MELBOURNES HERITAGE & HIDDEN GEMS TOUR

After a hearty breakfast, we venture south to the Mornington Peninsula, where vineyards, coastal views and elegant estates await. We begin our day with a journey to the summit of Arthurs Seat, ascending either by coach or the gentle gondola ride. The panoramic views over Port Phillip Bay are a breathtaking welcome to this beautiful region. Wander through the Enchanted Gardens, a whimsical setting of sculptures, hedge mazes and native flora — a true delight for the senses. A highlight of the day is lunch at Port Phillip Estate, an architecturally striking winery perched on the hillside. Relax over a refined three-course lunch, complemented by fine regional wines and sweeping views across the vines. Return to Melbourne in the late afternoon with time to unwind. The evening is at your leisure.

Today’s journey takes us through the storybook landscapes of the Macedon Ranges. We pause at Hanging Rock, the haunting volcanic formation made famous by Joan Lindsay’s Picnic at Hanging Rock. Here, time seems to stand still among the lichen-covered boulders and windswept gums. Continue to the charming spa town of Daylesford, where art and history meet at The Convent Gallery — once a 19th-century mansion and now a treasured gallery and café. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the onsite Bad Habits Café, before travelling on to Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, where stone buildings, heritage gardens and lavender fields recall the early Swiss settlers of the region. On the way back to Melbourne, take in the serenity of Mount Franklin, an extinct volcanic crater once sacred to the Dja Dja Wurrung people. This evening, we dine beneath chandeliers at Conservatory at Crown, a lavish setting for an indulgent buffet-style dinner.

Step back in time today as we journey to Drysdale and board the Q Train — a moving restaurant aboard a restored heritage rail line. As the train winds along the Bellarine Peninsula, you’ll enjoy a multi-course degustation lunch showcasing local produce, regional wines, and panoramic views of Swan Bay and beyond. This is slow travel at its finest — where conversation flows, flavours linger, and the rhythm of the rails sets the pace. Return to Melbourne in the afternoon. Evening at leisure.

This morning we travel through rolling countryside to the Yarra Valley, a region rich in pioneering history and gourmet tradition. Our first stop is Coombe Estate, the former home of legendary opera singer Dame Nellie Melba. Surrounded by 100-year-old gardens and framed by century-old cypress hedges, the estate offers an elegant setting for morning tea. Later, visit the beautifully curated Alowyn Gardens for a gentle stroll through themed garden rooms. There’s time to purchase lunch onsite or in a nearby village. Before returning to Melbourne, we stop at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie — a favourite for artisan sweets, indulgent tastings, and the perfect edible souvenir.

Our final full day is a festive celebration of Scottish heritage, music, and pageantry at the St Andrew’s Day Festival, held on the grand lawns of Overnewton Castle. Built in 1849 in Scottish Baronial style, Overnewton evokes the grandeur of a bygone era, complete with turrets and hand-carved bluestone.

Join in the festivities with pipe bands, Highland dancers, a traditional ceilidh, and a Scottish market with food stalls and crafts. Take time to wander the estate’s gardens or enjoy a scone by the fountain.

This evening, we gather for a very special farewell dinner at Eureka 89, Melbourne’s highest dining room, offering unforgettable views across the city skyline.

Enjoy free time in Melbourne before transferring to the airport for your flight home. A private transfer will take you home upon arrival in Perth.