10 days in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory - Signature Experiences of Australia
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is home to Australia’s capital Canberra. Canberra itself is a vibrant place housing many of the country’s major museums and institutions. It’s a place where nature intrudes elegantly into designed urban spaces. Beyond Canberra discover the beautiful south coast of New South Wales and discover parts of the Narooma, Bega Valley and Bermagui region that have held sacred significance for the Yuin Aboriginal community for tens of thousands of years. Explore the beautiful white sand beaches of Jervis Bay before heading to the historic and picturesque towns of the Southern Highlands. Return to Sydney via the coast road and enjoy sweeping views of the beautiful south coast region of New South Wales.
At a glance:
The Journey
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Drive to Canberra. On arrival head straight to Capital Brewing Co.
The team at Capital Brewing Co. have an impressive set up in Fishwyck where they brew their own ales. You'll find a tap house where you can enjoy their beers straight from the source, accompanied by delights from the iconic Brodburger.
Next, visit the National Arboretum, where 94 forests of rare and symbolic trees are planted across 250 hectares of rolling hills and take in the stunning vistas of the city. This is a great place to get a wonderful perspective of the purpose-built and designed capital city.
Check into your luxurious and chic accommodation at QT Canberra – there are no bored rooms here!
Highlights:
Yayoi Kusama: THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS 2017
National Gallery of Australia, Australian Capital Territory
© Yayoi Kusama
Visit the Australian War Memorial and partake in an immersive Soul of the Nation tour. The Australian War Memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive. It is widely recognised as one of the most significant museums in the world. Not just for its architectural magnificence or the millions of visitors it attracts, but because it is the soul of the nation and reveals the character of the Australian people. It is a place which will enhance your understanding of what it means to be Australian.
Next head to New Acton, an innovative new cultural precinct for lunch and an afternoon of exploration. At its heart is Nishi, the ‘pineapple-shaped’ building housing the Nishi Gallery. There is also a cinema, some of Canberra’s favourite restaurants and cafés, shops and a collection of outdoor art and sculpture for a surprise around almost every corner.
Spend the afternoon in Australia’s capital with a walk or Segway around the iconic Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra’s masterful centrepiece with 40 kms of scenic paths or better still venture out onto Lake Burley Griffin with GoBoat.
Tonight, dress up for a special dining experience, Feast of Icons at National Gallery of Australia, an exclusive after-hours tour.
Highlights
National Museum of Australia, Australian Capital Territory
© Paul Champan
Join In Above & Behind the Scenes tour with the National Museum of Australia. Accompanied by a Museum expert, fly in a private hot air balloon for an aerial tour of the Museum and the surrounding region.
Depart Canberra and drive to Narooma stopping for lunch at Quarterdeck Narooma, a laid back, quirky, and fun place with great view for lunch.
Depart Quarterdeck for the Island View Beach Resort and check into Djirringanj Dreaming tour with Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, a 3-day, 2 night tour where you are invited to come walk and listen to stories passed down for thousands of generations, led by the land’s traditional custodians.
Highlights
Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, New South Wales
Begin the day with a Sunrise Ceremony and then depart for an on-country journey visiting significant areas for the Yuin people following the Djirringanj Dreaming trail.
In the afternoon experience a traditional forage and cooking demonstration and sound healing meditation.
This evening reflect on the day’s experience around the fire in a traditional reflection yarning circle.
Highlights
Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, New South Wales
Your tour will conclude with a Farewell Beach Ceremony - followed by a farewell brunch.
Drive to Banisters Pavilion Mollymook, New South Wales. Relax in the beach style chic of The Pavilion or enjoy one of the amazing beach houses. Sample incredible seafood simply prepared at Rick Stein at Bannisters.
Bannistersby the Sea, New South Wales © Destination New South Wales
Spend today enjoying the seaside paradise of Mollymook.
Highlights
Paperbark Camp, New South Wales © Hutchings Camps Pty Ltd
Depart Mollymook and head for Jervis Bay, stopping at Milk Haus wholefoods café for morning tea. From there travel to Booderee National Park, home to one of Australia’s most stunning national parks, where crystal-clear waters meet beautiful white sand beaches.
Spend tonight in luxury glamping accommodation at Paperbark Camp which is located near Jervis Bay.
Highlights
Jervis Bay Wild, New South Wales
Today enjoy a 2-and-a-half-hour South Coast Passage Tour with Jervis Bay Wild (departing daily at 8.30am, wind and sea conditions dependent). After your tour, visit 5 Little Pigs or Pilgrims Café in Huskisson for lunch. Or join the locals at the Husky Pub.
Spend the rest of the day at the beach or exploring.
Highlights
Bendooley Estate, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Depart Jervis Bay for the Southern Highlands stopping for lunch and wine tasting at Bendooley Estate. This grand estate is a spectacular destination within the Southern Highlands. After lunch head for the Bradman Museum named after Australia’s sporting legend, Sir Donald Bradman.
After visiting the museum explore the picturesque town of Bowral well-known for its colourful gardens, diverse landscape, history, and heritage.
Tonight relax and unwind at the Berida Hotel in Bowral or Peppers Craigieburn Bowral.
Highlights
Sea Cliff Bridge, New South Wales © Dee Kramer Photography
This morning meet your guide from Wild Food Adventures and enjoy a Fire Forge and Froth tour or one of the other Signature or Seasonal tours on offer. Wild Food Adventures offers immersive, hands-on and creative adventures connecting with people, place and produce. After your tour travel back to Sydney detouring via the 665-metre Sea Cliff Bridge, a highlight along the Grand Pacific Drive.
Highlights