Sydney to Melbourne: A 8-Day Cultural and Natural Journey
Embark on a 8-day odyssey from Sydney to Melbourne, immersing yourself in Australia’s stunning landscapes and rich indigenous culture. This adventure offers an intimate connection with nature and a deep immersion into the country’s ancestral heritage, promising both enlightenment and excitement.
Starting in Sydney, journey through the Royal National Park and witness Kiama blowhole before settling into the eco-luxury of Paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay. Here, fine dining meets the great outdoors, setting the stage for your adventure.
Experience a Welcome to Country ceremony, a bush tucker walk with indigenous guides, and visits to sacred sites, each unfolding the stories of this ancient land. From the kangaroo-dotted Pebbly Beach to Narooma’s Indigenous River Boat Cruise and Bermagui’s natural splendour, every step is a chapter in Australia’s narrative.
At Tanja Lagoon Camp, paddle through lagoons at dawn and explore Mimosa Rocks National Park, embracing the quiet wisdom of the landscape. The journey peaks with a Guided Aboriginal Cultural Kayak Tour on the Pambula River, offering a hands-on connection to the land.
See the iconic wildlife of Phillip Island including Seals, Koalas and Little Penguins. As the journey concludes in Melbourne, this tour transforms from an exploration to an awakening, inviting you to carry forward the stories and connections made.
Join us to explore, learn, and awaken to the spirit of Australia, where every day reveals deeper insights into the land and its people. This is not just an adventure; it’s an invitation to a deeper understanding.
Price per person: $5,695 based on twin or double occupancy for two adults.
Single supplement: An additional 50% of the overall tour cost.
Group size: Minimum 6 guests, maximum 10 guests.
Self-Drive options: Quotes available upon request. Please note, certain activities listed are exclusive to small groups of 6+ guests and may not be accessible to groups smaller than 6.
Surcharge applies during NSW/VIC school holiday periods.
Essential Information
We offer customizable programs tailored to your preferences, encompassing various accommodations and nature-based activities on the Sapphire Coast. For a bespoke quote, please submit your inquiry.
A non-refundable deposit of 10% per person is required for booking confirmation. The full payment is due 42 days before departure.
Cancellation policy:
In the event of tour cancellation by us, choose between a 100% credit or a full refund. This excludes cancellations due to Force Majeure Events as outlined in our terms.
Prices are valid from April 1st, 2024, to April 1st, 2026. Please note additional costs apply during NSW/ACT school holidays.
Our tour begins with our guide picking you up from your hotel in Sydney (between 8 and 9 am) before embarking on the journey south.
Our first stop is the renowned Royal National Park, Australia’s oldest national park, and a treasure trove of biodiversity. Just a 45 min drive south of the city and you’ll feel like you are in the wilderness. Here we’ll enjoy a morning tea and a short walk before continuing the drive south, stopping at the famous Bald Hill Lookout. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Illawarra Escarpment, and the vast coastal landscape.
Next, we’ll continue our journey along the picturesque coastline to Kiama, famous for its awe-inspiring blowhole. Witness the raw power of nature as water surges through the rocks, creating a mesmerising spectacle. After the Kiama adventure, we’ll head to Berry for a well-deserved rest and picnic lunch. This charming country town offers a delightful array of boutiques, and galleries. Stroll through its quaint streets and savour local treats.
As we arrive at our final destination, Jervis Bay, we’ll check into the extraordinary PaperBark Camp. Nestled amidst the pristine bushland, Paper Bark Camp offers a truly immersive eco-luxury experience. Each tent is elegantly designed, blending seamlessly with the environment, allowing you to connect with nature without compromising on comfort.
Tonight, our culinary journey takes us to the heart of the PaperBark Camp, where we’ll dine at their tree-top restaurant. Enjoy a hearty meal crafted from the freshest local produce, served against the backdrop of a stunning natural setting. The delectable cuisine and the gentle symphony of nature will undoubtedly create a truly magical evening.
After an exhilarating day of exploration, it’s time to rest and recharge in the comfort of your luxurious tent at PaperBark Camp. Drift off to sleep with the soothing sounds of the Australian bush, knowing that tomorrow holds even more unforgettable experiences.
Day 2 starts with a refreshing breakfast at Paperbark Camp, where the tranquility of Jervis Bay’s bushland enhances the taste of local produce. Today, we immerse ourselves entirely in the captivating beauty of Jervis Bay, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches.
Our morning begins with an indigenous Welcome to Country ceremony, honoring the traditional custodians of this beautiful land. Following this profound introduction, we embark on a bush tucker walk with knowledgeable indigenous guides. They’ll share insights into the local flora, its uses in daily life, and its significance within Aboriginal culture. This journey through nature is not just a learning experience but a walk through the living history and spirituality of the area.
Visiting sacred sites, we’ll hear the stories and legends that breathe life into the landscape, enriching our understanding of Australia’s ancient heritage.
Afternoon activities are dedicated to exploring the idyllic beaches of Jervis Bay, where the serene waters invite relaxation or perhaps a dip in the ocean. We return to Paperbark Camp as the evening falls, ready to enjoy another exquisite meal in the canopy restaurant. Celebrating the day’s discoveries and our deeper connection to this special place, we dine amidst the natural chorus of the bushland.
The day ends as we retreat to the comfort of our luxurious tents, the experiences of Jervis Bay leaving us enriched and in anticipation of what’s to come.
Day 3 unfolds with a hearty breakfast at Paperbark Camp, fueling us for the day’s adventure. We bid farewell to Jervis Bay, eager for the day ahead in the scenic surrounds of the Sapphire Coast.
Our journey leads us to Pebbly Beach, renowned for its sun-basking kangaroos against the backdrop of golden sands and crystal-clear waters—a perfect photo opportunity and a unique Australian experience.
Next, we’re off to Narooma for an immersive Indigenous River Boat Cruise. Under the guidance of local Yuin People, we explore the area’s rich Aboriginal heritage through stories and connections to the land and sea, offering a profound cultural insight.
The afternoon takes us to Bermagui and into the heart of Mimosa Rocks National Park. Here, we wander through ancient spotted gum forests and explore secluded beaches, allowing us to connect deeply with the untouched beauty of the region.
Our day concludes at Tanja Lagoon Camp, nestled within the Mimosa Rocks National Park. Check into your luxury safari tent or eco-cabin, each boasting a private deck, ensuite bathroom, and full kitchen, promising a tranquil retreat. Dinner is served in the communal area, capped off with an evening spent sharing stories around the fire pit, under a blanket of stars.
Rise early for a tranquil canoeing and bird-watching session in Middle Lagoon, a mere 5-minute walk from your tent. Experience the serene beauty of the lagoon at sunrise, enhancing your chances to observe a variety of birds in their natural habitat. This peaceful morning on the water also includes a short walk to immerse you fully in the environment.
Return for a continental breakfast, savouring local flavours and fueling up for the day’s adventure. Post-breakfast, we offer an optional challenging 6 km coastal walk in the Mimosa Rocks National Park, from Bithry Inlet back to Tanja Lagoon Camp. This trek offers opportunities to spot birds, reptiles, kangaroos, and wallabies, with the added bonus of whale and dolphin sightings offshore.
Enjoy a picnic lunch back at Tanja Lagoon Camp, followed by an afternoon at leisure. You’re free to explore the numerous walking trails on-site, paddle out again in a canoe, or simply relax and soak in the camp’s serene setting. Opt for more bird watching if you wish.
The day concludes with a hearty shared meal at Tanja Lagoon Camp, setting the stage for an early start the following day.
Day 5 begins with an early start, departing from the serene Tanja Lagoon Camp to explore the waters of the Pambula River. Embark on a Guided Aboriginal Cultural Kayak Tour, a truly immersive experience led by local Aboriginal guides. As you paddle, absorb the stories and significance of the land and waterways from a rich cultural perspective. The journey on the river not only offers insights into the traditional uses of the surrounding flora and fauna but also highlights the importance of the river to the local Aboriginal community.
Our adventure on the water culminates at Broadwater Oysters, where we delve into the intricacies of oyster farming. Here, you’ll have the chance to shuck your own oysters, learning the art from experts, and enjoy the fresh taste right from the source. After indulging in this unique experience, we gather for lunch, savouring local flavours and discussing the morning’s discoveries.
Post-lunch, our journey continues towards Lakes Entrance, with several picturesque stops en route. This charming coastal town will be our resting place for the night, offering a moment to reflect on the day’s rich experiences and anticipate the adventures still to come.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast before setting off to Raymond Island, a sanctuary for Australia’s cherished koalas. Embark on a captivating Koala Walk and Survey. As you meander through fragrant eucalyptus forests, keep an eye out for these charming marsupials in their natural surroundings. This unique opportunity not only allows you to witness koalas up close but also contributes to crucial conservation research by helping monitor their population numbers.
Following our exploration of Raymond Island, we delve into the richness of Indigenous culture with a visit to a renowned Aboriginal Art Gallery. Engage with the profound stories and wisdom embedded in Indigenous art, understanding the deep connections between the artists and their ancestral lands.
Our journey continues as we make our way to Phillip Island, setting the stage for our next adventure. This wildlife haven will be our home for the next two nights, promising encounters with nature’s wonders and more unforgettable experiences.
Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast, setting you up for an extraordinary wildlife experience. Embark on a captivating seal watching cruise to one of Australia’s most significant fur seal colonies. As you drift close to these playful creatures, immerse yourself in the marvel of observing them interact in their natural habitat. The journey is not only an opportunity to get up close with an average of 5000+ seals but also a chance to spot various seabirds and dolphins. Accompanied by educational commentary, you’ll also appreciate Phillip Island’s western shoreline’s historical sights—all from the comfort of warm undercover viewing.
As dusk falls, prepare for the ULTIMATE ADVENTURE TOUR on Phillip Island, home to the world’s largest Little Penguin colony. This Eco Tour takes you to a secluded beach away from the usual Penguin Parade, offering an intimate encounter with nature. You’ll need reasonable fitness for this adventure, including walking on soft sand and navigating stairs and uneven surfaces up to 1.5 km each way. Witness the enchanting sight of Little Penguins as they return from the sea to their burrows, an unforgettable experience blending nature and adventure.
Enjoy a day filled with nature’s wonders, from the playful antics of fur seals to the charming march of Little Penguins, culminating in a day of unforgettable memories.
Enjoy a final breakfast on Phillip Island and seize the morning for personal exploration. Whether it’s a walk on the Nobbies boardwalk, a visit to the Koala Conservation Reserve, or simply enjoying the beach, take this time to soak up the island’s natural beauty and tranquillity.
We depart for Melbourne in the early afternoon. The drive is a chance to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes, moving from island serenity to urban vibrancy. We plan to arrive in Melbourne mid afternoon, giving you time to check into your accommodation and perhaps start exploring the cultural capital of Australia.
Upon arrival, we’ll help you get settled with suggestions for experiencing Melbourne’s best – from its famed coffee shops and cultural spots to its lively markets and laneways.
Day 8 is your transition from the peaceful pace of Phillip Island to the energetic atmosphere of Melbourne, setting the stage for your next adventure in this vibrant city.
