Also part of the prize is a 7-day inspiring journey discovering ‘Victoria’s Hidden Gems’ with AAT Kings. The contest was launched in the March 29, 2018 issue of Travelweek.
AAT Kings, one of the best-known names when it comes to Australia tour and trip ideas, has more than 100 years of experience in guided holidays in Australia. Part of The Travel Corporation, AAT Kings offers everything from day tours to short breaks to guided holidays.
The 7-day ‘Victoria’s Hidden Gems’ itinerary, part of AAT Kings’ lineup of Inspiring Journeys, features hand-picked accommodation and immersive experiences in a smaller group setting. The trip starts with an arrival in Melbourne courtesy of Air Canada’s new year-round service starting June 1, 2018. By choosing from three classes of service aboard Air Canada’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, clients can get the ultimate in inflight comfort to arrive feeling refreshed and ready for their adventures.
The first day is the perfect introduction to the capital city with a ride on Melbourne’s famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. After a guided city tour the next morning, taking in Melbourne’s charming arcades and trendy street art, it’s on to the eclectic spa town of Daylesford and its world-renowned healing waters for a relaxing overnight.
A leisurely start to the day has travellers enjoying a stroll through the enchanting Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. There’s a stop at Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm for morning tea (think warm lavender honey and freshly baked scones) before heading to Creswick Woollen Mills for an exclusive guided tour. Next up: the historic town of Clunes and its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, followed by Dunkeld and the picturesque surrounds of the Southern Grampians.
A highlight for every visitor, the next day features a Welcome to Country ceremony, followed by demonstrations by local Gariwerd, Djab Wurrung and Jardwadjali people on how to throw a boomerang and gather local bush tucker for sampling.
From there it’s down to coastal Warrnambool for one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, where golden beaches stretch endlessly along the route. Highlights include the Bay of Islands, London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge and the famous Twelve Apostles.
The last leg of the Great Ocean Road is the surf capital of Torquay and then across the Bellarine Peninsula to the Mornington Peninsula. The tour wraps up back in Melbourne with a quick trip to the hallowed grounds of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, followed by a Farewell Lunch.
