Sydney to Brisbane Adventure

Day 1  Sydney
Your adventure begins in Sydney. This is the iconic harbour city, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Make your own way to the joining hotel where you’ll meet your leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting in the lobby. Afterwards, head out to explore the historic area around the hotel before heading out for dinner. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to see and do – head down to Circular Quay and check out the world-famous Opera House, or if you’re feeling brave, opt to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge with an Indigenous Storyteller as your guide. For each climber a $20 donation will be made to Tribal Warrior, an Aboriginal-led non-profit organisation. Alternatively, you might like to take the ferry over to Manly Beach for some sun, sea and surf, soaking up the panoramic view of the iconic Sydney cityscape as you cruise along the glittering waters

Day 2  Sydney to Newcastle
Leave the hustle and bustle of Sydney behind for the Hunter Valley, a picturesque wine region in the rural hills of New South Wales. On your way visit a wildlife sanctuary where a ranger will be keeping an eye out for koalas and kangaroos for you. Make your way to what the Hunter Valley is best known for; cheese, and wine, and chocolate! Continue your drive to Newcastle. It may only be a fraction the size of Sydney, but this beach side city is jam-packed with trendy bars and a buzzing arts scene. This evening why not head out for a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants or simply settle in at a friendly pub for a night of live, local music.

Day 3  Newcastle to Port Macquarie
After a local breakfast, hit the scenic Lakes Way and witness epic coastal views at their best as you drive past spectacular beaches and lakeside communities. Hit the pristine waters of Wallis Lake on a lunch cruise and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great Lakes. Continue on your way north and stretch your legs on a leisurely walk and climb to a lookout where you can take a moment to soak up panoramic vistas of the breathtaking shoreline. Continue your journey to Port Macquarie where you’ll spend the night.

Day 4  Port Macquarie to Dorrigo National Park
This morning, meet the volunteers at a local koala hospital. If you’re able to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, continue to the country town of Dorrigo via the spectacular Waterfall Way and Dorrigo National Park, known for its lush, sub-tropical rainforest, a remainder of the forests that once covered the ancient supercontinent of Gondwanaland. Few places on Earth contain so many plants and animals which remained relatively unchanged from their ancestors over such a long period. See Dangar Falls and if time allows, take a refreshing dip in its cascading waters. Finish the day in true Aussie style in Dorrigo at a traditional pub where you can relax, order some grub, have a few drinks and even play some pool. Why not opt for an Aussie classic like a chicken ‘parma’, or the quintessential meat pie.

Day 5  Dorrigo National Park to Byron Bay
This morning head back towards the coast and be rewarded with a stop in Orara East State Forest to share in the unique and immersive Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land, lore and ancient cultural knowledge. Enjoy 360 degree views, experience speaking language and practice culture on Country. Next up is Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. On arrival, pay a visit to the local lighthouse for a unique photo opportunity and the chance to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life. Then enjoy a walk with Cockatoo Paul, a colourful local character, and learn about useful plants found in an urban environment: edible, medicinal and more. If you are lucky on the day, you can spot a small bat colony, and will also have the chance to learn how to make a fire by friction, and a useful demo on how to make a palm frond basket in the wild.

Day 6  Byron Bay
Get up early or sleep late, sunrises are pretty ace at from Australia's most easterly point, but the choice is yours. It’s a free day today so perhaps kick-start the morning with a swim in the ocean or hunt down the best cold-brew coffee from one of Byron’s quirky cafes. Stroll along the streets and check out the trendy boutiques or stretch out your limbs at an optional yoga class. If you’re a seafood fan, head to The Balcony Bar for some delicious oysters or simply enjoy a cocktail or two as you people-watch from the outdoor terrace. If the waves are right, why not try your hand at surfing or just loll about on the one of the endless beaches. It’s a hard life.

Day 7  Byron Bay to Brisbane
Rise and shine as you begin your adventure along the sun-kissed coast from Byron Bay to Brisbane where your trip will come to an end on arrival at around 10am.