MELBOURNE → SOUTH AUSTRALIA: HERITAGE & COAST EXPLORER

Depart Melbourne this morning aboard your luxury coach, watching the city skyline fall away into the gently undulating countryside of Victoria’s historic goldfields. As you travel west, your hosts share light commentary on the region’s colourful past — a time when fortune-seekers arrived from around the world and small settlements blossomed into thriving towns almost overnight.

Pause in Ballarat, a city where the legacy of the gold rush is written into every streetscape. Grand bluestone buildings, ornate facades and wide, tree-lined boulevards hint at the wealth that once flowed through the district. Enjoy a short stroll along Lydiard Street, one of Australia’s best-preserved Victorian-era avenues, before relaxing over morning tea — a pleasant way to ease into the journey and soak up the town’s gracious character.

Continue north-west toward Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park, where rugged mountain ranges rise dramatically from the plains. On arrival, visit the Brambuk Cultural Centre, the heart of local Indigenous culture. Here, a knowledgeable guide shares stories of Gariwerd’s creation, the region’s creation traditions, and the deep connection the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples maintain with this ancient landscape. Explore exhibits, artwork and artefacts that illuminate thousands of years of history and cultural practice.

As the afternoon light softens, travel to two of the region’s most striking lookouts — Reed Lookout and Boroka Lookout — where sweeping vistas stretch across forested valleys, rugged peaks and quiet lakes. These wide panoramas capture the spirit of Gariwerd and provide memorable photo opportunities.

Arrive in Halls Gap and settle into your accommodation at The Grampians Motel (4★), surrounded by open lawns where kangaroos graze against a backdrop of sandstone cliffs.

Dinner this evening is at The Views Restaurant & Bar, where seasonal regional produce shapes a menu of classic dishes with a contemporary twist — from slow-cooked meats and fresh local vegetables to house-made desserts and a carefully curated wine list. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable way to end your first day in the mountains.

(MT/D)

After breakfast, depart Halls Gap and follow quiet country roads westward, where rolling paddocks, grazing sheep and wide horizons reflect the pastoral rhythm of Victoria’s Western District. Soon you arrive in Hamilton, a gracious rural centre renowned for its cultural heritage and deep connections to Australia’s early wool industry.

Begin your morning with a visit to the Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum. Set beside Lake Hamilton, this engaging collection of memorabilia, photographs and lovingly preserved vehicles traces the remarkable rise of Ansett Airlines — a true Australian story that began right here in the Western District. It’s a nostalgic and insightful look at an era that shaped national travel.

Afterwards, your coach sets you down in the heart of Hamilton, giving you time to wander at your own pace. Explore boutique shops, browse local galleries, admire the impressive bluestone architecture or simply enjoy the town’s unhurried country atmosphere.

Lunch today is at your leisure. Hamilton offers a range of cafés and casual eateries, where you’ll find options from hearty pub-style meals and grilled favourites to lighter café dishes — a relaxed midday pause before continuing westward.

After lunch, rejoin your coach and continue west, crossing into South Australia as the landscape subtly transforms — from sheep-grazing plains to volcanic formations, deep crater lakes and the fertile soils that define the Limestone Coast.

Arrive in Mount Gambier, a town shaped by ancient geology and natural wonder. Visit the iconic Blue Lake, renowned for its vivid seasonal colour, before descending into the serene beauty of Umpherston Sinkhole — a sunken garden oasis where terraced greenery cascades into the limestone bowl.

After a day exploring Mount Gambier’s remarkable natural features, settle into your quality motel-style accommodation — your comfortable base for the night (final property to be confirmed prior to departure).

Dinner this evening is at a local restaurant chosen for its welcoming atmosphere and regional flavours — a fitting way to reflect on the landscapes and stories encountered throughout the day.

(B/D)

Early this morning, depart Mount Gambier and travel north toward the picturesque coastal township of Robe, a town steeped in maritime history and shaped by rugged limestone cliffs, a working fishing fleet and heritage stone cottages. Enjoy morning tea and a stroll along the foreshore, where salt air, rolling surf and colourful boats create a relaxed, postcard-perfect start to the day.

Continue your journey along the Coorong Scenic Drive, a tranquil stretch skirting the edge of Coorong National Park — an extraordinary landscape of sweeping sand dunes, shimmering lagoons and abundant birdlife. This windswept wilderness, immortalised in the novel Storm Boy, represents one of South Australia’s most significant wetland ecosystems. As you travel, your Traipse Coach Tours hosts share insights into the region’s natural importance and cultural stories.

Pause for lunch en route, surrounded by the stillness of the wetlands. It’s a peaceful moment to unwind, breathe in the coastal air and take in the stark beauty of this vast, untouched environment.

In the afternoon, continue toward Adelaide, arriving in the beachside suburb of Glenelg, cherished for its long golden shoreline, historic jetty and lively esplanade lined with cafés, boutiques and ocean views.

Check in to the Stamford Grand Adelaide (4★+), a luxury beachfront hotel set on Moseley Square. With spacious rooms, lift access and sweeping views of Glenelg Beach, it offers an elegant and relaxed base for your stay by the sea.

Tonight, enjoy a three-course dinner at The Promenade Restaurant, where coastal views accompany a menu shaped by fresh South Australian produce. Expect seasonal dishes, locally sourced seafood and warm hospitality — a fitting way to end the day as the sun sets over the Gulf St Vincent.

(B/MT/D)

This morning, depart Glenelg and travel south through tranquil farmland dotted with vineyards, olive groves and softly rising hills that lead toward the coast. Your first stop is Victor Harbor, one of South Australia’s most beloved seaside towns, where sandy beaches, historic buildings and fresh ocean breezes set an inviting pace.

Here, step aboard the iconic Victor Harbor Horse-Drawn Tram, an experience unique to the region. Pulled by beautifully trained Clydesdale horses, the tram carries you across the causeway to Granite Island, offering wide views over Encounter Bay and the rugged coastline. Take time to explore the island boardwalk and enjoy the coastal air before returning to the mainland.

Continue along the coast to Goolwa, where the Murray River completes its long inland journey and meets the Southern Ocean. This charming river-port town invites you to stroll the historic wharf precinct, browse artisan shops or pause beside the water as paddleboats and fishing vessels move through the harbour.

By midday, travel north to Port Willunga, where golden limestone cliffs rise above a turquoise bay. Here you’ll enjoy a relaxed long lunch at Star of Greece, one of South Australia’s most celebrated coastal restaurants. With sweeping ocean views and a menu shaped by seasonal regional produce — including fresh seafood, vibrant salads and contemporary Mediterranean-inspired dishes — it is an exceptional setting to savour seasonal dishes overlooking the sea.

After lunch, return to the Stamford Grand Adelaide in Glenelg. The evening is yours to spend as you wish — perhaps wandering the Jetty Road precinct, choosing a casual waterfront eatery or unwinding with a quiet drink in Horizons Lounge as the sun sets across the Gulf St Vincent.

(B/L)

After breakfast, depart Glenelg and travel inland through a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and softly rolling hills as you make your way to McLaren Vale — one of South Australia’s most celebrated wine regions, renowned for its Mediterranean climate and exceptional Shiraz.

Your morning begins at the remarkable d’Arenberg Cube, an architectural and artistic icon rising above the vines. Inside this five-storey glass structure, wander through imaginative installations, sensory rooms and interactive displays before enjoying a guided tasting of d’Arenberg’s distinctive wines. Afterwards, settle in for lunch at d’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant, where seasonal dishes and regional produce are paired with vineyard views and warm hospitality.

This afternoon, continue into the cool-climate landscapes of the Adelaide Hills. Arrive in Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement — a picturesque village of tree-lined streets, artisan chocolatiers, small galleries and specialty providores. Take time to browse local shops, sample traditional treats or simply enjoy the distinctly European character of the town.

Before leaving the hills, visit Beerenberg Farm, famous for its handmade jams, relishes and condiments. Browse the farm shop, taste a few favourites or choose a selection to take home.

Return to Glenelg by early evening.

Dinner tonight is at your leisure, with a range of coastal and casual dining options available within an easy walk of your hotel — ideal for a relaxed evening by the sea.

(B/L)

Begin your day with free time to explore the iconic Adelaide Central Market, a bustling culinary landmark brimming with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, handmade sweets and aromatic coffee. Wander at your own pace, meet friendly stallholders, sample regional delicacies or simply absorb the lively atmosphere of one of the Southern Hemisphere’s great food markets — a true Adelaide institution.

In the afternoon, continue your discovery of the city. Art lovers may wish to visit the Art Gallery of South Australia, home to an outstanding collection of Australian, Indigenous and international works displayed in elegant heritage galleries. Those seeking time outdoors can explore the Adelaide Botanic Garden, where shaded avenues, lily-filled ponds and Victorian-era glasshouses create a peaceful retreat, or stroll the Riverbank Precinct, where leafy paths and calm waters offer a gentle escape.

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at your leisure — with Adelaide offering a diverse range of restaurants, wine bars and casual eateries to suit your preferred pace and tastes.

After dinner, return to Glenelg for a relaxed evening by the sea.

(B)

Today, embark on a full-day journey through the Barossa Valley, a region synonymous with rich soils, proud winemaking traditions and generations of artisanal producers. As you travel north from Glenelg, the landscape shifts into gently undulating vineyards, historic stone cottages and avenues of gums leading you into one of Australia’s most celebrated food and wine destinations.

Your first stop is the remarkable Whispering Wall at the Barossa Reservoir — an engineering feat more than a century old. Stand at one end of the sweeping curved dam wall and speak in a normal voice; those at the other end will hear you with perfect clarity. It is a surprising and playful demonstration of natural acoustics, set amid peaceful bushland.

Continue into the heart of the valley to the iconic Seppeltsfield Estate, a name woven deeply into Australia’s wine history. Here, enjoy a curated Smelly Cheese Co. & Wine Pairing Experience, where artisan cheeses are matched with premium Seppeltsfield wines — a thoughtful exploration of texture, aroma and regional flavour, guided by knowledgeable hosts.

Lunch today is at Vintners Bar & Grill, one of the Barossa’s most respected dining venues. Savour contemporary regional dishes crafted from seasonal produce, served in an inviting setting overlooking vineyards and softly rolling hills — an experience that reflects the valley’s generous hospitality.

In the afternoon, visit Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, a place of warmth, charm and culinary inspiration. Enjoy a Talk & Shop Experience as you sample Maggie’s signature products, browse shelves filled with gourmet treats and perhaps choose a few favourites to take home. Afterwards, indulge in handcrafted chocolates and confections at the Barossa Valley Chocolate Company — a sweet and satisfying end to your day of regional tastes.

Return to Glenelg in the late afternoon. The evening is yours at leisure — perhaps wander along Jetty Road, enjoy the sea breeze on the foreshore or choose one of the many nearby restaurants for dinner by the ocean.

(B/L)

Farewell Adelaide this morning and journey southeast through rolling farmland, vineyards and red gum country that characterise the Mount Lofty Ranges. As the landscape gradually opens into wide grazing plains, cross into the Limestone Coast — a region shaped by ancient seas, volcanic activity and some of Australia’s most remarkable geological formations.

Arrive in Naracoorte, home to South Australia’s only UNESCO World Heritage–listed site. Here, join a ranger-guided tour of the Naracoorte Caves, venturing into spectacular limestone chambers where world-renowned fossil deposits reveal the long-lost megafauna that once roamed this land. Your ranger brings the past to life with stories of giant marsupials, ancient predators and the natural forces that preserved them for tens of thousands of years.

Following your cave tour, enjoy lunch at your leisure in Naracoorte, where a range of cafés and casual eateries offer simple, fresh meals suited to the relaxed midday pace.

Continue your journey with a visit to the Sheep’s Back Museum, where the history of wool-growing — once the backbone of the district — is explored through thoughtfully curated displays. Discover historic shearing sheds, pastoral equipment and the stories of pioneering families who shaped the region’s rural identity.

Travel east into western Victoria, where fertile farmland gives way to glimpses of the wild Southern Ocean. By late afternoon, arrive in Portland, Victoria’s oldest European settlement — a coastal town woven with maritime history and heritage charm.

Settle into your accommodation (final property to be confirmed prior to departure) before enjoying dinner at your leisure. Portland offers a variety of local eateries where you may choose a meal that suits your tastes at the end of the day.

(B)

After breakfast, step out to explore the many charms of Portland, a town where maritime history, rugged coastline and old-world character come together beautifully.

Begin your morning with a ride aboard the Portland Cable Tram, travelling along the scenic foreshore past botanical gardens, historic buildings and sweeping ocean views — a nostalgic way to take in the town’s distinctive character. Continue to the Portland Maritime Discovery Centre, where interactive exhibits and artefacts share compelling stories of shipwrecks, whaling history and the seafarers who shaped Victoria’s earliest settlement.

Further south, the dramatic cliffs of Cape Nelson Lighthouse rise above the churning Southern Ocean. Here, pause to breathe the crisp coastal air, admire the expansive views and capture photographs of this striking 19th-century beacon perched high above the rugged shoreline.

Return to Portland for lunch at your leisure, with cafés and casual eateries offering fresh, locally inspired dishes suited to the midday pace.

Following lunch, depart Portland and journey east toward Warrnambool, travelling through a landscape of windswept dunes, dairy country, river crossings and glimpses of the famed Shipwreck Coast.

On arrival, visit the award-winning Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village — a faithfully recreated 19th-century port that brings Australia’s seafaring past vividly to life. Wander among dockside cottages, restored sailing vessels, blacksmith forges and merchant stores as costumed guides share stories of storms, shipwrecks and survival along this treacherous coastline. The dramatic tale of the Loch Ard, one of the region’s most significant shipwrecks, adds a powerful note of history to your afternoon.

After your visit, check in to your accommodation (final property to be confirmed prior to departure). Later, enjoy dinner locally — the final restaurant selection will be confirmed closer to departure.

As the evening draws to a close, take a quiet moment to reflect on the experiences and landscapes that have shaped your journey before settling in for the night.

(B/D)

Enjoy breakfast before boarding your luxury coach for the journey back to Melbourne, retracing the coastline and countryside that have shaped the final days of your adventure.

As the miles pass by, pause for morning tea at a scenic stop along the way — a relaxed moment to stretch your legs, enjoy a warm cuppa and share a few last conversations with fellow travellers.

Continue toward the city as rolling farmland gradually gives way to familiar roads. This quieter stretch offers a natural opportunity to reflect on the places visited and the experiences shared throughout your South Australian journey.

Arrive in Melbourne by afternoon, where your Traipse Coach Tours hosts bid you a warm farewell — until your next adventure on the road together.

(B/MT)

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Prices and inclusions correct at time of printing.
Accommodation subject to availability (4★ standard or best available in each location).