MELBOURNE TO HORSHAM

Welcome to our tour showcasing the fabulous Flinders Ranges including the breathtaking 4WD Arkaroola Ridgetop Tour.  With chauffeured pickup from home, we are transferred to meet our O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours coach and crew, then we travel towards Ballarat and it’s here we enjoy our first lunch together.  This afternoon, we continue our journey to Horsham, where we will spend the night and prepare for the adventures ahead. 

OVERNIGHT: Horsham International, HORSHAM 

HORSHAM TO MURRAY BRIDGE

Departing Horsham after breakfast, we continue our journey towards the South Australian border.  In Kaniva, we see Silo Artwork of an Australian Hobby bird and a pink Sun orchid, that pays tribute to the nearby Little Desert National Park and its diverse flora and fauna. Our lunch venue is the Morning Loaf Bakery in Bordertown. You may not know that Bordertown is the hometown of former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke!  This afternoon, we continue along the Dukes Highway through many small farming towns, stopping at Coonalpyn to view the magnificent artwork on the towns’ grain silo, before seeing the Murray River near Tailem Bend.  The last leg of our travels today takes us in to Murray Bridge for our overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT:  Bridgeport Hotel, MURRAY BRIDGE 

MURRAY BRIDGE TO CLARE

Today, we embark on a journey through the scenic Adelaide Hills, making our way to Hahndorf - Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement and a superb “flashback” to the nineteenth century with its shops, eating houses and attractions housed in authentic surroundings. After time to mooch the main street, we make our way to the renowned National Motor Museum in Birdwood. This museum is not just a collection of vehicles, but an international centre that encompasses the history, preservation, research, education and display of Australian road transport. It offers a fascinating glimpse into our past, present and future. We then continue our scenic drive through to Clare, where we will spend the night, surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of this renowned wine region.

OVERNIGHT: Clare Country Club, CLARE 

CLARE TO THE FLINDERS RANGES

After breakfast, we hit the road once again, passing through historic towns such as Orroroo and Cradock as we make our way towards Hawker. Our lunch break will be at Hawker, where we'll have the opportunity to visit the Jeff Morgan Gallery.  Here, we'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Wilpena Pound, including a stunning round (360 degrees) panorama, as well as other straight panoramas on display. In the afternoon, we arrive at the beautiful Rawnsley Park Station, nestled below the majestic Rawnsley Bluff. We'll be spending two nights here, allowing us ample time to unpack, relax and explore the area. We can take an easy walk to Kangaroo Gap Lookout or Alison Saddle for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. From this base, we'll have the opportunity to explore the stunning Flinders Ranges and even take flights over Lake Eyre. For dinner, we'll be dining in the Woolshed Restaurant, a charming and authentic Australian woolshed, where we'll indulge in a delicious meal made from local produce, with an ever-changing menu that showcases the best of the region. 

OVERNIGHT:  Rawnsley Park Station, FLINDERS RANGES 

EXPLORING THE FLINDERS RANGES

Renowned for their breathtaking wildflowers, as well as dramatic gorges and majestic peaks, the Flinders Ranges are a true natural wonder. Today, we have the privilege of exploring this stunning landscape with a local expert who will provide insider knowledge on the Flinders Ranges National Park. We'll be treated to panoramic vistas, picturesque trails, and unique flora and fauna as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of this iconic region. Along the way, we'll enjoy a delicious packed lunch to keep us energized. In the late afternoon, we'll venture to Pugilist Lookout to witness the awe-inspiring panorama of Wilpena Pound and indulge in Sundowners - a delightful experience of nibbles and drinks while we watch the sun set over the rugged landscape. Don't forget to wrap up warmly to fully enjoy this magical moment. We'll then return to Rawnsley, with memories of a day spent in the heart of nature's wonderland. 

OVERNIGHT:  Rawnsley Park Station, FLINDERS RANGES

RAWNSLEY PARK TO ARKAROOLA

Continuing our journey through the captivating Flinders Ranges, we make our way towards the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary today. Our first stop is the historic and picturesque town of Blinman, known for its copper mining history and standing as the highest town in South Australia. Once a bustling mining community in the 1850s with over 1500 residents, Blinman now has just over 20 inhabitants, making it a fascinating place to explore.  After lunch here, we continue our drive to Arkaroola, located in the Gammon Ranges National Park. Arkaroola is a true gem of Australian tourism, boasting a unique landscape that dates back over 2 billion years and features the most rugged chain of mountains in the Australian Outback.  Upon arrival, we'll have time to settle in and perhaps take a self-guided walk to immerse ourselves in the stunning surroundings before dinner. At night, we'll have the extraordinary opportunity to visit Australia's largest privately owned Astronomical Observatory, where we can embark on tours of the Universe and marvel at the wonders of the night sky from the comfort of "star chairs," an experience typically reserved for scientists and astronomers. It's a truly unique and awe-inspiring way to end the day at this remarkable destination. (The observatory visit is an optional activity, entry own cost/depends on local weather conditions.)

OVERNIGHT:  Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, ARKAROOLA 

DISCOVERING ARKAROOLA

Prepare for an exhilarating day as we embark on the unforgettable 4WD 'Ridge Top Tour'  through the rugged mountains of Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Driving along mine tracks, we'll venture to remarkable locations such as 'Crystal Candy Mountain', Mt Painter, Yundnamutana Gorge and Sillers Lookout, where awe-inspiring views stretch over 80 kilometres across Lake Frome. It's a journey that promises breathtaking vistas and a truly unique experience of the Australian Outback. After our morning adventure, we'll return to Arkaroola for a leisurely lunch. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You can choose to take a self-guided walk and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, or opt for the Echo Camp Back Track Tour, a guided tour that unveils the rich history and heritage of the region. For those seeking a bird's-eye view of the Gammon Ranges, a 35-minute scenic flight over the breathtaking landscape is also available. Of course, if you prefer to simply relax and soak in the tranquility of this unique wilderness sanctuary, there's no shortage of opportunities to kick back and unwind. The choice is yours to make the most of your afternoon in this remarkable destination. (All touring this afternoon is optional and own expense.)

OVERNIGHT:  Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, ARKAROOLA

ARKAROOLA TO PORT AUGUSTA

As we bid farewell to the stunning Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, we embark on a westward journey towards Leigh Creek, and then continue south to our lunch destination at the iconic Prairie Hotel in Parachilna. Renowned for its innovative dishes with Australian native twists, and a focus on local and South Australian produce, the Prairie Hotel restaurant promises a culinary experience like no other. After a delicious lunch, we make our way to Port Augusta, where we have time to relax before dinner. 

OVERNIGHT: Standpipe Golf Motor Inn, PORT AUGUSTA  

PORT AUGUSTA TO MILDURA

Today is a travel day as we bid farewell to Port Augusta and embark on our journey towards Mildura. Our first stop is the picturesque mid-north town of Burra, known for its rich history and charming heritage buildings. After a chance to explore this quaint town, we continue to the Riverland region and Morgan, the largest of the River Ports during the height of the steamer trade between 1877 and the 1900s. The Morgan Wharf, built in 1878, was the hub of all the activity in the town. It is a reminder of the scale of activity, and the level of transportation, which drove the town's economy at the time. Later this afternoon we arrive in Mildura, located on the banks of the majestic Murray River, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich agricultural heritage.

OVERNIGHT:  Mildura Inlander Resort, MILDURA 

EXPLORING MILDURA

Today, we embark on a day of exploration in the vibrant town of Mildura, known for its rich history, beautiful river landscapes, and delicious citrus produce. We'll be introduced to Mildura by a locally-based expert and we’ll learn about the Canadian Chaffey Brothers, George and William Benjamin, who arrived in Mildura in 1886 and established the first irrigation scheme in Australia. We'll hear about life on the river, past and present, and discover the fascinating history of this region.  For lunch, we'll enjoy a unique experience aboard the PV Rothbury, cruising along the river and passing through Lock 11, which was built to bypass the weir across the river. It's a chance to take in the stunning river views while enjoying a delicious meal on board. After the cruise, we'll head to Orange World, a working 50-acre citrus property just a short drive from Mildura. We'll take a citrus tour around the picturesque property, filled with avocado trees, various citrus varieties, and tree grafting areas. There's even an opportunity to hop on a 70-seat tractor train with undercover seating for an informative commentary on citrus production, all delivered with a juicy sense of humour. After a day of exploring and indulging in the flavours of Mildura, we'll return to our accommodation in the evening, with memories of a day filled with local history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes.

OVERNIGHT: Mildura Inlander Resort, MILDURA 

MILDURA TO MELBOURNE

As our journey comes to a close, we embark on the final leg of our trip back home. We'll travel through the picturesque Wimmera-Mallee region, with our first stop at Sea Lake. Here, we'll have the opportunity to witness the vibrant silos that represent a celebration of the tranquility and stillness found in outback Victoria. Continuing our journey, we'll make our way to Donald where we'll stop at the renowned Donald Hotel for a delicious lunch. With satisfied taste buds, we'll follow the scenic route through the Pyrenees Ranges, passing through Ballarat and finally arriving back in Melbourne, completing our wonderful holiday. As always, our chauffeurs will be waiting to carry us to our very doors  - all part of the wonderful O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours experience!