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Killer Whales & Kangaroos

Posted on May 23, 2019July 8, 2020 by Nicola Billens

I recently discovered an experience that I didn’t know was even possible in Australia – seeing killer whales in a newly discovered marine hotspot.

In the south of Western Australia (about a 5.5 hour drive south east from Perth) lies a peaceful little coastal town called Bremer Bay. It’s from here that you can take an ocean expedition to encounter killer whales and a myriad of other marine and bird life that congregate here.

It’s about a one and a half hour cruise to reach the ocean hot spot – the deep sea Bremer Canyon. Here during the months of January to April, cold, nutrient-rich waters flow from the Antarctic and attract killer whales, dolphins, sperm whales, giant squid and much more.

The expedition was on a vessel purpose-built for the wild Southern Ocean with Australian Wildlife Journeys member Naturaliste Charters. On the trip I spent time with ‘Search for the ocean’s super predator‘ documentary maker David Riggs – the man who ‘discovered’ the region and who is doing all in his power to keep the area protected from oil and gas mining. His knowledge of the marine life and passion for the region is second to none. Also on board was a marine biologist plus a bird expert / photographer. We learnt all about the behaviours of orcas and the interspecies interactions between this apex predator and other marine life.

When we arrived at the ‘hot spot’ the anticipation on the boat as we looked for signs of the creatures was almost palpable. Everyone was on the look out for birds, surface oil slicks and spouts of water. But these are wild creatures and they hadn’t received the memo that we’d be there at 11am. In my heart I feared we wouldn’t see them but I had nothing to worry about – sure enough the experienced team found us what we came to see.

Whilst it was almost the end of the season, all up we saw two pods of killer whales (including a baby orca), about 100 pilot whales, dolphins, seals and the spouts of two blue whales. It was amazing to see these incredible creatures in the wild. Just days before I went out, guests were lucky enough to even see a pod of killer whales hunt down a blue whale!

Read our trip notes by Naturaliste Charters.

It’s a full day experience at sea from about 7.45am to 4pm with lunch and snacks served on board. Think of it as a mini-Antarctica expedition without the ice and cold. The cruise runs January to April.

After my day out at sea I was headed to Albany, a two hour drive away. As I pulled out of the car park two kangaroos jumped across the road. Whoever thought you’d see killer whales and kangaroos in one day?

Click here to incorporate an experience like this into your Australian itinerary

Western Australia’s Gourmet Escape Festival

Posted on May 10, 2019May 23, 2019 by AimieEB

Since 2012, Gourmet Escape has established itself as a world-class annual food and wine festival, highly anticipated by chefs and visitors alike. The festival brings together the world’s best chefs, sommeliers and food critics at over 50 incredible events in breath-taking locations.

2019 will see an exciting development of this multi award-winning festival, expanding from Margaret River to include two new regions, Swan Valley and Perth over a 10-day program, 08 November to 17 November.

Guests will love the range of extraordinary experiences to suit all ages; culinary festivals, fine dining opportunities and premium gourmet experiences in breath-taking locations.

Swan Valley – Gourmet Feast in the Valley

A festival that has rustic charm, for all of the family to enjoy. Combining top-class food with live music in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Can be enjoyed as a day trip from Perth (25 mins travel time)

Perth Collaboration Dinner

Gourmet Escape will create a city culinary hub amplifying the best of ‘Culinary Perth’. This will be a memorable collaboration dinner with lauded chefs celebrating WA’s premium produce and wine.

Margaret River – Westpac Gourmet Beach BBQ

Enjoy privileged access to Castle Rock Beach, which is transformed into an uber-stylish waterfront eatery with giant tipis and live music for relaxed lunch BBQ feast with a beach party vibe. Castle Rock Beach is located within Meelup Regional Park, a Class A Reserve noted for its pristine environment and ecological significance.

Margaret River – Sunset Beats & Bites

Mix a handful of new wave winemakers, some local craft breweries and a good dose of cool beats. Add an iconic Western Australian sunset, delectable, delicious food and you have arguably Gourmet Escape’s most sought after party at the Sunset Beats & Bites event.

Margaret River – The Gourmet Village

At the heart of the Margaret River event programming is the must-see Gourmet Village, a buzzing world of culinary excitement and the perfect opportunity to experience the delectable delights the region has to offer. General admission tickets gain entry to the festivals many culinary delights

Contact the Alquemie team for tickets and travel packages!

Iconic luxury at the InterContinental Hayman Island

Posted on May 9, 2019November 22, 2022 by AimieEB

Welcome to a new era of immersive luxury in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. With an impressive refurbishment in 2019, the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort will immerse you in a world of breathtaking natural beauty, iconic island experiences and sacred moments of connection with your family, friends and yourself.

Hayman Suite

Nestled at the northernmost point of the stunning Whitsundays, Australia’s most iconic private island resort redefines luxury island living with 166 beautifully-appointed rooms, suites and villas artfully intertwined with spectacular pools, panoramic seascapes and tropical gardens. From the moment your feet hit the sand, you’ll discover unforgettable island experiences where exploring the world-famous Heart Reef by air, turquoise swirls of Whitehaven Beach by boat or remote rainforest mountains by foot is just the beginning.

Hayman Beach House

Embark on a culinary adventure with five innovative dining experiences designed to delight the senses and fuel the soul, boasting a diverse selection of cuisine to suite every palette from modern Asian-infused menus to family-friendly Mediterranean cuisine, spectacular seafood delicacies to poolside cocktails.

Blue Pearl Bay

Seeking something deeper. The Hayman® Spa will inspire you to leave the world behind and immerse you in one-of-a-kind treatments, wellness philosophies and luxurious products that will renew your body and mind. While the little ones will discover their own island paradise in a world-class kid’s club. Blending fun and nature to create a collection of entertaining experiences and adventures connecting them to the island wonders that surround them.

Get in touch with Alquemie to experience the InterContinental Hayman Island Resort and discover a place of visual and visceral beauty so deep, it will leave you feeling transformed.

An immersive & luxurious Tasmanian itinerary

Posted on January 30, 2019June 26, 2019 by Nicola Billens

Immerse yourself in Tasmania’s natural beauty with a perfect balance of luxury and adventure.

Start your Tasmanian journey in the Hobart waterfront precinct at the unique storytelling hotel, MACQ 01, set on a site with a colourful and distant past. Spend the afternoon with a private driver to show you the sights of Hobart and introduce you to the remarkable stories of some of its most interesting characters before being enlightened or shocked at MONA with its controversial collection of modern and ancient art.

Experience the remote rugged South West with an unforgettable full day tour via scenic flight to the incredibly remote waterways and wilderness of Bathurst Harbour and Port Davey. Leave civilisation behind as you see the rare and endangered Orange-Bellied Parrot at the Deny King Bird Hide before travelling on an untouched waterway twice the size of Sydney Harbour. Find yourself in a remote location for a delicious lunch featuring Tasmanian produce and wine.

Continuing on your journey, you are invited for four days to explore on foot and by water the beautiful East Coast with its spectacular beaches, peninsulas and island trails. Enjoy the wonders of Maria Island, Freycinet Peninsula and Schouten Island where you will walk and immerse yourself in the history & wildlife of the region with your passionate & educated guides.

Enjoy exclusive use of the luxurious Lady Eugenie, a 23-metre ketch rigged yacht complete with teak decks. After a long days walk you can relax and unwind onboard taking in the sunset scenery whilst you are indulged in delicious local produce and superb 3-course dinners before retiring to your comfortable cabins. The team’s belief is that your accommodation should be enjoyed not endured!

All that adventure can be taxing so once you are ready to kick back where better to do it than Saffire Freycinet with the backdrop of the Hazards. You can make the most of the experiences included in your stay all that are designed to engage and connect you with this stunning location. If you’d like a little extra we always recommend indulging your inner wine connoisseur and chef by spending the day with a local discovering the region’s mouth-watering delicacies all with the most picturesque views.

A spectacular helicopter flight back along the East Coast and over the islands retracing your trip on the Lady Eugenie is the culmination of your Tasmanian adventure.

VIP Tasmanian Art & Food Experience with MONA

Posted on January 16, 2019January 24, 2019 by Nicola Billens

For travellers visiting Tasmania, Mona (the Museum of Old and New Art) is a must-do in the way that the Guggenheim museum is a must-do in Bilbao. It’s a quirky, attention grabbing private museum unlike any other, with a collection of unusual art, described by owner David Walsh as a “subversive adult Disneyland.”

Alquemie has created an incredible VIP Art & Food Experience at Mona just for you.

Package includes return ferry transfers (in the Posh Pit, mind you) from Hobart to Mona, as well as museum entry, lunch in the Source Restaurant, a private tour of the vineyard and winery with Moorilla’s Ambassador, and a complimentary bottle of wine from our Muse series.

Itinerary
9:30am: Depart Brooke Street Pier for Mona in the Mona ferry’s super exclusive, super luxe Posh Pit.

10am: Arrive at Mona and begin exploring the museum…focusing on B3 – a major exhibition – accompanied by one of Mona’s Art Concierges.

11:30am: The Cut Crystal experience begins and it’s a rare pleasure, as most wines are designed to drink young these days. Cellaring demands foresight and patience—it’s a real gamble but the rewards can be stunning!

This experience includes a private tour of the Moorilla winery with one of the resident ‘wine dorks’ and an extensive, intimate wine tasting in their totally glamorous subterranean tasting room featuring new and mature wines from Moorilla’s Muse and Cloth Label series. You’ll be treated to vintages no longer widely available, find out how to match each wine with the perfect glass and learn the finer points of decanting sparkling, white and red wines.

1.30pm: A two course lunch in the Source Restaurant drinking some of the wines that have been opened for the Cut Crystal tasting chosen by the guest…

3:30pm: A Mona Fart! (Food + ART) Art concierge will take guests back into the museum to look at B2 and B1 Monaisms’ – David Walsh’s collection with a pre-booking for unseen seen experience… this takes 45 minutes per couple (optional).

5pm: Guests end up in Faro with a pre-dinner Cocktail with Outrageous canapes and the James Turrell light experience.

6 pm ish: Guests sit down to a bespoke food and wine experience created by Mona Head Chef Vince Trim. With the priority access to some the new Pharos wing’s art rides – “Unseen seen and Weight of Darkness”.

Guests will be returned to their hotel at their leisure…their day will include a signed copy of Monaisms and a bottle of Domaine A Cabernet Sauvignon to take home.

To enquire about this please contact alquemie@alquemie.com.au

Luxury Australian Itinerary – Barefoot honeymoon

Posted on December 14, 2018June 26, 2019 by Nicola Billens

Barefoot honeymoon

12 nights, plus a night or two en route where desired or required.

Australia’s luxury barefoot paradises are exclusive by virtue of their remoteness, their special location and the small number of guests they accommodate at any one time. They offer privacy, outstanding experiences and a sense of understated luxury and romance to ensure your honeymoon is the most memorable holiday of a lifetime.

This itinerary is just an indicator of what’s on offer in Australia. At Alquemie we tailor make every vacation based on the whims of our guests. Please contact us to find out about the magical holiday we could craft for you.

Spot wildlife from The Hide at Bamurru Plains

BAMURRU PLAINS TOP END, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

(Bamurru Plains is open from 1 May to 31 October)
Bamurru Plains This nine room camp exudes ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ ensuring that guests are introduced to the sights and sounds of this spectacular environment in style. On the edge of Kakadu National Park, Bamurru Plains, its facilities and 300km² of country are exclusively for the use of its guests – a romantic, privileged outback experience.

A selection of must do’s

Airboat tour – A trip out on the floodplain wetlands is utterly exhilarating and the only way to truly experience this key natural environment. Cut the engine and float amongst mangroves and waterlilies which create one of the most romantic natural sceneries possible.
4WD safaris – An afternoon out with one of the guides will provide a insight to this fragile yet very important environment.
Enjoy the thrill of a helicopter flight and an exclusive aerial experience over the spectacular floodplains and coastline of Northern Australia.
Escape to a remote and beautiful bush spot in comfort and safety of The Hide’, 6 metres above the ground and spend a romantic night with only the sounds of the bush to keep you company.

Fine dining in the remote wilderness at El questro — Fine dining in the remote wilderness at El Questro

EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD, THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3NIGHTS)

The luxury of the El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley landscape. Perched on a cliff top, with vistas of over the Chamberlain River, the Homestead is a romantic remote retreat catering for a maximum of 18 guests. Honeymooners should try one of the three new Cliff Side Retreats at the Homestead for total privacy at this luxe wilderness base.

A selection of must do’s

Take off on a Helicopter Tour to The Lost City and Miri Miri Falls. Explore the Lost City with an El Questro ranger, followed by a cool dip in the pristine Miri Miri Falls while you enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch.
Spend an afternoon at the Zebedee Thermal Springs – A magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day.
The Homestead is renowned for serving gourmet cuisine in dramatic locations. Request an intimate dinner beneath the stars, or a table set on the cliff side.

LONGITUDE 131°AYERS ROCK – ULURU, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

At Longitude 131°, a gathering of luxury pavilions overlooking Uluru, the vibe is intimate and civilised. The desert retreat fans out from the cool sanctuary of the Dune House, site of lounging, dining and Rock gazing, the perfect base from which to explore the World Heritage listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta. Camping certainly doesn’t come more glamorous nor the view from the ‘tent’ more spectacular than this.

A selection of must do’s

Table 131° – Dine out on sumptuous fare at an exclusive venue among the dunes and be mesmerised by the sounds of an ancient culture. Later, Longitude’s resident astronomer regales the gathering with tales of the southerly constellations.
Sunset Camel Ride – Explore the great Central Australia desert at a slow and relaxed pace, accompanied by an expert guide, regaling you with colourful anecdotes about life in this remarkable region.
Journey to Uluru in the late afternoon and arrive at Kantju Gorge at dusk to witness the gorge walls illuminated in the vivid evening light. Enjoy sunset drinks and canapés in the silence and solitude.

Capella is situated on Lord Howe Island - one of Australia's most beautiful destinations — Capella is situated on Lord Howe Island – one of Australia’s most beautiful destinations

CAPELLA LODGE LORD HOWE ISLAND, NEW SOUTH WALES (3NIGHTS)

Inspired by the Australian beach-house, Capella Lodge, is celebrated as a haven of understated luxury and Lord Howe’s premium retreat. Often referred to as the ‘Last Paradise’, the tiny island is an intoxicating blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests and sheer volcanic peaks, including Mount Gower rated as one of Australia’s best day walks. Below the surface, the world’s southern-most coral reef is home to an abundance of marine life. This is barefoot luxury at its best.

A selection of must do’s

World class diving with species endemic to the region. Expect to see schools of Violet Sweep, Amberjack, Kingfish, Silver Drummer, Ballina Angelfish, Rainbow Runners and occasionally Marlin, Dolphins and Wahoo.
Pamper yourselves in the petite Capella Spa, offering luxurious a menu of rejuvenating treatments inspired by the island’s endemic kentia palms, volcanic basalt rocks and pristine marine environment.
Be part of a tradition that has enchanted visitors for generations – make your way to Neds Beach to hand-feed the ‘locals’ including the royalty of Lord Howe fish, metre-long kingfish.

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

2019 Australian Foodie / Artsy Festivals

Posted on December 14, 2018December 14, 2018 by Nicola Billens

Enhance a 2019 Australian itinerary by including one of these fantastic festivals in the mix.

Sydney Festival – January

Adelaide Fringe (swaps acts with Edinburgh Fridge) – February – March

Adelaide & regional South Australia – April

Noosa Food & Wine – May

Lovedale Long Lunch – Hunter Valley – May

Vivid Sydney – May / June

White Night Melbourne – TBC Some time between June to August

NEW – The Curated Plate – Sunshine Coast – August

Dark MOFO Tasmania – June

WildFest – Southern Highlands (90mins south of Sydney)

Margaret River Gourmet Escape – WA – November

Tasting Tasmania – December

Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race (Hobart for race arrivals)

Luxury Australian Itinerary – Best Of The West

Posted on November 29, 2018June 26, 2019 by Nicola Billens

The Best of the West

13 – 16 nights, if you choose to include all four lodges in Western Australia, plus a night on route where required.

This Best Of The West itinerary, is exactly that – celebrating Western Australia’s breathtaking contrasts and memorable Australian experiences. Uncover the hidden treasures of the Margaret River wine region, including award-winning wineries, spectacular beaches, tall-timber forests and world-class surf breaks.

Discover the wild remote Kimberley coast on the adventure cruise of a lifetime encompassing spectacular gorges, waterfalls and islands. Venture deep into the Kimberley wilderness, encountering an astonishing variety of wildlife along the way.

If time permits, discover into the underwater beauty and biodiversity of The Ningaloo Reef just metres away from pristine beaches. This itinerary can be reversed.

CAPE LODGE – MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

Described as one of Australia’s finest gourmet establishments, Cape Lodge private estate and boutique hotel sits within 40 acres on its own vineyard in the heart of the Margaret River wine region. This premium wine region has a strong reputation for fine gastronomic flavours and spectacular scenery, where rolling vineyards sit against a backdrop of ocean and forest.

A selection of must do’s

Best of the Best Wine Tour – A sophisticated behind the scenes wine tour often referred to as “The wine tour for people who don’t do tours”. No minivans, no crowds; the Best of the Best Wine Tour represents personalised touring at its best.
Sunset Kangaroo Safari – Have your camera ready as you get up close and personal to the Western Grey Kangaroo’s in their natural surroundings. Savour delicious home baked orange cake with a steaming cup of Billy tea or coffee.
Twilight Didgeridoo Tour at Ngilgi Cave, Harvest Farmgate Tour and new Cooking Class and Long Table Lunch Calendar including Truffle Hunt Tour and Cooking Class (July and August).

TRUE NORTH – THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (7 NIGHTS)

Long revered as one of Australia’s outstanding adventure experiences. The True North has been designed with a draft of just 2.3 metres to go where no other ship can go, with high levels of comfort and style. Cruises are activity based with expert crew of 19 people, on-board helicopter and 6 expedition boats giving up to 36 guests access to remote and wild coastal areas – in style.

A selection of must do’s

The Horizontal Falls – Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air-conditioned helicopter for a view of the falls that very few experience.
Eagle Falls heli-picnic – Enjoy a breathtaking helicopter flight and indulge in True North’s mouth-watering fare alongside a picture-perfect waterfall in remote far-north Western Australia. Only accessible by helicopter.
Fishing experience for Barramundi – Visit Leadline Creek for an opportunity to ‘land a barra’.

EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD – THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

(El Questro operates from April until October)
In the middle of almost 1 million acres of Wilderness Park and 100km from the nearest town, the luxury of the El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley landscape. Perched on a cliff top, with vistas across the Chamberlain River, the Homestead is a relaxed retreat catering for a maximum of 18 guests.

A selection of must do’s

Take off on a Helicopter Tour to The Lost City and Miri Miri Falls. Explore the Lost City with an El Questro ranger, followed by a cool dip in the pristine Miri Miri Falls while you enjoy a refreshing morning tea featuring local produce.
Spend an afternoon at the Zebedee Thermal Springs – A magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day.
The Homestead is renowned for serving gourmet cuisine in dramatic locations. Request an intimate dinner beneath the stars, or a table set on the cliff side.

SAL SALIS – NINGALOO REEF, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

Where the outback meets the reef….Nine luxe wilderness tents hidden among the dunes overlook Ningaloo Reef. This wild bush luxury camp provides a unique place from which to explore Western Australia’s coral coast and one of Australia’s best-kept natural secrets. Sal Salis’s ecological principles also ensure that your stay generates a minimal environmental footprint.

A selection of must do’s

Swim with Whale Sharks (April to July) – Ningaloo Reef is known as one of the best places on earth to see and swim with Whale Sharks and Manta Rays.
Wildlife Viewing – Red Kangaroos, wallaroos, rock wallabies and Gould’s Goannas are resident in the park while the birdlife includes Pied Butcherbirds, Fairy Wrens, Kestrels, Zebra Finches, Reef Herons, waders, seabirds and the occasional Emu that strolls through camp. Ningaloo is also a major breeding area for Hawksbill, Green and Loggerhead Turtles, which are seen daily in front of the camp.
Sea Kayaking – Kayaks are the perfect vessel for exploring the reef with minimal interference to the ecosystem. Travel by kayak to spots further off shore where an anchor is dropped in the sand while guests enjoy a snorkel.

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

Expedition cruising through Southwest Tasmania’s World Heritage Area

Posted on November 13, 2018July 8, 2019 by Nicola Billens

Imagine the tranquility of a place so remote that you can only get there by foot, boat or light aircraft. In Tasmania’s Southwest, Port Davey is such a place. This remote wilderness area is a Marine Nature Reserve and forms part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It’s three times the size of Sydney Harbour and one of the most spectacular landscapes on the planet, with wild rivers, quartzite peaks and extensive waterways.

The best way to explore this area is by purpose built boat. With no roads in or out, the journey starts with a spectacular flight from Hobart across the densely forested Southwest National Park to Melaleuca, a remote locality consisting only of a couple of buildings.

Upon landing you will be taken by tender through the mirrored waters of the inlet to your ‘boutique floating hotel’ the Odalisque, the base from which you will explore the untouched South West.

The itinerary

The itinerary will be tailored to your interests and daily shore excursions will see you totally immersed in the wilderness. It’s all about “getting your feet wet”. During your unforgettable time, you’ll explore narrow winding waterways lined with Huon pine by jet boat, hike to mountain-top vantage points where it feels like you can see over the edge of the world, picnic on remote beaches and soak up the serene views from the deck as you cruise past sea caves, rock arches, blowholes and rocky islets. You could be one of the very few to witness the islands of Maatsuyker, cruise the Davey River gorge, wander the buttongrass moorlands or beachcomb the white sand of seemingly endless beaches.

The Vessel

Tasmanian owner Pieter van der Woude’s custom-built twenty-metre expedition cruise vessel is designed for the comfort and safety of guests. Cruising with a maximum of 10 guests overnight, the Odalisque has three private cabins, a comfortable entertaining and dining area and three spacious outside decks for sightseeing, photography or sunset barbecues. The galley consists of a contemporary spacious kitchen with an island bench, sofa seating and large open windows to relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery or watch the chef cook up a storm. The open plan saloon area allows panoramic views, has plenty of lounging capacity and a large dining area for a leisurely dining experience. A true boutique floating hotel, it’s perfect if you’re eager for adventure but not so keen on roughing it.

What’s so special about this region?

The Port Davey Marine Reserve was created to protect an extraordinary underwater world. In Bathurst Harbour a very unusual marine environment has been created by a deep layer of dark red-brown, tannin-rich freshwater, which overlies tidal saltwater. The tannins restrict sunlight penetration to the top few metres, limiting the growth of marine plants. In their place live colourful and delicate marine invertebrates, including sea pens. In the clearer marine waters of Port Davey – away from the influence of the freshwater tannins – a more typical Tasmanian underwater world exists. Diverse kelp forests and abundant fish thrive beneath the surging Southern Ocean waves. This Marine Reserve forms part of the Southwest National Park, and is surrounded by the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area encompasses a greater breadth of values than any World Heritage property on Earth. Of 1052 sites in the world which are recognised as World Heritage areas, Tasmania is one of only 35 sites that satisfy both cultural and natural heritage values. But even more impressively, the area satisfies seven of the ten criteria, including unique human culture and history, wilderness, plants and wildlife, and geology. Only one other site in the world (located in China) equals this number and none exceed it. There’s a lot to explore; Tasmania’s World Heritage Area comprises 1.38 million hectares, or about 20 per cent of the entire State.

Talk to Alquemie to incorporate this remote part of Australia into an itinerary.

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

Pepperbush Adventures in Tasmania

Posted on November 8, 2018November 13, 2018 by Nicola Billens

Arno Moulin, one of Alquemie’s Australia specialists recently spent a week travelling all around Tasmania. One of the highlights of his trip was a visit with Pepper Bush Adventures.

Pepper Bush Adventures offer unique and exclusive wildlife experiences throughout Tasmania, trips to the Tamar Valley to sample delicious Tasmanian food and wine and as well as secluded beaches in the Bay of Fires and visits to visit ancient forests and spectacular alpine mountain peaks.

He said his time spent with Pepper Bush Adventures was one of the best wildlife experiences ever! Below is a summary of his time with Pepper Bush in his own words….

Craig picked us up from Peppers Seaport in Launceston at 12:30pm– within 10 minutes we were driving through the glorious Tamar Valley; being autumn the colours were beautiful. We enjoyed some commentary about the wine region – which produces most of Tasmania’s wine!

We headed for Ben Lomond – Tasmania’s second highest peak. On the day the weather was foggy so we were unable to see the amazing views; but the drive was a fun adventure in itself on a 4WD only road. On the way up Craig discussed at what points above sea level different trees grow – which is more fascinating than it sounds! Once at the top the land is baron and rocky – which is an amazing contrast over the lush green hills and dense forest landscape surrounding the mountain. We then saw Tasmania’s only ski slope and a few eerie looking chalets – here we also saw a few Bennet’s Wallabies.

We then continued our way to the Quoll Patrol area and kept stopping on the way to visit ‘the bush supermarket’ – here Craig would pick pepper bush leaves and other kinds of berries & eucalyptus and provide commentary about the flora – these were then be used as ingredients for dinner!

On arrival at the property we enjoyed a 20 minute stroll around the property on our way to the ‘shack’. The walk is very beautiful through a forest plantation – and we saw more wallabies!

After our stroll we were then greeted with the MOST amazing cheese platter ever at the shack. On the platter we found smoked wallaby, lots of different Tasmanian cheeses, different styles of pastes like pear & quince – but the best bit was the freshly warmed bread with Tasmanian truffle oil!

Sitting across the camp fire enjoying a glass of Tasmanian wine and devouring the cheese platter – we were in awe of the surrounding landscape! This is pristine wilderness at its best!

The toilet is a drop loo – but well maintained and has a pretty awesome view!

Next course was wallaby meatballs – which were super tasty. Craig is an ex-butcher and it is easy to tell he only uses the best meat. The Tasmanian salmon was cooked right in front of us on the camp fire oven – with pepper bush leaves and lots of other yummy bush ingredients, the flavours and smells were wonderful!

Once the sun went down suddenly we started seeing wildlife coming out from the forest onto the surrounding paddock. Within about 15 minutes we were greeted by wallabies, possums (common Brushtails), quolls (honey coloured and black ones) and lots of pademelons! In the distance we also spotted a few wombats. At times they were only 1 metre away from us. Craig would then shine the torch allowing plenty of opportunities to take photos. For the next hour Craig provided commentary on the wildlife and discussed the habits of quolls and wallabies. There were probably about 200 animals around us within a vicinity of 100 metre radius. Everywhere we looked – they were everywhere!!

We got back into the vehicle and within 5 minutes we were out again spotting platypus in a pond just up from the shack! This is a very rare and amazing experience to see these weird animals in the wild!!

On the drive back we were buzzing with excitement from seeing all the wildlife and a bit of red wine warming our tummies – it was talk talk talk! We arrived back at Launceston at about 10:00pm – of course in summer this is much later.

Over the course of the day we saw:

Platypus!
Kangaroos / Bennet’s Wallabies / Pademelons
Wombats
Quolls (we saw at least 6!)
Possums