New South Wales Wineries & Countryside with Dubbo Zoo Overnight Stay

Day 1

SYDNEY–HUNTER VALLEY Your New South Wales Adventure Awaits! The tour departs at 10am from the Sydney Harbour Marriott. Please schedule flights to arrive by 7am. Pre-nights in Sydney are available for purchase. Depart Sydney and travel to the Hunter Valley. Enjoy a welcome lunch with wine pairing followed by a delicious tasting of local chocolates. This evening is at leisure. Why not check-out one of the world-class restaurants of the region? (L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WINNING WINES With over 150 cellar doors, the Hunter Valley is the birthplace of Australian wines and is also known for its innovative restaurants, gourmet delights, and natural wonders. Located at the gateway to the Hunter, the family-owned Peterson House, is home to the largest array of sparkling wines in the region. Sample the latest sparkling wines, learn how the signature flavors are created and enjoy a seasonal lunch served at the winery’s award-wining restaurant. You’ll soon understand the winery’s motto of “Life’s flat without bubbles.”

Day 2

HUNTER VALLEY Valleys & Vineyards Today is a full day at leisure. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Your centrally located resort offers you prime access to the Hunter Valley Gardens, several cellar doors, restaurants, cafes and shops. You may wish to take a full or half day tour to some of the region’s best vineyards. Your Tour Director is on hand to make sure you make the most of your stay!

Day 3

HUNTER VALLEY–SCONE–MUDGEE Horsing Around Travel past scenic countryside and rolling hills through the "Horse Capital of Australia" to Scone. Enjoy a heritage walk around the town and learn about the historic post office, hotels, school and courthouse followed by free time to explore on your own. Tonight, dinner is served at a local restaurant featuring regional wine. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LOCAL TASTES Travel into the fertile Cudgegong River Valley known for its moderate year-round climate and the perfect location for growing fruits. The region is known for Shiraz, Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Semillon. We’ll visit 10’s Estate for a tasting of their wines and to learn about their organic farming, hand-pruned vines, and use of sustainable practices such as compost mulch and drip irrigation.

Day 4

MUDGEEE–DUBBO Farmers & Flying Doctors Spend the morning at the [LF] Mudgee Fine Foods Farmers' Market. Continue to Dubbo where you’ll learn about life and medical services in the Outback at the Royal Flying Doctor Service. This evening, [LF] spend the night at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo. (B,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT “Wake up in the Wild” at the Dubbo Taranga Western Plains Zoo. Your Lodge is positioned right beside a stunning savannah, home to giraffes, rhinos, zebra, and antelope. Your overnight here includes entrance to the zoo, afternoon and morning safari, accommodation in an Animal View Lodge, dinner, and breakfast. Your zoo lodge includes private ensuite, air-conditioning, coffee/tea making facilities, mini-bar, and a shaded veranda with outdoor furniture. It is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL LIFE The Mudgee region is home to rich soils and distinct seasons that support the growth of quality farmed and artisan foods. You’ll have time to explore the Farmers’ Market and have the chance to chat with the local food producers. Grab a coffee and a local treat, browse the large range of stalls, and perhaps listen to local musicians. This authentic market is where farmers, artisan producers and food lovers come together.

Day 5

DUBBO–PARKES–ORANGE Orchards & Outer Space This morning, enjoy coffee as you watch the scenery come to life around you at the zoo. Then, enjoy an early morning safari. Join the rest of your group and continue to Parkes and visit the CSIRO Parkes Radio Telescope Visitor's Centre. Later, visit the Henry Parkes Museum, which pays tribute to Parke's past with classic cars, antiques, a moat cottage, and even Elvis Presley memorabilia. Travel through the rolling hills of the Orange region, home to acclaimed vineyards, lush orchards, boutique shopping and excellent restaurants. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Explore the Parkes CSIRO Radio Telescope, famous for its part in the 1969 Apollo 11 Moon landing and the subject of the Australian film, The Dish. Astronomers use the telescope to measure the radio energy produced naturally by objects in the universe such as stars and galaxies. Occasionally the telescope also assists space exploration missions by acting as a receiving station. During your time here, enjoy the exhibits, take in a show at the Centre's 3D theatre, and learn about the partnership with NASA.

Day 6

ORANGE Pastoral Treasures This morning is at leisure to explore more on your own. Later, [LF] a local guide gives you a taste of the region's agricultural side. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore on your own. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining. (B)

LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURE & TRADITIONS The Orange area is known for its delicious local produce, cool climate wineries, walking trails and mountain biking. On today’s tour, visit an agricultural research station to learn about their important work that supports livestock, crops, and the local environment. You’ll also visit a working cattle and sheep station and have time to see the animals, machinery, and experience life on the farm. Finish with a visit to a local cider brewery. Learn how cider is made using traditional methods and the locally grown apples and pears. Then, sit down for a sampling of ciders and platters of locally produced foods.

Day 7

ORANGE–BATHURST–BLUE MOUNTAINS–SYDNEY Celebration In Sydney Make a stop in Bathurst at the Mt Panorama Lookout for amazing views. Continue into the Blue Mountains and enjoy morning tea at Bygone Beauty’s Teapot Museum and Tearoom followed by a short walk to see the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. Tonight, join your Tour Director and travel companions for a festive farewell dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LANDMARKS Cruise beautiful Sydney Harbour and experience amazing views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, and Luna Park. Make sure to have your camera ready for some great photo opportunities. While you cruise, enjoy a 3-course chef designed menu featuring seasonal and regionally sourced ingredients, served alongside wines from some of New South Wales' most prestigious wine regions. The perfect ending to your holiday!

Day 8

SYDNEY Until We Meet Again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. (B)