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Tour Wineries in Melbourne

Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Yarra Valley, Sunbury, and Macedon Ranges each have their own distinct climate, geography, and soil types. Making each region suitable for different grapes, therefore different wines.

Mornington Peninsula

Surrounded by bays Mornington Peninsula wineries produce three types of wine that are outstanding, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. The bays keep the climate moderate for these delicate grapes. Port Phillip Estate has an award winning Pinot Noir and it is no wonder with the care they put into their vineyard. This winery attempts to be self sustaining and the human touch is prevalent. The vineyards are hand-pruned, and all the grapes are hand picked.

All the wines at Port Phillip Estate are bottled on site and aged in French oak barrels. Attention to detail is highly important right down to using the geography to naturally use gravity rather than a pump to keep the wine as pure as possible Phillip Estate offers accommodations, dining, special events and wine for sale.

Geelong

Visiting picturesque Geelong will take you into more Pinot Noir and Chardonnay country while you are on the coast, however if you travel inland a ways you will find the wineries winning awards for Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Bellarine Estate Winery received so many awards for the 2013 awards I can not name them all. The produce both red and white. With rolling hills overlooking the coast, cellar door sales, fabulous dining, and outstanding wines this winery is not to be missed. It makes the top of our list for Geelong.

Yarra Valley

Yarra Valley, a mere hour east from Melbourne produces Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, but is particularly well known for the production of sparkling wines. This region grows many different types of produce and has over 40 cellar doors. The landscape in this region is simply gorgeous.

For a one of a kind dining experience he to De Bortoli Winery and Restaurant for lunch. This Italian restaurant serves a la carte items set amid 120 hectares of vines. They are open every day for lunch and on Saturday evenings they serve dinner. James Halliday the leading authority in Australian Wine guidance rated over 70 of De Bortoli Wines with a rating above 90 points. When faced with a relatively flat season for Pinot Noir they came up with a Pino Rose that has received rave reviews. Wine is an art and these artisans are masters at their craft.

Macedon Ranges

Literally at Melbourne’s doorstep begins the Macedon Ranges. The Macedon region is ideal for growing cool climate wines. You can enjoy seeing old fashioned homesteads, beautifully manicured gardens, or stay in a bed & breakfast to get a real feel for this region. This region rich in history is most well known for producing Sparkling wines, Riesling, and Chardonnay.

To immerse yourself in Australian wine country book a suite overlooking the Glen Erin winery. This 4 ½ star resort is gorgeous and offers an event planning staff that can help arrange a wedding, or corporate event. The Macedon Range is the produces wines for the coldest of wine weather and makes for a superb sparkling wine. The Mystic Park Sparkling Macedon is a prime example of this and must not be missed.

Melbourne is surrounded by wineries producing a large variety of reds, whites, and sparkling wines. There are vineyards as small as ½ a hectare that only sell locally and huge vineyards that export all over the world. We have come up with a few suggestions to help you along your tasting adventure. You can spend and afternoon or a week visiting different wineries and you would not get to them all. Come and see why Melbourne has such a fabulous reputation for producing quality wine.

5 Great Guest Houses in Brisbane

Travelling to Brisbane on holiday? Tired of the same old hotels? Have we got some ideas for you! Welcome to our list of five of the greatest guest houses available in Brisbane now. We have options for all budgets at guest houses that are in the city center, a few minutes away in one of the lovely suburbs and one off the beaten path on lovely Moreton Island.

Thornbury Boutique Bed & Breakfast

One Thornbury Boutique Bed & Breakfast is a lovely house that can be rented as whole for up to 14 people or rent one of the seven en suite rooms available. Luxury beds from twin king to king size are in every room and all queen and king size beds boast fluffy pillow tops. Located only 1 km from Central Station there is plenty of shopping, dining, and art galleries within walking distance. There is no pool at this luxury home but you will be rewarded with shaded tropical gardens and lovely kitchen facilities. Individual rooms range from 109-199 or rent the whole house for a special party or family get together.

Aynsley Bed & Breakfast

Aynsley Bed & Breakfast is located in a lovely garden in Paddington, Brisbane. Find yourself waking up to the sweet song of birds singing. Aynsley is a short walk to a variety of cafes, fashion boutiques, antique shops, and galleries. Only a short bus ride to the city center it has all the conveniences of the city without all the hustle and bustle. Sit on your private terrace overlooking the swimming pool or enjoy one of the wrap around verandahs overlooking the gardens. Twin beds or queen size beds are available and prices range from 155-195 per night.

The Dolph Inn

The Dolph Inn is and eco friendly self-contained accommodation located on Moreton Island which is 99% national park, you will need 4WD so it is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast! Activities on the island include 4 wheel driving, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, bush walking, whale & bird watching or of course relaxing. Moreton Island is a mere 40 km from Brisbane and yet it feels like you have been transported to another world. This three bedroom home accommodates up to seven guests and ranges from 200-250 per night, additional charges apply if you need linens provided. There is no pool in this island paradise, you will be too busy snorkeling in the ocean to notice the lack. The Dolph Inn is a unique getaway and great for going green!

Chapel Woods Bed & Breakfast

Chapel Woods Bed & Breakfast is located in Mt. Cootha 9 km from Brisbane city center. Chapel Woods boasts upmarket accommodations, a barbecue area, and kitchenette. Activities include bird watching, hiking, or take a walk through Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary just 6 kilometres away. A 300m stroll will take you to shops and restaurants with plenty of choices. Two rooms are available each with a King bed and sleeper sofa at a cost of 120 – 160 per night. There is a swimming pool and no shortage of outdoor activities.

Franklin Villa

Franklin Villa is a 5 room mansion only 1km from the city center and a 3 minute walk from the cosmopolitan West End cafes and shops. The mansion includes a billiard room, country kitchen, fireplace, gorgeous views from wrap around verandas, a 20m heated lap pool, full gym and spa. Guests can rent one of the 5 rooms or the entire mansion is available for rent with advanced notice. Individual rooms range from 145-195 per night. There you have it, our picks for the five greatest guest houses in the Brisbane area.

Upcoming Events in Sydney – January 2015

Sydney is a city full of things to do. January has a number of things happening for all kinds of tastes and budgets. For sports fans check out the Asian Cup, theater buffs a one of a kind show called Tabac Rouge will be shown during the Sydney Festival. Patriots gather round for outdoor festivities for Australia Day. Get out your tuxedo for the ultimate black tie event. The AACTA Awards will be held at the end of January.

AFC Asian Cup January10-31

Sydney and Newcastle will host the AFC Asian Cup in January 2015. Asia’s sixteen top qualifying teams will compete for the Cup including Japan the 2014 Champion. Other countries being represented in the largest football tournament in the Asia Pacific region are Qatar, Oman, Uzbekistan, and Australia. Ticket prices begin at just $5 for children bringing world class football to every budget. Reserve your tickets online for individuals or groups now to ensure you do not miss a moment of excitement.

Tabac Rouge January 8 – 23

Searching for something different in your travels? James Thierrée grandson of Charlie Chaplin has outdone himself in his latest production of Tabac Rouge. The French Circus performer will transport you to another era while remaining in the modern world. His unique style that brings together circus, dance, theater, the influences of an incredibly talented performing family, and his amazing imagination will leave you bewildered and entertained. His troupe will be in Australia for two weeks. Do not miss this opportunity to feed your artistic side.

Australia Day Sydney January 24-26

Australia Day celebrates the country and the Sydney Harbor is the place to see the festivities. With 80% of Australians living within 100km of the coast it is the most coastal dwelling country in the world and they do the Harbor festival right! Opening day will bring displays from the joint forces of Australia’s military. Other events not to be missed are the Harbor Parade, Tug & Yaht Ballet, WugulOra Indigenous Ceremony, Tall ships Race, and if you really want to get involved join in with 1,000 other swimmers to join in the Great Australian Swim which begins at the Opera House and goes for 2.2 km along Australia’s east coast.

AACTA Awards January 29

A black tie event sure to impress. The 4th annual AACTA Awards will be hosted Thursday January 29, 2015. The Australian Film Institute began recognizing Australia’s finest film and television performers in 1958 and in 2011 started the AACTA Awards, which are Australia’s equivalent to the Oscar’s and the BAFTA’s. More than 40 awards will be given at this year’s event. Book tickets online to the Ceremony and be a part of a magical night honoring Australia’s best performers across a myriad of fields including cinematography, screenwriting, producing, and costume design.

Sydney has a range of events January 2015 for all tastes and all budgets. From swimming the harbor with 1000 other people, to French circus performers, world class football, impressive military displays and black tie events. Whatever your pleasure find it in the Harbour.

A Day at the Spa in Sydney

Sydney has year round good weather and as a result many people are very active in Sydney. With year round activity comes a great need for year round relaxation and rejuvenation. Book a round of golf, on Monday, then on Tuesday book a massage to relax those tight muscles. Want total relaxation and rejuvenation? Check out the packages available at some of Sydney’s best day spas, with services like organic facials, full body massage, and body wraps, or look your best with signature beauty treatments. Allow yourself to be pampered at one of these relaxing day spas.

Alysium Spa

Visit Alysium Spa, the word Alysium comes from Greek mythology, representing the place of serenity, where the Gods come to rest. Rejuvenate mind, body, and soul in a peaceful environment. If you have travelled from far away begin with our special jet lag rejuvenation package designed with the weary traveller in mind. Create a custom spa day with Hot Stone Treatments, Body Wraps, Aromatherapy, or an array of Facials to choose from.

La Prairie 5 Star Spa at The Darling

For the most discerning clientele visit Sydney’s only 5 star La Prairie Spa and take pampering yourself to the next level. With massages starting at 60 minutes to full day spa packages La Prairie is happy to help you customize the perfect spa day. For skin treatments choose from an array of La Prairie products for total rejuvenation. Enjoy a massage, or full body scrub, or even a traditional Moroccan Hamman ritual.

Endota Spa

The Rocks is Australia’s birthplace and a must see while visiting Sydney. Add to your to do list a “hot rocks” Sydney massage at the Endota Spa. Endota serves tea outside (weather permitting) year round. Enjoy any number of wonderful spa treatments including full body massage, organic facials, full waxing services, manicures, pedicures, spray tanning, or design your own custom package with the services you want. This full service spa has everything, for the ultimate day of relaxation.

Panpuri Organic Day Spa

For a truly authentic spa experience, where everything you touch is pure and gentle Panpuri Organic Day Spa is the only choice. Panpuri has brought the most exotic spa services from all over Asia to one spa. Choose from trusted and true Thai techniques for massage, while enjoying a facial with organic ingredients from Jasmine and red fruits. Create your own perfect day at the spa with treatments designed especially for you.

Spa Sublime Blue Mountains

Enjoy a wondrous spa day in the nearby Blue Mountains. Travel an hour and a half from Sydney’s CBD to Spa Sublime Blue Mountains for the ultimate in Australian massage. Spa Sublime uses 100% Australian made spa products, with techniques from Sweden, Hawaii, and Asian inspired bamboo massage. A wide range of facials are available as well as waxing services, and manicures & pedicures. Some of the more unique services available are couples drenching showers, and the twin hydrotherapy spa. For a secluded, relaxing, rejuvenating spa day take a day and head to the Blue Mountains.

Tour Wine Country in Sydney

Sydney is literally on the doorstep to the Hunter Valley and hundreds of wineries. Travel inland in any direction and you will find vineyards growing grapes perfect for Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, sparkling wines, Chardonnay, and Shiraz among others. With hundreds of vineyards and over 100 wineries with Cellar Doors there are days of wine tastings awaiting you surrounding Sydney.

Visit wineries in the Blue Mountains for cooler climate varietals, or stick closer to the coast to enjoy varieties that ripen on the vine longer like Pinot Noir. Whatever your preference for wine Sydney is sure to have something to please within a two hours drive. The most relaxing way to visit the surrounding countryside is with a private coach hire, whether small group or large corporate outings.

Dryridge

Take a drive two hours outside of Sydney and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the Blue Mountains. In the Megalong Valley is a Dryridge Estate, a James Halliday 4 star rated winery. Dryridge produces Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a crisp Rose Cabernet. Stop at the Cellar Door to enjoy different cheese to compliment your wine and enjoy a lazy afternoon watching the sun change the colors of the Blue Mountains to brilliant yellows and oranges.

Margan Winery

Hunter Valley is the oldest wine growing region in Australia, Margan Wineries is part of the new generation of winemakers in the region. With 320 acres of vineyards and a state of the art winery Margan opened in 1997 and is now rated a James Halliday 5 star winery. Margan is leading the charge with a mission of total sustainability. Single vineyard wines are the tried and true method and the varietals available are, Semillon, Verdelho, Chardonnay, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Barbera. Taste their white label ranges to get a feel for the personality of premium wines.

Eling Forest Winery

Southern Highlands is the newest wine region outside of Sydney with the first vineyards planted in the 1980s. Eling Forest is the most established winemaker in the region specializing in cool weather wines like Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Merlot, and Pinot Noir. Private tours and tastings can be arranged for 12-200 guests. A wonderful new winery using the traditional process.

Gledswood Homestead

Only an hours drive from the Opera House you will find a growing region that has been active since 1807. Gledswood Homestead produces a large variety of wines available from their Cellar Door Friday – Sunday. Choose from Sparkling wine, white, red, and rose or try a craft beer or Apple Cider from Rocks Brewery.

Sydney is surrounded by wine country. Whether you drink wine or not the rolling hills, and gorgeous landscapes and seascapes make for a great day trip out. Enjoy a sunset, snap some fabulous photos, or just enjoy a day out and about in wine country.

Unique Party Venues in Sydney

Have a special party or event to host? Looking for a unique venue to impress your guests? We have scoured Sydney for the most unique party and event venues this eclectic city has to offer. Spend a night at the cabaret, party like a rock star at the Roundhouse, host a tea party in the afternoon, or travel back in time to Australia’s colonial days there are modern and historic venues for your perfect party setting. Coach hire is available to get all your guests to your event and safely back again. Check out our picks for the five best party venues Sydney has to offer.

A Night at the Cabaret

Travel back in time to the 1930s to be entertained by magicians at a classic cabaret. Enjoy great live performances by sexy cabaret singers and dancers. Be mesmerized by the magicians, and allow yourself to be whisked away to another world. Experience the intimate storytelling about luck, love, gambling, and risk. Do a doubletake when you witness the magic come alive on stage. The Magicians Cabaret is a fabulous venue for all kinds of parties.

The Roundhouse

The Roundhouse can host any number of events, it’s versatility is so great your imagination is likely the only barrier. Past events have included concerts, comedy shows, mixed martial arts fights, casino nights, fundraisers, formal galas, wedding receptions, and corporate events. The venue can be broken up into smaller spaces, or opened up to accommodate up to 2200 guests for a standing room event, or 900 seated theater style. Pool tables, ping pong tables, dance studios, and music rooms are all among the different room styles at the Roundhouse.

Eden Gardens

Ever want to attend a tea party like the one in Alice in Wonderland? Eden Gardens provides several unique garden settings to be enjoyed as well as indoor rooms for when the weather in Sydney turns to rain. Easily accommodate up to 200 guests with covered parking and coach bays for guests that hire a coach for transport. Have a unique party on unique grounds that will leave all your guests talking.

Experiment Farm Cottage Venues

Have a love for history? Experience a building that has been standing since 1835 and is featured in an 1837 watercolour by Conrad Martens. In 1791 James Ruse farmed 30 hectares as an experiment in self sufficiency and sustainability. Today enjoy colonial gardens with the types of herbs grown at the time, restored buildings and beautiful colonial style furnishings. Host an historic cocktail party with a unique feel.

Gledswood Homestead & Winery

A rustic country winery with rooms that can accommodate 70 – 450 people for large and small get-togethers. Gledswood Homestead & Winery bottles wine onsite, they serve delicious craft, beers and fine Australian cuisine at this lovely facility only an hour and fifteen minutes south of Sydney’s CBD.

Small get-togethers to massive corporate functions Sydney has a venue to suit all size groups and budgets. Let your imagination take you to your favorite era in time.

Corporate Incentive Trip Ideas for Perth

A visit to Perth, together with your co-workers for a company incentive trip, is a great travel idea. If you are looking for a perfect place to spend a week or two, this Australian city has a lot to offer. There are adventures for those of you who want a no-frill experience in the country or for others who would want to explore their own definition for the word ‘adventure’. Here are the places you should put into your travel itinerary for your corporate incentive trip: Read more

Why You Should Visit The Hunter Valley In Australia

Hunter Valley is a very popular wine region in Australia and has played an important role in the history of Australian wine. The region produces wine from a wide selection of grapes such as Chardonnay and Verdelho. However, it is not just about wine; it has many other attractions to visit too. Here are some reasons why you should visit Hunter Valley!

Enjoy a fantastic wine-learning experience

Wine making is Hunter Valley’s forte and they definitely do not fail to impress! This winery location happens to be one of the smallest wine growing areas in Australia but produces some of the best and highly-acclaimed wine in the world. Hunter Valley has close to 200 years of rich heritage and it can be seen and tasted from the wine it produces. Visitors can be taken on a tour of one of its 160 wineries and go on a wine-tasting experience like no other. Visit completely natural vineyards and olive groves and learn about why the type of soil is so important in making good wine. There is much to learn, appreciate and taste!

Be spoilt with a variety of dining choices

Visitors have a wide variety of dining choices to choose from. Have lunch at an Italian restaurant while drinking wine that is sourced straight from the valley or opt for some casual dining at an alfresco café, for diners who are on a budget. Order some takeaway dessert, pies and coffee from one of the eateries or taste some barbeque ribs that are marinated in aromatic wine that are produced right in Hunter Valley. Children can have their share of food too from several kid-friendly restaurants. You may also go several notches up and request for a private dining session at the Peterson house for your colleagues or for a family celebration.

Choose from a wide selection of accommodation

Hunter valley offers a wide selection of accommodation ensuring that visitors on a week long trip to the vicinity do not have to worry about not having a shelter over their heads at night. Visitors can choose from hotels, resorts, pubs and hostels. Each choice differs in cost, amount of amenities and quality of service and there is a choice for everyone!

Engage in a long list of exciting activities

There are other things to do in Hunter Valley other than just drinking wine. Guests can visit art galleries or try some cheese from the shops. They can also go cycling or relax in a spa. The only limiting factor here is time!
Visiting this location may be a difficult task if a large group of people is involved. The return trip will be troublesome as you and your friends are sure to buy a handful of wine or gifts. Chartering a private bus is perfect for this trip as it is comfortable and is able to hold all of the purchases that you and your friends make.

If you would like to find out more about our coach and minibus hire services, please call or send us an email.

Royal Botanic Gardens In Melbourne

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne was founded in 1846 by Lt. Charles La Trobe. Initially, it was basically a swamp, but was over time developed to become the world-famous landscape that it is today. Currently, the gardens are known for being one of the world’s main centers for horticulture, education and science.

Hobart Travel Guide

Hobart is the capital city of the Australian state of Tasmania with a population of approximately 250,000. It was founded by Colonel David Collins in 1804 as a former penal settlement. It’s actually one of Australia’s coldest cities but it does have a mild, temperate climate that attracts many holidaymakers. Ricky Pontin, the former Australian Cricket Captain, was born here, as was the world famous movie legend, Errol Flynn. If you are on a vacation to Hobart, here’s what you need to know!