A Coast-to-Coast Journey of Wildlife, Wine and Wonder

For somewhere so far away, Australia is a destination that absolutely delivers on the effort it takes to get there. It’s a country that feels like several in one - ancient rainforests, cosmopolitan cities, world-class wine regions, rugged coastlines, and remote islands that you’ll never want to leave.

This itinerary was designed for clients who wanted to experience the best of Australia in one trip, without feeling rushed or repetitive. Over three weeks, it combines wildlife, wine, food, coastlines, and plenty of time in nature, all while staying in some of the country’s most unique and well-regarded hotels.

Here’s how I’d do it.

Stop 1: Kangaroo Island (3 Nights)

The journey starts on Kangaroo Island, just a short hop from Adelaide but a world away in atmosphere. Often referred to as Australia’s answer to the Galápagos, the island is rich in wildlife, with kangaroos, koalas, sea lions and echidnas all calling it home.

You’ll stay at the newly rebuilt Southern Ocean Lodge, perched on the cliffs overlooking Hanson Bay. The views are vast, the design is sleek and contemporary, and the food and wine focus heavily on local produce and South Australian vintages.

Days here are about exploring the island’s landscapes and wildlife with expert guides. Visit Seal Bay to see Australian sea lions up close, walk among the otherworldly granite formations of the Remarkable Rocks, and take scenic coastal walks along the clifftops. In the evenings, you can stargaze under some of the clearest skies in the southern hemisphere, or just relax with a glass of wine overlooking the ocean.

Stop 2: Barossa Valley (2 Nights)

Next, it’s a short journey into the Barossa Valley, Australia’s most famous wine region. The landscape changes to rolling vineyards and big skies, and the pace of life slows considerably. You’ll stay at The Louise, a boutique retreat set amongst the vines, where days start with vineyard views and end with sunset over the valley.

Private tastings are arranged at some of the region’s best-known wineries, but it’s not just about the big names. The Barossa is full of small, family-run estates and innovative winemakers producing world-class Shiraz and Grenache. Alongside the wine, you’ll enjoy a private chef experience and a guided visit to the local farmers market - an ideal way to understand the produce that underpins the region’s reputation for food.

Stop 3: The Riverland (2 Nights)

From the Barossa, continue to the Riverland and check in to The Frames, a collection of ultra-private luxury villas perched on the cliffs above the Murray River. Each villa is designed for privacy and comfort, complete with a private pool, spa, and expansive river views.

The Murray River is the lifeblood of this region, and you’ll explore it on private cruises, gliding through quiet backwaters and wetlands teeming with birdlife. There’s also the option to join a sunset cruise, complete with a local tasting platter and regional wines. Back at the villa, you can opt for an in-villa chef experience, turning your stay into a fully personalised retreat.

Stop 4: Grampians National Park (1 Night)

Leaving South Australia, you’ll cross into Victoria and spend a night at the Royal Mail Hotel, renowned for its destination restaurant, Wickens. With one of the most extensive wine cellars in the country and a kitchen garden that drives the menu, dinner here is an experience in itself.

The Grampians National Park is known for its striking sandstone ranges, waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art. Whether you prefer a gentle walk to a lookout point or a more challenging hike, the park’s trails reward with sweeping views and a real sense of connection to the land.

Stop 5: Port Fairy & The Great Ocean Road (2 Nights)

Next is Port Fairy, a laid-back historic town that marks the start of the Great Ocean Road. You’ll stay at Drift House, a stylish boutique property that combines heritage charm with contemporary design.

From here, set off along the Great Ocean Road - one of the world’s great coastal drives. The route takes in rugged cliffs, windswept beaches, and landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Along the way, stop to explore the Great Otway National Park, with its ancient rainforest, waterfalls, and glow worm caves. The mix of dramatic scenery and small-town charm makes this a particularly memorable stretch of the journey.

Stop 6: Melbourne (3 Nights)

Arriving in Melbourne, you’ll check in at HYDE Melbourne Place, an apartment-style hotel that places you in the heart of the city’s creative and cultural scene. Melbourne is a city best explored on foot, from the graffiti-covered laneways to the coffee shops, wine bars, and design stores that fill its hidden corners.

A private tour introduces you to the city’s vibrant food scene, while a day trip to the Mornington Peninsula offers a different flavour entirely - think vineyards, artisanal producers, coastal views, and the natural hot springs. You’ll also have a private wildlife encounter, getting up close to native species in a setting that feels more intimate and authentic than the typical zoo experience.

Stop 7: Sydney (3 Nights)

Next, it’s on to Sydney, where you’ll stay at Capella Sydney, a new benchmark for luxury in the city, housed in a grand heritage building. The location puts you within easy reach of Circular Quay, the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the historic Rocks district.

Sydney is a city of water, and the best way to experience it is by getting out on the harbour. Whether by private yacht or a guided boat tour, seeing the skyline from the water is a must. There’s time to explore Bondi Beach, visit art galleries, or just enjoy the dining scene that ranges from fine dining to buzzing neighbourhood spots. It’s a city that manages to feel both laid-back and cosmopolitan all at once.

Stop 8: Lord Howe Island (4 Nights)

A short flight from Sydney takes you to Lord Howe Island, a place so pristine that visitor numbers are strictly limited to preserve its delicate ecosystem. It’s a paradise of clear lagoons, volcanic peaks, and vibrant coral reefs.

You’ll stay at Capella Lodge, an intimate and luxurious retreat with uninterrupted views of the island’s dramatic twin peaks. The days are yours to explore - snorkelling over the reef, diving with turtles, hiking Mount Gower for panoramic island views, or simply cycling around the island with barely another soul in sight.

The lodge itself is as much a highlight as the island. Expect daily changing menus featuring fresh seafood and local produce, paired with Australian wines. Evenings are peaceful, with nothing but the sound of the waves and the stars overhead.

Stop 9: Sydney (1 Night)

For your final night, you’ll return to Sydney and check into the Park Hyatt, arguably the best located hotel in the city, sitting directly across from the Opera House. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the trip, with views of the harbour that feel quintessentially Australian.

Spend your last afternoon exploring the city at leisure, perhaps with a long lunch or a sunset walk along the harbour before your flight home.

This itinerary is one of the most complete ways to experience Australia. It stitches together coastlines, islands, wine country, rainforests, rugged national parks, and some of the country’s most exciting cities — all without ever feeling rushed. Each place offers something entirely different, but the whole trip flows with a balance of adventure, relaxation, and a constant thread of great food and wine.

Whether it’s snorkelling on Lord Howe Island, tasting wine straight from the barrel in the Barossa, watching kangaroos hop past your clifftop lodge on Kangaroo Island, or simply enjoying a glass of something cold by Sydney Harbour, this is the kind of trip that reminds you why the journey was worth it.

A trip like this typically starts from around £60,000 for two people, including accommodation, private touring, internal flights, transfers, and many of the experiences outlined. As always, the final cost will depend on the time of year, availability, and how the itinerary is tailored.

If you’re considering a trip to Australia — or anywhere else in the world — get in touch and I’ll help you design a journey that’s completely bespoke to you.