Australia has always been high on my wish list.

Martin, and I flew out in March, leaving a cold and wet British winter for an unusually hot late Summer in Australia. Singapore Airlines are one of our most partner airlines and whether it is business, premium or economy the levels of comfort, food and service are the highest.

Our 3 week self drive trip started in Melbourne and ended in Sydney. Roads are relatively quiet and well maintained. They are well signed too but we did take our own Garmin satnav with us too which was great. We chose our own tailor made itinerary and it proved to be the perfect holiday combing all the top sights, great scenery and amazing wildlife. One I would seriously recommend…

Port Campbell is the ideal base to enjoy the magnificent Ocean Drive Coastline. Scenic sights, walks, pristine beaches and interesting wildlife abound.

Phillip Island is a must stay location south east of Melbourne and our highlight was the Little Penguin Parade. Hundreds of the world’s smallest penguins return to their burrows to rest as the sun sets.

After an easy 4 hour drive we arrived at the coastal village of Metung, gateway to the East Gippsland lakes.  Drive inland for an hour or so and you reach the foothills of the Australian Alps. The small towns of Omeo and Buchan offer good dining. There is an amazing cave walk (guided) at Buchan located in a small state park, this is a “must” see excursion.

We enjoyed a long days drive deep into the Snowy Mountains home to the highest peaks in Australia. Good tarmac roads (but with some numerous bends) offer stunning views.

Murramurang National Park is home to lots of wildlife including eastern grey kangaroos which wander at will and if your wish is to see wildlife up close, this is the place. Rainbow Lorikeets are one of numerously colourful bird species. Beaches here are stunning and almost deserted.

We ended our three week trip by taking a fly out break to Ayers Rock (Uluru) which was amazing and after exploring the coast and country enjoyed a city break in magnificent Sydney. This is one of the worlds most friendly cities that is so easy to explore.

Let us create a special itinerary to suit your personal requirements. We have seven staff who have each visited Australia.

Jean Founds, Martins World Travel, Bolsover Office. Tel 01246 823763

Australia is a prime holiday destination for touring and exploring in a self drive vehicle. Choose from a wide range of new and reliable vehicles from open topped cars to 4x4x’s and motor campers. Roads are well signed and generally quiet. Maps are supplied and we can create itineraries as flexible or as inclusive as you like. See great sights and experience amazing views and interesting wildlife.

Enjoy superb dining, great sights and attractions, quality hotels and stunning beaches. Australian Cities of Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Hobart are well worth including on any itinerary. We can create a multi city combination holiday to suit your requirements and budget. We offer amazing value holidays to Australia in conjunction with our travel partner, Travel2.