DAY 1: KING VALLEY, PROSECCO ROAD & ITALIAN HOSPITALITY

Meet your local guide in the lobby of your Melbourne hotel (08:30am) before departing on your four-day tour of the King Valley and High Country.

Your first stop will be Pizzini Wines located on what is known as ‘Prosecco Road’ in the heart of the King Valley. This family owned and operated winery specializes in the production of Italian wine varieties such as Pinot Grigio, Arneis, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo and of course Prosecco!

Meet your host then journey amongst the vines to learn firsthand how the Pizzini vineyard has evolved and why certain sites are more suited to particular varieties or wine styles than others. From the vineyard head to the winery barrel room for a tutored tasting of current and back vintage wines. In true Italian fashion, enjoy a sumptuous grazing platter with estate wines for lunch overlooking the vineyard.

As for the afternoon, continue to sample wines at neighbouring King Valley vineyards such as Chrismont and Dal Zotto Wines before transferring to your accommodation for the night, Lancemore at Milawa.

This evening is yours at leisure with the option to dine at Restaurant Merlot or perhaps utilize the in-house room service. Meals included – Lunch

DAY 2: EXPLORE THE QUAINT TOWNSHIP OF BRIGHT AND THE HIGH COUNTRY

Today we journey deeper into Victoria’s High Country to explore the picturesque and historic village of Bright. Located on the Ovens River and surrounded by mountains, Bright has long been a popular getaway offering something special in every season.

Upon arrival in Bright, hop on a bicycle for a ride taking in scenic views on a rail trail from Bright to Porepunkah (e- Bikes available if preferred). Take in the mountain views, break for an espresso at the quaint Rail Trail Café. Further down the trail the team at Feathertop Winery will share insights to the Boynton family’s favourite picnic spots amongst the vines. Select your preferred location then explore the grounds while your vineyard service angels prepare your picnic lunch.

Returning to Bright, explore the township and its stunning riverside setting. Foodies may wish to sample locally made chocolates, enjoy an ale at the friendly Bright Brewery, or gin tasting at Reed & Co Distillery. Alternatively embark on the easy one-hour Canyon Trail which meanders along the banks of Ovens River and takes in two swing bridges. Your guide can assist with arrangements.

Departing Bright, venture on to historic Beechworth, arguably Australia’s best-preserved gold mining town. The evening is yours at leisure. Blessed with wonderful dining options, consider The Ox & Hound Bistro for something special, the Empire Hotel for warm hospitality and elevated pub fare, or pizzas and ale at Bridge Road Brewers.

For the next two-nights you will rest in comfort at Freeman on Ford, Beechworth. Meals Included – Breakfast & Lunch

Optional Upgrade: Sunrise Balloon Flight over Milawa

Prior to departing the King Valley, take in the views of the King Valley and surrounds from above in a hot air balloon. From the vineyards and patchwork of fields the views expand to the King and Ovens Rivers, spectacular Mt Buffalo and High Country beyond. After returning to earth, celebrate your flight with a delicious Prosecco breakfast at Brown Brothers Winery.

DAY 3: BUSHRANGERS & THE GOLD-RUSH IN HISTORIC BEECHWORTH

Don’t let the graceful, gold-rush-era architecture and friendly folk of Beechworth fool you. The town was a hot bed of revolutionary fervour when the Kelly Gang roamed the countryside and were frequent guests of Her Majesty at Beechworth Gaol. Incensed with the brutal behaviour of the Victoria Police, Ned Kelly reputedly threatened to declare Victoria’s north-east a republic before his capture, conviction, and execution in 1880. Life is calmer these days, with Beechworth ruled by food and wine producers rather than bushrangers and the constabulary.

Following breakfast, join a local historian who will bring to life the stories of the gold-rush and infamous Kelly Gang on a private walking tour of this town steeped in history.

The afternoon is yours to continue to explore the town’s heritage boutiques, antique stores or visit the famed Beechworth Honey for a tasting. For the energised, walk to Woolshed Falls, home to thousands of miners during the height of the Gold Rush in the 1850’s.

Dinner this evening will be at Provenance, one of Australia’s most esteemed regional restaurants. Housed in the former Bank of Australasia building, Provenance’s reputation is as high as the soaring six-metre ceiling in the dining room. Chef Michael Ryan’s abiding fascination with Japan finds expression in a menu that marries Australian produce with exquisite Japanese flavours. Meals Included – Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 4: SCENIC RETURN TO MELBOURNE VIA THE YARRA RANGES

Farewelling the High Country, return to Melbourne along the scenic route travelling through the agriculturally rich and picturesque central Victorian countryside. In the foothills of the spectacular Cathedral Range we stop at Buxton Trout and Salmon, Australia’s first commercial trout farm where fish have been reared for over 50 years. The gravity fed water supply originates from the pristine snowfields of Lake Mountain providing the perfect place to grow a clean, natural food. Join a private behind-the-scenes tour of the farm and sample their famous Mountain Ash Smoked Trout, premium hand-milked salmon caviar before dropping a line and catching your own lunch.

Our journey continues along one of the most ethereally beautiful drives in the state. The Black Spur cuts through the forest landscapes of the verdant Yarra Ranges. Savour the fragrance of the Australian bush as you gaze up at the immense mountain ash trees scattering sunlight on the cool understorey of green ferns below. From here it is just a quick hop step to central Melbourne where your journey of Victoria’s King Valley & High Country concludes (Approx. 06:00pm) Meals Included – Breakfast & Lunch

Inclusions:

• 1 night accommodation at Lancemore, Milawa 
• 2 nights at Freeman on Ford, Beechworth
• Expert local Driver/Guide each day
• Luxury vehicle
• Meals as per itinerary
• Pizzini experience 
• King Valley wine tastings
• Bicycle & helmet hire
• Private walking tour of Beechworth 
• Buxton Trout & Salmon Farm experience 

Pricing Per Person (01 June 2020 – 31 March 2022) 

Based on 2 Adults $4128 AUD per person

Based on 4 Adults $2542 AUD per person

Based on 6 Adults $2061 AUD per person

Day 2: Option 

Sunrise Balloon Flight over Milawa Add: $385 per person 

Contact Journeys Rediscovered for availability to suit your preferred departure dates as a private itinerary. Based on departures Monday – Friday, blackout dates do apply.

Land-based itinerary is based per person on twin/double share basis (unless otherwise stated), single supplement is available, contact Journey Rediscovered for this surcharge.

Domestic airfares are additional, please contact Journeys Rediscovered for  flight options and prices.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended and can be arranged for you for an additional cost.

For full pricing, terms and conditions, contact your MTA Travel Expert, Journeys Rediscovered on 0477002235 or journeysrediscovered@mtatravel.com.au