Arrive in Sydney on suggested Qantas flights. Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including extra nights’ accommodation and a private transfer from the airport.

Meet your tour leader Robin Powell and fellow travellers in the Sydney CBD at 09:30 am (location to be advised). Depart Sydney for the Hunter Valley and enjoy a welcome briefing by Robin on the coach.

Arrive at Tocal Homestead and gain a glimpse into Australia’s rural past. The Homestead’s story, and the history of the region, is told through its well-preserved colonial architecture and expansive grounds.

This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.

(LD)

After breakfast, start the day with a visit to Winmark Wines Sculpture Park and Art Gallery, which comprises an impressive collection of sculptures by renowned artists, strategically placed amidst the vineyards and gardens. The on-site art gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks, providing further insight into the creative spirit of the region.

Enjoy some time at leisure in Scone for lunch continuing to Tamworth and arriving in the afternoon. Enjoy some free time before dinner at the hotel.

(BD)

In the morning, enjoy a bush tucker tour with Kamilaroi man Len Waters and learn to identify significant native plants and their uses in food and bush medicine. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Tamworth at your own pace.

Later, visit the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame, home to a collection of memorabilia celebrating the rich history of Australian country music. Established to inspire future generations of musicians, the museum showcases iconic instruments, stage costumes and personal items from legendary artists.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local station, sampling some of New England’s best produce.

(BD)

Today, travel to the picturesque town of Armidale, home to elegant cathedrals and scenic leafy streets lined with heritage buildings. Stop en route at Uralla, a historic gold mining town in the Northern Tablelands, and view Gostwyck Chapel, a quaint brick church surrounded by golden Elm trees.

Visit a private garden before arriving in Armidale. Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

(BLD)

In the morning, wander through a private garden tucked away in the outskirts of Armidale.

Then, enjoy lunch at the award-winning Peterson’s Armidale Winery. The historic homestead, boasting a unique arched entrance, was built in 1911 and was restored in line with traditional architecture.

Afterwards, visit the New England Regional Art Museum, showcasing extensive Australian art collections. The museum’s art collections are the second largest and most valuable regional public collection in New South Wales.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure.

(BL)

Depart Tamworth and explore Rosecroft Homestead, a 1930s Hamptons-style homestead situated on a 50-acre property. Wander through its private English-style garden and parkland, containing 140 mature ornamental trees aged at almost 100 years old, six different types of elm trees, a pergola, bell tower and various statuary.

In the early afternoon, enjoy a tour of a private garden in Glen Innes.

Arrive in Tenterfield in the late afternoon and enjoy some time at leisure before dinner.

(BD)

In the morning, visit Glenrock Gardens, an award-winning country garden designed by New England garden designer Carolyn Robinson. Originally a working cattle farm, the English-style garden now boasts picturesque arbours, woodland walks, lakes, drystone walls and terraces surrounded by and integrated into the local natural flora.

Then, enjoy lunch at the glorious Ivy leaf Chapel, followed by a tour of the grounds. Admire its sculptured hedges and Boston Ivy covering, creating a magnificent display of autumn colours.

In the evening, join Robin and fellow travellers for a special farewell dinner to celebrate the conclusion of the tour.

(BD)

After breakfast, transfer from Tenterfield to Ballina airport for flights departing from 4:00 pm. Tour arrangements conclude upon arrival at Ballina airport.

Renaissance Tours or your travel agent can assist you with your flights and other travel arrangements, including private airport transfers, additional nights’ accommodation either before or after the tour and travel insurance (a condition of travel).

(B)

Note: At time of publication (November 2024), most but not all garden visits were confirmed. Private owners, in particular, are reluctant to commit more than two to three months prior to the visit. Therefore, while we undertake to operate the tour as published, there may be some changes to the itinerary.