Luxury Lodges of Southern Australia

Southern Ocean Lodge - Private Tour

Day 1: North Coast and Seal Bay. Upon arrival into Kingscote mid-morning, your guide will meet you and outline your private island adventure. The day starts with the exploration of Kangaroo Island's prime farming regions, where, depending on the season, you can see sheep, cattle, and various grains while exploring the island's mix of natural and productive landscapes. At Lathami Conservation Park, take a guided walk through the bush to discover the local wildlife and learn about the sounds, tracks, and markings left behind by animals. Search for wallabies, unique to the island, and observe the distinctive Australian birds, plants, and animals.

Next, visit Stokes Bay, known for its hidden beach and local fishing spots where families catch a variety of delicious sea fish. Enjoy a barbecue lunch at a private bush camp on the "Ellamatta" sheep stud, featuring King George whiting, grilled halloumi, fresh salads, and local wines. Continue to Seal Bay for a private tour of the Australian Sea-lion colony. Watch sea-lions rest and interact, and look for pups, young males, and dominant bulls. Journey west for the much-anticipated arrival at Southern Ocean Lodge.

Accommodation: Southern Ocean Lodge

Day 2: Southern Ocean Lodge. Relax and enjoy Southern Ocean Lodge. Recommendations include a spa treatment, a guided clifftop walk and a lazy afternoon watching the Southern Ocean swells roll in. Don't miss Southern Sundowners, one of the Signature Experiences included in all bookings. Here, you will enjoy a range of premium beverages and snacks while watching Kangaroo Island kangaroos grazing in the late afternoon sun. Another great experience is the evening Nocturnal Tour where you'll see even more of Kangaroo Island's wildlife becoming active.

Accommodation: Southern Ocean Lodge

Day 3: West Coast and North Coast. Upon checkout, it's time for your North Coast Departure, via Flinders Chase National Park. However, should you have opted to join SOL's included Wonders of KI tour during your stay, your itinerary will be amended. Visit Remarkable Rocks, a massive natural sculpture perched impossibly on top of a granite dome plunging into the ocean and continue to Admirals Arch – a coastal grotto that is home to a large colony of long-nosed fur seals that swim effortlessly through crashing waves.

Next, break for an elegant picnic lunch in the bush, on a spectacular clifftop. Lunch features marinated poached chicken, fresh salads, and cheeses accompanied by local wines, beer, soft drinks and spring water. After lunch, exit the National Park and visit a local woodturner, Jonny Gloyne. Explore Johnny's beautiful range of handmade wood products, including his famous pepper grinders. En route to the airport, if time allows, stop for a departure drink. Choose from premium wines at Islander Estate Vineyards, or a gin flight at Kangaroo Island Distillery, Australia's first contemporary gin producer. Fly from Kingscote to Adelaide and upon arrival, be transferred by private vehicle to The Louise in the Barossa.

Accommodation: The Louise

Barossa - The Louise

Day 4-5: Adelaide & Barossa. The Louise Barossa is a luxurious retreat located in the heart of South Australia's renowned Barossa Valley wine region. This boutique hotel offers an exclusive escape with 15 elegantly designed suites, each featuring spacious interiors, private terraces, and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. 

Dining at The Louise is a highlight, with the acclaimed Appellation restaurant offering a farm-to-table dining experience that showcases the best of Barossa's local produce. The seasonal menu, paired with an extensive wine list featuring local and international selections, ensures a memorable culinary journey. The hotel offers personalized touring experiences that immerse guests in the rich culture and history of the Barossa Valley. You are able to embark on private wine tours, meeting winemakers and tasting world-class wines directly from the barrel. Additional experiences include hot air balloon rides over the vineyards at sunrise, guided cycling tours through picturesque landscapes, and gourmet picnics in secluded spots. Whether you're indulging in the region's finest wines, savouring exquisite cuisine, or simply unwinding in luxurious surroundings, The Louise Barossa offers a truly unforgettable escape.

Accommodation: The Louise 

Day 6: Adelaide to Launceston. Connect with your flight to Launceston, Hobart.

Accommodation: Flexible Options Available*

Cradle Mountain - Private Tour

Day 7. Launceston. Meet your guide at noon at Launceston airport to start your journey to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain National Park. Travel through lush rolling farm pastures before reaching the alpine bush. Enjoy an introduction to this fascinating alpine environment. Check in to your lodge-style accommodation and start to relax and unwind.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Lodge, Spa Suite (or similar)

Day 8. Cradle Mountain National Park. On a clear day, the rugged grandeur of Cradle Mountain is reflected in the tranquil waters of Dove Lake, or you may experience the drama of its craggy peaks through swirling mist.  You may wish to enjoy a bushwalk in the National Park on the Dove Lake Circuit (2.5 hrs) where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of this majestic setting. Learn about native flora and fauna along the way, with highlights including the ballroom forest and lakeside beaches. This afternoon embarks on a scenic helicopter flight for the opportunity to see Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake from a different perspective. Experience breathtaking views of Tasmania's rare natural treasures and appreciate the stunning beauty of this ancient landscape. Enjoy a hosted cheese tasting at the lodge before dinner.

Accommodation: Cradle Mountain Lodge, Spa Suite (or similar)

Saffire Freycinet

Day 9: Freycinet Peninsula. After breakfast, leave Cradle Valley for your journey to Launceston. Enjoy an introduction to Launceston before exploring the scenic Cataract Gorge where the South Esk River forces its way through sheer rocky cliffs. Evoke memories of the genteel Victorian era as you stroll in the landscaped gardens. Enjoy lunch at an award-winning vineyard in the Tamar Valley before continuing to Tasmania's East Coast, with its exceptional beauty, pristine white sandy beaches and granite coastline. The award-winning Saffire Luxury Lodge is in the heart of Great Oyster Bay, overlooked by the imposing backdrop of the "Hazards" granite mountain range. Relax and enjoy the magnificent views or perhaps unwind with a treatment at the Saffire Day Spa.

Accommodation: Saffire Freycinet, Signature Suite (or similar)

Day 10: Freycinet Peninsula. Enjoy the many activities at Saffire, including the Tasmanian Devil experience, local wine tour, sightseeing, guided walks, kayaking and mountain biking, or explore Freycinet National Park with your private guide. Take a stroll along Friendly Beaches, where white sand meets the stunning orange rocks of the coast. Walk up to the famous Wineglass Bay lookout for exceptional views across the Freycinet Peninsula, or visit Cape Tourville Lighthouse. Don't miss out on the guided tour to a local working oyster farm. Put on your waders and taste freshly shucked Freycinet Pacific oysters in a beautiful setting.

Accommodation: Saffire Freycinet, Signature Suite (or similar)

East & South Coast - Private Tour

Day 11: East Coast. Today, enjoy a scenic drive down the East Coast, passing the seaside villages of Swansea, Triabunna and Orford to the Coal River Valley. Visit the charming village of Richmond with its preserved colonial architecture. Enjoy lunch at a local vineyard before visiting Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can get close and personal with Tasmanian Devils and other native animals on your private behind-the-scenes tour. Continue to Hobart and enjoy an introduction to Tasmania's capital city. The vibrant waterfront, Salamanca Place, with its Georgian sandstone buildings, was once the hub of a thriving whaling industry. 

Accommodation: MACq01, Premium Waterfront Suite

Day 11: Start your adventure from Cambridge and fly along Tasmania's Southeast Coast. Providing a scenic helicopter flight offering views of Hobart's southern beaches and Storm Bay out towards the Southern Ocean before continuing the scenic flight and heading to Bangor Vineyard Shed. Your pilot and host will collect your picnic hamper as you fly past Bangor. Once your hamper is stocked, you will be flown over Bangor farm to a private and secluded location – Two Mile Beach. The sea air is as crisp and clean as the fine wine and food you will enjoy. Your picnic hamper will be filled with seasonal Tasmanian delights to energise you before beachcombing to see what sea treasures you can find. Weather permitting, you can swim in the ocean. The only inhabitants you will share Two Mile Beach with are the local wallabies, wombats, birds, dolphins and possibly a passing whale.

Accommodation: MACq01, Premium Waterfront Suite (or similar)

Day 12: Mt Wellington. Your day begins with an ascent of Mt Wellington/ Kunanyi, providing a beautifully imposing backdrop to the city of Hobart. On the climb to the 1270m peak, you will pass through various ecosystems until finally reaching an alpine environment. Here (weather permitting), enjoy panoramic views of the city, river and beyond. After lunch, continue to Hobart Airport, where your guide will bid you farewell.