KING VALLEY & HIGH COUNTRY (SIGNATURE 4-DAY TOUR)
DISCOVER VICTORIA'S PICTURESQUE KING VALLEY AND HIGH COUNTRY ON THIS 4-DAY PRIVATE TOUR. MEET SOME OF THE BEST WINE MAKERS ALONG PRESECCO ROAD, SAVOUR GOURMET PRODUCE AS YOU CYCLE THROUGH QUAINT VILLAGES, ENJOY GOURMET DINING EXPERIENCES AND RELAX IN THE REGIONS FINEST BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION.
DAY 1: KING VALLEY, PROSECCO ROAD & ITALIAN HOSPITALITY
Meet your local guide in the lobby of your Melbourne hotel (08:30am) before departing on your four-day tour of the King Valley and High Country.
Your first stop will be Pizzini Wines located on what is known as ‘Prosecco Road’ in the heart of the King Valley. This family owned and operated winery specializes in the production of Italian wine varieties such as Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and of course Prosecco!
Meet your host then journey amongst the vines to learn firsthand how the Pizzini vineyard has evolved and why certain sites are more suited to particular varieties or wine styles than others. From the vineyard head to the winery barrel room for a tutored tasting of current and back vintage wines. In true Italian fashion, enjoy a sumptuous grazing platter with estate wines for lunch overlooking the vineyard.
As for the afternoon, continue to sample wines at neighbouring King Valley vineyards such as Chrismont and Dal Zotto Wines before transferring to your accommodation for the night, Lancemore at Milawa.
This evening is yours at leisure with the option to dine at Restaurant Merlot or perhaps utilize the in-house room service.
DAY 2: EXPLORE THE QUAINT TOWNSHIP OF BRIGHT AND THE HIGH COUNTRY
Today we journey deeper into Victoria’s High Country to explore the picturesque and historic village of Bright. Located on the Ovens River and surrounded by mountains, Bright has long been a popular getaway offering something special in every season.
Upon arrival in Bright, hop on a bicycle for a ride taking in scenic views on a rail trail from Bright to Porepunkah (e-Bikes available if preferred). Take in the mountain views, break for an espresso at the quaint Rail Trail Café. Further down the trail the team at Feathertop Winery will share insights to the Boynton family’s favourite picnic spots amongst the vines. Select your preferred location then explore the grounds while your vineyard service angels prepare your picnic lunch.
Returning to Bright, explore the township and its stunning riverside setting. Foodies may wish to sample locally made chocolates, enjoy an ale at the friendly Bright Brewery, or gin tasting at Reed & Co Distillery. Alternatively embark on the easy one-hour Canyon Trail which meanders along the banks of Ovens River and takes in two swing bridges. Your guide can assist with arrangements.
Departing Bright, venture on to historic Beechworth, arguably Australia’s best-preserved gold mining town. The evening is yours at leisure. Blessed with wonderful dining options, consider The Ox & Hound Bistro for something special, the Empire Hotel for warm hospitality and elevated pub fare, or pizzas and ale at Bridge Road Brewers.
For the next two-nights you will rest in comfort at Freeman on Ford, Beechworth.
DAY 3: BUSHRANGERS & THE GOLD-RUSH IN HISTORIC BEECHWORTH
Don’t let the graceful, gold-rush-era architecture and friendly folk of Beechworth fool you. The town was a hot bed of revolutionary fervour when the Kelly Gang roamed the countryside and were frequent guests of Her Majesty at Beechworth Gaol. Incensed with the brutal behaviour of the Victoria Police, Ned Kelly reputedly threatened to declare Victoria’s north-east a republic before his capture, conviction, and execution in 1880. Life is calmer these days, with Beechworth ruled by food and wine producers rather than bushrangers and the constabulary.
Following breakfast, join a local historian who will bring to life the stories of the gold-rush and infamous Kelly Gang on a private walking tour of this town steeped in history.
The afternoon is yours to continue to explore the town’s heritage boutiques, antique stores or visit the famed Beechworth Honey for a tasting. For the energised, walk to Woolshed Falls, home to thousands of miners during the height of the Gold Rush in the 1850’s.
Dinner this evening will be at Provenance, one of Australia’s most esteemed regional restaurants. Housed in the former Bank of Australasia building, Provenance’s reputation is as high as the soaring six-metre ceiling in the dining room. Chef Michael Ryan’s abiding fascination with Japan finds expression in a menu that marries Australian produce with exquisite Japanese flavours.
DAY 4: SCENIC RETURN TO MELBOURNE VIA THE YARRA RANGES
Farewelling the High Country, return to Melbourne along the scenic route travelling through the agriculturally rich and picturesque central Victorian countryside. In the foothills of the spectacular Cathedral Range we stop at Buxton Trout and Salmon, Australia’s first commercial trout farm where fish have been reared for over 50 years. The gravity fed water supply originates from the pristine snowfields of Lake Mountain providing the perfect place to grow a clean, natural food. Join a private behind-the-scenes tour of the farm and sample their famous Mountain Ash Smoked Trout, premium hand-milked salmon caviar before dropping a line and catching your own lunch.
Our journey continues along one of the most ethereally beautiful drives in the state. The Black Spur cuts through the forest landscapes of the verdant Yarra Ranges. Savour the fragrance of the Australian bush as you gaze up at the immense mountain ash trees scattering sunlight on the cool understorey of green ferns below. From here it is just a quick hop step to central Melbourne where your journey of Victoria’s King Valley & High Country concludes (Approx. 06:00pm)
INCLUSIONS
Private tour hosted by an expert local guide
Luxury vehicle with bottled water & travel snacks
Pizzini experience with lunch
King Valley wine tastings
Bicycle & helmet hire
Private walking tour of Beechworth
Buxton Trout & Salmon Farm experience
MEALS
Day 1: Lunch with beverages
Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch with beverages
Day 3: Breakfast, Dinner (Excluding beverages)
Day 4: Breakfast, Lunch with beverages
ACCOMMODATION
Night 1: Lancemore, Millawa (Garden View Room)
Night 2: Freeman on Ford, Beechworth
Night 3: Freeman on Ford, Beechworth
(Twin-share occupancy with breakfast)
We welcome requests to tailor tour itineraries and inclusions to suit specific needs, interests and budgets, so please contact us to discuss options.
