MANSIONS OF VICTORIA & THE MELBOURNE FLOWER SHOW

Begin at the Amazing Mill Markets, exploring over 60 stalls of vintage finds. Enjoy lunch with stunning vineyard views at Jack Rabbit Vineyard. Visit the historic Barwon Grange, with its Victorian charm and beautiful garden. End with a scenic drive past Thirteenth Beach, Barwon Heads, and the iconic Barwon River bridge from Sea Change. Return to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Perhaps take part in the local quiz night at the hotel.

We start the day at Tarndwarncoort Homestead, one of Victoria’s oldest, established in 1840. It’s the birthplace of Australia’s first sheep breed, Polwarth. Enjoy morning tea and a tour of the gardens and 1878 Dining Room. Next, visit Coragulac House near Colac, built in 1873. After a tour, we’ll have lunch, starting with the grand cedar-panelled Entrance Hall. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

This morning, we make our way to Drysdale Railway Station to board The Q Train. The dining journey includes an exceptional degustation of fresh local produce, all cooked and prepared on board the well-appointed kitchen car. Every day, the Head Chef and their team carefully choose top quality ingredients from local ethical and sustainable producers. This way, the menu always reflects the very best of what the region has to offer, so expect fresh, delicious, seasonally changing menus. As the train whistle sounds the journey begins, travelling along the beautiful Bellarine Railway, offering views of the rolling hills of The Bellarine. One of the courses will be served soon after departure. The Q Train will pause at Suma Park Historic Homestead, where we encourage you to stretch your legs. The journey continues travelling alongside beautiful Swan Bay. The Q Train runs for approximately 3 hours. Our coach will be waiting for us and we return to our hotel to complete a memorable day. As we may not really need any dinner this evening, tonight is ours to dine at leisure.

Hotel: Lancemore Mansions at Werribee Park for 1-night

Visit the Werribee Open Range Zoo, where we’ll take a safari bus tour to see African wildlife like rhinos, giraffes, and zebras. Afterward, explore the walking tracks to see meerkats and more. Enjoy lunch at Shadowfox Wines, known for its unique architecture blending with nature. From here we head to Melbourne where we can check in to our hotel and later, enjoy dinner.

Hotel: The Windsor Hotel, Melbourne for 3-nights

We visit the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, Australia’s most prestigious event of its kind. With over 300 exhibits showcasing horticulture, floristry, and landscape gardening, the stunning displays by top floral designers will leave you in awe. The remainder of the day and evening is at your leisure.

We travel through the Dandenong Ranges to Belgrave, where we board the Puffing Billy Steam Train to Emerald Lakes. Afterward, we head to Rayners Orchard for lunch and a guided tour, including a fruit tasting. Our final stop is Warratina Lavender Farm, where we’ll learn about lavender cultivation and its uses. After a fantastic day, we return to the hotel to relax before our farewell dinner.

It’s been a lovely break and now it’s time to transfer to the airport for our flight home. Upon arrival in Perth, your driver will be waiting to take you home. What a memorable time we have had travelling with friends.