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. Don't miss their "Master Blenders: Blend Your Own Muscat Experience." Here, you'll learn the art of winemaking and craft your own unique blend from their aged Muscat stocks. Once you've perfected your creation, they'll bottle it with a custom label, making it a perfect souvenir to share with friends and family—or keep as your own secret treasure.

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

Canberra - Rutherglen

Overnight: Stay in Rutherglen.

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

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.

In the afternoon, continue your journey with a visit to De Bortoli, renowned for its world-famous Noble One dessert wine. Start with a Behind the Scenes tour of the De Bortoli Yarra Valley estate, where you'll be captivated by the inspiring legacy of the De Bortoli family—a tale of determination and success passed down through four generations.

After the tour, delight in a tasting of Noble One wines through the ages. Savor the current vintage, a 2015 Vintage, and the timeless Black Noble, each paired with delectable dessert canapés that will satisfy your sweet tooth and elevate the tasting experience.

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.

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. Don’t waste time, dive into an unforgettable day with the Icons of the Mornington Peninsula, A Road to Discovery package. Combining Montalto and Ten Minutes By Tractor. You’ll embark on a private exploration of Montalto’s iconic vineyards, guided by an expert member of their wine team. Visit the Lake Block, the source of their exquisite Sparkling Rosé; North Face, where the award-winning ‘The Eleven’ Chardonnay is crafted; South Face, home to the beloved Pennon Hill Pinot Noir; and Red Hill Block, known for its revered Single Vineyard Pinot Noir vines.

As you journey through these remarkable vineyards, you’ll gain insights into the unique qualities of cool-climate wines, learn how vines just meters apart can exhibit distinct characteristics, and discover how Montalto maximizes these features. The tour culminates in a special gift: a bottle of their Single Vineyard wine to savor at home.

Next, a short 5-minute drive to Ten Minutes by Tractor, where another exceptional experience awaits. Begin at their award-winning cellar door, nestled amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards. Here, your host will immerse you in their philosophy with a tasting of their finest premium and single vineyard wines.

Then, enjoy a tour of the high-density Gabrielle vineyard, where you’ll stroll through the vine rows and uncover the secrets of cultivation and the artistry behind crafting the perfect glass of wine. This journey promises an intimate and enriching exploration of Mornington Peninsula’s world-class wine offerings.

MORNINGTON PENINSULA