As this Guided Holiday departs early morning, accommodation should be pre-booked for the previous night.

Day 1: Sydney – Coffs Harbour

You’ll visit  picturesque Port Macquarie at lunchtime on the way to Coffs Harbour. After lunch why not grab yourself a take away coffee and stroll along the waterfront in the sun. On arrival in Coffs Harbour you’ll have the chance to freshen up before you get to know your fellow travellers over dinner and drinks.

Journey to Cape Byron Lighthouse and enjoy superb views from Australia’s eastern-most point over the Pacific Ocean. At the right time of year you may be lucky enough to spot migrating whales frolicking off the coast. Afterwards spend time discovering the relaxed bohemian vibe of Byron Bay. For lunch we recommend fresh fish and chips on the beach, there’s nothing more Australian! Continue to the famous holiday destination, the Gold Coast.

Day 3: Gold Coast – Noosa

After a short orientation tour of Brisbane, visit Australia Zoo made famous by the Crocodile Hunter, the late Steve Irwin and his family. Enjoy a sneak peek in to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital and see how AAT Kings works with the Wildlife Warriors to support the koala rehabilitation project at the hospital, the country’s largest and busiest wildlife facility. Catch one of the many shows and wander through the zoo’s fascinating grounds. It’s bound to be a wildlife experience you’ll never forget. Later travel to the resort town of Noosa for a relaxing stay.

Day 4: Noosa ‘Free Time’

Take time out to discover Noosa for yourself. Swim at Noosa Main Beach or venture a little further with an easy, spectacular walk along the headland through to Noosa National Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may like to hire a stand-up paddle board or even take a boat ride through the incredible Noosa Everglades, one of Australia’s most beautiful wilderness areas. You’ll love the dark waterways and myriad of wildlife along the Noosa River- it’s truly spectacular! This evening choose one of the town’s eateries and dine on inspiring local delights.

A day of discovery lies ahead as you cross by ferry to explore the wonders of World Heritage listed Fraser Island. Your 4WD tour takes you to the coloured sands of Rainbow Beach (tidal) and beyond. Visit Lake McKenzie, ringed with magnificent white sandy beaches. Walk through the ancient rainforest at Central Station with its huge satiny, scribbly gum and kauri trees and enjoy a delicious lunch before arriving in Hervey Bay.

Stop at Langmorn Station, a fully operational cattle station.  A member of the Creed family will treat you to a guided tour of the property including their original family homestead, built in 1873. Enjoy afternoon tea in the garden in the company of the pet kangaroo! Cross the Tropic of Capricorn as you arrive in Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia! Your night is free so why not try some local beef at one of the town’s steakhouses.

Day 7: Rockhampton – Hamilton Island

Travel north to the sugar town of Sarina for a guided tour through a miniature sugar mill and lunch! On your tour you’ll get a peak in to sugar cane processing and witness fully functioning sugar processing and distilling equipment in action. Afterwards you can taste some of the products made on site before sitting down for a light lunch. Continue past Mackay to Airlie Beach to catch a ferry to Hamilton Island one of 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsundays. You’ll be surrounded by pristine beaches, and a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life!

Day 8: Hamilton Island ‘Free Time’

Today in paradise, it's time to let your hair down and relax. You may like to take a cruise to famous Whitehaven Beach or even strap on a snorkel and mask to spot turtles and other marine life on the fringing reef. You could choose to discover native Australian animals at the island’s wildlife park or grab a bite to eat at one of the island’s restaurant and watch the world go by. Whatever you do, at some stage, grab a good book and sit back and relax by the resort pool.

This morning you’ll board a ferry back to mainland and continue north along the Bruce Highway to Townsville for a stop at lunchtime when you’ll have the opportunity to take a stroll along the Strand with views to Magnetic Island.  Your destination for the night is Mission Beach where you’ll stay with views over the ocean. Magic!

Day 10: Mission Beach – Cairns

This morning there will be time to take a walk along the shore and feel the golden sand between your toes before you depart Mission Beach. Today you’ll travel through the high tropical plateau known as the Atherton Tablelands, where lush rainforests, waterfalls and lakes abound. First up stop at Mungalli Creek Dairy. The dairy was established by the Watson family who believe that it’s vital that food be produced as naturally as possible. You’ll get the chance to taste their biodynamic cheese and yogurt and sit down to a delicious morning tea. Delish! Next up visit Millaa Millaa Falls and the famous Curtain Fig Tree. Keep an eye out for the spectacular Ulysses Butterfly while you’re there. Before heading to Cairns for three nights take a serene cruise on Lake Barrine.

Day 11: Great Barrier Reef

Board a high speed catamaran and cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef. The world heritage listed reef is the only living organism you can see from the moon.  Imagine that! You’ll have the opportunity to go snorkelling and view this natural living wonder up- close (equipment provided) and view the spectacular coral and tropical fish from the underwater observatory and the semi- submersible craft. Enjoy a delicious tropical buffet lunch before you return to Cairns in the late afternoon.  You have a free evening to do as you choose. Why not take a stroll along the esplanade and check out the Cairns Night Market.

Day 12: Cairns 'Free Time'

Today is free for you to do as you please. It’s time to let your hair down before your holiday comes to an end. You may choose to take an iconic rail journey on board Kuranda Scenic Railway to the village in the rainforest, Kuranda, or even explore a world of rich culture and traditions at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. If you just want to relax, lay by your resort’s pool or even take a walk down to a local cafe and watch the world go by. This evening join your Travel Director and companions for a Farewell Dinner. Share a few laughs over a drink or two and a delicious meal created with fresh seasonal produce.

Your wonderful holiday concludes after breakfast when you bid farewell to your new found friends.