Melbourne, Rock & Reef

Days 1-3  Melbourne  
With an abundance of 19th Century architecture and a quirky café culture, Melbourne is a dream to explore on foot. Browse the food stalls of the bustling Queen Victoria Market, enjoy a riverside stroll along the Southbank or perhaps watch a rousing Aussie Rules match. With a diverse melting pot of cultures, Melbourne’s restaurant scene is legendary with influences coming from across the globe. On your second day take to the Yarra River and discover the city from a completely new perspective. In the evenings, whether your choice is rustic, innovative or fine dining, you’re in for a culinary treat.      
       
Day 4 Melbourne to Alice Springs    
Fly north to the rugged outback town of Alice Springs and pick up your car. Spend the afternoon visiting the fascinating base of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, then stop at ANZAC Hill for panoramic views.            

Days 5-6  Alice Springs to Kings Canyon  
Take the scenic Mareenie Loop gravel road to Kings Canyon, passing the MacDonnell Ranges. While at Kings Canyon take the opportunity to visit the Light Towers, designed by famous artist Bruce Munroe.      

Day 7 Kings Canyon to Uluru      
Continue to Uluru, dropping your car at Ayers Rock airport. Take the shuttle bus to your resort and join an Aboriginal cultural talk or bush tucker tasting.            

Day 8 Uluru                  
Rise early and join a guided tour to watch an atmospheric sunrise over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Later, as the heat of the day fades, travel to a remote location to enjoy canapés and bubbles with a spectacular sunset view of the rock, followed by an outback dinner under the stars. As your evening draws to a close, walk through the spectacular Field of Light art installation, a ‘carpet’ of 50,000 coloured spheres.              

Days 9-10  Uluru to Brisbane      
After a few thrilling days in the bush, the bright lights of Brisbane offer a pleasing change of pace. With swathes of gorgeous parkland and a pretty riverside setting, this thriving city is a delight to explore on foot. Perhaps head to Moreton Island for the day where wild dolphins can be seen in the evening or enjoy dinner in one of the city’s many balmy restaurants.      

Day 11 Brisbane to Daydream Island    
Fly to Great Barrier Reef airport on Hamilton Island today, transferring by ferry for the final portion of your journey to Daydream Island.            

Days 12-14 Daydream Island                  
Whilst the Great Barrier Reef is an underwater mecca for incredible marine life,  Daydream also plays host to an onisland ‘Living Reef’, where you can get up close to baby sharks and graceful stingrays. On your second day, visit Heart Pontoon in spectacular Hardy Reef. Snorkel and swim in turquoise waters and visit the pontoon’s fascinating underwater observatory.              

Day 15 Daydream Island    
Transfer back to Hamilton Island for your onward journey.