For a bespoke experiential Australian holiday call +61 2 9571 6677

FOLLOW US

Tag / Southern Highlands

Australia in Summer

Posted on by CTG Marketing

AS FAR FROM ORDINARY AS YOU CAN POSSIBLY TRAVEL

Australia in Summer

Image Credit - South Australian Tourism Commission

Summer in Australia – December to February is a spectacular time to visit Australia. Boasting glorious blue skies and sunny days with warm evenings and a whole host of activities and festivals come to life throughout the southern parts of the country. Our aqua waters glisten and our white sandy beaches put on a show like no other. National parks are in bloom, our native wildlife is basking in the warm sunshine, vineyards are alive with musicians’ songs drifting out among the vines. Sydney harbour is alive with superyachts and fireworks ready for another New Year’s Eve extravaganza.

To make the most of our summer months, some of our state governments literally overrule nature, turning their clocks forward an hour to give their states more summertime daylight hours to enjoy the perfect conditions and summer vibes!

Be mindful when visiting Australia in the warmer months, that summer also marks the start of the wet season in northern parts of Australia, bringing high humidity, heavy rains, and cyclones (November to April). Parts of the Northern Territory (including Kakadu), far north Queensland and northern Western Australia will be inaccessible and most tourism operators including accommodation in these regions close over this season. However, no need to worry, as the southern parts of Australia are just as spectacular and have literally thousands of unique experiences and luxury accommodation to uncover over this period. We have highlighted some summer bucket list experiences below.

New Year's Eve Opera Gala Concert at Sydney Opera House
Location: Sydney, New South Wales

Image Credit - Mike King

Kick up your heels and don your finest apparel as you take your seat at the renowned opera gala performance at the iconic Sydney Opera House. As part of the platinum package, you’ll enjoy a pre-performance dinner and midnight party to create a night you’ll remember for years to come!

Overlooking the spectacular harbour, you’ll be mesmerised by both the 9pm fireworks display during interval, then the midnight fireworks extravaganza – with drinks, live entertainment, and of course prime viewing on the Opera House’s Northern Foyer balcony.

Image credit - Mike King

Indulge at Capella Lodge on the World Heritage-Listed Lord Howe Island 
Location: Lord Howe Island, New South Wales

Image Credit - Baillie Lodges

Soaring high above the coral-fringed Lord Howe Island is truly an incredible sight to behold as you prepare to be wowed at the award-winning Capella Lodge. Its casual barefoot luxury feel, coupled with exceptional service, sensational views of the turquoise waters with Mt Gower dominating the horizon and world-class gastronomical menu, make it a bucket-list experience not to be missed!

With only 400 visitors to the island at one time, guests will enjoy the uncrowded beaches and scenic vistas. Fill your days with massages at the spa, scenic hikes, crystal-clear reef snorkelling, kayaking, golf, or getting to know the friendly colourful fish at Ned’s beach. Marvel at the resident turtles as you float alongside them in the shallow corals. Jump aboard a fishing expedition or island cruise and survey the Admiralty Islands or uncover the lagoons’ very own shipwreck. You will never be short of things to do in this little piece of paradise.

Image Credit - Baillie Lodges

Scenic Rim multi-day walks
Location: Queensland 

Photo Credit - Spicers

Making Lonely Planet’s top 10 destinations list is Queensland’s Scenic Rim. Surrounded by idyllic National Parks, lush rainforests and spectacular mountain ranges with exceptional lookouts located in the hinterland of South-East Queensland – only 1 hour from Brisbane. Choose from Spicers 2 to 6 day hikes where no two days are the same, boasting breath-taking scenery, diverse walking terrain, unique luxury eco accommodation and superb food and wine.

Experience mother nature in all her glory, as our well-informed local guide escorts you through this dramatic, world-heritage listed region. Enjoy the company of our native animals along the way and hear tales of the early inhabitants passed through the generations. No heavy packs are carried as your luggage is transferred to your next unique, memorable, luxury retreat each evening, where a hot shower and gourmet food awaits you – complete with cracking fires and iconic bush views under star-lit skies.

Image Credit - Spicers Retreats

Birdwatchers' Paradise
Location: The Eyre Peninsula, South Australia 

Image Credit - Australian Coastal Safaris

A birdwatcher’s delight, the incredibly diverse Eyre Peninsula is home to 270 species of birds! Encompassing multiple habitats, you’ll traverse coastal dune shrublands, mallee woodlands, sandflats, wetlands, saltmarsh and clifftops within National and Conservation Parks with abundant opportunity to observe many fascinating bird species. Pied and Sooty Oyster Catchers or even the endangered Hooded Plover. In the Mallee you’ll look for the fabulously coloured Australian Ringneck Parrots, brilliant Golden Whistlers and much more, you may just be lucky enough to witness the rare sighting of the endangered Southern Emu-wren. Keen bird watchers will keep an eye to the sky for birds of Prey including Osprey, Sea-eagles and Falcons.

Tailor-make your own birding itinerary taking in all the magnificent sites the region has to offer, spending your evenings in your very own beach-front accommodation with a private chef, gazing over the blue horizon to Boston Island off Port Lincoln.

Image Credit - Tourism Australia

Combine a little music with your wine!
Location: The Hunter Valley, New South Wales 

During the summer months the Hunter Valley vineyards come alive with concerts, festivals, and live music. From Aussie rock to international headlines, sunset jazz or the magic of a starlit symphony on your picnic blanket with a glass of Hunter Valley red!

The region is also home to two luxurious Spicers Retreats to indulge your senses. Featuring award-winning dining and elegantly appointed suites nestled into the natural bushland or private vineyards with signature experiences including a sensational sunrise hot air ballooning over the picturesque Hunter region.

Image Credits - Spicers Retreats

Phillip Island Penguin Parade
Location: Phillip Island Victoria

Image Credit - Phillip Island Nature Park

Phillip Island is home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world with over 40,000 penguins. Only 90-minutes from Melbourne you can experience the magic of these adorable little seabirds as they waddle their way from a hard-day’s fishing in the ocean to their burrows in the sand dunes. Dating back to the 1920’s, just after sunset some 700 to 5,000 penguins make their way to the dunes every night, our private guides provide delighted visitors an unforgettable evening on Summerland Beach. Summer is the perfect time to witness the phenomenon with peak breeding season leading to increased numbers making the pilgrimage.

Image Credit - Phillip Island Nature Park

Tasmanian Hidden Gems!
Location: Tasmania

Image Credit - Tourism Australia

Immerse yourself in the sweet perfume and vibrant purple blooms of the world’s largest privately-owned lavender farm. Spanning over 260 acres with approximately 650,000 lavender plants in rows stretching 200 km in total. In December the farm is in full bloom through to early February.

Wander among a fragrant sea of colour as you take in the striking purple landscape straight out of a story book. Learn about the farms harvesting and the wonderful products that are created from the lavender. Finish your day with a delicious lunch in the ambient surroundings with the striking Mt Arthur in the distance.

Combine this fragrant experience with a few nights at Saffire Freycinet, one of the world’s finest Luxury Lodges. Overlooking the alluring Freycinet Peninsula your beautifully appointed suites ooze luxury with all the trimmings, boasting one of Tasmania’s most exclusive restaurants and array of complementary experiences including Wineglass Bay and the infamous oyster shucking dining experience in Freycinet Oyster Farm.

Historical River Outback Experience
Location: The Murray River - South Australia

Immerse yourself in a unique, opulent, and private retreat on Australia’s longest River. The Frames is a 6-star, award-winning accommodation built for discerning travellers on the peaceful banks of The Murray River. A truly Australian iconic river, teeming with native wildlife and towering river red gums with beautiful desert landscapes and flourishing wetlands to explore in this uniquely Australian outback region.

Take in an Australian sunset on a beautifully restored Gondola with champagne and nibbles or experience an Aboriginal cultural Welcome to Country ceremony. Visit a historic shearing station turned brewery, jump aboard a wetland & wildlife cruise or delight in a Riverland bird watching tour. For the foodies, many local wineries, distilleries and coffee plantations are close by where you can indulge in a gastronomic journey or take in a star-lit glamping experience and dine among the gums in this diverse, red-earthed playground.

Image Credits - The Frames

Ready to tick some experiences off your bucket list? 
Reach out to our team for more information on any of the featured experiences.

Contact Alquemie
WHY ALQUEMIE?
 
 
WE ARE AUSTRALIA SPECIALISTS
 
We’ve been operating since 2001 as an DMC (destination management company) helping luxury travel agents from around the globe craft unique, luxury and experiential itineraries for their discerning clients.
 
~~~
 
WE HAVE DEEP KNOWLEDGE OF ALL THINGS AUSTRALIAN.
 
Our team has an intimate understanding of Australia and we are constantly travelling throughout the country to improve our knowledge of what’s on offer. We hand-pick our suppliers – we test out the guides, the accommodation and the experiences so you can be assured that when we put something in an itinerary there is a good reason for it.
 
~~~
 
OUR DIFFERENCE
 
Our creativity. In conjunction with our hand-picked suppliers we aim to create the
un-Googleable! ‘Never-had-before, never-to-be-repeated-again’ experiences.
 
~~~
 
HOW WE CAN HELP YOU
 
We know the intricacies of each region and how best to reveal what makes them special. We draw on a big pool of relationships to create unique experiences.
Our network of contacts around the country is second to none and means we are uniquely well-informed to design an experience of Australia that goes to the heart of the country.
 
 
Come to us for extraordinary itineraries.
 
 
Our mantra:
‘Anybody can book accommodation, where we add value is by layering in the magic’.

Written by Kristi Gomm

Australia in Spring

Posted on by Kristi Holmes

AS FAR FROM ORDINARY AS YOU CAN POSSIBLY TRAVEL

Bronte Beach
Image Credit - Tourism Australia

Australia in Spring

Spring – September, October and November, is a spectacular time to visit Australia. The southern states are blanketed in vivid purple jacaranda blooms, temperatures are mild with sunny days and cooler evenings. Our deep blue seas are warming up with the promise of summer just around the corner. Milder conditions make way for a whole host of wildlife spotting, outdoor events and unforgettable experiences.

Be mindful that November marks the beginning of the ‘wet season’ in our northern states Queensland, Northern Territory, and the northern parts of Western Australia. Adding a new and enchanting dimension to our rainforests and bringing tropical showers to our waterfalls and flood plains – so plan your experiences accordingly.

For those who have clients coming to Australia in Spring 2023, we have put together 10 bucket list highlights and suggested itineraries to make their Australian experience truly unforgettable.

River Drift Snorkel Adventure in the World's Oldest Rainforest
Location: Daintree National Park, Queensland

Drifting in the daintree
Image Credit - Back Country Bliss

Immerse yourself in the rainforest like never before! This unique, hands-on experience is like no other. Experience the serenity and the beauty of this World Heritage Listed Rainforest as you drift effortlessly down the crystal-clear Mossman River beneath a canopy of green. Don a snorkel and search for turtles, fish, water dragon and the elusive platypus. Our local guides will show you many interesting species of the region on a short rainforest walk during your adventure. 

Daintree Rainforest and Mossman Gorge
Image credit - Back Country Bliss

Charter a Yacht in the Spectacular Whitsundays 
Location: The Whitsundays, Queensland

Yacht Charter
Image Credit - Tourism Australia

Escape reality and create unforgettable memories in the pristine, turquoise waters of The Whitsundays. With over 74 islands to explore – most of them remote and uninhabited, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself n Australia’s beach culture. Boasting endless stretches of uncrowded white sandy beaches, coral cays brimming with colourful fish, crystal-clear tropical waters and vibrant night life for those who want to call into Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach – there really is something for everyone.

The Whitsunday Islands
Image Credit - Tourism and Events Queensland

Cows & Canapés in the Outback
Location: South-west of Darwin, Northern Territory 

Finniss River Lodge

Wild-bush charm meets contemporary elegance and sophistication at Australia’s newest experiential lodge, only 90 minutes’ drive or a 20-minute charter flight from Darwin. An all-inclusive high-end lodge set on a 50,000-acre working cattle station on the edge of a vast wetland in the Northern Territory. With a maximum of 12 guests your stay can be as adventurous or relaxed as you choose.

This stunning wilderness area showcases Australia at its best! Teeming with birdlife, lizards, dingo’s, crocodiles and of course the cattle – guests are treated to brilliant sunsets, airboat adventures, buggy tours, safari’s, station experiences and of course their Cows & Canapés truly unique experience. Sip sundowners and take a selfie with these curious and friendly cattle as you indulge in canapés and tales of outback life. A visit in September or October will avoid the ‘wet season’ and guests might be lucky enough to spot some baby calves! Equally as invigorating are the airboats adventures that take flight along the flood plains in the wetter months.

Canapes with Cows
Image Credit - Finniss River Lodge

Southern Ocean Lodge - Reopening!
Location: Kangaroo Island 
Dates: 6 December 2023

Southern Ocean Lodge
Image Credit - Southern Ocean Lodge

After the devastating bushfires in 2020 the multi-award-winning Southern Ocean Lodge is well underway to reopen its doors December 6th, 2023. Perched high on the cliff top with 360-degree views you’ll be mesmerised by the breath-taking views of this wildly diverse landscape.

Surrounded by pristine conservation sanctuaries and national parks, Kangaroo Island is a premium destination for nature-lovers. Take a trip out to Seal Bay Conservation Park and wander among the dunes of Seal Bay, getting up close and personal with Australia’s 3rd largest sea lion colony. Finish the evening with a Southern Ocean Lodge signature experience enjoying sundowners with a twilight expedition to witness the kangaroos and wallabies grazing in the setting sun.

Kangaroo Island

Taronga Zoo - Private Tours
Location: Sydney, New South Wales 

Wildlife Retreat
Image Credit - Taronga Zoo Wildlife Retreat

Taronga Zoo’s private tours are back with a whole new and interactive Australian enclosure due for final completion mid-May 2023. A must-see day out for any visitor to Australia. Meander your way through the newly designed board walk taking in the kangaroo, wallabies, emu, dingoes and more as you ascend into the treetops among the Koala’s lazing dreamily in the Eucalyptus trees. Visit the state-of-the-art and interactive nocturnal house and experience close encounters with a number of animals on your private tour, complete with the infamous view of Sydney Harbour as your backdrop.

Finish your visit with an overnight stay at the award-winning Wildlife Retreat nestled in its own private animal sanctuary within the Zoo’s enclosure. Be wowed by more intimate experiences including feeding the resident giraffe, with their incredibly long purple tongues.

Taronga Zoo

Bucket List Dining Experience in the Rainforest
Location: The Treehouse Restaurant, The Daintree Rainforest, Queensland

The Treehouse Restaurant
Image Credit - Silky Oaks Lodge - The Treehouse Restaurant

Perched high in a leafy rainforest canopy overlooking the majestic Mossman River is a tropical paradise like no other. The incredible floor to ceiling open-aired layout of The Treehouse Restaurant creates an unforgettable dining experience complete with the soft flowing sounds of the river tumbling below.

Tantalise your taste buds with spectacular creations from renowned chef Mark Godbeer. A contemporary Australian menu inspired by an abundance of fresh produce sourced from the resort’s kitchen garden and the surrounding local region.

As the evening draws to a close and the warm candlelight radiates from the tables, extend your rainforest dining experience with a stay at Silky Oaks Lodge in their prestigious Daintree Pavilion. High-end luxury showcasing the rainforest from every vista.

Silky Oaks Lodge
Image Credit - Silky Oaks Lodge

Authentic Aboriginal Deep Country Experience
Location: Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Sand Art
Image Credit - Localing tours

Far removed from the traditional ‘tourist’ experience, this transforming cultural experience will see you enjoy a bushfood inspired morning tea on the renowned surf coast along the Great Ocean Road as you get to know our local Aboriginal artist. Hear his tales from the earth and sea as he explains some of the typical ways story and dreaming are represented through symbols in different aboriginal art traditions. Work alongside him to create an authentic aboriginal landscape artwork in the sand.

After a scenic drive and some lunch in the infamous town of Torquay, you will be transported to private, local Aboriginal lands and be treated to a traditional ‘Welcome to Country’ smoke ceremony from the elders of this region. Learn how to throw boomerangs and traditional spears as you listen to the harmonious sounds of the didgeridoo and enjoy a rare dance performance from locals.

Great Ocean Road

Bay of Fires 4-Day Walk
Location: Bay of Fires - Tasmania, Australia

Bay of Fires
Image Credit - Tasmanian Walking Company
One for the nature and walking enthusiasts. This multi-day spectacular coastal walk covers some of the most stunning and remote stretches of coastline in the world, located along the northeastern tip of Tasmania. The Bay of Fires is famed for its white sandy beaches, vibrant red lichen covered boulders, diverse woodlands and tranquil waterways.


An off-grid easy beach walking experience, rich in culture and stories from the traditional owners and first nations people of the region. Enjoy wild swimming and kayaking opportunities along the way whilst your evenings are spent in various high-end accommodation including the award-winning Bay of Fires Lodge with rejuvenating spa and renowned panoramic bathtub experience. Foot spas, gourmet meals, canapés and delicious local wines are all part of the experience. Departures October to May. This great walk is also available in a 3-day, pack free option for those short on time.

Bay of Fires Walk

Sculpture by the Sea
Location: Sydney, New South Wales 
Dates: 20 October - 6 November 2023

Sculpture by the Sea - Bondi
Image Credit - Sculpture by the Sea - Destination NSW

Witness over 100 sculptures from artists all over the world as you traverse the sandstone cliffs on this iconic, sundrenched, 2km coastal walk in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. Marvel at the unique sculptures that dot the horizon on this spectacular seascape canvas from September through to October. Celebrating its 25th year, Sculpture by the Sea is the world’s largest, free-to-the-public outdoor exhibition with $100,000 in prize money on offer. 

Sculpture by the Sea
Image Credit - Charlotte Curd

Get Back to Nature Experience
Location: Southern Highlands, NSW

Bendooley Estate
Image Credit - Bendooley Estate

The Southern Highlands are surrounded by national parks with plenty of spectacular hiking trails winding through rainforests and ancient eucalyptus forests, with a multitude of activities to entertain. From thundering waterfalls to picturesque historic towns, antique stores and flourishing gardens, wineries and museums. Our local guide can curate the perfect private tour to suit your interests in this diverse and magical region.

Spend a morning paddling the scenic Shoalhaven River in your custom-built double canoe rig. Indulge your taste buds with wild native canapés and a local award-winning cold-climate wine as you glide through the pristine waters and rugged gorge abundant with birds and wildlife. Enjoy a long lunch at an authentic local winery, take a guided forest walk with local indigenous first nations people in the footsteps of their Ancestors and see Australia through a different lens. Discover many fantastic waterfalls and panoramic views in the surrounding national parks and foodies will enjoy a foraging experience for wild mushrooms and truffles in season.

Southern Highlands

Ready to tick some experiences off your bucket list? 
Reach out to our team for more information on any of the featured experiences.

Contact Alquemie
WHY ALQUEMIE?
 
 
WE ARE AUSTRALIA SPECIALISTS
 
We’ve been operating since 2001 as an DMC (destination management company) helping luxury travel agents from around the globe craft unique, luxury and experiential itineraries for their discerning clients.
 
~~~
 
WE HAVE DEEP KNOWLEDGE OF ALL THINGS AUSTRALIAN.
 
Our team has an intimate understanding of Australia and we are constantly travelling throughout the country to improve our knowledge of what’s on offer. We hand-pick our suppliers – we test out the guides, the accommodation and the experiences so you can be assured that when we put something in an itinerary there is a good reason for it.
 
~~~
 
OUR DIFFERENCE
 
Our creativity. In conjunction with our hand-picked suppliers we aim to create the
un-Googleable! ‘Never-had-before, never-to-be-repeated-again’ experiences.
 
~~~
 
HOW WE CAN HELP YOU
 
We know the intricacies of each region and how best to reveal what makes them special. We draw on a big pool of relationships to create unique experiences.
Our network of contacts around the country is second to none and means we are uniquely well-informed to design an experience of Australia that goes to the heart of the country.
 
 
Come to us for extraordinary itineraries.
 
 
Our mantra:
‘Anybody can book accommodation, where we add value is by layering in the magic’.

Written by Kristi Gomm

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.