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Luxury Australian Itinerary – Wine Flight – Margaret River, The Barossa Valley & Kangaroo Island

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Wine Flight

Spend 2-3 nights at each property. This itinerary works equally well in reverse.

Not surprisingly wine region culture so often seeds a strong food culture and vice versa. The two simply go hand in hand. Australia’s reputation as a premium wine-producing country is undisputed.

Wine lovers from around the world are drawn to the ‘home’ of the wines they have tried, savoured and loved. The Louise Barossa Valley, Cape Lodge Margaret River, and Kangaroo Island offer an entree to these prestigious and emerging wine regions, and very often, a personal connection with the winemakers and characters who live there.

This itinerary offers world-class wine experiences together with warm and knowledgeable hospitality alongside culinary excellence and luxury accommodation.

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.

 

Cape Lodge, Margaret River
Cape Lodge, Margaret River

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

Cape Lodge private estate and boutique hotel sits within 40 acres on its own vineyard in the heart of the Margaret River wine region – a wine region by the sea. 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.
  • Gourmet Weekends are also scheduled throughout the year bringing together winemakers, food producers and lovers of food and wine. These weekends include master classes, tastings and winemakers dinners.
  • The Cape Lodge Cooking Classes are ideal for lovers of great food and wine experiences. Keep an eye out for the Long Table Lunch Calendar including Truffle Hunt Tour.
The Louise overlooks stunning vineyards of the Barossa Valley
The Louise overlooks stunning vineyards of the Barossa Valley

THE LOUISE BAROSSA VALLEY, SOUTH AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

The Louise, an idyllic luxury vineyard retreat, encompassing acclaimed restaurant Appellation, is situated on a gentle hill surrounded by hundreds of acres of vines, with breathtaking vistas across the world renowned Barossa Valley. Home to more than 100 wineries, the Barossa is a vibrant community with a rich 160-year old cultural and architectural heritage and the oldest continuous food and wine culture in Australia.

A selection of must do’s

  • The Most Brilliant Blend – Don a labcoat and enjoy the challenge of being a winemaker for a day in the Penfolds laboratory where many of the iconic Penfold’s wine blends originate. Bring your blended wine back to Appellation to form part of your dining experience that evening.
  • Numerous private tastings and winemaker introductions may be arranged for guests such as the exclusive private tour of Seppeltsfield – A National treasure and living museum of wine history.
  • Appellation features a nightly wine-paired Chef’s Tasting Menu and believes that the sum of ‘food + wine’ should be greater than the individual parts and that wine is a finished product. A series of dishes created to pair with specific wines, creating a unique marriage, with ingredients directed by the season.

KANGAROO ISLAND, SOUTH AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

Kangaroo Island is the third largest island off the coast of mainland Australia and is known as Australia’s Galapagos. It is home to an abundance of iconic native Australian wildlife species and features stunning coastlines and spectacular scenery.

Indulge yourself in premium luxury at Ocean View Eco Villas, Kangaroo Island. Oceanview Eco Villas is a fully-hosted eco-luxury accommodation located on a 500-acre rural property, nestled atop the stunning Kangaroo Island coastline known as ‘Redbanks’.

A selection of must do’s

  • See Kangaroos (and koalas) in the wild of course!
  • Dine your way around the island as you explore a diversity of wild-catch and farmed seafood, olive oil, honey, wines, micro-brewed beer, gin and free range eggs.
  • Meet with researchers, volunteers and find out what is happening behind the scenes for conservation on Kangaroo Island.
  • Explore Kangaroo Island on a multi-mode adventure – four-wheel drive, walking, ocean rafting and fat-tyre cycling.
  • Walk among Australian sea-lions on a beautiful sandy beach at Seal Bay Conservation Park.

 

Click here to begin your tailor-made journey to Australia

Family escape to Byron Bay

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Take your family on a well-deserved family break to Byron Bay with this 3-night package that will keep both the kids and the grown-ups happy. You won’t need to lift a finger, staying in luxury with all meals prepared by a local chef, daily turn down service and family friendly activities planned for you and your loved ones.

You’ll have exclusive use of your own secluded luxury retreat with a private pool and hinterland views.  Surrounded by national parkland, escarpment and rainforest, it’s is the perfect place to forget it all and just enjoy the peacefulness of a mountain setting.

Inclusions:

  • 3-Nights luxury accommodation (Exclusive use for your family – up to ten people)
  • All Meals ( and some beverages ) including chef prepared breakfasts & dinners, daily snacks, Three Blue Ducks Lunch, private luxe Beach Picnic
  • Daily turn down service
  • Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour Private Guided Tour including Brookies Farm and Distillery as well as Crystal Castle
    Byron Bay Highlights Private Guided Tour including inside the Byron Lighthouse
  • Kids Local Cooking Lesson
  • Private Brunswick River Cruise including kayaks and SUP’s as well as a beach picnic
  • Airport Transfers ex Ballina Airport

 

DAY ONE
Fly into Ballina Airport where your local host will be waiting to escort you

Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour 
Meet your local host at Ballina Airport before spending an afternoon exploring Byron Bay’s hinterland.
The first stop is the local Brook family’s 96-acre farm ‘Brookies’ located high on the ridgeline above Byron Bay with views to the iconic Lighthouse and along the coastline.

On arrival, meet your host and commence a journey through the story of the Brook family farm and distillery. Parents may wish to start with a Brookie’s Gin & Tonic garnished with Native Finger Lime & Aniseed Myrtle prior to venturing into the subtropical rainforest with your host. See, smell, and touch the native rainforest ingredients such as Macadamias that can be found in the famous Brookfarm Muesli.

Returning to the distillery, parents may wish to participate in a fun sensory tasting experience while the kids spot wildlife and take in the views of the rainforest from the deck. Continuing the journey, stand between two of the tallest crystals on earth and sit inside an ancient amethyst cave at Crystal Castle and Shambala Gardens. As you wander through the tranquil Shambhala Gardens and rainforest, keep an eye out for resident Koalas.

Check into your luxury accommodation. Welcome drinks and afternoon snacks will be provided on arrival.

Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY TWO
Morning: Breakfast at leisure

Private Behind the Scenes Byron Bay Highlights 
Meet your guide at your accommodation before setting off for the day to explore Byron Bay and surrounds.
Visit Cape Byron Lighthouse and the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Take a private tour of the lighthouse where you will climb to the top to enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of Byron Bay and the hinterland. Spot dolphins, turtles, and rays from the cliffs high above. Learn about the ancient aboriginal history of the Bundjalung Nation as well as the more recent history of Byron Bay and its Lighthouse keepers.

Enjoy a coffee or an ice cream at the Lighthouse café.

Lunch at Three Blue Ducks at The Farm, Byron Bay
The Farm and Three Blue Ducks restaurant is set on an 80-acre farm and Macadamia Orchard on the outskirts of Byron Bay. The chefs work closely with ethical growers and producers to deliver rustic, nourishing, delicious dishes that reflect the goodness of the local produce.

Following lunch, wander along the farm trail past the pigs in their mud bath, the 700 Bond Brown chickens, past the macadamia orchard and the fields planted with produce served in the restaurant.

Afternoon Kids Cooking Lesson
While the parents relax, kids can join the local chef to learn how to make treats such as Muesli Bars featuring Brookfarm muesli or perhaps Gingerbread cookies featuring locally grown ginger.

Optional afternoon massage for the adults can be arranged at additional cost.

Chef prepared Dinner
Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY THREE
Morning: Breakfast at leisure

Private Brunswick River Cruise 
Departing your accommodation, travel to the village of Brunswick Heads where you will board a leisurely private cruise on the beautiful Brunswick River. As you cruise along the river you will see rainforest river scenery and have the chance to spot amazing birdlife, wildlife, and marine life. Pull into a sheltered estuary with a white sand beach to take a short kayak tour or even try your hand at Stand-Up Paddle Boarding with your guide.

Beach Picnic lunch
Picture yourselves feasting on the best local products sourced by renowned chefs in an unforgettable beach setting. Luxury Turkish towels, picnic rugs, cushions and funky Moroccan style beach umbrellas will provide comfort while you enjoy an afternoon by the sea. Beach games will also keep the kids entertained.

Afternoon: Explore Brunswick Heads
While in the area, take a stroll around the delightful, unspoilt village of Brunswick Heads. ‘Bruns’ as it is known to locals has retained its traditional seaside village atmosphere.

You may wish to stroll around the village and explore the eclectic boutiques and retro-vintage treasures or perhaps follow the fairy trail to find over 20 unique, hand-made fairy houses.

Chef prepared Dinner
Enjoy a local chef prepared dinner with beverages.

DAY FOUR
Morning: Morning & Breakfast at leisure
Your local host will transfer you to Ballina Airport

Block-out: 15 December 2020 – 10 January 2021

Contact the team at Alquemie at info@alquemie.com.au.

3-night Byron Bay Hinterland luxury escape for a group of friends

Posted on by Nicola Billens

We’ve put together an easy escape for a group of 6 friends in the gorgeous Byron Bay Hinterland. Think of it as your own private luxury hotel with all meals and activities taken care of. All you need to do is turn up.

You’ll have exclusive use of your own private luxury accommodation in acres of green rain forest, with spectacular views Eastwards to Cape Byron and the Pacific Ocean. Located in the Byron Hinterland, this boutique bed and breakfast has been impeccably designed to be close to nature and close to the hearts of the founders and hosts.  The interior palette includes Moroccan tiled bathrooms with naked copper fittings; super-lux King size beds with Egyptian cotton linen on burnished concrete floors; unique reclaimed timber cabinetry, and warm birch ply panelled walls. Wake up to the ultimate framed view, where the mountains meet the sea. The 10 metre mineral magnesium pool is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a drink overlooking Cape Byron.

Inclusions:

  • 3-nights Luxury Accommodation (Exclusive use for your group of 6)
  • All meals (and some beverages ) including chef prepared dinners and breakfasts, Brunch at Beach Byron Bay, Private beach picnic
  • Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Private Guided Tour including Brookies Farm & Gin distillery
  • Bubbles on arrival at accommodation, cheese board and chocolates served to pavilions
  • Minyon Falls Rainforest Walk, Private Guided walk and lunch
  • ‘Forest to Beach’ Sunset Private Horse Ride
  • Cape Byron Sea Kayak Shared Tour
  • Airport Transfers ex Ballina Airport

 

 

ITINERARY

DAY ONE
Fly into Ballina Airport where your local host will be waiting to escort you.

Welcome to Byron and Surrounds Tour 
Meet your local host at Ballina Airport before spending an afternoon exploring Byron Bay’s hinterland. The first stop is the local Brook family’s 96-acre farm ‘Brookies’ located high on the ridgeline above Byron Bay with views to the iconic Lighthouse and along the coastline.

On arrival, meet your host and commence a journey through the story of the Brook family farm and distillery. Begin with a Brookie’s Gin & Tonic garnished with Native Finger Lime & Aniseed Myrtle. Join your host on a stroll through the subtropical rainforest – see, smell, and touch the native rainforest botanicals that are used in the award-winning Brookie’s Byron Dry Gin. Return to the distillery where you will be guided through a fun sensory tasting experience by the distillery team.

Check into your luxury accommodation late afternoon and enjoy bubbles served on arrival. An afternoon massage can be arranged at additional cost.

Dinner will be prepared this evening by the 2018 winners of My Kitchen Rules, Alex and Emily. Enjoy a casual flavour driven menu accompanied by views that stretch across the Byron coastline and Pacific Ocean.

DAY TWO
Breakfast at leisure

Minyon Falls Rainforest Walk 
This morning you will join an environmental scientist on a private 2-hour / 4-kilometre rainforest walk. Explore this amazing rainforest ecosystem, see wildlife, and experience the wonder of Minyon Falls located 100-metres above the valley floor within the World Heritage listed Nightcap National Park. Enjoy a swim at the waterfall and picnic lunch before returning to your accommodation.

‘Forest to Beach’ sunset horseback ride 
Join the Zephyr Horses team for a sunset ‘Forest to Beach’ trail ride. On arrival you will be introduced to one of their twenty horses. Spend some time getting to know your horse before riding through native Tea Tree forest trails and along Byron’s iconic Belongil Beach. Suitable for beginner riders, Zephyr offers a holistic approach where the you will not only get to ride, but also learn about equipment, grooming, technique, horse behaviour and movement, and horsemanship.

Picture yourselves feasting on the best local products sourced by renowned chefs in an unforgettable setting on Belongil Beach.
Luxury Turkish towels, picnic rugs, cushions and funky Moroccan style beach umbrellas will provide comfort while you enjoy a Champagne picnic as the sun sets.

DAY THREE
Morning Cape Byron Sea Kayak Tour 
Meet your local host then transfer to Byron where you will join a Sea Kayak tour through the surf.
Get up close to playful bottlenose dolphins and keep an eye out for sea turtles and season dependant, you may be lucky enough to come across a pod of migrating whales.

On conclusion of the tour, a short transfer will have you at the ever-popular ‘Beach Byron Bay’ for brunch overlooking Main Beach.

Following brunch, you may wish to explore Byron Bay township or perhaps walk the coastal track to the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse located at the most easterly point of the Australian mainland.

Poolside Dinner with Chef Dai Shibata
With an impressive resume in fine dining restaurants, Chef Dai will create a bespoke degustation style dinner featuring in season local produce.

DAY FOUR
Breakfast at leisure.
Transfer to Ballina Airport

Travel Dates: Now until 31 March 2021. ( Subject to availability and excluding peak period 18 December 2020 – 15 January 2021. Surcharges will apply to 10 – 14 December & 21 – 31 January 2021 )

To enquire please contact the team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Secrets of the North – A small group getaway to the Hawkesbury

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Grab a group of friends for a four-night trip just one-hour north of Sydney. Below is an example of a small-group nature-based getaway that can be dialled up or down to suit the group’s passions and budget. Finishing at the brand new Marramarra Lodge, this itinerary will leave guests feeling refreshed and reinvigorated after spending time in the stunning Hawkesbury region.

Day 1: Self drive to Mooney Mooney (or seaplane / heli options). Pearls of Australia Shellar door experience followed by Pearl Farm tour. Remote location drop-off for Welcome to Country followed by guided Aboriginal cultural walk. Sundowners with a view and local gin tasting. Dinner under the stars.
Stay: Choice of Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 2: Morning guided nature walk. Gourmet picnic lunch at secret historic ruins. Afternoon / sunset sailing on the Hawkesbury. Waterside dinner.
Stay: Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 3: Morning nature wellness session / Optional beach time if weather permits. Scenic road transfer to boat ramp for transfer to Marramarra Lodge. Afternoon at leisure. Sundowner Hawkesbury cruise followed by 6 course degustation.
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

Day 4: Morning kayak or SUP to historic Bar Island for guided tour. Choice of Marramarra Lodge activities. Farewell dinner
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

P.O.A.
Please enquire with the Alquemie team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Marramarra Lodge – a new luxury retreat on the Hawkesbury

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Marramarra Lodge is a brand new luxury retreat on the Hawkesbury. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, yet so close to Sydney, this new luxury accommodation will be a hit with both domestic and international travellers looking for a quick and easy escape from the city – just one hour from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

The exclusive Marramarra lodge sits high on Fishermans Point peninsula on the Hawkesbury River with just eight stylish Peninsula Tents and seven Hawkesbury Bungalows – all with water views and either sunrise or sunset options.

The all-inclusive stay includes a daily six-course degustation at Budyari Restaurant as well as daily activities. There is also a spa and pool for spending a relaxing day in the stunning surrounds.

Two night Marramarra Lodge packages include:
– Transfers via Brooklyn Wharf & Marramarra Lodge
– Accommodation in a newly restored Hawkesbury Bungalow or Luxury Tent
– Gourmet breakfast of chef’s locally sourced and house made produce, each morning
– Light lunch daily
– Exclusive selection of minibar items
– Dinner beverages and paired wines
– Chef’s degustation dinner each evening
– Luxury amenities
– Daily resort activities

From just $1,100 per person twin share.

UPGRADE
Include a scenic Seaplane transfer or a Jet Ski Safari.

To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

Beyond the Beaches – A three-day nature escape from Sydney

Posted on by Nicola Billens

This three-night soft-adventure NSW escape is perfect for families, small groups of friends or couples. Guided activities can be tailored to your passions and can incorporate behind-the-scenes experiences with local artisans and producers. Beginning with a scenic seaplane flight down to Jervis Bay, this itinerary ticks all the boxes for an easy escape back to nature combined with delicious food and unique activities like the Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience.

 

Day One: Seaplane from Sydney to Jervis Bay

Take a scenic flight from Sydney down the coast, landing in the picturesque Jervis Bay. Once in this aquatic paradise, you can enjoy all marine adventures you could think of. From SUP’s to kayaks to whale watching and bird spotting, this little piece of paradise has it all. Dinner will be prepared by local caterers providing a taste of fresh seafood from the region. As you wander around the cabins, you will be greeted by many resident Kangaroos enjoying the company of their guests.

Overnight accommodation at The Cove Jervis Bay

Day Two: Head into the picturesque Kangaroo Valley

Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains entering the stunning Kangaroo Valley. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from a busy life and truly connect with nature. You will explore the waterways with a unique Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience, with the chance to witness the regeneration from the 2019/2020 bushfires. A full day of adventure will be followed by a fireside feast featuring a local chef.

Overnight accommodation at Barranca Kangaroo Valley.

Day Three: Explore the Highlands like Never Before

As we make our way up the escarpment, we will be blessed with the stunning views overlooking the valley. Today is about experiencing the highlands like never before. From award winning wines to incredible waterfalls this is a nature lovers paradise. We will make a stop at the beautiful Belmore Falls before making our way into the Historic village of Berrima for lunch and a chance to explore the local shops, the afternoon activities will include wine tasting, then time to relax before heading to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight accommodation at Bendooley Estate Cottages Southern Highlands.

To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au. Self-drive options also available.

 

CHOOSE FROM A RANGE OF ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES WITH LOCAL GUIDES, ARTISANS & PRODUCERS

NATURE

Bush Walking

Hiking

Canoeing

Mountain Biking

Rock Climbing

FOOD & WINE

Spirit Tastings

Boutique Beer Tastings

Wine Tastings

Cheese Tastings

Cooking Classes

OTHER OPTIONS

Dance Classes

Movies

Yoga

Tai Chi

Forest Bathing

Martial Arts

Spa

Boules

Canoes, Champagne & Canapes Weekend - Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 October

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Nowhere else in Australia are can you paddle through a sunken forest, observe the native wildlife that inhabit these gums, sip champagne, on a fresh-water lake, in our custom-built canoes. This area was directly impacted by January bushfires, so this is an opportunity to witness the regeneration of our native rainforest and see the stunning beauty of life returning.

Add in delicious local canapés, sampling cool climate wines as well as our expert qualified guides, and you have the most compelling way to experience this magical waterway, imaginable. The area we are exploring is very calm and the currents are mild, making paddling effortless. It’s an easy and safe way to get you into the waterways of the Southern Highlands/Shoalhaven. Also being fresh water, it’s a wonderful place to swim.

Day 1:

Truly immerse yourself in nature with an adventure filled weekend in Kangaroo Valley. Make your way to Kangaroo Valley, checking into the picturesque accommodation of Barranca, with a welcome pack of local wine and cheese awaiting your arrival.

You will have time to wander around the stunning property before heading inside for a delicious pre-prepared dinner box in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants. This luxury retreat offers guests with privacy and picturesque views of the sandstone escarpment of the valley. As well as being surrounded by native wildlife, guests have the delight of meeting the resident animals on the property, including the magnificent shire horses the playful donkeys and the cheeky, yet friendly Buffalo.

Day 2:

Breakfast will be at your leisure with a food box provided in your cabin including all the essentials such as bacon, eggs, bread, cereals and fresh fruit.

Now make your way to the waterways of Morton National Park where its time to glide down the river and enjoy the view from the picturesque Lake Yarrunga embarking on another special experience in the valley. Canoes, Champagne & Canapés is the perfect combination food, wine and wilderness. Indulge your taste buds with wild native canapés and a local award-winning cold-climate wine and discover what is unapologetically, one of the most stunning waterways in the state. Take a seat in one of the custom-built double-canoe rigs and immerse your senses in its sheer beauty.

Day 3:

After another delicious breakfast you’ll check out of Barranca and head out on an olive degustation, where you will sit amongst the olive groves and sample the freshest oil and products produced on-site. This is the perfect spot to sip on some local wines and enjoy the views of the valley before returning to the bustle of Sydney city life.

Please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

Highland Valley Forage Weekend Saturday 24 – Sunday 25 October

Posted on by Nicola Billens

The Highland Valley Forage in Kangaroo Valley tells the story, of how the Southern Highlands, Shoalhaven and Coast South of Sydney are connected, through food and wine. It’s a unique, leisurely long degustation food and wine trail, which takes you through regenerating escarpment bush and blooming spring wildflowers in Morton National Park in Kangaroo Valley.

Once the sea floor, the Highlands are characterised by native scrub dry sclerophyll forests and dry red mineral rich soils of Canyonleigh in the north west and the rolling green hills bordered by sandstone escarpment walls with micro-climate rainforests in the south east. From the village of Robertson, the escarpment drops into one of the country’s most scenic valleys, the Shoalhaven community of Kangaroo Valley, with just 35 kms until the rugged coastline of Shoalhaven Heads. The coast then stretches north through seaside towns and surfing beaches to Wollongong and to the south to the pristine, white sandy coves of Jervis Bay and the famous Booderee National Park.

Experience the best of this region in a leisurely long degustation food and wine trail through blooming spring wildflowers in Morton National Park. Choose from 8 courses over 4km or 10 courses over 9.5km. The terrain is flat and the degustation is social distancing friendly.

We have created a two-night luxury Southern Highlands Highland Valley Forage foodie getaway which includes the Highland Valley Forage, a private olive oil tasting experience and accommodation at luxurious Barrranca in Kangaroo Valley.

Luxury Barranca in the Southern Highlands of NSW

Itinerary

Friday 23rd October 2020: Truly immerse yourself in nature with an adventure filled weekend in Kangaroo Valley. Make your way to Kangaroo Valley on Friday evening, checking into the picturesque accommodation of Barranca, with a welcome pack of wine and cheese awaiting your arrival. You will have time to wander around the stunning property before heading inside for a delicious pre-prepared dinner box in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants.

This luxury retreat offers guests with privacy and picturesque views of the sandstone escarpment of the valley. As well as being surrounded by native wildlife, guests have the delight of meeting the resident animals on the property, including the magnificent shire horses the playful donkeys and the cheeky, yet friendly Buffalo.

Saturday 24th October 2020: Breakfast will be at your leisure with a food box provided in your cabin including all the essentials such as bacon, eggs, bread, cereals and fresh fruit.

You will then embark on an olive degustation, where you will sit amongst the olive grove and sample the freshest oil and products produced on-site. This is the perfect spot to sip on some local wines and enjoy the views of the valley.

The afternoon will be filled with wine tasting at Yarrawa Wines and a chance to explore the local village of Kangaroo Valley. At the end of the day you will have time to explore the village before spending a relaxing evening back at your accommodation where another delicious pre-prepared dinner box will be in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants

Highland Valley Forage in the Southern Highlands

Sunday 25th October 2020: After another delicious breakfast we can check out of Barranca and embark on our signature food, wine and nature walk trail – the Highland Valley Forage. This is your chance to put on your walking shoes and venture the less explored region of Morton National Park.

On the Highland Valley Forage, you will learn about the food and wine trail from coast to highlands. The leisurely long degustation walk winds through regenerating escarpment bush and blooming spring wildflowers. Bringing together local producers from the region, you will be surprised with a different kind of food experience.

This luxury Southern Highlands Highland Valley Forage foodie getaway includes:
– 2 nights accommodation at Barranca, Kangaroo Valley
– Breakfasts & Dinners
– Welcome pack of wine and local produce
– Private Olive Oil Degustation for two people
– 10 course Highland Valley Forage for two people

This experience can be tailored for any number of people. Please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

 

Dinner with David – a MONA experience in Tasmania

Posted on by Nicola Billens

One of Australia’s unlikely superheroes is David Walsh, infamous creator of Australia’s most celebrated private museum – MONA – in Tasmania. Full of quirky, unexpected art, wouldn’t you like to pick his brains to see what makes him tick?

So why not have a private dinner with him and take him to task? Sure, he’s a terrible conversationalist—what with all the art and astrophysics chat—but the rest of this experience should be incredible. Dinner With David, one of the Cultural Attractions of Australia includes a ridiculously lavish private degustation in Mona’s chef’s hatted Source Restaurant. Mona has been known to make the tables out of humans, but that can not be guaranteed. Needless to say, David will also raid Mona’s legendary wine bunker for some game-changing wines.

Aside from dinner with the nerd, this experience also includes the best of everything Mona has to offer   — private jet transport from anywhere in Australia, luxury accommodation in Mona’s 5-star onsite Pavilions, a guided tour of the museum with Mona’s head curator, as well as a VIP tour of Moorilla Winery with the winemaker.

David may invite you play him at tennis on Mona’s not-so-private court at the museum entrance. Avoid this, his serve volley game is too strong.

Included:
  • Private jet transfer from anywhere in Australia
  • Two night’s luxury on-site accommodation (Mona Pavilions)
  • VIP museum tour
  • VIP winery tour
  • Private dinner and wine degustation at The Source Restaurant with David Walsh
  • Lunch in Faro (bar and restaurant)
  • Access to all bookable art experiences
  • Breakfast in the Source restaurant
  • and pretty much anything else you might want or can dream up!

 

Australia’s Best Guides – Simon Burley – South Australian Coast and Wine Experiences

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Simon Burley is one of our favourite South Australian guides who loves to take people behind the scenes to meet the makers by their craft. We spoke to him to find out what makes an experience with him so special.

Please explain a little bit about who you are and what you do.
I’m a South Australian local who has a long career working in gin, whisky, wine and tourism. It’s taken me from London to Inverness to Sydney and now back to my beloved state, a journey which has inspired a love of landscapes, nature and of course the tipples that go with each place I’ve worked.

My speciality is taking people truly behind the scenes to meet the company I keep, which are the characters of the wine & tourism industry across South Australia. It’s a diverse mix of people who are truly artisans of their craft – winemakers, grape growers, foodies, chefs, publicans, baristas, farmers and a whole lot more.

My experiences are for those who want to get off the tourist trail and meet the company we keep. It’s about moving away from the well-worn and heading off into the uncharted and not being frightened to mix it up with 4WD, E-Bike, helicopter or your own two feet!

What got you started in guiding and what do you find most interesting about it?
My interest in developing truly authentic,  behind the scenes experiences was piqued when I started hosting guests into the Jacob’s Creek wineries and Chivas Brother’s whisky distilleries. We always strove to show our guests the personalities that would make each place tick. I loved meeting these people as well, and found there was so much to learn from great winemakers, long-standing distillers, coopers, grape growers and the like who understand their craft so well and often have decades of experience. This is when I started to realise the power of meeting the company I keep and getting them to impart their stories.

The other thing that has driven me on, is that it’s easy to claim behind the scenes but often hard to really deliver it. So I’m really focussed on delivering sublime experiences that are totally unexpected, like breaking open a glass of the finest Adelaide Hills sparkling at the lookout of a 600 million year old gorge to celebrate the occasion, or taking guests into the secret cellar at the Victory Hotel behind an old bookshelf, or walking in 100 year old grenache vines and then tasting the very wine that comes from that vineyard, or visiting an indigenous art gallery to paint with a renowned Kolkata artist.

How do you bring South Australia to life on your tours?

My clients are used to good accommodation, business class flights and conventional luxury etc etc so that’s not really a point of difference. But they don’t always get to meet authentic local characters and get unique, insightful experiences. So I just try and surprise them as much as possible. It’s not always easy as most of my clients are well travelled and have seen a lot. So you have to push the boundaries and think of places that stand out – like the 150 year old grandfather vines at Henschke – or people that are truly unique – like Toby & Emanuelle Bekkers who make wines out of both Australia and France!

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about South Australia’s quality produce?
It’s important for so many reasons. At a very simple level introducing people to the company I keep creates happiness and surprise – two very important things when you’re on holiday! It also shows people the effort that goes into making great food and wine, and the lengths that these artisans go to in order to deliver the highest quality produce. Finally it helps drive word of mouth and interest in the regions I visit, which in turn drives the tourism economy and make these producers profitable and sustainable.

If people wanted to find out more about South Australia are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?
Southaustralia.com is a great website and terrific source of information. Otherwise the best way is to come out on tour and experience the best of coast, wine, food and nature for yourself!

One final thing…  We are leading the revolution in electric bike wine touring. On our 250 watt high spec e-bikes you’ll cruise the Mclaren Vale wine region in style, travelling up to 25kmh and getting up close and personal to some of the best vineyards in the region. Some great examples of what you can expect along the famous McLaren Vale Shiraz Trail are a working winery tour at one of the venues, not normally available to the general public, but we have got it opened up by the owner and winemaker, who is also a friend. This lets e-bike guests learn about small batch winemaking. In another e-bike venue you’ll see historic ironstone cellars and taste the region’s most famous varietals. At one of the lunch venues on the Shiraz Trail guests get a lunch of local produce plus a tour of an indigenous art gallery.  In another venue on the Shiraz Trail guests get their eyes, ears, fingers, nose and taste buds into top gear when a dedicated staff member takes them on a sensory journey of their wines.  In another venue guests meet the Grilli family and their cellar door team to discover the Italian heritage of the region and try Mediterranean inspired wines. We are at the forefront of this technology and e-bike touring on the Shiraz Trail is one of the most affordable and easy ways to go behind the scenes of one of the most famous wine regions in Australia.

 

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