SYDNEY - CANBERRA

Pick up a hire car in Sydney.

Head southwest on the Hume Highway (M31) towards Canberra. On the way, stop by Lake George's lookout to view this often dry, enigmatic lake.

Welcome to Canberra, Australia's capital, and home to many of our best Cultural Attractions! Start at Parliament House, where you can take a tour or explore on your own. Nearby, visit the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House.

Next, explore the National Gallery of Australia by Lake Burley Griffin, home to the world's largest Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art collection. While there, consider hiring a bike or electric scooter for a scenic loop around the lake.

Don't miss the Australian War Memorial, especially the Hall of Memory and the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.

Sydney - Canberra

For panoramic city views, head to Mount Ainslie Lookout, a great spot for sunset.

Canberra offers excellent dining options in Braddon, Kingston, Dixon, and the City Centre, catering to all tastes and budgets.

Approx. drive time: 3hrs

Approx. distance: 286km

CANBERRA - RUTHERGLEN

Continue your journey along the Hume Highway towards Rutherglen, where adventure and history await. Make a stop at the iconic Dog on the Tuckerbox near Gundagai, a beloved monument of Australia's pioneering spirit. Then, dive into history at the Holbrook Submarine Museum, where you can marvel at the HMAS Otway, a real-life submarine in the heart of the countryside.

When you arrive in Rutherglen, you're stepping into a wine lover's paradise. This historic wine-growing region, revitalised by bold young winemakers, offers stunning gold rush-era streetscapes, lush vineyards, and outdoor activities in the nearby lakes and rivers.

Start your wine journey at Stanton & Killeen Winery (S&K), one of Rutherglen's oldest and most esteemed wineries. S&K has helped shape Rutherglen into a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Discover the rich world of Rutherglen Muscat in their immersive 90-minute Mystery of Muscat experience. Guided through the four classifications - Rutherglen, Classic, Grand and Rare - you’ll explore their history, ageing and unique character. Each wine is expertly paired with handcrafted local chocolates, creating a memorable tasting that celebrates one of Australia’s most iconic and internationally acclaimed wine styles.

Rutherglen is where history, nature, and wine come together for an unforgettable experience!

Canberra - Rutherglen

Overnight: Stay in Rutherglen, we recommend The Victoria.

Approx. drive time: 4hrs + stopping and exploring time

Approx. distance: 370km

RUTHERGLEN - KING VALLEY

Rise early, lace up your sneakers, and explore the charming town of Rutherglen on foot. Choose between the 1.2km Lake King Walk for a serene lakeside stroll or the 4-6km Arts Sculpture Trail, where you’ll be captivated by beautiful sculptures dotting the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail.

After working up an appetite, take a scenic 40-minute drive to Brown Brothers in Milawa. As one of Australia’s pioneering wine families with nearly 130 years of winemaking tradition, they invite you to experience their luxurious Prosecco Brunch. Relax in your private lounge and sip on a delightful range of their effervescent Proseccos, perfectly paired with a gourmet spread of pastries, artisanal cheeses, and fresh seasonal fruits. This indulgent brunch showcases Milawa’s rich culinary heritage.

Next, journey 35 minutes to the stunning King Valley and visit Pizzini Wines. Nestled amidst breathtaking alpine scenery, this family-owned winery specialises in Italian varietals like Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Prosecco, Sangiovese, and Nebbiolo. The cellar door, housed in original tobacco drying kilns, exudes a warm, Italian ambience.

Enjoy a tutored tasting session at their Cellar Door, where you’ll sample both current and back vintage wines. Discover how the unique site and winemaking techniques create exceptional Italian varietals. Pair your tasting with an Italian-style grazing platter and savour a glass of wine in the picturesque Cellar Door grounds.

Conclude your day by checking into the Pizzini-owned Mountain View Hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of the winery. Unwind or explore local attractions like Powers Lookout or Paradise Falls.

Finish your day with a delightful four-course dinner at The Mountain View Hotel, featuring wines crafted by Joel Pizzini. It’s the perfect end to a day of exploration and indulgence in the heart of wine country.

Overnight: The Mountain View Hotel or Pizzini Wines Vineyard Guesthouse 

Approx. drive time: 1 hour

Approx. distance: 90km

KING VALLEY - YARRA VALLEY

Embark on a breathtaking journey from the Yarra Valley, where rolling hills, renowned wineries, wildlife sanctuaries, and gourmet delights await. This scenic drive promises a delightful mix of wine tasting, local produce, and stunning countryside vistas.

Kick off your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Whitty Café, known for its fresh local produce and exceptional coffee. Energised and ready, head southwest to Mansfield, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Victorian Alps. Wander through the quaint boutiques and cafés on the main street or take a leisurely stroll through Mansfield Botanic Park.

By the time you arrive in the Yarra Valley, it’s time for a sparkling twist at Chandon. Their Sparkling Brunch and Behind the Bubbles experience starts as you sip on a refreshing mimosa and indulge in a sumptuous brunch. This featured a delectable array of savory and sweet dishes, all perfectly paired with Chandon’s exquisite sparkling wines.

Next, dive into the art of sparkling wine-making in the enchanting Riddling Hall. You’ll be guided through the intricate process of crafting sparkling wines. Discover the traditional techniques that bring exceptional bubbles to life, and then take on the challenge yourself. Roll up your sleeves and try your hand at recreating Chandon’s flagship Vintage Brut blend, using your palate to match the signature taste of their award-winning wine.

This hands-on experience will immerse you in the passion, skill, and patience required to create Chandon’s celebrated sparkling wines.

This journey is a feast for the senses, offering the perfect blend of flavors, sights, and experiences that will make your day truly unforgettable.

Overnight Yarra Valley

• Approx. drive time: 1 hour Approx. distance: 90km

YARRA VALLEY - MORNINGTON PENINSULA

After an easy 1.5 hour drive, you’ll arrive in the Mornington Peninsula. Begin your day at Ten Minutes by Tractor, where exceptional cool-climate wines, breathtaking vineyard views and refined hospitality set the tone for the day. Named for the three original vineyards that were once just ten minutes apart by tractor, this acclaimed winery offers immersive tastings that explore the Peninsula's distinctive terroir. For a truly memorable experience, enjoy a long lunch in the award-winning restaurant, where seasonal local produce is thoughtfully paired with estate wines.

From Ten Minutes by Tractor, it's an easy 5-minute drive to Montalto, a picturesque estate that seamlessly blends wine, art and nature. Wander through the Sculpture Trail, discover contemporary works set amongst vineyards, wetlands and native bushland, then enjoy a guided tasting of Montalto's acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Those looking to extend their visit can relax over a casual meal at the Piazza Café or indulge in the estate's celebrated restaurant.

Continue just 5 minutes south to Pt. Leo Estate, where world-class wine meets one of Australia's most impressive outdoor sculpture parks. Stroll through more than 70 large-scale sculptures overlooking Western Port Bay before settling in for a premium wine tasting or dining experience. Whether enjoying a relaxed lunch at the Wine Terrace or a refined degustation at Laura, the spectacular coastal setting provides the perfect finale to a day of discovery.

To fully enjoy your day without worrying about transportation, consider leaving your car at your accommodation. Excellent private touring companies in the area can provide local insights and guide you through your wine adventure, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience. Localing, and Great Private Tours offer some excellent private touring options.