Sydney, Wildlife and Waves Family Holiday Itinerary

Welcome to Sydney, the oldest and grandest of Australia's big cities. Dynamic, cosmopolitan and surrounded by stunning natural attractions, Sydney is the ultimate big city getaway. Set on one of the most beautiful harbours in the world and with famous architectural icons such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge to explore, Sydney offers plenty of excitement at any time of the year.

Settle in with a stroll along Circular Quay. With the Harbour Bridge at one end and the Opera House at the other, is there any more iconic place to begin your Australian dream vacation?

Accommodation: Sydney - 1 Nights

Explore Sydney at your leisure this morning before collecting your rental vehicle and exploring the Blue Mountains region.

The Blue Mountains

Prepare to be awed by rugged sandstone cliffs, hidden canyons, towering waterfalls and never-ending expanses of gorgeous eucalyptus forests. The World-Heritage-Listed Blue Mountains region is guaranteed to impress.

Outdoor-lovers will delight in 140 kilometres (87 miles) of walking tracks, surrounded by native bushland and the blue haze which gives the region its name.

Approximate Distance: 65 km | 40 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Blue Mountains - 3 Nights

With a blue horizon of eucalyptus trees that appear to stretch on forever, expect to be enchanted by the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Set out on foot to explore some of the 140 kilometres (87 miles) of walking tracks, admire the native bushland, marvel at the impressive rock formations and explore underground caves on a holiday centred around the outdoors.

Whether you're out for a gentle stroll with the family or embarking on a vigorous multi-day trek with calf-burning descents to the valley floor, the Blue Mountains has a bushwalk to suit every level of ability and enthusiasm.

We recommend popping into the National Park Visitors Centre in Katoomba to discuss options.

There's no better way to take in the breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains than with our Unlimited Discovery Pass. Explore the area at your own pace, starting with a ride on the world's steepest railway into the Jamison Valley. Wander along kilometers of raised boardwalks through the rainforest, where you can spot Lyre Birds and ancient tree ferns among other flora and fauna. Hop on the Cableway to glide past the sandstone escarpment and Orphan Rock, then marvel at the iconic Three Sisters and the valley below from the Skyway. With the Unlimited Discovery Pass, you can experience all of this as many times as you can fit into a single day.

Take a leisurely drive to the picturesque Hunter Valley region, famed for its prestigious vineyards and world-class Semillon wines.

The Hunter Valley

Australia’s oldest wine region is home to a staggering 150 wineries, from the biggest names to tiny boutique growers. It’s only a 40-minute drive from one end of the Valley to the other so there's plenty of time to admire the region's sweeping landscapes: you're likely to encounter your first wild kangaroos here too.

Approximate Distance: 280 km | 174 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 42 mins

Accommodation: Hunter Valley - 1 Night

Relax and enjoy the excitement of the greatest and most beautiful form of flight. Escape to a world of unexpected surprises as you drift with the morning mist over the vines and farms on a Hunter Valley balloon flight.

Our Hunter Valley balloon flights begin at sunrise and take in views of the picturesque wine regions of Pokolbin, Lovedale, Rothbury or Broke. Balloon flights last approximately one hour and are followed by a delicious gourmet breakfast and champagne celebration at the famous Peterson House winery and Restaurant.

Port Stephens is called the "blue water paradise" because of the beauty of its marine surroundings. It is located about two and a half hours north of Sydney, on the East Coast of Australia, and has a population of about 50,000. With over 19 miles of clean, white, sandy beaches, Port Stephens boasts vibrant tourism and fishing industries.

If you are lucky you can view one of the 165 bottlenose dolphins, which live in the area, alternatively, join a tour that takes you around the Port dolphin watching.

Approximate Distance: 115 km | 71 miles   Total Driving Time: 1 hour 30 mins

Accommodation: Port Stephens - 2 Nights

The Roar and Snore experience at Taronga Zoo is a glamping night where guests are treated to an overnight adventure staying in safari-style accommodation and featuring a number of intimate keeper talks, animal encounters and views of Sydney Harbour.

Get up close to some of Taronga Zoo Sydney's friendliest residents. Dine-in style at our delicious dinner then experience an exclusive Taronga night safari led by passionate keepers and guides, with the chance to see some of Taronga's favourite animals.

Approximate Distance: 185 km | 115 miles   Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Unwind in the comfortable safari-style tents, falling asleep to the sounds of the Zoo. 

Accompany one of our highly knowledgeable guides on a journey through Taronga’s Nura Diya Australia Precinct. This immersive tour acquaints you with the diverse Aussie natives residing in Nura Diya, while providing ample opportunities to have your questions about Australian animals answered by our informative guide. Capture the perfect close-up photo of Taronga’s furry Australian native friends, ensuring a memorable experience surrounded by the fascinating wildlife of Australia.

After a wonderful family holiday, return your rental vehicle at Sydney Airport prior to boarding your onward flight. We know you will enjoy your holiday and our promise to you is to make your travels through Australia as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with a camera full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your holiday!