Ballarat Begonia's & Beyond

Day 1

Your adventure begins with personalized home pick-ups in the greater Hobart region, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. Board a midday flight from Hobart International Airport and enjoy a scenic trip to Melbourne. Upon arrival, we’ll take a comfortable drive through Victoria’s picturesque countryside to Ballarat. Check into the charming Quality Inn George Hotel, your home for the duration of the tour, nestled in the heart of the city. In the evening, gather for a delightful dinner at the hotel’s onsite restaurant.

Day 2

The morning kicks off with a guided Ballarat City Highlights Tour, where you'll delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming city. Discover the iconic landmarks, grand architecture, and historic sites that tell the story of Ballarat's gold rush era. In the afternoon, prepare to be enchanted by the main highlight of your tour: the Ballarat Begonia Festival. Held in the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens, this renowned festival is a celebration of horticultural beauty and community spirit. As you wander through the gardens, you'll be mesmerized by the vibrant displays of begonias, showcasing an array of colors, shapes, and sizes, making for a truly breathtaking sight. Enjoy guided garden tours that provide insights into the history and care of these stunning plants. Live music fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere as you explore the various stalls and activities. From gardening workshops, floral art demonstrations, entertainment and delicious food stalls, there's something for everyone to enjoy. This enchanting event promises to be a highlight of your trip, leaving you with lasting memories of the vibrant blooms and joyful atmosphere.

Day 3

After a delicious breakfast at the Quality Inn George Hotel, we’ll depart Ballarat and embark on an exciting day tour of the Grampians. Our journey takes us through scenic landscapes as we venture to the charming town of Halls Gap, nestled in the heart of the Grampians National Park. Upon arrival in Halls Gap, enjoy a guided tour of this quaint town, known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly atmosphere. Explore the local shops, cafes, and galleries, and soak in the tranquil surroundings. For lunch, we’ll head to the Halls Gap Hotel, where you can savor a delicious meal while taking in the picturesque views of the Grampians. After lunch, we’ll visit Boroka Lookout, one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the park. From here, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the rugged mountain ranges, lush forests, and the serene Lake Bellfield – a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the natural splendor of the Grampians. Our next stop is Pomonal Estate, a family-owned winery, brewery, and cider house. Here, you can indulge in a tasting session, choosing from a selection of fine wines, craft beers, or refreshing ciders. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the stunning backdrop of the Grampians as you sip on your chosen beverage. After a day filled with exploration and delightful experiences, we’ll return to Ballarat, arriving in time to unwind and enjoy dinner.

Day 4

Aside from breakfast and dinner, today is a completely free day for you to explore the many attractions Ballarat has to offer at your own pace. Some popular options to consider are: Sovereign Hill: Step back in time to the 1850s gold rush era at this immersive open-air museum. Try your hand at gold panning, tour the underground mines, and watch live historical reenactments. Ballarat Wildlife Park: Get up close and personal with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and crocodiles. Enjoy interactive animal encounters and educational talks. Art Gallery of Ballarat: Visit Australia’s oldest and largest regional art gallery. Explore a diverse collection of Australian art, from colonial to contemporary works. Eureka Centre: Discover the story of the Eureka Rebellion, a pivotal event in Australian history. The centre offers interactive exhibits and artefacts related to the 1854 uprising. Ballarat Tramway Museum: Ride historic trams and learn about Ballarat’s tramway history at this unique museum. Her Majesty's Theatre: Check out what performances or shows might be happening at this historic theatre, one of Australia’s oldest. Ballarat Aviation Museum: For aviation enthusiasts, explore a collection of aircraft and aviation memorabilia. Feel free to choose any of these attractions or simply wander around the city, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the local atmosphere. Whatever you choose, your day in Ballarat is sure to be filled with delightful experiences and memories.

Day 5

After breakfast, we’ll head to Daylesford, renowned for its mineral springs, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant arts community. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the serene Lake Daylesford, taking in the tranquil waters and lush surroundings. Next, we’ll visit the Daylesford Botanic Gardens, a beautiful spot filled with native and exotic plants, offering panoramic views of the town from Wombat Hill. We’ll continue our journey to the enchanting Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm. This historic farmstead, with its lavender fields, olive groves, and charming stone buildings, transports you to the European countryside. Take a guided tour to learn about the farm’s history and the process of lavender cultivation. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at the onsite café, where you can savor farm-fresh ingredients in a rustic setting. The Buda Historic Home & Garden is our next stop. This grand Victorian-era home offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent goldfields family. Explore the beautifully preserved house and extensive gardens. The Mill Castlemaine is a vibrant hub of creativity and commerce. Discover artisan workshops, vintage stores, galleries, and gourmet food vendors. Enjoy some free time to browse unique crafts, antiques, and local produce. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up a special memento or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Day 6

Start your day with a visit to the historic Ceres Homestead. This beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the gold rush era. Next, we’ll head to the charming town of Clunes, known for its rich history and literary festivals. Our stop here includes a visit to the Clunes Bottle Museum. This unique museum houses an impressive collection of antique bottles, each with its own fascinating history. Discover the evolution of bottle design and the stories behind these everyday objects from the past. It’s time to explore some of Victoria’s stunning Silo Art Trail with visits to the towns of Avoca and Rupanyup. The murals capture the essence of the local community and its heritage. These large-scale artworks transform functional structures into captivating canvases, celebrating the region’s culture and history.

Day 7

Begin your final day with a visit to the Gardens of St Erth, a stunning historic property located in Blackwood. These gardens are renowned for their beautiful displays of rare and unusual plants, including heritage fruit trees, perennial borders, and a tranquil fern gully. We’ll make our way to Melbourne Airport for your flight home.

B=Breakfast, L =Lunch, D=Dinner