Our journey begins at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah, where sweeping views across the valleys meet vibrant displays of cool-climate plants. Surrounded by crisp mountain air and natural beauty, we take time to wander the gardens before continuing to the heritage village of Millthorpe. Here, a visit to the Millthorpe Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past, followed by a leisurely lunch onsite and time to wander through the many boutique shops within the town.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Orange and settle into our hotel. This evening, we gather for dinner at Duntryleague, a grand 19th-century mansion now home to one of Orange’s finest dining experiences. With its elegant architecture, sweeping lawns, and menu celebrating local produce, Duntryleague offers a warm welcome and the perfect setting to share good food, fine wine, and great company as we toast the beginning of our journey.

Overnight: The Remington, Orange

Meals Included: Morning tea, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we begin with a guided tour of Orange, exploring its rich heritage, graceful streets, and welcoming country charm. Late morning, we travel to Canowindra, where we’re treated to a delightful lunch at Montrose House — a beautifully restored heritage residence brimming with character, elegance, and warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, we visit the fascinating Age of Fishes Museum, where ancient fossils tell the story of a prehistoric world beneath the waves. As the day unfolds, excitement builds for the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge, one of Australia’s most enchanting regional festivals. The skies come alive with vibrant hot air balloons drifting above the countryside, creating scenes of breathtaking beauty. As evening falls, we gather for the Balloon Glow — a magical spectacle where balloons light up in unison against the night sky, accompanied by music, local food stalls, and a joyful festival atmosphere. It’s an unforgettable experience, full of colour, wonder, and celebration. Dinner tonight is at your own expense, allowing time to enjoy the local festivities at your leisure.

Overnight: The Remington, Orange

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today we’re welcomed by Allen Vorias from Ideal Tours for a guided exploration of Cowra, a town rich in history and renowned for its message of peace and reconciliation. Our visit to the Cowra Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre is a highlight — a tranquil masterpiece of traditional design featuring flowing streams, tiered waterfalls, stone lanterns, and beautifully sculpted landscapes. Created in the Edo style, the garden offers a serene space for reflection and harmony, celebrating the enduring friendship between Australia and Japan. After time to wander and enjoy the peaceful surrounds, we pause for lunch at the Gardens Café, overlooking the lush grounds.

In the afternoon, we journey back toward Orange for a wine tasting at See Saw Wines, sampling elegant cool-climate varietals that showcase the region’s high- altitude terroir. As evening falls, we return to our hotel for a relaxed in-house dinner, bringing the day to a gentle and satisfying close.

Overnight: The Remington, Orange

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we farewell Orange and travel east toward Bathurst, beginning with a visit to the grand Abercrombie House — a stately Scottish baronial mansion steeped in history and filled with fascinating stories of early colonial life. We then continue into Bathurst, where our coach driver leads a guided heritage tour through Australia’s oldest inland city. As we pass historic landmarks and gracious streetscapes, we gain insight into Bathurst’s gold rush past and pioneering spirit. A highlight of the morning is a “hot lap” of Mount Panorama, the iconic racing circuit offering sweeping views across the city and surrounding countryside.

From Bathurst, we ascend into the beautiful Blue Mountains, where dramatic landscapes and cool-climate charm create a fitting backdrop for our lunch at a local hotel. Afterward, we relax and enjoy the scenic journey back to Sydney, reflecting on the wonderful experiences, friendships, and memories gathered throughout our tour.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch