Corroboree West 2017 - Part 2 Phillip Island to the Grampians and Ballarat

After around two hours we arrived at Philip Island and our first activity was on the Phillip Island Nature Park Eco boat cruise. After an exhilarating high-speed trip along the coast we reached the protected islet where one of the largest seal colonies makes its home. It was great to see these great creatures relaxing and swimming near our boat. Then we returned to Cowes to check into our accommodation for the evening in the lovely Phillip Island Apartments which are ideal for families planning to spend some time on the island. That evening we were off to see one of the highlights of our trip the nightly Penguin Parade as the little penguins make their way from the sea to their burrows after dusk. This is a great experience and the penguins are so comical especially some who have perhaps ate to much whilst out at sea. I thoroughly recommend you visit here, but make sure you wrap up warm for those colder Victorian nights.

The following morning after breakfast we were again on the move, this time heading for the Mornington Peninsula (about an hour away). Our first stop was the Moonlit Sanctuary where we could meet and feed kangaroos and wallabies as well as getting up close with Koalas and see the work that the sanctuary is doing to preserve endangered species.

After this we visited the Montalto Winery for lunch and an opportunity to taste their wares. I recommend their Pinot Gris and their Pinot Noir! After lunch we visited the Arthurs Seat Gondola Ride and then headed for the Peninsula Hot Springs. At the Hot Springs you can experience many different bathing experiences and we were fortunate enough to have a guide who showed us how to get the best from many of these, all in lovely hot spring water. This evening we spent in the lovely Quarters which is part of the Flinders Hotel. What was special as well was from the balcony of our lovely room we could see a Koala in the tree just a few yards away. Another early breakfast and we were on our way again this time heading for the Great Ocean Road. Burt first off we had to get off the Mornington Peninsula and we did this by crossing from Sorrento to Queenscliff on the Searoad ferry. This 40-minute crossing avoids having to travel all the way around Port Phillip bay which would take many hours. After a great crossing we had a site inspection at the Big4 Beacon resort before heading on to Barwon Heads and lunch. Our lunch was At the Heads which is located at the river mouth and perfect venue with great views, great service and a great menu.

After lunch we were started touring the Great Ocean Road and the spectacular views which go with it. Our first stop was the town of Lorne where we had a site inspection of the Cumberland Resort Hotel. Lorne is an ideal stopping point and a great lively little town to spend some time in. Soon we were on our way again with our next stop being the amazing 12 Apostles, great rock stacks that rise from the Southern Ocean. They are an amazing sight from the great viewing platform. That evening we stayed in Warrnambool at the Lady Bay Resort.

The following morning, we had breakfast at the Pavilion where we could see race horse being exercised on the beach and the small Middle Island (made famous from the movie Oddball and the Penguins). Soon we were off again and our first stop was the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, where we had more opportunities to spend time with local wildlife before making our way into the Grampians National Park. Lunch was at the famous Royal Mail Hotel in Dunkeld before heading off to see Mackenzie Falls. After Mackenzie Falls we headed up to the Boroka Lookout which gives amazing views over the whole area. This evening (our last in Australia) we spent at Lakeside Tourist Park, Halls Gap.

After breakfast at the Harvest Café we had site inspections of two alternative accommodations in Halls Gap – DULC and the luxury Boroka Downs, both very impressive properties. Then we visited Seppelt Wines for a wine tasting arranged with six local wineries. Amongst some wonderful wines my personal favourite was Cliff Edge Shiraz. Prior to heading for the airport, we could add in one last attraction and that was to Sovereign Hill just outside Ballarat. This living museum recreates Ballarat during the height of the 19th Century Gold Rush and is great fun as well as being informative, with a real insight into life back then as well as the opportunity to pan for gold.

All too soon it was back to the airport for our long flight home, my connection at Singapore was less than an hour allowing just enough time to walk from one end of the terminal to the other before boarding. Again, the Singapore Airlines service was wonderful with great meals and super service.

All in all, I had a wonderful time in Australia and saw and experienced so much – I would love to help you have your perfect trip ‘down-under’ so give me a call.