Holiday Overview
Experience the highlights of Australia’s East Coast on this spectacular self-drive holiday.
Begin in Brisbane, exploring the Sunshine Coast and relaxing on the golden sands of Hervey Bay. Venture to Fraser Island to uncover its natural wonders, including the pristine waters of Lake McKenzie. Continue to Noosa Bay to visit one of the world’s rare everglades, where you can experience this unique ecosystem by boat tour or canoe. Conclude this leg of the journey with a visit to the stunning Glass House Mountains, where you can hike or simply enjoy the views of the 11 majestic peaks.
Your adventure then leads to Melbourne, where you’ll explore the iconic Great Ocean Road, home to the Twelve Apostles. Discover Victoria’s Gold Rush history and charming coastal towns. Next, travel to the Blue Mountains, a spectacular valley with views of the famous Three Sisters rock formation. In the Hunter Valley, savour Australia’s finest wines and gourmet cuisine. Finally, your journey ends in Sydney, where you can enjoy a Sydney Harbour Cruise for breathtaking views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Days: 29 / Nights: 28
Start: Brisbane Finish: Sydney
States Visited: Queensland, Victoria & New South Wales
Australia's East Coast Self Drive includes:
- Return Flights from the UK
- Internal flights
- Car Hire
- 28 Nights accommodation
- Ferry - Sorrento to Queenscliff
- Fraser Island Beauty Spots Tour
- Explore French Island & Philip Island
- Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise
- Sydney Hop on Hop off Bus
Day 1 - UK Brisbane
Arrive at Brisbane International Airport, after clearing customs and collecting your bags make your way to your hotel. Spending the rest of day at your leisure.
Featured accommodation
Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Enhance your experience
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Rydges South Bank Brisbane
Day 2 - Explore Brisbane
A day at leisure to explore Brisbane, speak to your consultant about available day tours you may wish to add.
Featured accommodation
Grand Chancellor Brisbane
Enhance your experience
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Rydges South Bank Brisbane
Day 3 - Brisbane to Hervey Bay
Today check out your Brisbane hotel and collect your car hire. Making the journey along the Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay. Spending the rest of the day at leisure exploring Hervey Bay.
Featured accommodation
Mantra Hervey Bay
Day 4 - Hervey Bay to Fraser Island (K'gari)
Today check out of your Hervey Bay hotel and make your way to the ferry port for your crossing to Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island.
Featured accommodation
Kingfisher Bay Resort
Day 5 - Fraser Island Beauty Spots Tour
Explore the beauty of Fraser Island and learn about the natural and cultural history of K'gari, Fraser Island. Swim in the crystal-clear, blue waters of Lake McKenzie, the island's most beautiful perched lake. From Central Station, walk along the banks of Wanggoolba Creek as it flows silently through the rainforest. Marvel at the tall, majestic satinay trees of Pile Valley. Drive along spectacular Seventy-Five Mile Beach. Stop to swim in the cool, fresh Eli Creek. This swift-flowing creek, the largest on the Eastern beach, spills 80 mega litres of water into the ocean every day. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and marvel at the coloured sands of the Pinnacles. See an ancient forest being uncovered as Stone tool Sand Blow moves across the island.
Includes morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and National Park fees.
Featured accommodation
Kingfisher Bay Resort
Day 6 - Fraser Island to Noosa Heads
This morning check out your Fraser Island hotel and make your way to the ferry port for your crossing to Hervey Bay. Continuing along to Noosa Heads, after checking into your hotel spend the rest of day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Noosa
Day 7 - Explore Noosa Heads
A day at leisure to explore Noosa Heads.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Noosa
Day 8 - Noosa Everglades
Cruise deep into the tranquil mirrored waterways of Australia’s’ only Everglades. This spectacular network of wetlands showcases ancient landscapes and offers spectacular photo opportunities. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique eco system. Australia’s Everglades are found in the Northern end of the Noosa River system, perched within the sand dunes of the Cooloola National Park. An untouched, pristine wilderness area which is home to over 44% of Australia’s bird species. Pure freshwater pulses out of the Cooloola Sandmass and filters through the tea tree infused ecosystem into this unique river system – creating the most spectacular reflections you will ever see.
Choose to experience the Everglades in the comfort of the specially designed eco boats or cruise to the canoe launch area – grab a paddle, jump in a canoe and experience one of the best canoeing adventures in Australia.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Noosa
Day 9 - Noosa Bay to Montville
Your drive today takes you to Montville for your rainforest escape.
Featured accommodation
Narrows Escape
Day 10 - Explore Montville
A day at leisure to explore Montville and the surrounding area.
Featured accommodation
Narrows Escape
Day 11 - Montville to Glass House Mountains
Today check out your Montville hotel and make your way to Glasshouse Mountains. After you have checked into your Glass House Mountains hotel spend the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Glass House Mountains Ecolodge
Day 12 - Glass House Mountains
Spend today exploring the Glass House Mountains.
Featured accommodation
Glass House Mountains Ecolodge
Day 13 - Glasshouse Mountains to Melbourne
Today make the drive back to Brisbane Airport for your onward flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival transfer to your chosen hotel spending the remainder of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Batman's Hill On Collins
Enhance your experience
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto
Crown Towers Melbourne
Day 14 - Explore Melbourne
A day at leisure to explore Melbourne.
Featured accommodation
Batman's Hill On Collins
Enhance your experience
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto
Crown Towers Melbourne
Unmissable Experiences
Great Ocean Road
Day 15 - Explore French & Philip Island
An unforgettable island-hopping adventure from French Island to Phillip Island, where you’ll experience Australia’s charming wildlife and stunning coastal scenery. Begin the day with a ferry ride across Western Port Bay, soaking in the crystal blue waters and picturesque views as you arrive at French Island. Once there, enjoy a guided 4WD tour of this hidden natural gem, spotting koalas and other native animals while learning about the island’s unique ecosystem.
Next, take a scenic ferry journey to Phillip Island, famous for its beautiful beaches, top surfing spots, and the iconic motorbike circuit. Explore Cowes, where you can stroll along the pier, visit local boutiques, and enjoy the cafes and restaurants along the Esplanade. Then, head to the Nobbies Boardwalk at Point Grant for dramatic sea views, rugged cliffs, and a chance to observe a seal colony.
To complete your day, witness the renowned Penguin Parade, where adorable little penguins waddle ashore at sunset. Expert rangers will provide insights into these fascinating creatures’ lives, making this a day filled with breathtaking sights and cherished wildlife moments.
Featured accommodation
Batman's Hill On Collins
Enhance your experience
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto
Crown Towers Melbourne
Unmissable Experiences
Melbourne Experiences
Day 16 - Melbourne to Mornington Peninsula
Collect your car and take a short drive to the Mornington Peninsula. You might choose to visit one of the area’s vineyards to sample the local artisan produce, or perhaps enjoy the charming beaches and coastal towns nearby.
Featured accommodation
Flinders Hotel
Enhance your experience
Jackalope Hotel
Day 17 - Mornington Peninsula to Apollo Bay
Catch the ferry from Sorrento to Queenscliff and embark along the first section of the Great Ocean Road to Apollo Bay.
Featured accommodation
Best Western Apollo Bay Motel & Apartments
Day 18 - Apollo Bay to Port Fairy
Spend a full day exploring the Great Ocean Road, where just east of Apollo Bay, you’ll encounter the Twelve Apostles – stunning 150-foot limestone pillars rising from the ocean. Before reaching Port Fairy, consider a stop at the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a dormant volcanic crater now home to kangaroos, koalas, and emus in their natural habitat.
Featured accommodation
Seacombe House - Comfort Inn Port Fairy
Day 19 - Port Fairy to Grampians National Park
Turn inland and continue to the Grampian National Park. Well known for its trails, waterfalls and wildlife.
Featured accommodation
D'Altons Resort
Day 20 - Grampians National Park
Spend a full day enjoying the Grampian’s, whilst the scenic beauty and wildlife in this area are a massive pull, there are also galleries, vineyards and award-winning restaurants waiting to be discovered.
Featured accommodation
D'Altons Resort
Day 21 - Grampians National Park to Ballarat
Next stop is Ballarat, a town that boomed during an 1850’s gold rush. Visit the open air museum of Sovereign Hill to get a better understanding of the areas history.
Featured accommodation
Craig’s Royal Hotel
Day 22 - Ballarat to Blue Mountains
Make your way back to Melbourne for your onward flight to Sydney. Upon arrival pick up your car hire and take the drive to the Blue Mountains.
Featured accommodation
Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa
Enhance your experience
Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains
Day 23 - Explore the Blue Mountains
Spend a full day exploring the beautiful Blue Mountains, visit Echo Point, for a fantastic view of the Three Sisters and a chance to enjoy one of the many nearby bushwalking trails.
Featured accommodation
Lilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa
Enhance your experience
Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains
Day 24 - Blue Mountains to Hunter Valley
Continue to the Hunter Valley, with more than 150 Wineries and a plethora of restaurants, it’s a must-see destination for any foodie.
Featured accommodation
Hunter Valley Resort
Enhance your experience
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Day 25 - Explore Hunter Valley
Spend a full day exploring the cellar doors and restaurants of the Hunter Valley.
Featured accommodation
Hunter Valley Resort
Enhance your experience
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Day 26 - Hunter Valley to Sydney
Return to Sydney, drop off your car and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour
Day 27 - Sydney Harbour Cruise
Spend your morning at leisure, explore Sydney's Rock area and Circular Key before embarking on your lunch cruise of Sydney Harbour. Discover the secrets of one of the world's most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour
Unmissable Experiences
Sydney Experiences
Day 28 - Explore Sydney
A day at leisure to explore the sights of Sydney, we have included the Hop on Hop off bus.
Featured accommodation
Parkroyal Darling Harbour Hotel
Enhance your experience
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney
Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour
Day 29 - Sydney to UK
Transfer to Sydney airport for your onward flight home.
Greand Chancellor Brisbane
Situated on the highest point in Brisbane’s Central Business District, Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane is a convenient address for business and leisure travellers. Discover an engaging blend of contemporary design, modern amenities and gracious hospitality, at a 4.5 star Brisbane hotel dedicated to the perfect guest experience - ideal for a relaxing corporate trip, family holiday or weekend getaway.
Spicers Balfour Hotel, Brisbane Holidays
Spicers Balfour Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel just minutes from the Brisbane city centre, 16km from Brisbane Airport, and a 2 minute walk from Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s newest entertainment and lifestyle destination
Rydges South Bank, Brisbane Holidays
Rydges South Bank Brisbane is located in the heart of Brisbane’s arts and entertainment precinct with plenty of things to do and only minutes away from South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.
The friendly staff at our Brisbane Hotel will make you feel right at home the moment you check in. Rydges South Bank Brisbane features a variety of rooms and suites with state-of-the-art features and amenities.
Mantra, Hervey Bay Holidays
There are many reasons to stay and play at Mantra Hervey Bay, overlooking the famous calm waters where migrating humpback whales frolic with their newborns.
Kingfisher Bay Resort, Fraser Island Holidays
Kingfisher Bay Resort is the gateway to World Heritage-listed Fraser Island and is internationally renowned following the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's royal visit, during their official Australian tour.
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas Holidays
Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is nestled in the serenity of Noosa National Park. Spend your days lazing in the inviting free-form swimming pool, pamper yourself in Stephanie’s Ocean Spa, or just take it easy
Narrows Escape
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, an enchanting rainforest paradise at the edge of Kondalilla National Park in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Narrows Escape are a eco-certified accommodation using sustainable practices to reduce their impact on the surrounding environment.
Glass House Mountains Ecolodge
Peaceful and relaxing eco-friendly accommodation in the heart of the Glass House Mountains in South-east Queensland, Australia.
Batman's Hill On Collins, Melbourne Holidays
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's bustling city centre, Batman’s Hill on Collins offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, making it a fantastic base for UK travellers exploring the city. Located on the iconic Collins Street, this hotel boasts a prime location directly opposite Southern Cross Station, providing convenient access to Melbourne's extensive public transport network. Whether you're heading to the famous MCG for a cricket match, exploring the city's vibrant laneways, or indulging in retail therapy at nearby shopping precincts, this central hub ensures you're never far from the action.trated, via a rocky outcrop.
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto Melbourne Holidays
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto is geared to give you memorable, authentic local experiences. A lifetime's experience in luxury, housed in a much-loved Melbourne landmark. This luxury Melbourne hotel features a Venetian Gothic façade while the modern interior translates the building into the 21st century.
Crown Towers Melbourne
Beautifully located on the southern bank of the Yarra River in Melbourne, Crown Towers sets the benchmark for luxury hotels in Australia. Lavishly appointed and offering an impeccable standard of customer service and attention to detail, Crown Towers is a hotel that truly understands the meaning of opulence.
Flinders Hotel, Mornington Peninsula Holidays
Inspired by the natural coastal surroundings, the boutique Flinders Hotel offers luxurious and relaxing accommodation on the Mornington Peninsula, 1.5 hours drive from Cowes and a 75-minute drive from Melbourne. All prices include a gourmet continental breakfast and free WiFi.
Jackalope Hotel, Mornington Peninsula Holidays
Situated in Merricks North, tthe Jackalope Hotel is within 6 miles (10 km) of Stonier Winery, Paradigm Hill and Port Phillip Estate. Dromana Estate Winery and Pt Leo Estate Sculpture Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Best Western Apollo Bay Motel & Apartments, Victoria Holidays
Best Western Apollo Bay Motel & Apartments is situated in the heart of Apollo Bay and is a 20-minute drive from the Otway National Park, and a 4-minute walk from the Apollo Bay Museum. The accommodation features a seasonal outdoor pool, a BBQ area and free onsite parking.
Seacombe House - Comfort Inn Port Fairy Holidays
This unique property is spread across 3 buildings, and provides a variety of accommodation, including cottages and private rooms. The three accommodations are the Comfort Inn Suites, the Historic Cottages and the Seacombe Guest House.
D'Altons Resort, Grampians National Park Holidays
D'Altons Resort is a delightful bush retreat accommodation in the heart of Halls Gap & the Grampians National Park.
Craig’s Royal Hotel, Ballarat Holidays
Craig’s Royal Hotel is located just a 5-minute walk from Ballarat Railway Station and features boutique-style rooms with elegant furnishings. Boasting a rich ambiance of Australian heritage, this hotel offers a restaurant, free valet parking and free Wi-Fi access.
Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort Holidays
Set amidst 2 acres of gardens, the 5-star Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa is a grand country house providing luxurious accommodation in the Blue Mountains. It features 2 restaurants, an outdoor pool and luxury spa facilities.
Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains, New South Wales Holidays
Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains MGallery by Sofitel is located on the edge of the awe-inspiring Jamison Valley in the heart of the Blue Mountains, just 90-minutes’ drive from Sydney. The resort boasts a wide range of free leisure activities, including 2 swimming pools, a fitness centre, a day spa and a tennis court.
Hunter Valley Resort, Hunter Valley Holidays
This stylish resort offers rooms with timber cathedral-ceilings and private balconies overlooking the largest winery in the Hunter Valley. It is located within minutes of 3 championship golf courses.
Spicers Vineyards Estate
Just a two hour drive from Sydney, you’ll be greeted by rolling vineyards and natural bush land at Spicers Vineyards Estate. Where Spa Anise adds to the feeling of rejuvenation and appreciating life comes as naturally as appreciating the latest vintage.
PARKROYAL Darling Hotel, Sydney Holidays
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour offers views of Darling Harbour and the city skyline and features a restaurant, a fully equipped fitness centre and free cable TV. It is located in Sydney CBD (Central Business District) just a 5 minutes’ walk to Chinatown and Town Hall Station
Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney Holidays
Wake up to breath-taking views of the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge or Darling Harbour each morning. You will be spoiled for choice at the Shangri-La Hotel, with a day spa, fitness centre and indoor pool at your disposal.
Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour
The Crowne Plaza Sydney Darling Harbour is a modern, upscale hotel situated in the heart of Sydney, offering a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. With its prime location near Darling Harbour, the hotel provides easy access to some of Sydney’s most iconic attractions, including the SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the International Convention Centre (ICC), and vibrant shopping and dining precincts. Guests are welcomed into a sleek, stylish lobby with contemporary decor, embodying a chic, urban aesthetic. The hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city skyline or Darling Harbour, along with modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and in-room espresso machines.
Image Gallery
Noosa
Blue Mountains
Great Ocean Road
Sydney
Glass House Mountains
Brisbane
Glass House Mountains
Noosa Everglades
Noosa
Fraser Island
Fraser Island
Sunshine Coast
Narrows Escpae
Koala
Melbourne
Philip Island
Penguins Philip Island
Kangroos on Philip Island
Mornington Peninsula
Port Fairy
Blue Mountains
Hunter Valley
Bondi Beach
Sydney Harbour Bridge
Alternative Holidays That May Interest You
Below you will find a small selection of 2024, 2025 holidays that may interest you. Remember, we tailor-make each holiday to your exact needs, so please call us on 0800 270 0009 and let one of our Holiday experts design the perfect trip for you
Legendary Pacific Coast Fly Drive Holiday
- Sydney
- Hunter Valley
- Port Macquarie
- Coffs Harbour
- Byron Bay
- Gold Coast
- Brisbane
- Cruise Sydney Harbour
- Stay on a working vineyard
- Enjoy bohemian Byron Bay
- See the glitz of Gold Coast
12 Nights from £2490pp
The Great Ocean Road - Australia Fly Drive
- Melbourne
- Apollo Bay
- Robe
- Barossa Valley
- Kangaroo Island
- Adelaide
- Get up close to wildlife on Kangaroo Island
- Witness the coastal icons, the towering 12 Apostles
- Taste the best wine from Yarra Valley and Barossa Valley
- See the penguins & koalas of Philip Island
11 Nights from £2805pp
Perth's Road to Margaret River Fly Drive Holiday
- Perth
- Margaret River
- Karri Valley
- Mandurah
- Visit the stunning beaches of Margaret River
- Explore the seaside town of Mandurah
- Visit Lake Beedup in the Karri Forest
11 Nights from £3415pp
Western Australia Coastal Adventure Fly Drive
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- Cervantes
- Kalbarri
- Monkey Mia
- Dirk Hartog Island
- Carnarvon
- Ningaloo
- Exmouth
- Visit Namburg National Park to see the Pinnacles
- Wander through Kalbarri National Park to step back in time
- Experience swimming with Whale Sharks at Ningaloo Reef
- Feed the dolphins at Monkey Mia
14 Nights from £3565pp
Coastal Coral Sea Australia Fly Drive Holiday
- Brisbane
- Noosa
- Hervey Bay
- Rockhampton
- Airlie Beach
- Townsville
- Cairns
- Visit the cosmopolitan city of Brisbane
- Visit Queensland's whale watching capital
14 Nights from £2830pp
Golf Australia
- Adelaide
- Kangaroo Island
- Melbourne
- Sydney
- Hunter Valley
- Play some of Australia's best golf courses
- Stay on a family owned working vineyard
- See the wildlife of Kangaroo Island
- Enjoy the cities of Adelaide, Melbourne & Sydney
15 Nights from £2975pp