At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Your journey takes you on the route between Melbourne and Adelaide. It is filled with unique Australian wildlife, scenic coastal drives, wineries, national parks, vibrant cities and more. Discover this fascinating route, together and enjoy the natural beauty of this part of the world.
Quick facts about this sample itinerary
This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is between October and April
Stay with locals at 7 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Collect rental car in Melbourne and return in Adelaide
If you would like to book your holiday for you and your partner, contact one of our travel specialists, obligation free, to find out how you can travel the TravelEssence way. Below, you can discover our suggested locations. Feel free to discuss your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in the high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.
Route and Impressions
Flight from London to MelbourneFamous for funky street-art: Melbournes popular LanewaysUncover Melbourne's world-class café culture with a local guideDiscover one of Australia's most beautiful scenic drivesSpot Australia's unique wildlifeGet in your 4WD and explore wide open roads, red dirt and big stationsAn Aussie 4WD adventure into the heart of Flinders Ranges National ParkSpot wildlife between the vinesWine tastings and culinary experiences in Barossa ValleyStroll along the EsplanadeSay G’day to seals sunbathing on the beachClose encounter with wildlife on Kangaroo IslandEnjoy a lovely final evening in AdelaideMake your way to the airport and fly home
Melbourne
International flight to Melbourne
Start your exciting trip to Down Under and land in one of the most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne, where your journey will begin.
Melbourne
2 nights
A chic, stylish and a melting pot of multiculturalism. Visit art galleries, or go to the famous Queen Victoria Market to savour local produce. Go neighbourhood hopping - stop by the hip seaside suburb, St Kilda.
Melbourne
Activity
Together with a local guide you will walk through the central streets of Melbourne, where you will be acquainted with the cultural and characteristic features of the city. The three-hour Café Culture Walk starts on Bourke Street and takes you on a journey through Melbourne's café culture. This Australian city is known worldwide for its streets full of cafés, coffee houses and restaurants. During the walk, your guide will take you to cafés that you maybe wouldn't find yourself!
The Great Ocean Road
2 nights
A 240-kilometre stretch of road that takes you along the coast of the Indian Ocean, Victoria. With every twist and turn, an impressive new panoramic view appears.
The Grampians
2 nights
An enticing mix of ancient culture, mountain forests with eucalyptus trees and more than 200 species of birds. The iconic Pinnacle Walk is worth a look, you will be rewarded with spectacular scenery.
Flinders Ranges
2 nights
Marvel at geographical wonders, deep red rock gorges, deserted plains and ancient rocky landscapes. Tip: take off at Wilpena Pound, and see the natural amphitheatre from above with a scenic flight.
Flinders Ranges
Activity
Your guide will take you out on rugged 4WD tracks to explore the Chace and ABC Ranges, plus views of the Elder Range and Rawnsley Bluff. The ascent to Prelinna Lookout is a highlight of this trip. Learn about the geology of the Flinders Ranges, the history of pastoralism and the many varieties of vegetation that grow in this semi arid climate.
Buckle up for unforgettable views!
Barossa Valley
1 night
Renowned for being Australia’s wine mecca with some of the oldest vineyards in the country. Spend your day admiring rolling vineyards, sampling Shiraz (a local speciality) or tasting the local produce.
Barossa Valley
Activity
Hot Air balloon, a bike tour or a ride on a helicopter? Whatever way you chose to discover this fantastic wine region - it is all about letting your taste buds pop while you are here.
Adelaide
2 nights
Uncover the secrets of Adelaide, a hip and colourful city oozing with laid-back vibes. The town has streets lined with restaurants and cafes, showcasing the region’s finest produce. Go on a culinary journey, taste locally produced wine and modern Australian cuisine. Visit Central Markets for a foodie adventure or head over to Peel and Leigh Street for some bar hopping. Stay in the heart of the centre or relax by the beach in Glenelg. Adelaide Hills is worth a visit with rolling vineyards, native bushland and curvy mountain drives.
Kangaroo Island
2 nights
An island with 509 kilometres of coastline, rich with protected nature reserves and home to an abundance of native wildlife. Spot penguins, koalas, sea lions, dolphins and pelicans.
Kangaroo Island
Activity
Take a walk through Eucalyptus trees, admire koalas, and listen to the sounds of nature. Discover unique flora and fauna, and enjoy a lunch of local seafood and South Australian wines. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for a private tour of Australian sea lions on the beach. Admire natural sculptures at Remarkable Rocks, pause for an elegant picnic in nature and discover Admirals Arch, home to a large colony of Long-nosed fur seals. The tour offers a unique insight into this Australian island's diverse flora and fauna.
Adelaide
1 night
Enjoy a final sunset in Australia and watch the sun sink below the ocean horizon. Adelaide offers many incredible west-facing beaches, you’ll have front row seats on the sand to a fiery show-stopper. Start your night by jumping on the tram to Glenelg’s Moseley Square, visit Brighton Beach for a post-work beach stroll or mosey down to Henley for dinner, drinks and incomparable sunset views. For sunset views over the city and hills, head just minutes from the city to Mount Osmond.
London
Flight back home
Your unforgettable trip to Australia has come to an end, and you will board your flight back home today.
Price From
£4,700Per person
Whats included?
Return economy flights
Wine tastings and culinary experiences in Barossa Valley
Intermediate SUV for 11 days, full insurance
Close encounter with wildlife on Kangaroo Island
14 nights (7 locations) staying in B&Bs, hotels and (eco-) villa's
Fully CO2 compensated travel
Uncover Melbourne's world-class cafe culture with a local guide
24 hour local support while you travel
An Aussie 4WD adventure into the heart of Flinders Ranges National Park
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
