Journey twice across Australia next January — by rail and sea — on a new trans-continental package from Cruise Express.
The adventure begins with three nights aboard the iconic Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth in Gold Class, with gourmet meals and complimentary beverages.
After crossing the starkly beautiful Nullarbor Plain, the train will stop at the remote WA jackeroo outpost of Rawlinna for a roast dinner under an Outback sky.
After a two-night stay in Perth, board the Crystal Symphony for a 12-night voyage back to Sydney, with inclusions such as beverages, specialty dining, enrichment classes, wi-fi and gratuities.
Ports of call include Bunbury, Albany, Esperance, Melbourne, Burnie and Hobart.
Prices are from $9790 per person twin-share.
Phone 1300 766 537 or visit www.cruiseexpress.com.au.
Some of the top hotels in the NSW Blue Mountains will be actively participating in the district’s renowned Yulefest celebrations this winter.
The Escarpment Group’s Lilianfels Resort & Spa, Echoes Restaurant and the Hydro Majestic Hotel will all be offering festive flavours, toasty fires and cheery decorations — and perhaps even a layer of snow.
Each Friday and Saturday throughout July, for instance, visitors to the Hydro Majestic Hotel at Medlow Bath, can indulge in a decadent high tea featuring nostalgic flavours such as ginger, cranberry and roast pork.
The Hydro Majestic experience begins on arrival, as guests wander through the grand Casino Lobby with its iconic domed roof and spectacular chandelier before entering the Wintergarden Restaurant with its ornate fireplace and often-misty Megalong Valley views.
Visit hydromajestic.com.au
Go off-road from rainforest to reef in Queensland’s Tropical North with Dragon Adventures 4WD tours.
Make tracks from Port Douglas on a two-, four- or eight-day experience up to Cooktown and Lions Den, Cape Bedford or Rinyirru (Lakefield) National Park and Cape York.
Feel completely off-the-grid in places rarely explored, diving into hidden swimming holes, camping in rugged ranges under a galaxy of stars, and immersing in local Indigenous culture.
Tours start from $1170 per person for a two-day adventure and $4185 per person for an eight-day drive.
Phone 07 4099 6006 or visit www.dragonadventures.com.au
Park Hyatt Melbourne’s ‘Winter Edition’ provides travellers with a comfortable escape from the cold and an excuse for the ultimate night in.
The hotel is located in the heart of the city and is offering an indulgent stay from $395 per night in an oversized guestroom or suite with a plush king bed and deep soaking tub, as you watch unlimited movies, with an assortment of handcrafted treats and wine being delivered to your door.
The price includes valet parking, wi-fi, late check out at noon and a full buffet breakfast.
The offer is valid till September 30.
Phone 131 234 or visit melbourne.park.hyatt.com
Hunter Valley Gardens will host it annual ‘Snow Time in the Garden’ from June 24 to July 16, turning the resort into an icy, glittering winter wonderland.
Activities include: an ice-skating rink which can fit up to 200 skater; fair-ground rides such as a ferris wheel, swing chairs and a traditional-style carousel; two snow-play areas; jumping castles and obstacle courses; a 40-metre-long ice-toboggan ride; and a 35-metre slide.
Tickets are priced at $32 (adults), $25 (children 4-15 years) and $102 (family pass for two adults and two children).
Visit www.hvg.com.au
