct). The dry is definitely the best here. October to December see some spectacular storms.
STAY - Most hotels are available on Booking.com unless otherwise stated. It's best to get bookings with free cancellation and pay on site when you get there. Hotels chosen are usually 3*** or 4 or 5 if they are good value. They are chosen firstly for their location, value for money, positive testimonials regarding cleanliness and service and features like rooftop terraces and great views.
If the selected hotel is out of your price range click on the location map and choose something cheaper nearby. Or you might prefer something else but try to stay in the same area.
Country town and outback pubs in Australia usually have rooms and are often great value. They can be basic but are normally upstairs where you have a common lounge and a big BYO balcony to hang out on.
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VISAS - Nearly all nationalities need visas for Australia. Click here to find what you need to do.
You may need to make use of Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne Airports for these trips.
Don't forget to get some travel insurance to cover you once you have bought your tickets.
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BUDGET - Australia is not that cheap a country to travel in. Having said that it is cheaper than the USA, Europe and Japan. The weak dollar makes it more attractive to people travelling with US dollars, Euros and Pounds. As with all places there are ways and means of cutting costs. A beer in a pub will cost between $5 and $15 but if you buy it by the carton at the "bottlo" (drive-in bottle shop) you will pay less than $2. Country pubs often have cheap rooms and great balconies (where you can drink your own). Self catering is very easy and there are a lot of public BBQs. Bakeries are great ways to fill up cheaply.
BOOKINGS - Go through the trip and book accommodation, rent a cars, transport, tours etc. before you leave.
POPULATION - 25,466,000
CAPITAL - Canberra (Meeting Place)
RELIGION - Christian 42%, No Religion 30%, Muslims 2%, Buddhists 2%, Hindus 2%
ETHNICITY - British 68%, Irish 9%, Italian 4%, German 4%, Chinese 4%, Aboriginal 3%
LANGUAGE - English + 120 spoken Aboriginal languages left out of more than 250
NATIONAL DRINK - Red wine / Beer
NATIONAL DISH - Roast lamb / Pie with sauce
GOVERNMENT - Constitutional Monarchy
BORN - 01 / 01 / 1901
BIG MAC in $US - $4.45
LITERACY - 99%
MINIMUM WAGE ANNUAL $US - $28,074
CURRENCY - Australian dollar AUD 1 AUD = 66 US cents
LIFE EXPECTANCY - 83
TOURISTS PER YEAR - 10 million
NO.1 TOURIST SITE - The Great Barrier Reef
CHEERS - Cheers (Big Ears)
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Go to Adelaide Tours 2
"MAD MARCH" ADELAIDE + - 1M / 2W
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - australia's best wine, pate & Festivals
📞 Remember to make all of your Bookings as far ahead as possible ☎️
Tanunda 2N
Hahndorf 2N
Adelaide = 1M
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Haigh's Chocolate Factory Tour
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The Best Whiskey in the World
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South Australian Seafood
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Adelaide Sunset
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Gawler High Street
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Barossa Valley Wineries
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Maggie Beer's Farm Shop
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Grange Hermitage
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Pie Floaters
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Frog Cakes
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Bung Fritz
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Birdwood
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Lobethal
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Hahndorf
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Gin Cocktails
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Berenberg
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WOMADelaide
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LIV Golf
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Writers Festival
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Fringe Festival
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Mall's Balls
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Mt Lofty Summit
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Adelaide Motorsport Festival
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Festival of Arts - Top 3 in the World
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The Largest Rocking Horse in the World
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Cleland Wild Life Park - Kangaroos & Koalas
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Windy Point - the World Famous Lights of Adelaide
✈️You could do this trip anytime and see Adelaide, the Barossa Valley and the Adelaide Hills over a couple of weeks🧳
adelaide
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There is a lot going on in Adelaide during the month of March. In fact we call it "Mad March". In fact it starts in mid February and if you count Gather Round where every AFL team comes to play in Adelaide, it goes until mid April. World class festivals and events are all packed in a 6 week period. The weather is great and you couldn't pick a better time to come. You could do the road trip before, after or even during the festivities.
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Adelaide Motorsport Festival
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Before you come have a look online through the various programs and events and see which ones you would like to go to. Make your bookings and work out your itinerary. Spend a bit of your time by the beach, take the road trip through the Barossa and the Adelaide hills then move closer to the city and get involved in all of the excitement.
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Pick up a car🚗 at the airport and it's a short 10 min drive to your hotel. Drop it off somewhere near where you're staying on your second stint after the road trip. Spend as long as you want here. It's a great spot right by the beach with a lot of restaurants and bars around. Checkout Joe's Henley Beach for breakfast and the Thai Orchid for dinner. During the day there is shopping, golf, the beach, Haigh's Chocolates, kangaroos, koalas and a whole lot more.
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Make good use of the car. The Fleurieu Peninsula is an unknown gem outside of SA and a great place to head off for day-trips whatever your interests are. Food, wine, surfing, hiking, naturism, golf and a lot more are all world standard and only a short drive away. South Australia has great bakeries especially in small country towns. Try the endemic Kitchener Buns and see who has the best Vanilla Slices.
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Book yourself into the Windy Point Restaurant for dinner at around 6.30 pm one night so you can catch the sunset and see the "famous lights" of Adelaide. (That I was informed of in Portland, Oregon one evening). I strongly recommend a visit to the Semaphore Workers Club up the road on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Don't forget to get a souvenir hat or stubby cooler.
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Stay at or near the Ramsgate Hotel *** - (Parking on the street) - by Henley Square
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Go on the road trip
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Settle in for the festivities - Find a place near East Terrace and Rundle Road if you can. You might find something good on Airbnb. Or somewhere close to the city where you could use transport to get in would also be ok. For a very lively time have a look at the Hotel Richmond on Rundle Mall **** - which is in amongst all the action.
tanunda - 2n
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Time to hit the road. Take your time to relax and enjoy everything. You have plenty of time and there's no need to rush. Follow the coast north to Semaphore, park the car and have breakfast at one of the many cafes on Semaphore Road. Don't go overboard because you'll need room for lunch. Go for a stroll.
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Back in the car and follow the Northern Expressway up to Gawler. Hop out and stretch your legs to wander along the "High Street". It's a great place for a pub crawl but at this time of day maybe a coffee will suffice.
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Next stop is lunch. Maggie Beer is an Australian foodie icon and national treasure. Eating outdoors by the dam at her Farm Shop is a wonderful experience. You can even do a cooking class if you like. Keep your eyes open and you will notice her products on the supermarket shelves around town. Her pates are second to none in Australia and probably the world. And make sure you try her Burnt Fig & Honeycomb Ice Cream while you are in Adelaide. You will see why it has a "cult like following". You can find it in the supermarkets. In fact for a place with a small population South Australia has a lot of icons. From Grange Hermitage to Bung Fritz, see how many you can try while you're here.
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Back to lunch, you might like to try the Chef's Selection with wine pairings or make your own way through the menu. You'll need a couple of hours to look around the property and why not stock up on a few treats for a picnic in the near future.
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Time to check in to the Novotel Barossa Valley Resort **** - free parking, outdoor heated pool, Tanunda Pines Golf Course, vineyard views from your balcony, fitness centre, tennis courts, giant chess, Endota Day Spa, walking trails, bicycle rental, Wine Tasting Room, restaurant, bar, BBQ facilities, terrace, outdoor furniture, picnic area, garden
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Or for a cheaper option The Wine Vine Hotel **** - free parking, outdoor pool, tennis court, restaurant, bar, BBQ facilities, patio, coffee house
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Get up early and go for a Hot Air Balloon ride over the Barossa Valley then back to your hotel for a Champagne and hot buffet breakfast. You'll probably be downing a few wines today so why not get an early start. A quick dip in the pool to clear the head. A round of golf or perhaps some pampering at the Spa and Wellness centre.
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Time to check out a few wineries and pick up some supplies. A good trick is to take your own nibbles with you. Grab a basket and fill it with cheeses, biscuits, fruit paste, dried fruit, real fruit, pate, olives and all of those good things you bought at Maggie's Farm yesterday. They don't mind you bringing it in and it certainly compliments the drinking. The Barossa Valley is famous throughout the world and there are about 150 wineries to choose from and almost as many guides. If you don't want to drive there are many tour options including Barossa Unique Tours which is based in Tanunda.
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Before you have too many samples you might like to try the Seppeltsfield Segway Tour.
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Barossa Valley Chocolate Company. It doesn't sound like a winery does it, but they do pair wines with their multi award winning chocolate, and you'll be surprised how well they go together. Everything goes with chocolate! And wine 😇. You can book online.
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Your last tasting should be Henschke Cellar Door. Their wines aren't cheap but after you try them all others will disappoint. Don't miss it!!
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If you feel like relaxing with one or two of your bottles for dinner why not have a BBQ back at the hotel tonight. With its German heritage there are some good butchers around the valley. Ask the locals. Or you could go the other way and have a splurge at the Appellation at The Louise for a 4 course tasting menu. Eighty percent of the produce is sourced from within a 50 km radius. Wine pairings available and bookings essential.
The Mall's Balls
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The Barossa Valley
Have a look through these tours and you might find something special. There are even a couple that are not alcohol related.🍷
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Hahndorf - 2n
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After breakfast it's time to leave the valley and head for the hills. Keep an eye out for seasonal produce with honesty boxes in little huts along the side of the road. Travel via Gumeracha and Birdwood where you can see the Big Rocking Horse and the National Motor Museum. If you're a petrol head it's definitely worth a look. Stop in at the Good Pantry in Gumeracha for coffee and cake.
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From Birdwood to Hahndorf you'll sort of be following the B34 - Onkaparinga Scenic Valley Drive. Your route will be Birdwood - Mt Torrens - Lobethal - Woodside - Hay Valley - Hahndorf. There is a lot to see along the way so stop off when you feel like it. Time today is devoted to the journey and you can look at the sights around Hahndorf tomorrow.
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For lunch enroute pull into the Lobethal Bierhaus, they open at 12 noon. In Woodside turn left on the Nairne Rd and follow it out for 8.6 km then turn right on Chambers Rd and you will find the driveway for Lot 100 up a bit on your right. This is a unique cooperative of 5 different food and craft specialists. One of them won the prize for the best whiskey in the world. They close at 5 pm on a Sunday so give yourself enough time.
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Continue on to Hahndorf and spend the rest of the day wandering up the main street checking out the shops. Or you could sit outside the pub (German Arms Hotel) with a beer checking out the shoppers. The hotel has a pool so you might want to cool off there after a while. Have a nice German meal for dinner in one of the many options along the main street.
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Hahndorf was founded in 1939 and populated with Germans fleeing religious persecution. It was named after Captain Hahn who sailed them out here in 1838 and secured the land for them.
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Stay at or near the Lodge by Manna *** - free parking, excellent location just off of the main street, heated indoor / outdoor pool, restaurant, coffee house, jacuzzi, large BBQ area
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You could visit the Berenberg Family Farm and pick some strawberries, do some tastings, have morning smoko in their cafe, take a cooking lesson or just shop for some tasty condiments. That's the healthy part of the day done with. Now it's off to The Lane for a nice long lunch looking out over the vineyards. It's only 5 minutes away so you might want to drop the car off and take a taxi or uber. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and doing what you feel like.
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Here's a few tours you could look at to learn more about the history of the area.
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Last day of the road trip today. Have a sleep in if you need it. There are a range of activities to entertain you today. Golfers should head to one of my favourite local courses the very picturesque Mount Lofty Golf Club. If you can get on it Mt Osmond Golf Club is a great course and has some spectacular views over the city. Shoppers might want to check out the nearby towns of Verdun (Maximilians Restaurant an Adelaide Hills icon since the 1970's would be a lunch to remember), Bridgewater, Aldgate and Stirling. Gardeners should head to the Mount Lofty Botanical Garden. Others will want to see kangaroos and cuddle koalas at Cleland Conservation Park. There are plenty of opportunities for scenic walks in all of these destinations. For lunch you might want to find a little bakery or cafe somewhere along the way. Finish up at Mount Lofty summit to take in the views of Adelaide before you head down to drop the car off and start the party.
adelaide
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Check into your new digs and enjoy all that Adelaide has to offer. It's main asset is that it is large enough to have the benefits of a city but small enough to miss a lot of the disadvantages. Let's hope it stays that way. So keep this one to yourselves.
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If this trip has left you wanting more of "SA Great" have a look at the next two trips.
Go to Adelaide Tours 1
TASSIE LOOP 27N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - PRISTINE coasts, mountains & Wilderness
Adelaide 1N
Coorong 1N
Millicent 1N
Warrnambool 1N
Launceston 2N
Bridport 2N
St Helens 1N
Coles Bay 2N
Port Arthur 1N
Richmond 1N
Bruny Island 2N
Hobart 3N
Queenstown 2N
Penguin 2N = 28N
Davenport
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The Great Ocean Road
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World Renowned Coorong National Park
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Infamous Salt Creek
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Robe Crayfish (Lobster)
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Limestone Coast Coonawarra Red Wine
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Millicent Golf Course
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The Twelve (7) Apostles
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Freycinet National Park
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UNESCO World Heritage listed Port Arthur
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Charming historic Richmond
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Cascade and James Boag brewery tours
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Salamanca Market - Australia's best
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UNESCO Cascade Females Factory
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Cradle Mountain bush walks
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Play with Tasmanian Devils
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Truffles
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Curried Scallop Pies😋
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Aurora Australis - the Southern Lights - if you're lucky
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Cradle Mountain - in the UNESCO Tasmanian Wilderness Area
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The Big Penguin and some little ones
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Bells Beach - Australia's most Famous Surf Beach
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Tamar Valley Wine Route - Top 10 in the World
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One of the World's top Golfing Destinations - Barnbougle
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Bay of Fires - One of the most beautiful beaches in the World
This trip is jam packed with highlights especially for people interested in a wide range of top quality artisan food and beverages as well as some of the most stunning pristine scenery you're ever likely to see. Match that with some fascinating history, world class golf, delicious fresh seafood, boat cruises, some truly unique sights and a whole lot more. One thing's for sure, you'll be eating well. If you're coming from overseas it will work out best to fly into Adelaide and out of Melbourne or maybe Launceston / Hobart.
adelaide - 1n
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Fly into Adelaide on a Tuesday between October and March, pick up a rental car🚗 at the airport and stay at or near the Ramsgate Hotel *** - (Parking on the street) - at Henley Beach by Henley Square. You will need the car for the entire trip of 29 days and possibly a couple more if you are going to drive into Melbourne to fly out. Or it might be cheaper to drive back to Hobart and fly to Melbourne with a cheap ticket. Or perhaps you could drop it off in Devonport then catch the boat back. So many options.
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There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby to keep you entertained for the night. If you'd like to spend a few nights here first have a look at the trip above for some ideas.
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Your first job should be to buy an Esky / Cooler / Chilly Bin to keep your drinks cold on the road. Go somewhere cheap like a supermarket to stock up. A range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverage choices is the way to go. When you stay at these little country pubs you can have a few drinks in the bar before your counter meal. Then go upstairs to your wonderful balcony (they all have big old shady balconies looking over the main street) and drink cheap, icy cold beer. You could even put some picnic food in there.
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Tasmania is heaven for food lovers and some of the treats in store for you include Chocolate, Truffles, Cheese, Leatherwood Honey, Fudge, Ice Cream, Olive Oil, Pristine Seafood, Freshly shucked Bruny Island Oysters, Scallop pies, Salmon and Brie pies, Flinders Island lamb, Cape Grim beef, King Island Dairy, Albert Gough National Pies. It's alright if you like alcohol too. Look forward to locally produced Wine, Beer, Cider, Whiskey, Gin and Vodka for starters.
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Pick up your car in Adelaide and drop it off in Melbourne when you're finished with it. Fly into Adelaide and out of Melbourne if you can. Tassie is just made for a road trip and what an entrance driving along the Great Ocean Road. Like most of the trips there is a little bit of everything in this one. You will need to leave Adelaide on a Wednesday between October and March for the Coorong Cruise. Sunday is okay if you are going to miss Fat Pig Farm in Cygnet later on.
victor harbour - 1n
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Get an early start from Adelaide heading down to Goolwa for your Coorong Adventure Cruise. Book it online before you leave home. You will need to be at the boat by around 9.45 am and it's about a 90 minute drive. Or there is this kayaking option.
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When you get back drive to Victor Harbour and check into the Anchorage Seafront Hotel *** - (Free Parking) - or anywhere near the centre of town. You might want to head to Granite Island before dusk to see the Fairy Penguins. Check out the local pubs for dinner and drinks tonight.
coorong - 1n
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You only have a two and a half hour drive today so you have time to look around Victor before you leave. Buy some food for a picnic lunch along the Coorong somewhere. Take the B45 - Langhorne Creek Rd that goes through Wellington and across the ferry. There is a pretty good bakery where you stop to wait for the ferry. Spend the night at the Coorong Hotel (Free Parking) and try the local specialty, Coorong Mullet for dinner. The hotel isn't on Booking.com. Just up the road is Salt Creek where a terrifying incident happened in 2016.
millicent - 1n
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There is a short walk just up the road from Jack Point Observatory Deck where you wind through the dunes overlooking Pelican breeding islands. Continue along the Coorong and arrive in Robe for an early lunch. Robe is famous for its crayfish (you may call them lobsters). Sails at Robe is the place to eat them. After lunch make your way to the Coonawarra, one of Australia's premier wine regions. Especially if you like red. You might as well stock up for the rest of the trip.
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Finally make your way to Millicent where you will spend the night at the Grand Hotel (Free Parking) or nearby.
warrnambool - 1n
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Golfers should not miss the chance to play the hidden wonder that is the Millicent Golf Club. It is one of a kind and you should keep it to yourself (like me 😂). If you don't like to miss the 19th you could stay in town another night. Otherwise you have plenty of time to play and get to the next town. Non-golfers can leisurely make your way along to the Shipwreck Coast and possibly see some whales if it is the right time of year.
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Stay in or near the Comfort Inn Western **** - near the town centre or have a look down by the beach.
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Warrnambool has great beaches, Hot Springs, a Maritime Village and Cheese World. There are some nice waterfront places for a meal including the Pavilion Cafe & Bar and Simons Waterfront.
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Continue along the Great Ocean Road visiting the 12 Apostles, there's only 7 left so don't delay too long. There is a new 10 million dollar lookout and helicopter flights to enhance the view. Drop in to Australia's most famous surfing beach - Bells Beach and see if it's "going off". Load your vehicle on to the Spirit of Tasmania at it's new home in Geelong then checkout your sleeper cabin and the on-board facilities. The ship departs in both directions at 9 pm and arrives the next morning at 6 am.
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Photo by John Burnett on Unsplash
The "Twelve" Apostles
launceston - 2n
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When you arrive spend a little time having breakfast and a look around Davenport. On your way from Davenport to Launceston you can do a bit of a food trail. Your first destination doesn't open until 10 am or 11 am depending on which day you left Adelaide. Lets just say 11 am (especially as the first stop is for Apple Cider) and take it from there. Follow these places in order on your way to Launceston.
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41° South, a salmon and ginseng farm in Deloraine, try their signature smoked salmon rillettes.
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You will be following food and alcohol trails and stopping in at these sort of places which is the perfect opportunity to pick up unique products for self-catering and special picnics in some spectacular locations. Spend two nights in Launceston.
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Stay at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston ****½ (Free Parking) - or near the town centre.
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Some other attractions around Launceston are Cataract Gorge and chairlift, the National Auto Museum, Tramway museum with ride and the Harvest market held every Saturday
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Tasmania has 2 major beers. James Boag here in the north and Cascade down in Hobart. Brewery tours run at 10.30 am and 3.00 pm.
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The infamous Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre is only a half hour drive away. It is very hands on and you could easily while a way a few hours here.
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You'll have the rest of the day and tomorrow to look around Launceston. On the next day have a winery lunch in the Tammar Valley north of Launceston. It straddles the Tamar River, has over 30 wineries and is one of the most beautiful areas in Tasmania. In fact the Tamar Valley Wine Route was voted in the Top 10 in the world by Essential Travel Magazine (UK). There's a few wineries that have meals and platters, but my choice would be Iron Pot Bay Vineyard. After lunch continue on to the next town of Bridport.
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Golfers will be pleased to learn that the local course Barnbougle is one of the world's top golfing destinations. There are in fact three outstanding courses -
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The Dunes
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The Lost Farm
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Bougle Run
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You are in for a real treat and might decide to stick around and play all three.
bridport - 2n
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Non-golfers won't be disappointed either. Bridport is a pretty little seaside town which is generally underrated. It has some beautiful beaches and private bays where there is excellent fishing as well as Quad bike tours, 4WD in the dunes and good bushwalking.
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Stay at or near the Bridport Hotel (not on Booking.com)
st helens - 1n
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Today you can explore the incredible beaches and mountain scenery of the East Coast. Plenty of opportunities for walks, swims and tastings as you head to the Bay of Fires, awarded one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
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You could spend the night in Binalong Bay (expensive), St Helens or Scamander. I've picked Panorama St Helens Nature Resort **** .
coles bay (freycinet) - 2n
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An especially scenic drive down the coast to Coles Bay the jumping off point for Freycinet National Park, one of the most spectacular areas in Tassie. Stop in at Iron House Brewery when you reach White Sands Estate for some Tasmanian Single Malts. Spend a couple of nights here to give yourself enough time to explore the park. Have a seafood lunch at Freycinet Marine Farm on the way through.
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If you want to splash out you could stay at the Saffire Freycinet for several thousand a night all inclusive.
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Otherwise how about Big 4 Iluka on Freycinet (Free Parking) - anywhere around here is fine. Not a lot of cheapies on offer.
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The Geographe Restaurant and Expresso Bar is a good place to eat with outdoor tables and fantastic views.
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View the park from the water on Wineglass Bay Cruises.
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There is a very scenic boardwalk that goes to Cape Tourville Lighthouse.
port arthur - 1n
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Off to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Port Arthur (Bookings Essential) today. The site has a lot of history including Australia's worst mass shooting incident the Port Arthur Massacre. En-route start the day with a famous Seafood Chowder (and famous handcrafted ice cream) at the Pondering Frog followed up by the Melshell Oyster Shack for some of Tassie's best. Take a complimenting bottle of something white with you. Spend as much time here as you need today and tomorrow as it's only an hours drive to Richmond afterwards. You might even see the Tasmania Aurora Australis if you're lucky. (the Southern version of the Northern Lights).
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Stay at or near the Fox and Hounds Inn *** - only a kilometre away from the historic site.
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Some of the attractions are the Old Asylum (now a museum and café) and the Model Prison. Two day tickets are available which also include a short harbour cruise around the Isle of the Dead.
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One of the most popular things is the Ghost Tour, which leaves from the visitor centre every night at dusk. (Bookings essential)
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Cradle Mountain Lake
richmond - 1n
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Spend the night in one of Tasmania's most charming historic towns - Richmond. Stay at or near the Richmond Arms Hotel *** (Free Parking) and Beer Garden - anywhere near the centre of town.
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Have a look around town before driving to Cygnet. But don't leave town until you've paid a visit to the Richmond Bakery. Curried Scallop Pies are the big drawcard and they get very busy. Other temptations include Chicken and Camembert Pies, must try Vanilla Slices and great coffee. Take a few extra pies and cakes with you. Another attraction nearby is Zoodoo Zoo.
bruny island - 2n
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Head to the Kettering Ferry Terminal for your passage over to Bruny Island. Book your tickets beforehand. Pick up some supplies for dinner on the way. Seafood BBQ sounds good, don't forget the beer. Head up to the Neck Lookout and see if you can see the Southern Lights.
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Stay anywhere on the island because you'll be doing a loop anyway. Why not have a splurge and stay at the Adventure Bay Retreat Bruny Island **** (Free Parking) - your own private Villa with sea views, outdoor spa bath, set in the bush with wallabies grazing outside your door.
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Today you're on the hunt to see all that Bruny Island has to offer and bring it home for dinner. Here's a map to help you on your way.
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hobart - 3n
- Off to the big smoke today. A few days in Hobart will have you wishing you could stay a lot longer. Lucky it just happens to be Saturday and the famous Salamanca Market is on from 8.30 am to 3.00 pm.
- Stay in or near the Alabama Hotel Hobart (Street Parking) - in Liverpool St
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Don't miss the MONA experience, described by its owner David Walsh, as a "subversive adult Disneyland". Visit the Cascade Brewery and make your own decision which is best. North or South? Have a seafood lunch at Constitution Dock where the yachts dock and the yachties gather after the famous Boxing Day Sydney - Hobart Yacht Race. Want to get up close and personal with some of Tassie's wildlife. Then a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is in order. There's is a lot to see here so plan your time wisely.
- Hobart is blessed with a number of outstanding bakeries all within walking distance of the hotel. Bakeries are delicious, filling and reasonably cheap. They make a good brunch to keep you going all day. Pigeon Whole Bakers (honey and spice Morning Buns and Almond Croissants are famous around the state) - Daci & Daci Bakers (Moroccan Sausage Rolls, Portuguese Custard Tarts and great breakfasts) - Lady Hester (Persian inspired doughnut heaven) - Jackman & McRoss (Colonial era bakery with duck, cranberry and walnut Sausage Rolls). While your down that way why not stroll the 2 km Battery Point Sculpture Trail.
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As dusk looms head up to Mount Wellington or to Hobart's first rooftop bar AURA. Just across the road is the Brunswick Hotel one of the best Gastro Pubs in Hobart, around the corner is "the Best Little Pub in Town" - the New Sydney Hotel and it's walking distance to "NoHo" the strip of cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars in Elizabeth St North Hobart. For some live music go to the Republic Bar & Café. You go on a pub tour, a pub crawl or do your own at your own pace.
derwent bridge - 1n
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A scenic drive will take you through some historic towns (New Norfolk (Bush Inn Hotel claims to be Australia's oldest using the same license) - Salmon Ponds (every rainbow trout in the Southern Hemisphere can trace its roots back to here - which is also home to some local platypuses) - Gretna - Bothwell (Whiskey and golf) - Miena (fishing) and the Wall in the Wilderness (bookings recommended) on the way to Derwent Bridge, the geographical centre of Tasmania. The extinct (or is it?) Tasmanian Tiger used to wander around these parts. Better get an early start there's a lot waiting for you.
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When you do arrive stay at the Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel (not on Booking.com) - or somewhere nearby
queenstown - 2n
- After seeing all of these pristine landscapes you're about to go to what was one of the most polluted places on earth which left it looking like a lunar landscape. At one time Queenstown was the wealthiest mining town on the planet. The countryside was denuded by a combination of felling trees to feed the copper smelters and the toxic fumes that came out of them. The stark contrast from thick forest to bare landscape as you drive in is quite astounding. There are a range of different mine tours you can do, above and below ground. Spend day one and three looking around town. There are walks and lookouts to take in the moonscape, a gravel football oval and the nearby Gormanston mining ghost town.
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Stay at the Empire Hotel *** (Free Parking) - or nearby
- On day two spend the day taking the West Coast Wilderness Railway which runs steam trains through the rainforest down 35km of historic track to Strahan on the east coast. The main thing to do here is to go on a Gordon River cruise.
cradle mountain - 2n
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Cradle Mountain is a bit of a mecca for bush walking and the jewel of Tasmania's Wilderness World Heritage area. you'll need about 4 hours to drive up here once you've finished with Queenstown. You really only have to get here today and go for a walk or two tomorrow. Or how about an After Dark Feeding tour of the Tasmanian Devils. And / or see them in the daylight tomorrow. Eat at Hellyers Restaurant in the village.
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Stay in or near the Cradle Highlander ***½ - (Free Parking).
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Time for some exercise as you walk through rainforest, alpine landscapes and pristine wilderness. There are a lot to pick from. Some of the most popular ones are the Dove Lake Circuit 6km 2 - 3 hours and The Enchanted Forest Walk 20 minutes with a good chance to see wombats and other wild life. There are various boardwalks and many trails.
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Leatherwood Honey is a special product unique to this region so pick up a jar or two when you see it. Very tasty and good for you too. Make yourself a hot toddy, honey and whiskey cocktail or a rough DIY copy of Drambuie with some of that whiskey you picked up earlier.
penguin - 2n
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Off to the last destination Penguin which is a great place to see penguins. Real ones and man made ones. En-route stop in at Sheffield for a coffee and have a look at their famous murals. After working up an appetite pull in at the Truffledore for a special lunch - book a table to avoid disappointment (they are closed in May and September).
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Stay at or near Sunrise at Penguin ***** - (Free Parking)
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Finish the trip off in friendly little Penguin staying in a house by the beach and relaxing before the end of the trip. See the penguins (September to March is nesting season), go to the Sunday Market (Tasmania's largest undercover market), it's a nice drive up the coast to see Burnie and have some fish and chips on the beach. Have your end of trip meal at the Seasons by the Sea Restaurant for one last taste of Tasmania's delicious produce. And say hello to the "Big Penguin"
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Stay as long as you like then make your way back to Devonport and the Spirit of Tasmania back to the mainland.
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Have a look through the Tassie Tours below -
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SA GREAT 24 N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - Flinders, murray, Fleurieu & Kangaroo island
Adelaide 2N
Moonta 1N
Blinman 1N
Morgan 1N
Houseboat 3N
Hahndorf 1N
Deep Creek 2N
Penneshaw 2N
Stokes Bay 3N
Adelaide 1N = 24N
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Best Cornish Pasties in little Cornwall
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AFL match at Adelaide Oval
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Stay in old Country Pubs
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Eat in old Country Bakeries
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Wilpena Pound
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Kangaroos on your front lawn
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Best beach in the world 2003
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Wander among Sea Lions
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Deep Creek Conservation Park
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Quandong pies - (wild peaches)
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Lake Eyre - World's largest salt lake
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Swim with the fishes (tuna and dolphins)
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Campfire under the Outback skies at night
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Beachfront lunch at iconic The Star of Greece
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The $15,000,000 D'Arenburg Cube - winery fun
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Kangaroo Island beaches - they're all good
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Long Winery lunches with Platters and Sea Views
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Cruise the Murray River on your own luxury Houseboat
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The stunning landscapes of the world class Flinders Ranges
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Delicious Honey ice cream from the world's last pure population of Ligurian bees
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Delicious Lavender ice cream, Whiting Pizza and Whiting Burgers
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Fresh SA seafood from pristine waters (Crayfish (lobster), King George Whiting, Spencer Gulf Prawns, Abalone, Oysters, Giant Kangaroo Island Scallops)
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See Koalas, Kangaroos, Bottle-nosed Dolphins, Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales, Little Penguins, Fur Seals, Pelicans, Bird Life, Wallabies, Goannas, Bandicoots, Echidnas and Brush-tailed Possums
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Stay in a Beach House with an ocean view and a secret beach
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Most international travellers who come to Australia want to see Sydney Harbour, Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef, which means they will all be crowded and expensive. Australia is a big place and has a lot more to offer. Most tourists bypass South Australia all together. This trip combines some of the best attractions it has to offer and you'll be glad you made the right decision. In the Flinders Ranges you're getting the "outback experience" in a truly world class destination. A houseboat on the Murray River is everyone's favourite way to escape for a few days. Kangaroo Island is a special and unique place. Also there's a few other surprises along the way. Come and see what everyone else is missing.
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Best time for the Flinders is in winter to avoid the armies of flies that spoil the experience in the warmer months. You could do this trip any time of the year but April to July would be best to avoid those flies. The weather is still mild and pleasant and in winter there will be fewer crowds around. If you are here in late May you may catch the Kernewek Lowender Copper Coast Cornish Festival, the world's largest Cornish Festival.
adelaide - 2N
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Fly into Adelaide and pick up a rental car🚗 at the airport. You will need it for the duration of the trip which is about 24 days and you might as well drop it back off at the airport when you fly out. You will need to fly in on a Wednesday and head off on the trip on Friday to match up with the houseboat later on.
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Stay at or near the Ramsgate Hotel *** - (Parking on the street) - at Henley Beach by Henley Square. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby to keep you entertained for the night. If you'd like to spend a few nights here first have a look at "Mad March" above for some ideas. If you're here between March and August (September might have finals on) there will be an AFL game on at iconic Adelaide Oval where you can also do a tour. The best game to catch is the local derby "The Showdown" between the Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide Power. This ground is famous with cricket lovers the world over.
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Your first job should be to buy an Esky / Cooler / Chilly Bin to keep your drinks cold on the road. Go somewhere cheap like a supermarket to stock up. A range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic choices is the way to go and they come in handy if you get picnic supplies or some meat for a BBQ. You could even take a tent or a swag and do some camping along the way. Don't forget to bring your license and an international one for the car and houseboat. You need to be 25 years old to hire the houseboat and 18 years to drive it.
moonta - 1n - 165k - 1¾H
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Driving distances in Australia can be quite long so today's 2 hour stint is just a warm up. Be careful of the average speed cameras that time how long it takes you to go between two points a long way apart (You'll see the signs). Stop at Port Wakefield for a break. There is a decent bakery on the corner of Edward St where you should turn left, stop and buy some goodies. Continue on down Edward St and you will find a little beach where you can park up, enjoy your food and feed the seagulls. There is a toilet nearby too. Golfers will want to go straight to the Greg Norman designed Copperclub. It is only nine holes but for a country course it's top notch and a the greens are super fast. Non- golfers can check in and then go exploring, "Little Cornwall". Moonta is a part of the Copper Triangle and when it was discovered here people in Cornwall were offered free passage to come over and help mine it. There are a range of historical walks and sights to see. Make your way to the Coffee Barn Gelataria when it turns Ice Cream O'clock.
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Stay at or nearby the "Corny" the Cornwall Hotel (Free Parking) - in Moonta or Moonta Bay.
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Pick up some meat / fish and some beers / wine and go down to the Moonta Bay BBQ area to watch the sunset and have dinner. Head back to the pub and meet a few of the locals. Do a pub crawl on the way. There are three pubs in this little town. Get some souvenir stubby coolers, they come in very handy.
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Adelaide City Flag
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The Flinders Ranges
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A four hour drive today so you'll need some sustenance. What better to start the day than one of the best Cornish Pasties this side of Cornwall. At the Cornish Kitchen and it's only 45 metres away from the Pub, in Ellen St. Get some extras for the road. Pull up at the Quandong Cafe in Quorn for some morning smoko. Quandongs are wild peaches and they make a pretty tangy pie filling. Don't worry there are plenty of walks coming up to account for all of these bakery visits. Have lunch at the Woolshed Restaurant just before you arrive at Wilpena Pound.
wilpena pound - 2n - 36oK - 4H
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The large crater like Wilpena Pound should be a major attraction but even most Australians have never heard of it. It is a beautiful area and there are some amazing walks. If you can afford it there are 4WD tours, helicopter tours, scenic plane tours and Aboriginal culture tours. Don't forget to look up at night time. You've probably forgotten how many stars there are up there.
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You can buy meat at the local store and use the BBQ facilities.
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Stay at or near the Wilpena Pound Resort ***½ - (Free Parking) - they have Glamping Tents available.
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Arkaroola - 2n - 215K - 3½H
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After a couple of enjoyable days here continue on to the equally wonderful Arkaroola. You could drive up and down on the same road and save an hour on the return trip. Or you could go via the Copley Bush Bakery and Quandong Café. You might be getting a taste for Quandong pies by now and there aren't that many places where you can get them. Just before you get to Copley is the town of Leigh Creek that had to be moved 13 km south to expand the coal mine back in 1982. You can visit the Aroona Dam and go to a viewpoint and have a look at the mine.
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Stay at or near the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary *** (Free Parking) - nothing else around except camping.
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Ridgetop tour, guided and self-drive 4WD tours, Astronomy tour (2 observatories), scenic flights including over Lake Eyre (the world's largest salt lake). In 1964 Donald Campbell and his car Bluebird broke the land speed record here reaching 403.1 mph. He was also the holder of the water speed record at the time. All available at the property as well as a restaurant, bar, shop and swimming pool.
blinman - 1n - 165K - 2¾H
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Take the direct route down to Blinman.
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Stay at or near the North Blinman Hotel Est 1869 "the Pub in the Scrub" - not on Booking.com. - beer garden that is shared with kangaroos on occasion.
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Check out the 100 year old pasty recipe at the Miners Crib Café Bakery & Accommodation
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Excellent mine tours that run for an hour between 10 am and 3 pm.
morgan - 1n - 425K - 4¾H
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Make your way to Morgan where you can stay at either the Commercial Hotel (Free Parking)
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Or the Terminus which is across the road. Both are pubs on the river and have balconies.
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Look around town and do your shopping for the houseboat at the IGA Supermarket on Eighth St. Boarding time is usually not that early as the previous people have to return the houseboat and it has to be cleaned.
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Do a pub crawl back and forth across Eighth St. 🤪
blanchetown / houseboat - 3n - 45k - ½H
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After breakfast head down to Blanchetown (34 minutes) and pick up your houseboat (Scallywag or Scamp) at Griffens Marina. 🗺️(Click on map)
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They will give you a lesson on what to do so pay attention. If you have friends in Adelaide you could get them to come along and share the costs and get a bigger boat. The less you travel the cheaper it will be for fuel. Driving can become tiresome after a while anyway so just find yourself a nice little sandbar beach on a bend in the river and park up for the day.
Hahndorf - 1n - 140k - 1¾H
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Back on dry land and you're off to the German Village of Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. Definitely stop at the Balhannah Bakery and pick up a few of the best Vanilla Slices going around. Hahndorf is a great spot for wandering along the main street checking out the many shops or sitting outside the pub (German Arms) with a beer watching the world go by. Have something German for dinner.
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Stay at or close to the Lodge by Manna *** (Free Parking) - anywhere near the main street will be fine
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deep creek - 2n - 100k - 1½H
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No hurry this morning. You're off to the unique d'Arenberg Cube for lunch. You'll need 2 - 3 hours here to look around, taste and eat. Pick up a few bottles for your house in the bush. After lunch make your way to Victor Harbour to do some shopping for the next couple of days. Get some gourmet picnic items while you're at it and some cocktail mixers.
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Have a look around this lovely seaside town if you have some time but make sure you've still got plenty of daylight to find and settle into Goondooloo Cottage which is 50 km from Victor. 🗺️(Click on map)
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Enjoy a wonderful sea view sunset from your sun room with a cocktail or two. You should see kangaroos relaxing in your back yard just to let you now where you are. Later on cook a nice meal and breathe in the serenity. Don't forget to have a look at the star filled night sky.
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There are a lot of interseting walks in Deep Creek Conservation Park and I suggest having a picnic down on Blowhole Beach during the 6km Aaron Creek Circuit Hike. Enjoy a couple of wonderfully isolated days in this magic place.
penneshaw - 2n - (15k - ¼H Ferry)
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Take the morning SeaLink ferry to Kangaroo Island and spend a couple of nights in one of KI's nicest towns, Penneshaw. Don't bring any honey or potatoes. Kangaroo Island is the third least populated island on earth after Greenland and the Falkland Islands. You will have the chance to see bottle-nosed dolphins, fairy penguins, sea lions, fur seals, kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, bandicoots, echidnas, brush-tailed possums and plenty of birdlife.
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Stay in or nearby the Kangaroo Island Seafront **** - walking distance to the pub is always good.
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Have a look at the eastern end of the island while you are here. Hit Millie Mae's Pantry for breakfast, enjoy cliff top sea views with whiting pizza for a long lunch at a Dudley's Wines, sunsets at the Beer Terrace at the Penneshaw Pub, go for an evening wander to see the "Little Penguins", check out the surf at Pennington Bay, visit Rob and his sheepdogs for some irreverent fun, eat fish and chips often and try the 6 course degustation at Sunset Food & Wine on a Friday and Saturday night - book early
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Stokes Bay is your next destination but there's a few things to see on the way. Get a reasonably early start so you get to the Bay of Shoals winery in time for lunch. First stop is Clifford's Honey Farm where you will find products made from the world's purest strain of Ligurian Honey, make sure you try some of Jenny's famous Honey Ice Cream - Emu Ridge is an interesting place to look around and learn the health benefits of Eucalyptus Essential Oil - Kangaroo Island Spirits (Opens at 10.30 am) - the birthplace of Australian Gin, they also do Vodka and their own take on some Italian liqueurs, you may want to come back for one of their "Feasts" or "the Enchanted Fig Tree dining experience", (stock up for sundowners while you're here) - cruise through Kingscote, the island's capital (pick up some meat or seafood for a BBQ later) on your way to lunch at Bay of Shoals Wines where they are justly proud of their seafood platters and stunning sea views.
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stokes bay - 3n ⬆️
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Save room for desert because the Lavender ice cream and oversize Lavender scones at the Emu Bay Lavender Farm are famous, they also have a fully licensed café if you decide to come back for a beach day.
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Continue on to your home for the next 3 nights (Minimum stay) the Stokes Bay Beach House - not on Booking.com - there is a gas BBQ, microwave and nearby fully licensed The Rockpool Café. Occasionally they are open Friday nights and there is a pub 10 km away in Parndana (which also has the closest supermarket).
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Head through the secret tunnel to explore the hidden beach, enjoy a bit of deck time, coffee and cake at the café. Head back to Emu Bay where you can drive on the beach and set yourself up for some comfortable beach time and a swim with the local dolphins.
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Spend one day seeing the sights to the south. Start with the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park to get up close and personal with a few Aussie icons and if you really like them you can adopt them - more of the local fauna at Raptor Domain, get there for the amazing 11.30 am Free Flight Birds of Prey Presentation - after the devastating bush fires a few years ago these animals need all the help they can get - the next stop really is an experience to remember as you wander among the colony of sea lions at Kangaroo Island's number one attraction, Seal Bay.
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Must be getting close to lunch time by now. Stop by at the Vivonne Bay General Store and Bottle shop and get one of their island wide famous Whiting Burgers. Vivonne Bay is one of the world's most beautiful beaches, just be careful of the undertow if the surf is up. You can burn lunch off with some sand dune surfing, an off road tour or fat tyred bicycle. You would have noticed Little Sahara on the way past. On the way back pop into the café at Two Wheeler Creek Wines for a tasting or a coffee.
flinders chase - 1n ⬇️
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Time to see the western end of the island. Head off towards Flinders Chase and have a walk around the Platypus Waterholes to see if you can spot one of these rare and elusive egg laying mammals - continue on to Admirals Arch, one of the Island's most famous landmarks, keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals - nearby are the over 500 million year old Remarkable Rocks that have been shaped by the elements.
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When you're ready make your way to the Western KI Caravan Park ****.
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In the evening go for a 90 minute walk through the Hanson Bay Sanctuary where you will see koalas which are more active at night. The tours start at sunset. There are plenty of trails and walks to keep you busy, check them out at the visitor centre. One worthwhile trail that takes you to the beach and can be done in a couple of hours is the Snake Lagoon Hike.
american river - 1n - 135k - 1½H
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Drive back to Kingscote and have lunch at the stunningly situated Aurora Ozone Hotel.
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After lunch it's off to American River and a fancy hotel with 2 swimming pools. Stay at or nearby the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge ****. It has nature trails, pelican feeding and an award winning restaurant featuring local produce. If you have the time stay an extra couple of nights to relax and reflect at the end of your trip.
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It's only a 20 minute walk down to the Oyster Farm Shop where you can try all sorts of wonderful things. You might have to make a couple of trips here.
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If you're here on a Thursday night and you like Thai food make your way out to KI Tru Thai based in a big farm shed about 10 minutes drive from the hotel. It's good fun and they have live music. And good value cocktails.
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Catch the morning ferry back over to Cape Jervis and enjoy a scenic drive up the coast to Port Willunga for a beachside lunch at one of South Australia's most famous restaurants. The Star of Greece relates to the name of a ship that was wrecked here during a storm in 1888 and not the type of cuisine, which is seafood (definitely book ahead). 5 minutes up the road is the equally famous and beautiful Maslin Beach. It is the perfect spot if you want to end your trip feeling relaxed, free in spirit and unhindered by clothing. Enjoy your last night in Adelaide.
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GREAT SOUTH WEST EDGE LOOP 24 N
Road Trip
HIGHLIGHTS - gold, history, surf & trees
Fremantle 3N
Kalgoorlie 3N
Esperance 3N
Quaalup Homestead Wilderness Retreat 2N
Bremer Bay 1N
Albany 4N
Pemberton 2N
Perth 2N = 24N
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Whale watching - Orca, Southern Right, Humpback, Long-finned Pilot whales, Sperm whales and dolphins as well as Australian Sea Lions and New Zealand Fur seals are commonly seen
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Surfing, scuba diving, swimming, sunbathing and fishing on gorgeous beaches
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Selfie with a Quokka - the happiest animal on the Internet
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Kalgoorlie Goldfields Super Pit explosions
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Tour Australia's oldest working brothel
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UNESCO Listed Fremantle Prison
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Watch an AFL game live
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Great Surf Beaches
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Pan for Gold
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Green Pool
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Skylab
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Pinkish Lake
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Stonehenge
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Great Ocean Drive
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Wilderness Retreat
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Australia's best beach
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Albany's Field of Light
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High speed land sailing
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The best Fish and Chips in WA
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The Tallest climbing tree in the World
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Sunbathe with Kangaroos on the beach
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The birthplace of the ANZAC Dawn Service
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Australia's most beautiful stretch of road
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Tree top walk through the Valley of the Giants
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Lonely Planet's best place in Asia-Pacific
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Indijup Natural Spa - be careful
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Swim with Dolphins
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The Biggest Gold Coin in the World
fremantle - 3n
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Fly into Perth the world's most isolated city and stay in historical Fremantle. Thanks to the America's Cup victory back in 1983 "Freo" received a lot of investment capital and the result is a lively restaurant, bar and music scene.
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Stay at or near Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges ****½ - with a swimming pool and 4 restaurants. This is not a cheap town for hotels.
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There's plenty to see and do in this old port town. Visit Fremantle Prison and do a Ghost Tour if that's what you like - go shopping at the Fremantle Markets - if you are here between April and August you might be able to catch an AFL match. Both Perth and Fremantle have teams so there is a game on every weekend during the season, which is April to August. It may work out that you can go at the end of the trip when you are in Perth. A day trip over to Rottnest Island has always been very popular as are the Quokkas you'll meet there - the happiest animals on the internet.
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Get your coffees at the Cappuccino Strip, go to the rooftop bar at the National Hotel for sundowners and when it's dinner time head down to Fishing Boat Harbour and pick out a nice seafood restaurant with a great view. Then hit the town on your own self-guided, no research pub crawl.
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You could also do this trip as an extension of the #139 Nullarbor Links golf trip. Start from Adelaide and finish up in Kalgoorlie, then do this trip skipping the first leg from Fremantle. You may just want to have a round on this highly rated course anyway.
kalgoorlie - 3n
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Pick up a car🚗 and a drinks cooler - known as an Esky in Australia and head out on the Public Silo Trail to Kalgoorlie. Get the car for about 20 nights and you can drop it off when you get back to Perth or hang on to it and drive yourself out to the airport. Affectionately known as "Kal", back in its hey day there were 79 pubs here and in sister city Boulder. Gold was the big attraction and along with the Super Pit there are numerous museums and gold related experiences (like panning for it) to keep you busy. Check with the Kalgoorlie Visitors Information Centre for daily blasting times. Click here for a scenic flight over the Super Pit.
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Stay in or near the historical Palace Hotel Kalgoorlie *** (Free Parking) - once considered the most luxurious WA hotel outside of Perth. Pub Corner where it is located, also has the Exchange Hotel.
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Other buildings worth checking out are the Questa Casa (one of the world's oldest working brothels) and the Broad Arrow Tavern a quintessential Aussie Outback Pub. Kalgoorlie was famous for its Skimpies and Himpies (Bartenders in bikinis, lingerie or skimpily dressed) but there seems to be an ongoing battle and it remains to be seen if they will survive the interruptions of Covid 19.
esperance - 3n
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Due south today to the picturesque coastal town of Esperance. Pick up something from the butchers for a BBQ lunch on the way. The first stop is at Kambalda and Lake Lefroy for some sailing. Lake Lefroy is a salt lake and you'll be sailing on Land Yachts which can go quite quickly on a good day. Fortunately you don't need much experience to have fun. When you've worked up an appetite there are coin operated BBQs in the local Lion's Park.
Kangaroo Beach
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Pristine Beaches
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Spend 3 nights at or near the Hospitality Esperance *** (Free Parking) - with a pool, bar and restaurant next door to the pub, which has a nightclub.
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Local sights here include Pink Lake (once a vibrant pink, now not so pink but it could change back at any time) - Cape Le Grand National Park, where you'll see kangaroos on the beach at Lucky Bay - Stonehenge - Esperance Museum where you can see Skylab as well as a market every second Sunday. This area has some of the best beaches you'll ever see. There are several surf breaks around if you want to grab a board. You will be able to see everything with a lap of the Great Ocean Drive and a trip to Cape Le Grand. Lucky Bay Brewing run tours if you're interested.
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June to October is Whale watching season.
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fitzgerald river / retreat - 2n
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Pick up some groceries on your way out of town or book your meals 3 weeks ahead for your next stay. Keep an eye out for Southern Right whales along the way (they often come very close to the shore), pods of dolphins and the occasional humpback whale. There are wildflowers around here all year long as well. Check out Ravensthorpe if you are still on the Silo trail.
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After around 5 hours you will arrive at the Quaalup Homestead Wilderness Retreat - not on Booking.com. Spend a couple of days here enjoying nature, walks and getting away from it all. It's a great spot for whale watching between July and October.
bremer bay - 1n
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You should be quite relaxed by now so a short stay at beachside Bremer Bay should be just the trick. It's just up the road so no need to hurry. Esperance and Bremer Bay are said to be the Jewels of the Western Australian Crown. Dinner (breakfast and lunch if you like) with an unforgettable view (great for sunset) at Mount Barren Restaurant will be one of the highlights in your short stay -
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Here at or near the The Bremer Bay Resort *** (Free Parking) - with an ATM, Bar and great restaurant.
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Bremer Bay is a premier spot for surfing, fishing, swimming (be careful of undertows) and whale watching. January to March you will see Orcas and Pilot Whales and July to October is for Southern Right Whales.
albany - 4n
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Next stop is the historically important township of Albany, which was actually settled before Perth and has a bigger harbour than Sydney. Its' main street (York) looks straight down to the waters of Shoal Bay and Princess Royal Harbour. The Great Southern Ocean can get pretty wild around here. It's hard to believe they were still whaling here as recently as 1978. Find out all about it at Whaleworld.
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Stay at or near Albany Foreshore Guest House (Free Parking) - an 1888 Heritage listed building in a central location near the wharf, sightseeing and restaurants.
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So much to see and do here, where to start? Spectacular walks - Beautiful beaches - Albany's Historic Whaling Station - Comedy Clubs - great food and booze (Beer / Whisky and Wineries) - River Cruises on the Kalgan Queen - the natural attractions at Torndirrup National Park - a round of golf at the superb Albany Golf Club Craig Parry's favourite Australian golf course - ANZAC history (the town was the last port of call for troops in WWI), Castle Rock and the Granite Skywalk and a whole lot more.
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Emu Point Café is where you'll find the best coffee and breakfast - When lunchtime beckons head to Ocean and Paddock for WA's best Fish and Chips - Due South overlooking the harbour is the place to be for sundowners - in the evening crawl around to some of the historical hotels like the White Star (Live music), the Earl of Spencer (Live music Saturday nights), Liberte at the London Hotel (Live music and drink deals Friday nights and great food) and the Albany Hotel (One of the oldest). Here are a few of Albany's best restaurants.
pemberton - 2n
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Time to leave the coast for a while and take the very scenic drive through the forest and do the treetop walk through the Valley of the Giants. When you arrive in Denmark turn right on Strickland St then immediately left onto Mount Shadforth Rd. Follow the Mount Shadforth Scenic Drive through the surrounding farmland with spectacular mountain and coastal views as well as the towering trees. Along the way you will find some excellent wineries and arts and craft galleries displaying the works of local craftspeople and artists.
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Turn left at Mohr Dr to see the lookout then continue back along the Mt Shadforth Rd until you hit McLeod Dr where you'll turn left where you will make your way to the Denmark Chocolate Factory. They are licensed and do chocolate pairings with alcohol and are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Have a dip in Greens Pool after to refresh you for the drive ahead.
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It's probably around lunch time by now. You could try the Sly Fox Diner (1950's USA style) en-route to the Valley of the Giants or anything else that takes your fancy. The Valley of the Giants features a 40 metre high canopy walk and the sealed Ancient Empire walk through 400 year old trees. The last ticket is sold at 4.15 pm. Keep an eye out for roadside stalls selling fresh produce as you drive around the Pemberton area.
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A couple of nights in Pemberton in the heart of karri tree country. Stay at or anywhere around town - Forest Lodge Resort ***½ (Free Parking) - it has a lake and a colony of wild kangaroos - meals on weekends need to be booked, or you can BBQ or eat in town.
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Or there is the cheaper Pemberton Hotel *** (Free Parking) in town.
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If you're brave or foolhardy enough you can climb the world's tallest fire lookout tree - the famous Gloucester Tree to a lookout 53 metres high. If that's not enough there is the Dave Evans Bicentennial Tree which at 65 metres is the world's tallest climbing tree.
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More relaxing and down to earth activities include a Tram ride through the forest (Except Sunday) - a round at the picturesque Pemberton Golf Club - picnic at Big Brook Dam - walk among giants on the Warren River Loop Trail - cruise to the coast on the Donelly River - or do the Karri Forest Explorer Drive.
margaret river - 4n
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In 2019 Lonely Planet named Margaret River the best destination to visit in the Asia-Pacific Region. Quite an accolade. You'll be here for 4 nights making sure you experience everything you feel like doing, seeing, eating, drinking etc. It is both a town and a region with 6 towns of unique personalities to discover and many quaint villages along the way. Plus it faces west which is handy for sunsets.
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Stay in the centre of everything so you can stroll out in the morning for coffee and stagger home after an evening out. Margaret's In Town Apartments ****½ (Free Parking) are well located, or anything else you prefer.
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The Higgins Lane Motel *** is in an equally good location and will save you a lot of money.
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There really are a ton of things to see and do here so spend your time wisely. Don't forget relax. The area is famous for it's wine, surf and food. One of the new attractions Wow Illusions will excite your senses - A Maze'n might confuse them - Horse lovers should go to the Horse Resort - Raptor lovers should go to Eagles Heritage - and Didgeridoo lovers should do the twilight cultural cave tour - check out the surf and the sunsets on these amazing beaches - have a look at some of these little known attractions - do some wine tasting and enjoy a nice long winery lunch - visit local markets and DIY food trail -
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Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.
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Don't miss the Injidup Natural Spa while you are up there. Just be careful of the ocean conditions because it can be deadly.
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A couple of eating suggestions are - Doust's Corner and Bunkers Beach House. Have a look at this list of places for your evening's eating and drinking.
perth - 2n
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It's a 3 hour drive up to Perth. You could stop off and swim with some dolphins at Rockingham along the way. Also here is Penguin Island which is worth a trip on the ferry which runs every hour.
Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.
Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.
Photo Julien Chevalley on Unsplash
The Sun sets in the West
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Spend a couple of nights in Northbridge at the centre of night time action. Stay at or near the Doubletree By Hilton Perth Northbridge **** (Parking is in the street and costs AUD$24 per day so you might want to check in and then go and drop the car off.
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Take a stroll to the nearby Perth Mint and see the biggest gold coin in the world and check out the food, art and bars in Northbridge - your neighbourhood. The airport is only 20 minutes away.
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