Departing Melbourne at 9:00 AM, your journey begins with a visit to the mysterious and naturally beautiful Hanging Rock. Enjoy a morning tea picnic in the shadow of this rocky outcrop as you immerse yourself in the curious tale depicted in Joan Lindsay’s unnerving classic, Picnic at Hanging Rock.

Pass through picturesque countryside to the quaint village of Daylesford. Nestled by a glistening lake and surrounded by towering gum trees, Daylesford is a peaceful escape filled with artists’ studios, cafés, and antique stores.

Next, visit Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm, a 100-acre property originally farmed by gold-seeking migrants in the 1850s. European-style lavender gardens frame the original stone buildings, producing farm-made body lotions and essential oils. A light café-style lunch will be served in this idyllic setting.

Check in to your accommodation for the evening at the acclaimed Lake House and enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Stroll around the lake, visit the stunning Convent Gallery, explore historic Vincent Street, or indulge in a spa treatment at the Salus Spa—the choice is yours.

Dinner tonight will be an unforgettable gourmet experience at Alla Wolfe-Tasker’s award-winning Lake House restaurant.

Departing Daylesford for the Grampians National Park, travel through rolling, eucalyptus-dotted hills and past sheep and cattle farms. Stop in the grand gold-rush city of Ballarat for a light lunch and time to explore the town's architectural highlights, or perhaps catch the latest exhibition at Australia’s oldest and largest regional art gallery.

Arrive in the township of Dunkeld and check into your accommodation for the night, The Royal Mail Hotel. Take a moment to relax and freshen up, or perhaps wander the grounds of the property, located in the shadow of the towering Mounts Abrupt and Sturgeon.

Before dinner at Parker Street Project, join the hotel's sommelier for a tour of their impressive 28,000-bottle wine collection. Featuring a vast range of local and international wines, the cellar includes the largest private Bordeaux and Burgundy collection in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy a comparative tasting of iconic wines currently drinking exceptionally well. Continue inland to the Southern Grampians National Park, stopping for a light lunch in the quaint rural town of Dunkeld. The region’s mountainous beauty is showcased to its fullest extent with an optional hike to the summit of The Piccaninny. This easy, gradual climb through open forest (featuring stunning wildflower displays in spring) culminates in jaw-dropping views of Mount Abrupt.

As dusk descends, kangaroos, wallabies, and a myriad of birdlife enliven the dramatic surroundings of the Royal Mail Hotel, your accommodation for the evening. Join your host to learn about the hotel’s captive breeding program and environmental initiatives, and get up close with endangered native Australian animals.

For dinner (at your own expense), the Royal Mail features two restaurants: the esteemed fine dining Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel (Wed – Sat) and the more casual Parker Street Project (Daily).

Following breakfast, join one of the hotel's chefs to learn about the sustainable philosophies behind Australia’s largest restaurant kitchen garden. The guiding principle of the garden is that food should be produced using organic methods with minimal impact on the earth.

Next, explore the sandstone grandeur of Grampians National Park. Put on comfortable walking shoes as we embark on one of the park’s breathtaking trails, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. Take in stunning views of the rugged mountain range and the surrounding pastoral land. In spring, the region bursts into a dazzling display of wildflowers. Enjoy a casual picnic lunch at Mackenzie Falls, Victoria’s largest waterfall.

Regarded as one of Australia’s most celebrated producers of Shiraz, Mount Langi Ghiran Winery is a jewel in the crown of the esteemed Grampians wine region. Join your host for an exclusive tour and tasting before returning to Melbourne (approx. 6:00 PM).