Whether you’re chasing iconic harbor views or the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road, this 12-day journey captures the very best of Australia’s eastern seaboard.
Bondi Icebergs Pool
Part 1: Harbour Views & Sunshine States
Days 1–3: Sydney Sophistication
Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney (3 Nights) Base yourself at Circular Quay for easy access to the ferries and the historic Rocks district. Breakfast here is a cannot miss – fresh local produce and delicious inventive dishes. Amazing coconut milk cappuccino.
- The Bondi Experience: Head to the coast for a day at Bondi Beach. Walk the stunning Coogee to Bondi coastal trail, then cool off with a swim at the world-famous Bondi Icebergs Pool.
- Dining: Grab a delicious sandwich at S’WICH for lunch (Schnit is my fave)
- Sights: Explore the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Day 4: Brisbane River Life
Stay: W Brisbane (1 Night) Fly into the “River City” and check into the bold, colorful W.
- The Main Event: Head down to the Howard Smith Wharves. Grab a table at Felons Brewing Co. This is the ultimate Brisbane vibe—sit right on the riverbank under the Story Bridge with a wood-fired pizza and a local brew (try the Bay Bugs – kind of like crawfish).
- Sights: Walk through the South Bank Parklands or visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA).
Day 5: Gold Coast Glitter
Stay: voco Gold Coast (1 Night) A short drive south brings you to the heart of Surfers Paradise.
- Sights: Take a sunset stroll along the beach or head up to the SkyPoint Observation Deck for 360-degree views of the coastline and hinterland. Walk along miles of uninterrupted white sandy beaches.
- Dining: For dinner, try Rick Shores at Burleigh Heads (a short Uber away) for their famous bug rolls.
Part 2: Coastal Slowdown
Days 6–7: Byron Bay Bliss
Stay: The Lord Byron (2 Nights) Trade the city lights for the laid-back luxury of Byron.
- Breakfast Ritual: Start your morning like a local at Bayleaf Café. Known for its incredible coffee and creative dishes (try the “Mushies on Toast”), it is the heartbeat of Byron’s food scene.
- Sights: Hike the Cape Byron Lighthouse track to see the sunrise. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot dolphins or whales from the cliffs.
- Dining: Spend your evening at The Farm for a true “paddock-to-plate” experience at Three Blue Ducks.
Part 3: The Great Southern Road Trip
Day 8: Melbourne Elegance
Stay: The Langham, Melbourne (1 Night) Fly to Melbourne and settle into the classic luxury of the Southbank.
- Sights: Wander the laneways (Hosier Lane and Degraves St) to discover the city’s world-class street art and hidden coffee shops.
- Dining: Enjoy the Langham’s famous High Tea or head to Gimlet at Cavendish House for a sophisticated cocktail and dinner. Don’t miss the fresh made juice at breakfast.
Day 9: The Great Ocean Road – Stop 1
Stay: Captain’s at the Bay, Apollo Bay (1 Night) Pick up your rental car and begin one of the world’s most scenic drives.
- Sights: Stop at Torquay and the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park.
- Dining: Grab a fresh lobster roll at the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op.
Day 10: Shipwrecks & Hot Springs
Stay: Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs, Warrnambool (1 Night)
- Sights: Explore Loch Ard Gorge and the Bay of Islands.
- Relaxation: Spend the evening soaking in the Geothermal Hot Springs located right at your hotel—the perfect remedy for a long day of driving.
Part 4: The Grand Finale
Day 11: Melbourne’s Waterways
Stay: W Melbourne (1 Night) Drive back to the city via the inland route to maximize your time in the CBD.
- Lunch on the Water: For your final day, rent a GoBoat (electric, self-drive picnic boats). No boat license is required! Pack a gourmet hamper and some drinks, and cruise the Yarra River for a unique, private lunchtime perspective of the Melbourne skyline.
- Final Celebration: End your trip with dinner at dinner at Lollo – finish with a Tam Tam tiramisu for dessert!
CLAUDE TRAVEL 