Sydney to Cairns Adventure

Welcome to Sydney! Or Warrane, in the language of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land on which Sydney is now located. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After the meeting, get to know your group over an optional welcome dinner. If you arrive early, you could visit the iconic Opera House for a guided tour (advance bookings are recommended), to catch a show or to simply pose for a classic photo on the stairs. Right next door, you’ll find the Royal Botanic Gardens – the perfect spot for a picnic, if the weather’s right – plus plenty of restaurants where you can have lunch with a view of Sydney Harbour or grab some ice cream and go for a stroll along the waterfront.

Head out for a walking tour around The Rocks with your local leader. Wander through sites like Campbells Cove and along the Cumberland Walk while you learn about the area's history and seek out great views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll then have time to grab lunch before heading north to the famous Hunter Valley wine region. When you arrive, sit down for a sommelier-led wine tasting where you’ll hear about the winery’s history and varieties. Finish your tasting and depart for Cessnock, where you’ll check into your accommodation for tonight in the heart of the valley. This evening, maybe head out for dinner with your group.

Today, you’ll make tracks north along the scenic coastal route. Along the way, stop at Crowdy Bay National Park for the easy-to-moderate Diamond Head Loop Walk that winds through forests of heath, paperbark and swamp mahogany at Diamond Head. While taking in the views of golden beaches and dramatic rock faces, keep an eye out for the quartz crystals in the cliffs that sparkle in the sun, giving Diamond Head its name. Whales and dolphins can sometimes be spotted off the coast, and you may even come across a mob of kangaroos between the secluded coves, beaches and forest trails. Later, continue your drive to your accommodation in Port Macquarie.

This morning, you’ll visit the Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie, where you’ll meet the volunteers who work there and learn about how this organisation provides care and treatment for koalas needing rehabilitation. Then, drive to Bellingen, where you might like to grab lunch and enjoy some free time. Continue to Dorrigo National Park via the gorgeous Waterfall Way, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest – the last piece of the ancient subcontinent Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals relatively unchanged from their ancestors. Pop into the Rainforest Centre in the park, take a stroll along the skywalk or explore the rainforest with your group. Continue to your overnight location at Moonee Beach.

Next up is Byron Bay – a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. But first, you’ll start your day with a walking tour of Red Rock with a local First Nations guide. Learn about the culture of the Gumbaynggirr people through stories, songs and the uses of native plants. Walk alongside The Solitary Island Marine Park Waterways and connect with Country as you learn more about the Dreaming. After, you’ll stop in Yamba where you might like to grab some lunch, before visiting Byron Bay Lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot some dolphins, whales and other marine life.

Today is a free day to enjoy the coastal life of Byron Bay. Early risers might enjoy catching the sunrise, while others can enjoy the morning to sleep in. There’s plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Byron Bay, including a beginner’s surf lesson, a guided sea kayaking tour of the Byron Bay Marine Park, or just relaxing at the beach. You’ll have plenty of options for food and drink today thanks to Byron’s thriving café, bar and pub scene. Perhaps get the group together for a dinner overlooking the water? Your leader can help with some recommendations.

This morning, head to The Farm – a collection of micro-businesses on a working farm focusing on growing, feeding and educating through community farming. Maybe grab some breakfast here and add a few extra snacks to have for lunch later on. Continue to Springbrook National Park and take a short walk to Natural Bridge rock arch which was formed by the force of the waterfall over the basalt cave. This afternoon, head to the famous Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast for some beach time before continuing onto Brisbane where you’ll spend the night.