Australia is home to some of the most unique landscapes in the world, including the famous K'gari (pronounced gah-ree). Experience its white-sand beaches including Lake Mckenzie, incredible blue waters, Lake Wabby, Champagne Pools, Maheno Shipwreck, and see rainforests growing on sand dunes. Explore the Brisbane city sights, and enjoy the scenic drive through the Glass Mountains on your return from the Sunshine Coast.
BeachesClassic driving toursWildlife & natureThis Tour Also Features
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Included transfer(s)- Private transfer Brisbane Airport to your accommodation
- Meals included: 1 lunch
On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Brisbane accommodation.
Brisbane is the third-largest city in Australia and is the capital of Queensland, the "Sunshine State". It is set along the Brisbane River and was the traditional home to the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal mobs before Europeans founded a convict colony in what is now the central business district in 1824.
Modern-day Brisbane is one of the fastest-growing cities in Australia and has a rich, culturally diverse population. There is no shortage of attractions to visit and explore. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the city's Cultural Centre with world-class galleries and entertainment. Just an hour from the city, discover Brisbane’s stunning natural surrounds including the Scenic Rim and Somerset World Heritage rainforests, lookouts and majestic mountain peaks, while Moreton Island and Redlands Coast offer pristine waters, wildlife experiences, diving and snorkelling.
Experience Brisbane like no other than climbing the Story Bridge during twilight. As the sun begins its descent, the sky is painted with vibrant colors, the city lights are sparkling and the city is beginning to undertake the transition from day to night. As you reach the summit you will be greeted with stunning views of the CBD, as you are climbing around, your guide will provide knowledgeable information about the bridge and the surroundings.
Your accommodation: Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane
Immerse yourself in this grand historic building suitably in the center of Brisbane. The Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is heritage-listed and artfully restored with a classic yet contemporary design. Located on George Street, the ground floor lobby space celebrates the building’s Art Deco origins. A stone’s throw from Queen Street Mall and Queen’s Wharf, or a brief stroll will find you in amongst buzzing Southbank’s cool bars, restaurants and parklands. The building has a wonderful and rich history. Initially built to accommodate the Queensland Government Savings Bank, it opened in 1922.
Brisbane is a hub of activities and attractions. With its unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, Brisbane offers something for everybody. Starting the day early, one could begin by exploring the South Bank Parklands, a sprawling riverside precinct filled with lush gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Brisbane River, visit the iconic Wheel of Brisbane for a panoramic view, or enjoy a relaxing breakfast at one of the charming riverside cafes. Next, consider delving into the cultural scene by visiting the Queensland Cultural Centre, which houses the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse range of local and international artworks, while history buffs can explore the Queensland Museum or the Museum of Brisbane. For a taste of the city's history, a visit to the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is a must. The Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers breathtaking views of the city from its summit, and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs provide a perfect spot for picnics. Afterwards, make your way to the vibrant Fortitude Valley, known for its trendy boutiques, bustling markets, and eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. Explore the Brunswick Street Mall, discover unique fashion finds, and indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the local eateries. To complete the day, a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is highly recommended. As the world's oldest and largest koala sanctuary, visitors can cuddle koalas, hand-feed kangaroos, and get up close to a variety of Australian wildlife.
A South Bank icon, Streets Beach is a must-visit while you’re in Brisbane. It is Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach, and it boasts a sparkling lagoon surrounded by white, sandy beaches and sub-tropical plants. It is the perfect antidote to the corporate bustle of the CBD across the river. Streets Beach, with its pristine powder white sand, lifeguards, and permanent huddle of sun-kissed bathers, offers a great spot to cool down and escape the heat. South Bank is also home to a host of free-to-use, public barbeque spots, so why not plan a full day out and make the most of what's on offer in the city's parklands? Streets Beach, Aquativity, and the Boat Pool are free to use and are patrolled by qualified lifeguards all year round.
Jump on board your mini-bus and begin the wine adventure as you travel through the picturesque landscapes of the mountains and the rainforest. Depending on the weather there may also be an opportunity for a scenic stop, perfect for that group photo on tour. Throughout your journey, your knowledgeable guide will tour you around 3 award-winning wineries and the Tamborine Mountain Distillery. At each inclusive tasting your guide will provide informative details about the wines and vineyard production techniques. During the day you will also get to enjoy a delicious 2-course lunch and plenty of snacks and water to keep you going.
Picture yourself tucked into a big wicker basket, the heat of flames occasionally dancing above and a gentle breeze taking you on a sky-high adventure. Admire breathtaking views as night turns to day and a patchwork landscape gently unfolds before your eyes. Spend a morning drifting majestically and effortlessly over the stunning South-East Queensland countryside in a small balloon. The views, feeling of weightlessness, and freedom make this unique experience one that will never be forgotten.
Your accommodation: Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane
Immerse yourself in this grand historic building suitably in the center of Brisbane. The Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is heritage-listed and artfully restored with a classic yet contemporary design. Located on George Street, the ground floor lobby space celebrates the building’s Art Deco origins. A stone’s throw from Queen Street Mall and Queen’s Wharf, or a brief stroll will find you in amongst buzzing Southbank’s cool bars, restaurants and parklands. The building has a wonderful and rich history. Initially built to accommodate the Queensland Government Savings Bank, it opened in 1922.
Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. We have a fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige sedans and SUVs. Insurance can often be included with a small excess or deductible.
Head north out of Brisbane and through the Glass House Mountains. Passing through Beerburrum State Forest you can take a detour to Beerwah, home of Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, where you can see over one hundred different species including crocodiles, Tasmanian devils, koalas, wombats and dingoes.
Continuing north through the Sunshine Coast, you will turn towards the coast at Eumundi - if you are driving through on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, stop in at the Eumundi markets for local food, arts and crafts.
From Eumundi, it's just 25 minutes to your destination, the beautiful coastal town of Noosa.
Explore deep into the tranquil waters of Australia's only everglades in the Noosa River system, within the sand dunes of the Cooloola National Park. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this diverse ecosystem which showcases ancient landscapes and spectacular photo opportunities. The cruise will take you on a journey through the southern end of the everglades system whilst your guides provide expert commentary on the fauna, flora and rich history of the region. Throughout the afternoon you will also get to enjoy a glass of beer or bubbles whilst gliding through the reflective waterways as the sun begins to set.
Your accommodation: Rimini Holiday Apartments Noosaville
This intimate and friendly resort is tucked on a quiet street just 50 metres from the pristine sands and turquoise waters of the beautiful Noosa River. The central location means you’re only moments away from cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and convenience stores. Self-contained apartments offer kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as private balconies.
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 122 kms / 76 miles : 1.5 hours
Begin the journey by travelling towards Eumundi, famous for its markets which operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays. From here, you will head North West on a ride through Queensland inland. First stop could be Gympie, the small town known for its gold field. Here you will find a number of historic buildings and the vintage Mary Valley Rattler Train to explore the area. Continue through towards the Fraser Coast and make another stop in Maryborough. The Longtime Botanic Garden by the river with its flower beds and grassy laws is a perfect place to have a snack or if time allows you can head towards the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary before heading to the coast and Hervey Bay. Your final stop is a perfect place for whale watching and boating, but also the perfect gateway to the "well worth a visit"-Island K'gari.
Hervey Bay is the world's first "World Whale Heritage Site" – a recognition awarded for the region’s commitment to conservation and protection. Here, you can witness migratory humpback whales playfully salute with their flippers and nurture their young calves in the calm protected waters from July to October every year. Expect up-close natural encounters and look these gentle giants straight in the eye from the platform of a whale watching tour boat, or while snorkelling.
The town also serves as the gateway to K'gari / Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, and if you're willing to venture a little further, you can take a day trip to Lady Elliot Island, a true coral cay island located on the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef.
Offered from July to October each year, you can enjoy a tranquil cruise through the Great Sandy Strait, along the remote pristine western side of World Heritage-listed Fraser Island to Australia’s ultimate humpback whale playground. Be on the lookout for Humpback whales and experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures as they frolic in the calm, clear waters off Fraser Island. Immerse yourself with these gentle giants from the purpose designed vessel’s large decks, including the famous water level viewing platform and underwater viewing windows.
Your accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Whale Cove Hervey Bay
The hotel provides family-friendly apartment- style accommodation and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a lagoon pool with a heated spa. It has a great location, just 300 meters from the Urangan beach and Marina, where you will find a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 185 kms / 115 miles : 2.3 hours
Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll see the island’s iconic sights on a curated itinerary of highlights. You'll be transported on a custom designed 4WD bus, which is airconditioned for your comfort and fitted with panoramic windows.
Highlights include Lake McKenzie, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a revitalising swim in the crystal clear blue waters and relax on the picture-perfect sandy white beaches. You'll also visit 75 Mile Beach, driving along this golden beach highway, you may spot birds of prey flying above or humpback whales as they migrate past (between July – November). Enjoy a photo stop at the rusting wreck of the Maheno Shipwreck, washed ashore during an out-of-season cyclone in 1935 – it’s one of Fraser Island’s most recognisable sites. Drive along Seventy-Five Mile Beach.
Your accommodation: Ramada Encore by Wyndham Whale Cove Hervey Bay
The hotel provides family-friendly apartment- style accommodation and is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a lagoon pool with a heated spa. It has a great location, just 300 meters from the Urangan beach and Marina, where you will find a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Head south on the Bruce Highway passing through Maryborough and Gympie as you head towards the Glass House Mountains. Stop in at the Glass House Mountains Visitor and Interpretive Centre to learn about the history of the 11 ranges of the Glass House Mountains, and maybe even find some inspiration for a short walk or longer hike on your way back to Brisbane.
Once you're done exploring the Glass House Mountains, jump onto the Bruce Highway and follow it all the way to Brisbane.
Australia Zoo, one hour north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast, was made famous by the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. The 110-acre zoo is the most interactive conservation destination on the planet where you can get up close to animals including koalas, wombats, and kangaroos! Watch a saltwater crocodile strike from the water’s edge in the daily Wildlife Warriors show, and explore the world’s busiest Wildlife Hospital, where you can watch vets saving endangered Australian animals.
Your accommodation: Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane
Immerse yourself in this grand historic building suitably in the center of Brisbane. The Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane is heritage-listed and artfully restored with a classic yet contemporary design. Located on George Street, the ground floor lobby space celebrates the building’s Art Deco origins. A stone’s throw from Queen Street Mall and Queen’s Wharf, or a brief stroll will find you in amongst buzzing Southbank’s cool bars, restaurants and parklands. The building has a wonderful and rich history. Initially built to accommodate the Queensland Government Savings Bank, it opened in 1922.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 286 kms / 178 miles : 3.6 hours
Explore more of Brisbane before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.
Pure Journeys - Privacy Policy
Last review: 28 March 2024
1. About this Privacy Policy
1.1 This is the Privacy Policy for Inside Australia Travel Pty Ltd ABN 34 661 344 690 (IAT Inside Australia Travel, us, we, our). This Privacy Policy sets out Inside Australia Travel’s obligations in line with the Australian
Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR - Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council) - as it applies to persons in the
European Union who interact with us. A reference to ‘Personal Information’ in this policy is a reference to both ‘Personal Information’ as defined in the Privacy Act and to ‘Personal Data’ for the purposes of the GDPR (if it applies to you).
1.2 This Privacy Policy does not deal with IAT’s obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 (New Zealand), which are dealt with by New Zealand Fine Touring Ltd https://nzft.co.nz
1.3 This Privacy Policy sets out the different types of Personal Information we collect, why we collect it and what you can do if you would like to remove yourself from our mailing list, correct any details we may hold about you, or exercise other rights you have.
1.4 We will update this Privacy Policy from time to time at our discretion, and we will notify you of updates. You can visit our website to see the latest copy of the Privacy Policy.
1.5 By using our site or acquiring goods or services from us, you consent to us applying this Privacy Policy and to our website Terms of Use, if any.
2. What Personal Information Do We Collect?
2.1 We collect the following Personal Information:
(a) personal identification information including: name, email, address, telephone numbers, dates of birth, itineraries; and
(b) information you supply in emails, requests for services, information we must pass on to third party suppliers.
3. How Do We Collect and Store Your Personal Information?
3.1 We collect Personal Information in a number of ways, including:
(a) information submitted through our website;
(b) in some cases, through web analytics;
(c) being provided it by third parties who you deal with; and
(d) through communications with you, including emails, and voice calls.
3.2 We hold Personal Information:
(a) in systems that we use in connection with our business, some of which may be owned and operated by our suppliers; and
(b) in our hard copy files; and
(c) in the databases associated with our website.
3.3 Provided that it is lawful and practical, we will give you the option of not identifying yourself, using a pseudonym, or not providing Personal Information when you enter into a transaction or deal with us. However, if you elect not to provide us with Personal Information then it is unlikely we are able to provide you with the information, products, services or support that you may want.
3.4 We may receive other unsolicited Personal Information in the course of our business. We will deal with this unsolicited Personal Information in accordance with this policy.
3.5 We will retain your Personal Information for as long as needed or permitted in light of the purpose(s) for which it was obtained. The criteria used to determine our retention periods include:
(a) the length of time we have an ongoing relationship with you and provide services to you;
(b) legal obligations we may have to keep (or destroy) your data; or
(c) legal advice we receive (such as in regard to litigation, regulatory investigations or applicable statutes of limitation).
4. What Do We Use Your Personal Information For?
4.1 We collect, hold, use and disclose Personal Information for the following purposes:
(a) supplying you with goods and services;
(b) arranging for third parties to provide you with goods and services;
(c) improving the website experience of our visitors; and
(d) analysing goods and services that our customers purchase so that we can better understand what future customers want in the future.
4.2 We also use Personal Information for our own internal business purposes including:
(a) data analysis to improve our products and services;
(b) auditing our internal processes to ensure they function as intended and that we comply with regulatory requirements;
(c) fraud and security monitoring;
(d) developing new products and services;
(e) identifying usage trends so we can understand which of our services are of most interest to our customers;
(f) determining the effectiveness of marketing campaigns so that we can adapt to the needs and interests of our customers; and
(g) operating and expanding our business activities such as understanding which of our services are of most interest to our customers, so we can focus on our customers’ needs.
5. Do we share your information?
5.1 We may send Personal Information outside Australia in the following circumstances:
(a) where our website, or any hosting service we use to support our managed services, software or software as a service, is hosted by us or a third party, and the hosting facilities and/or the back-up/disaster recovery sites are located overseas. We have no control over where these third party providers host the website and it is impractical for us to be able to advise you of the countries where the Personal Information may be held or processed;
(b) where a third party application is being used in connection with our interactions with you, e.g. when we use email, help desk or VoIP providers, the third party providers of the relevant application may have their applications hosted overseas. We have no control over where these third party providers host their applications and it is impractical for us to be able to advise you of the countries where the Personal Information may be held or processed; or
(c) where we must do so to give you the benefits of what you have paid for.
When we send Personal Information outside Australia for processing we will enter into formal contracts with those processors, which will contain privacy terms and conditions that allow us to meet our privacy obligations to you.
6. Use of Social Media
Our website includes links to social media, including blogs, Twitter feeds, Facebook, Instagram, and similar services. The nature of social media is that these applications actively enable exchange and disclosure of any information, whether personal or otherwise, that is included within those applications. All information, including Personal Information that you enter in those applications may be used, stored, handled and disclosed in any way that is consistent with the privacy policies of the relevant applications, if any. We have no control over those interactions.
7. Cookies
7.1 Cookies are text files placed on your computer to collect standard internet log information and visitor behaviour information. When you visit our website, we may collect information from you automatically through cookies or similar technology.
7.2 We use cookies to operate and improve your experience on our site, including:
(a) allowing you to sign in faster, and keeping you signed in; and
(b) to track how the site is used.
7.3 If you do not allow cookies to be used some or all of the website or other applications or tools on it might not be accessible to you and you may not be able to purchase goods from us.
8. Your Rights Regarding Your Personal Information
8.1 You have the right to access your Personal Information that we hold, and request that it be rectified or erased. If you want to access your Personal Information we hold or you believe any of your Personal. Information that is held by us is inaccurate, out of date, incomplete, irrelevant or misleading or it is not necessary for us to continue to hold it, you can contact us, and we will either provide you with access to the Personal Information (in so far as we are required to do so by law,) or we will correct it, as applicable, within a reasonable period. We may make a reasonable charge for giving you access to your Personal Information, but we will not charge for you making the request, correcting Personal Information or making a statement as to why we are not correcting your Personal Information.
8.2 In certain circumstances if you raise a complaint on how we have handled your Personal Information, you may also request that we ‘restrict processing’ meaning that the data will be preserved from further processing ‘as evidence’ either while we investigate your complaint or to support your complaint to the Australian Information Commissioner.
8.3 Where you have provided your personal data directly to us that is processed by automated means and is done so solely on the basis of your consent, then you will have the right to obtain your personal data in an electronic format for your own purposes across different services.
8.4 You have the right to object any aspect of our processing of your personal data under certain circumstances under the GDPR. ‘Processing’ is the term under that law that describes all uses of your personal data. This will include the collection, sharing, storage, retention and destruction of your data.
8.5 You may unsubscribe from our direct marketing at any time. We will not send you direct marketing without your consent and you can withdraw your consent at any time by selecting the ‘unsubscribe’ link within each email.
9. Complaints
9.1 If you wish to complain about a breach of any Australian Privacy Principle that binds us, a registered privacy code that binds us, the GDPR or this Privacy Policy, then you should contact us using the information in the Contact Us section of this Privacy Policy.
9.2 We will use our best efforts to respond to any complaint within 5 business days of the date of receipt. We will attempt to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction. If you are not satisfied with how we deal with your complaint you may contact the Australian Information Commissioner, whose contact details can be found at http://www.oaic.gov.au/.
10. Mobile APP location permissions
If you use our APP please be aware of the following. The APP collects location data to display real-time risk alerts and personalised assistance notification features, even when the APP is closed and not in use. This option can be changed in the settings on your own device.
11. Contacting Us
11.1 If you have any questions regarding this privacy policy or your information, we invite you to contact the privacy officer by :
(a) email at the following email address privacy@nzft.co.nz
(b) writing to: Privacy officer, 73 Brownston Street, Wanaka, Otago 9305, NEW ZEALAND.