Breakfast at your leisure at the hotel. 

After breakfast we will head to the Sydney Opera House to take in the views before heading over to Circular Quay. We will then take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly beach for lunch and free time to explore. Manly beach is one of the most popular and scenic beaches in Sydney. 

From there, we'll head to Bondi Beach to view the most photographed pool in the world. After some beach time, we will head over to the Royal Botanic Gardens for an evening stroll before dinner.

7:00 pm - Group Dinner 

Lodging:

Hyatt Regency Sydney

Address: 161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: +61 2 8099 1234

Breakfast at the hotel at your leisure. Today we will enjoy a Hunter Valley Wine and Foodie Experience!

The Hunter Valley, renowned for its wineries and delectable cuisine crafted from fresh local produce, sets the stage for an unforgettable experience with Gourmet Getaway Tours. Led by Jimmy Henry, a seasoned chef with 20 years of culinary expertise and 12 years of guiding experience, this small tour company founded in 2015 offers a unique fusion of gourmet delights and exploration.

Embark on a captivating journey from vine to glass, indulging in Australian-made wines paired with carefully crafted menus designed to enhance every sip. Jimmy's mission is to transform your day into an extraordinary expedition, guiding us through vineyards and treating us to exceptional cooking in idyllic surroundings.

Highlights of the tour include a visit to the Sydney Fish Markets and boutique wineries in the Hunter Valley, where we will have the opportunity to savor Aussie delicacies like barramundi, kangaroo, and locally made treats. The package encompasses a delectable breakfast, sumptuous lunch, wine tastings, and other chef-prepared delights, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience with round-trip transportation from our hotel.

What sets this tour apart is the personal touch provided by our guide, who will skillfully cook our meals on location and expertly pair them with the wines of the day. This means you can fully immerse yourself in the enchanting surroundings without the limitations of a standard restaurant menu. Additionally, Gourmet Getaway Tours brings the kitchen with them, boasting a custom-built kitchenette on their bus, allowing them to prepare and serve delicious, fresh food on location.

Time/Duration:

• 7:00am – 6:00pm
• 11 hours (approx.)

Details/Inclusions:

• Sydney hotel pick-ups / drop-offs
• Comfortable air-conditioned mini bus
• Transport to and from the Hunter Valley
• Water and muesli bars upon pick-up
• Breakfast (fresh fruits/banana bread/savory flatbreads/fruit juice)
• Progressive lunch (most dietary requirements and food allergies catered for)
• 3 Boutique winery tastings

In the afternoon, we'll return to Sydney's bright lights before enjoying a group dinner and returning to the hotel.

Lodging:

Hyatt Regency Sydney

Address: 161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: +61 2 8099 1234

After breakfast, we will take a morning flight from Sydney to Cairns—the flight time is 3 hours. 

Booking reference

KJHLFU

8:50am departure from Sydney

Duration 3 hr 5 min

Virgin Australia

Departing Thu 22 Feb 2024

Upon arrival, we will check in to our hotel and then enjoy the follow excursion together: On Country Cultural Tour

We will be immersed in an unforgettable journey as we venture into the heart of Cairns' indigenous culture. We will be warmly welcomed by Traditional Owners on their ancestral lands, just a short cruise away from Cairns City. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the wetland environment, with majestic rainforest-clad mountains as our backdrop.

Embark on the Mayi Bugan Rainforest Trail, starting from a working Indigenous Ranger base. Accompanied by knowledgeable Indigenous Guides, delve into the rich tapestry of native foods, traditional bush medicines, and ancient Aboriginal customs. Engage in captivating stories and marvel at authentic artifacts that unveil the deep connection between the land and its people.

As you relish light refreshments amidst the symphony of nature, let this immersive experience leave an indelible mark on your soul. Discover the treasures of Cairns' indigenous heritage like never before, guided by those who hold the wisdom of generations.

Time & Duration: 

• 1:00pm – 4:00pm
• 3 Hours

Details/Inclusions:

• Guided river cruise across the stunning waters of the Cairns Harbor.
• Mandingalbay Yidinji welcome and traditional cleansing smoking ceremony.
• Bus tour through the mangroves, wetlands, and market gardens
• Discover bush foods, tools, and medicine as well as sites of cultural significance.
• Fresh baked Morning Tea with local fruits 
• Return transfer by vessel to Cairns Marlin Marina

7:00 PM- Group Dinner 

Lodging:

Hilton Cairns

34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

+61740502000

Breakfast at the hotel at your leisure. Today we will embark on an unforgettable journey and immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with a Marine Conservation Program. 

Guided by a personal Marine Biologist, we will become a guardian of this magnificent ecosystem, gaining insights and expertise along the way.

As a special inclusion, we take you to Green Island, a 6,000-year-old coral cay, where you'll have the privilege of joining an Indigenous Traditional Owner for a guided exploration. Learn about the rich history of the island, which holds immense cultural significance for Traditional Owner groups in Cairns, adding a profound depth to your Great Barrier Reef experience.

Continuing to the outer reef, the highlight of the day awaits you at a stable marine dive and snorkel pontoon. Dive into two thrilling in-water Snorkel Sessions accompanied by your knowledgeable Marine Biologist guide. In the first session, you'll explore the vibrant reef while receiving expert narration, setting the stage for your second snorkel session. This time, you'll actively participate in citizen science programs, learning how to survey and contribute to conservation efforts firsthand.

Engage in meaningful discussions as your Marine Biologist guide emphasizes the importance of data collection and its impact on ongoing conservation initiatives. Discover how your efforts and observations directly contribute to the preservation of this awe-inspiring ecosystem, ensuring its survival for generations to come.

This is the best introduction to the Great Barrier Reef, where you'll gain knowledge, skills, and awareness that will enhance your subsequent reef day experiences to the fullest.

Time/Duration:

• 8:00am – 5:20pm
• 9 hours (approx.)

Details/Inclusions:

• Passage to and from Green Island & the Outer Reef
• 5 hours of activities on Green Island & Outer Reef
• Indigenous Guided exploration of Green Island (Wunyami)
• Full briefing on the way to the outer reef by your Marine Biologist
• Two in-water sessions guided by your Marine Biologist
• All snorkeling equipment
• Full debriefing on the days events and sightings
• Hot and cold buffet lunch
• Morning and Afternoon Tea

7:00 PM- Group Dinner 

Lodging:

Hilton Cairns

34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

+61740502000

Breakfast followed by a day trip: Cairns Eco Outer Reef Cruise!

Join us aboard Passions III, a luxury sailing yacht operated by a local family, for an immersive and unforgettable experience. Your knowledgeable Master Reef Guide will take you on a captivating exploration of the reef, sharing insights about its vibrant corals, diverse marine life, and fascinating history.

Get ready to encounter turtles, mesmerizing fish, and stunning corals as you snorkel and dive into the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Discover the secrets of this awe-inspiring ecosystem and gain a deeper understanding of its significance, conservation efforts, and future challenges.

Reef Destinations (dependent on weather/tides):

• Flynn Reef
• Milln Reef
• Hastings Reef
• Saxon Reef

Time/Duration:

• 7.15am – 4:45pm
• 9 hours (approx.)

Details/Inclusions:

• Dedicated master Reef Guide Host
• Reserved upper-wheelhouse seating
• 2 reef locations for unlimited snorkeling
• 3-4 hours of in-water activities
• All dive and snorkel equipment 
• Lycra suits
• Hot & Cold Buffet Lunch
• Morning & Afternoon Tea

Optional Extras:

• Intro & Certified Scuba Diving
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Snacks, chocolate, chips
• Souvenirs / Professional photos

7:00 PM- Group Dinner 

Lodging:

Hilton Cairns

34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

+61740502000

Breakfast at your hotel at your leisure. After breakfast, we embark on an incredible journey to the Atherton Tablelands, located just an hour's drive southwest of Cairns. Prepare to be captivated by this mesmerizing region, where a tapestry of landscapes awaits. 

From lush agricultural lands to dense scrub forests and ancient rainforests, the Atherton Tablelands showcase nature's finest creations. Keep your eyes peeled for fascinating wildlife sightings such as the famous flightless cassowaries and endemic Tree Kangaroos, plus we will look for the elusive platypus.

As we traverse through this tropical paradise, admire the majesty of mountain ranges, the beauty of cascading waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring presence of breathtaking national parks, all of which paint a picturesque backdrop. Experience the exhilaration of plunging into the refreshing pools of iconic falls like Millaa Millaa, Ellinjaa, Dinner and Zillie. Delight in the thrill of sliding down Josephine's natural rock slide and encounter the enchanting Curtain Fig tree with its mystic curtain of roots. Immerse into the beauty of the volcanic crater lake, Lake Eacham, as you soak in its serene surroundings.

Your itinerary is designed with flexibility in mind, ensuring that your day is tailored to the preferences of your group. Our expert guides will adapt the schedule, incorporating surprises and accommodating the ever-changing weather conditions. Get ready for a dynamic and personalized adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Time/Duration:

• 08:00pm – 18:00pm
• 10 hours (approx.)

Details/Inclusions:

• Accredited rainforest guide
• Visit stunning lookouts with great photo opportunities
• Multiple freshwater swimming places
• Visit waterfalls, one with a natural water slide
• Attempts to spot unique wildlife – Cassowary, Tree Kangaroo & Platypus
• Morning Tea – biscuits, cakes and muffins
• Locally grown tea and plunger coffee
• *Picnic lunch (fresh bread, salad items, meat & fruit platter)
• Afternoon snacks
• Water for refilling bottles

7:00 PM- Group Dinner  

Lodging:

Hilton Cairns

34 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

+61740502000

Breakfast at the hotel at your leisure.

Today is a travel day. After breakfast, we'll head to the airport for a flight back to Sydney for your return flight home.

We want to thank you sincerely for joining Walker Wellness Retreats for your adventure to Australia. We hope to see you again on a future Walker Wellness Retreat!