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Pure Pursuits Australia – Beyond the beaches

 

Alquemie

 

 

In March 2020, Alquemie, in conjunction with Tourism Australia, hosted PURE Pursuits, a 5-day event designed to transform the travel industry through in-depth, peer-to-peer discussions, insightful workshops and exhilarating challenges. PURE Pursuits Australia brought together a group of senior visionaries within the industry at a critical time for us all. It provided an incredible landscape to discuss and workshop the current landscape and provided invaluable learnings for everyone to move forward with in their businesses. It proved – as we all know – that we are #allinthistogether.

 

“I was blown away by every single detail that went into such a remarkable, seamless and memorable week. The attention to detail and weaving in of indigenous and regeneration narratives, along with the incredible backdrops you chose to highlight, came together to leave everyone spellbound by the country, the people and so importantly, the scale of the regeneration underway.”  (Jessica Den Boer – This is Beyond)

 

PURE PURSUITS DAY BY DAY EXPERIENCES

PURE PURSUITS DAY 1:

– Welcome To Country On Quarantine Beach
– Ultimate Wineries Sundowners
– Tourism Australia Welcome Dinner

STAY: Q Station

PURE PURSUITS DAY 2:

– Sydney Harbour Mini-Cruise
– Scenic Seaplane Flight To Jervis Bay
– Sand Dunes & Secrets of the Bush Walking Safari
– Stand Up Paddle Boarding
– Sundowners On The Sandbar
– Dinner Under The Southern Stars

STAY: The Cove Jervis Bay

PURE PURSUITS DAY 3:

– Mountain Biking Through Booderee National Park
– Waterfalls Hike In Macquarie Pass National Park
– Escarpment Walk Into Ooralba
– Sundowners At The Tea House
– Dinner With A View
– Campfire Under A Full Moon

STAY: Bush Safari Tents At Ooralba Estate

PURE PURSUITS DAY 4:

– Forest Bathing & Nature Wellness
– Bushfire Introduction
– Canoes, Canapés And Champagne
– Sundowners In The Amoeba Garden
– Birch Grove BBQ Feast With Guest Chef Nick Gardiner
– Nocturnal Search For The Kangaroo Valley Panther

STAY: Bush Safari Tents At Ooralba Estate

PURE PURSUITS DAY 5:

– Bushwalk At Belmore Falls
– Above The Fire-Ground Scenic Flight
– Bushfire Regeneration Experiences
– Farewell Dinner

STAY: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Thank you to all our amazing PURE PURSUITS suppliers….

 

 

ULTIMATE WINERY EXPERIENCES AUSTRALIA

Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is a hand-selected collection of Australia’s premium wineries offering quality winery experiences based around world class wines, warm and knowledgeable hospitality and culinary excellence.

Go beyond the cellar door to discover characteristics unique to each winery. A wine tasting at one of our wineries can range from an intimate tutored wine tasting and chance to meet the winemakers to a wine blending lesson to test your own palate. A winery tour could not only reveal stories about the families behind each winery, but involve a scenic regional flight, a relaxing bike ride or adventurous 4WD tour.

Our wineries are not simply venues to taste and purchase wine. They offer a memorable experience featuring quality restaurants, accommodation, tours, as well as exciting behind the scenes winery experiences. They allow visitors to interact with the product, the winemaker and enjoy first-hand, the rich diversity that Australia’s many wine regions have to offer.

ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au
facebook.com/UltimateWineriesAU
instagram.com/ultimatewineries

 

Q STATION

Q Station is a unique, heritage listed hotel located at North Head, Manly. Spread over 33 hectares, the property offers 11 dedicated function rooms as well as a range of outdoor event space, 106 accommodation rooms, two restaurants and a bar and a variety of tours and team building activities. Set against the backdrop of stunning Sydney Harbour, Q Station has its own private beach and wharf with direct access to the harbour. Experience a truly unique slice of Sydney’s history. qstation.com.au facebook.com/QStationManly instagram.com/qstation

 

SYDNEY PRINCESS CRUISES

Sydney Princess Cruises began operation in 2001 and has become one of Sydney’s leading and most respected private charter boat operations on Sydney Harbour. Starting with our first vessel, the MV Sydney Princess in 2001, then purchasing a second vessel the MV Sydney in 2004, we have now moved on to the cruising on the luxurious MV Ocean Blue, MV Jerry Bailey, MV Sydney, M/Y Affinity, MV Lithgow.

We are a team of committed, positive and successful people who are always striving to be balanced, integrated and honest. With the stunning range of boats available for Sydney harbour cruises, we offer tours, events and functions of excellence with quality attention to detail and professional, personalized service.

sydneyprincesscruises.com.au
facebook.com/sydneyprincesscruises1
instagram.com/sydneyprincess_cruises

 

SYDNEY SEAPLANES

After flying out of Sydney Harbour for 80 years we’ve become a part of quintessential Sydney as we fly right over, above and around some of the world’s most awe-inspiring views – the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Pittwater, a string of pristine city beaches and the luxuriant bushland of the Hawkesbury River region.

seaplanes.com.au
facebook.com/sydneyseaplanes
instagram.com/sydney_seaplanes

 

WILD FOOD ADVENTURES

Wild Food Adventures is a nature tourism operator who has designed a range of compelling and exclusively crafted ways to explore the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions. More than just overnight or day trips, these are immersive, hands-on and creative adventures connecting with people, place and produce. Experience pristine wilderness, meet boutique award winning cool climate wine makers, explore historical villages, hike rainforest trails, taste bush foods, swim in waterfalls, cycle through vast forests, be part of the paddock to plate process, unearth truffles, learn artisan crafts, harvest hops and taste fresh local produce crafted into culinary moments. As destination specialists we craft small group experiences for the travel industry, providing guests with tailored choices. Wild Food Adventures is part of Experience Nature Group which includes Highlands Harvest Feasts (seasonal event series) and Wildfest (corporate retreats, glamping and a wild nature festival).

wildfoodadventures.com.au
instagram.com/wildfoodadventures
facebook.com/wildfoodadventuresAUS

 

PADDLE & PORTAGE CANOES

Travis Frenay, our guide from Paddle & Portage Canoes, has been a professional outdoor guide and paddling instructor for almost 20 years and has a background in Conservation and Environmental Science. Paddle & Portage is Australia’s largest canoe-specific business, offering imports, sales, hire, guiding, accredited tuition, and skills instruction. Travis is also the lead teacher of canoeing in the award-winning outdoor recreation course at TAFENSW, Lithgow.

Travis has crafted an incredible and unique event for Wild Food Adventures where we have joined two canoes together to create a floating raft that is easy to manoeuvre and unsinkable for every level of paddler. Wild Food Adventures added in local produce and wine to create what is known as Canoes, Champagne and Canapé experience and this was the start of a great partnership. Travis and his team now manage all the Experience Nature Groups outdoor leisure activities from day tours to retreats.

paddleportagecanoes.com.au
facebook.com/paddleportagecanoes
instagram.com/paddleandportagecanoes

 

CHRISTIE LITTLE – FOREST BATHING

Christie was the first internationally certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide in New South Wales, Australia. She has qualifications and over 10 years of experience in biofeedback for stress and energy management, nutrition and wellness coaching, positive neuroplasticity mindfulness training. In addition she holds a First Class Honours degree in Economics and a Graduate Certificate in Change Management.

In natural settings, her wellbeing walks and retreats, explore a range of wellbeing themes such as purpose & meaning, personal identity, belonging, joy and awe, stress release and energy management. All of which are scientifically proven to boost our wellbeing and resilience. Themes are explored through techniques including Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing), mindfulness, walking coaching, journaling, art therapy and healthy eating.

Experience Nature Group and Christie Little are proud to offer a range of unique nature connection experiences from 2-hour forest bathing experiences to 8 day retreats in the best locations nature has to offer.

 

BRENDON BEVAN – PRIVATE GUIDE

Brendon grew up on the family owned Game Lodge in the Northern Provence of South Africa near the Gaborone border with Botswana – an environment which was to influence his life dramatically and ultimately form the foundation of a very fortunate career guiding in some of the most pristine habitat Africa has to offer.

An unquenchable thirst for knowledge saw Brendon navigate his way throughout Southern Africa, guiding and managing lodges in some of the most remote and exclusive areas of South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Zambia.

In 2010, that same thirst drew Brendon deep into the Australian Outback having fallen in love with an entirely new wilderness. Working with the most exclusive and wildlife focussed lodges that Outback Australia has to offer, Brendon’s guiding career spans more than two decades and traverses two of the most environmentally diverse continents on Earth.

To experience wilderness, is to reconnect on an almost primal level, to engage all of the senses and rediscover yourself in the vastness of nature.

 

THE COVE – JERVIS BAY

Offering 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Boutique Cabins, Luxe Glamping Tents and an uber-cool 7-Bedroom House with the calm waters of Sussex Inlet on one side & the famous pipeline of Bherwerre beach on the other – The Cove Jervis Bay is truly paradise.

The sound of the ocean replaces the noise of traffic; native wildlife abounds as kangaroos hop through the grounds and colourful parrots skim through trees; the backdrop is of forest, not buildings. While our location can be used as a base to explore the historic surrounding districts, its relaxed atmosphere and tranquil beachfront location surrounded by Booderee National Park lead most guests to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of swimming, bushwalking, boating, reading, and, in the evening meeting fellow guests at the central BBQ facilities.

Put simply, just relaxing! All within an easy drive and on our very own privately accessed beach. Pure Bliss.

thecovejervisbay.com.au
facebook.com/TheCoveJervisBay
instagram.com/thecovejervisbay

 

OORALBA

Commanding 200 acres of lush grounds and uninterrupted views across the stunning Morton National Park, Ooralba is a standout venue for small group tours, family and friends as well as corporate events. From executive retreats to large scale gatherings, our exclusive country estate provides a magnificent setting for events of all sizes, with a vast array of tailored activities and experiences to uplift and inspire.

Immerse yourself in nature with our luxury safari camps, discover local delights at a nearby oyster farm or take time to recharge in the comfort of the homestead. Whatever the activity the Ooralba Estate Team will take care of every logistical requirement to ensure a flawless stay. Our unique dining experiences are the jewel in the crown that promise to deliver the wow factor. Partnering with some of Australia’s finest chefs, we are proud to bring you some of the finest produce in Australia, served in a spectacular setting that will truly take your breath away.

ooralba.com
instagram.com/ooralba_estate
twitter.com/ooralba_estate

 

HAMPDEN DELI – KANGAROO VALLEY

With a world of experience and love for good food and good service, hatted Chef Nick Gardner and his wife Stevie-Lee Bounader created Hampden Deli. Set in the heart of the picturesque Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales, the Deli makes memories out of meals. By day, they source the finest, seasonal and local ingredients to create fresh and flavour driven daily changing meals.

Stop in for a grazing board or take with you a lunch box filled with goodness. Food explorers and lovers alike dine at Hampden Deli’s pop-up degustations to experience masterfully created dishes presented with passion.

Hampden Deli is a nourishing destination not to be missed.

hampdendeli.com.au
facebook.com/hampdendelidiningschool
instagram.com/hampden_deli_dining_school

 

EMIRATES ONE&ONLY WOLGAN VALLEY

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is a scenic three-hour drive from Sydney, located on Australia’s Great Dividing Range between the Wollemi National Park and the Gardens of Stone National Park, within the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains.

The resort occupies just one percent of its own 2,800-hectare conservancy. The Wolgan Valley is approximately 26 kilometres long and seven kilometres wide. Steep cliffs contrast with the gentle curve of the valley floor and a picturesque road winds along the river to reach the resort on the eastern end.

Our beloved 7,000-acre reserve continues its journey to rejuvenation after the bushfires, with many parts of the valley in bloom and native wildlife thriving. Incredibly, we’re also seeing new species seeking sanctuary across our diverse landscape. The team continues to deliver unforgettable One&Only experiences and we look forward to welcoming your clients as they take the opportunity to witness the once-in-a-lifetime beauty and power of rejuvenation taking place across the reserve.

oneandonlyresorts.com/wolgan-valley
facebook.com/emiratesoneandonlywolganvalley
instagram.com/wolganv/

 

TESALATE TOWELS

Say hello to a vibrant, sand free, compact, quick-drying beach towel that fits in your bag from the original Australian beach towel company.

Tesalate is proudly an Australian-designed beach towel created by two friends, Volkan Ozbek and Jacky Lam. After 18 months of planning, product development and testing, Tesalate finally launched at Bondi Beach Markets in

  1. From there, Tesalate rapidly expanded by selling towels to customers in over 100 countries within 2 years.

Tesalate beach towels are light-weight and perfect for international travellers.

au.tesalate.com

#tesalate #tesalatetowel #tesalatebeachtowels

facebook.com/tesalate
instagram.com/tesalate
pinterest.com/tesalate

 

EDIBLE BEAUTY

“The Edible Beauty Australia philosophy is based on illuminating your natural beauty using pure, wildcrafted and botanical ingredients that are literally good enough to eat.”

Developed by naturopath and nutritionist Anna Mitsios, Edible Beauty Australia offers luxurious “edible” skincare products, “beauty” teas and wellness supplements containing therapeutic botanicals and wildcrafted Australian ingredients designed to have you glowing both inside and out. Anna is passionate about using nutrition through food and herbs to achieve radiance, vitality and bountiful youth.

The radiance of our energy, skin and personality is a direct reflection of what we put on and in it – we are what we eat – as the saying goes. The Edible Beauty Australia product range epitomises purity, luxury and quality, as well as the wellbeing and longevity of the skin, body and mind.

ediblebeautyaustralia.com
facebook.com/EdibleBeautyAu
instagram.com/EdibleBeautyAu/

 

PEARLS OF AUSTRALIA

Pearls of Australia is a joint venture between Cygnet Bay Pearls and Broken Bay Pearls who represent two species of premium quality pearls with a guarantee of provenance and purity, as well as immersive industry experiences such as farm tourism offerings and industry education.

From New South Wales’ stunning Central Coast to the remote Kimberley of North Western Australia, Pearls of Australia represents a vast range of products and experiences centered around the Australian South Sea Pearl of Cygnet Bay north of Broome, and the Australian Akoya Pearl of Broken Bay north of Sydney.

Discover this rare opportunity to get behind the scenes and discover the story of the Australian Pearl.

pearlsofaustralia.com.au
facebook.com/PearlsofAustralia
instagram.com/pearlsofaustralia

GOLDFIELD & BANKS AUSTRALIA

The Goldfield & Banks Australia story actually begins on the other side of the world when Dimitri Weber – like so many voyagers before him – set out on a journey to discover the curious, enigmatic land that lay far beyond the horizon. Falling in love with Australia’s dramatic, contrasting landscapes, Dimitri set out to capture this extraordinary beauty and share it with the world.

That sense of discovery is the essence Goldfield & Banks Australia. Our luxury perfume celebrates the unrelenting spirit of Australia, from the pristine beaches of the southern coastline to the endless red dirt plains of the desert heartland.

Goldfield & Banks Australia also pays homage to Australia’s first botanist and naturalist Joseph Banks. A curious explorer and prodigious collector, Banks’ collection of Australian plants, seeds, insects, and wildlife was the first to reveal the vast botanical richness of the continent to the European world.

goldfieldandbanks.com
facebook.com/goldfieldandbanksaustralia
instagram.com/goldfield_and_banks_australia

Volunteer tree planting for koalas

I recently spent a day with Janine Duffy, one of Australia’s best nature guides, planting trees that will soon become koala habitat.  In addition to her nature tourism business Echidna Walkabout Tours, Janine recently founded Koala Clancy, a not-for-profit that plants trees for koalas, creates new habitat and advocates for better protection of wild koalas.

It was a chilly Sunday morning but our group of 20 were rugged up and keen to help. We were on a gorgeous private farm about an hour east from Melbourne. The property owners were generously allowing perfectly good farm land to be re-populated with thousands of trees.

Janine’s passion and enthusiasm to help the koalas is contagious. She explained the issues such as loss of habitat due to humans and the recent bushfires, and that a single koala typically needs a huge range of about 5,000 trees (even if they only use about 350 of them). This year she had planned to plant 30,000 trees however with Covid-19 affecting things the aim is now 15,000. Her goal is to create a wildlife corridor which spans multiple properties and connects with the You Yangs and Brisbane Ranges.

With a little bit of instruction we were underway. The holes were already dug, and the saplings next to them ready to plant so it felt like the hard work was already done. The other volunteers were a pleasure to be around – all of them interested in nature and keen to give back. For some it was also their first time, but others had done tree planting once or twice before.

After a few hours we had planted 500 trees. It was a really satisfying feeling to know that in four to six years they will already be strong enough for koalas.

After we finished the morning’s work Janine took us on a walk to show us how quickly some recently planted trees had grown, and then on a bush walk. It was a lovely way to finish the day.

Travellers are welcome to join a group to help with the koala habitat recovery. There are one, two or three day options on set dates – all with planting in the morning and nature walks in the afternoon.  For people who can’t make a set date, private arrangements can also be made.

1 day Koala Recovery Experience

(2 or 3 day options are also available)

Depart Melbourne city accommodation. Travel about an hour west to our tree planting site near the You Yangs Ranges.

The tree planting sites are usually along rivers, creeks and near waterholes on farms on the Western Plains. The morning is spent planting koala trees in these high-quality, fertile sites, often in the company of the landowner, local community members and Koala Clancy Foundation volunteers and staff. Holes are pre-dug to make tree planting quick and easy.

Lunch is usually taken picnic-style either at the planting site or in nearby bushland.

The afternoon is spent on nature walks to visit the koalas that will benefit most from the tree planting. Other wildlife is frequently seen. Return to Melbourne around 4pm.

Upcoming dates: 2020: August: 6, 7, 8 and 20, 21, 22 2021: July: 1, 2, 3 and 16, 17, 18 and 29, 30, 31 August: 13,14,15 and 26, 27, 28

Please contact Alquemie to include an experience like this as part of an itinerary info@alquemie.com.au.

For Melbourne locals wishing to just volunteer, please contact Koala Clancy directly.

Secrets of the North – A small group getaway to the Hawkesbury

Grab a group of friends for a four-night trip just one-hour north of Sydney. Below is an example of a small-group nature-based getaway that can be dialled up or down to suit the group’s passions and budget. Finishing at the brand new Marramarra Lodge, this itinerary will leave guests feeling refreshed and reinvigorated after spending time in the stunning Hawkesbury region.

Day 1: Self drive to Mooney Mooney (or seaplane / heli options). Pearls of Australia Shellar door experience followed by Pearl Farm tour. Remote location drop-off for Welcome to Country followed by guided Aboriginal cultural walk. Sundowners with a view and local gin tasting. Dinner under the stars.
Stay: Choice of Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 2: Morning guided nature walk. Gourmet picnic lunch at secret historic ruins. Afternoon / sunset sailing on the Hawkesbury. Waterside dinner.
Stay: Bouddi Peninsula accommodation

Day 3: Morning nature wellness session / Optional beach time if weather permits. Scenic road transfer to boat ramp for transfer to Marramarra Lodge. Afternoon at leisure. Sundowner Hawkesbury cruise followed by 6 course degustation.
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

Day 4: Morning kayak or SUP to historic Bar Island for guided tour. Choice of Marramarra Lodge activities. Farewell dinner
Stay: Marramarra Lodge

P.O.A.
Please enquire with the Alquemie team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Blue Mountains Luxury Family Eco-Adventure

Take the family on a 4-night luxury eco-adventure including a conservation experience and horse-riding. Enjoy the fun of luxury 4×4 exploration to lesser-known parts of Blue Mountains World Heritage area. From ancient rainforests to panoramic escarpments to deep canyons and ending with two-nights at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, a Luxury Lodge of Australia, this unique, expertly guided family adventure will educate, surprise and leave guests spell-bound.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

 

 

Day 1: Pick up Sydney location for a 4×4 Blue Mountains Eco-Adventure with wilderness walks & wildlife spotting.
Stay: Choice of Blue Mountains luxury accommodation

Day 2: More exploring of lesser known parts of the Blue Mountains Optional canyoning or bush survival skills
Stay: Choice of Blue Mountains luxury accommodation

Day 3: Morning glow worm tunnel visit Arrival after lunch at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Conservation activities
Stay: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Day 4: Morning horse riding Afternoon activities – historic tour, wildlife safari, mountain biking, bush walking….
Stay: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Day 5: Scenic Helicopter departure (or road if budget doesn’t permit).

Optional: Return touring experience with Chris Darwin to follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps.

P.O.A.
To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at info@alquemie.com.au.

Marramarra Lodge – a new luxury retreat on the Hawkesbury

Marramarra Lodge is a brand new luxury retreat on the Hawkesbury. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, yet so close to Sydney, this new luxury accommodation will be a hit with both domestic and international travellers looking for a quick and easy escape from the city – just one hour from the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

The exclusive Marramarra lodge sits high on Fishermans Point peninsula on the Hawkesbury River with just eight stylish Peninsula Tents and seven Hawkesbury Bungalows – all with water views and either sunrise or sunset options.

The all-inclusive stay includes a daily six-course degustation at Budyari Restaurant as well as daily activities. There is also a spa and pool for spending a relaxing day in the stunning surrounds.

Two night Marramarra Lodge packages include:
– Transfers via Brooklyn Wharf & Marramarra Lodge
– Accommodation in a newly restored Hawkesbury Bungalow or Luxury Tent
– Gourmet breakfast of chef’s locally sourced and house made produce, each morning
– Light lunch daily
– Exclusive selection of minibar items
– Dinner beverages and paired wines
– Chef’s degustation dinner each evening
– Luxury amenities
– Daily resort activities

From just $1,100 per person twin share.

UPGRADE
Include a scenic Seaplane transfer or a Jet Ski Safari.

To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

A Nature-based Family Escape near Canberra

Experience Canberra’s premier wildlife sanctuary like never before with the ultimate family sleepover – A Wild Night out At Tidbinbilla with one-night adventures available from Friday 25 September 2020 to Saturday 10 October 2020.

From the minute you arrive at the Wilderness Family Camp you will be immersed in nature. Everyone will be welcomed to the camp, learning about the area. On each trip is a range of family-friendly activities, giving guests their own unique journey at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.

Star gazing and a night wildlife walk is a must in this peaceful reserve, just out of Canberra. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind and spend some quality time with the family.

A hot BBQ buffet is provided for dinner, and after a restful night sleep, you can enjoy a continental breakfast with hot tea and coffee.

Overnight accommodation in Wilderness Family Camp (Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve) with dinner and breakfast included in packages.

A Wild Night out At Tidbinbilla


FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES TO CHOOSE FROM

With many activities on offer, guests will have a fun packed weekend for the whole family to enjoy. From CSI Tidbinbilla, to Hi-Tech Wildlife and behind the scenes at the vet centre our itineraries offer something for eveyone.

CSI Tidbinbilla – where families get to join a fun CSI’ style investigation where we hunt for the predator who has taken one of our Potaroos from the Eucalypt forest. Solve the clues to catch the bad guy and learn more about predators while taking part in this interactive activity.

Aboriginal Hanging Rock – Join a Murrumbung Aboriginal Ranger and explore the Tidbinbilla Aboriginal Rock Shelters. See how people used to live and survive, what it takes to live in the wild and learn about bush tucker foods

Hi Tech Wildlife – Walk at dusk in the Eucalypt Forest as we explore the use of different technologies to monitor critters including bandicoots, potaroos and koalas. Get hands on with scanners, cameras, goggles and other equipment used in the reserve!

Behind the Scene’s at the Vet Centre – Meet the Wildlife team and get up close and personal with a critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog and find out what goes on behind closed doors.

Package includes:

  • One night family glamping tent for two adults and two children
  • Activities
  • A hot BBQ buffet dinner
  • Continental breakfast

To include this as part of a school-holiday itinerary please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

Beyond the Beaches – A three-day nature escape from Sydney

This three-night soft-adventure NSW escape is perfect for families, small groups of friends or couples. Guided activities can be tailored to your passions and can incorporate behind-the-scenes experiences with local artisans and producers. Beginning with a scenic seaplane flight down to Jervis Bay, this itinerary ticks all the boxes for an easy escape back to nature combined with delicious food and unique activities like the Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience.

 

Day One: Seaplane from Sydney to Jervis Bay

Take a scenic flight from Sydney down the coast, landing in the picturesque Jervis Bay. Once in this aquatic paradise, you can enjoy all marine adventures you could think of. From SUP’s to kayaks to whale watching and bird spotting, this little piece of paradise has it all. Dinner will be prepared by local caterers providing a taste of fresh seafood from the region. As you wander around the cabins, you will be greeted by many resident Kangaroos enjoying the company of their guests.

Overnight accommodation at The Cove Jervis Bay

Day Two: Head into the picturesque Kangaroo Valley

Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains entering the stunning Kangaroo Valley. This is the perfect opportunity to disconnect from a busy life and truly connect with nature. You will explore the waterways with a unique Canoes, Champagne and Canapes experience, with the chance to witness the regeneration from the 2019/2020 bushfires. A full day of adventure will be followed by a fireside feast featuring a local chef.

Overnight accommodation at Barranca Kangaroo Valley.

Day Three: Explore the Highlands like Never Before

As we make our way up the escarpment, we will be blessed with the stunning views overlooking the valley. Today is about experiencing the highlands like never before. From award winning wines to incredible waterfalls this is a nature lovers paradise. We will make a stop at the beautiful Belmore Falls before making our way into the Historic village of Berrima for lunch and a chance to explore the local shops, the afternoon activities will include wine tasting, then time to relax before heading to a local restaurant for dinner.

Overnight accommodation at Bendooley Estate Cottages Southern Highlands.

To book or enquire please contact the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au. Self-drive options also available.

 

CHOOSE FROM A RANGE OF ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES WITH LOCAL GUIDES, ARTISANS & PRODUCERS

NATURE

Bush Walking

Hiking

Canoeing

Mountain Biking

Rock Climbing

FOOD & WINE

Spirit Tastings

Boutique Beer Tastings

Wine Tastings

Cheese Tastings

Cooking Classes

OTHER OPTIONS

Dance Classes

Movies

Yoga

Tai Chi

Forest Bathing

Martial Arts

Spa

Boules

Highland Valley Forage Weekend Saturday 24 – Sunday 25 October

The Highland Valley Forage in Kangaroo Valley tells the story, of how the Southern Highlands, Shoalhaven and Coast South of Sydney are connected, through food and wine. It’s a unique, leisurely long degustation food and wine trail, which takes you through regenerating escarpment bush and blooming spring wildflowers in Morton National Park in Kangaroo Valley.

Once the sea floor, the Highlands are characterised by native scrub dry sclerophyll forests and dry red mineral rich soils of Canyonleigh in the north west and the rolling green hills bordered by sandstone escarpment walls with micro-climate rainforests in the south east. From the village of Robertson, the escarpment drops into one of the country’s most scenic valleys, the Shoalhaven community of Kangaroo Valley, with just 35 kms until the rugged coastline of Shoalhaven Heads. The coast then stretches north through seaside towns and surfing beaches to Wollongong and to the south to the pristine, white sandy coves of Jervis Bay and the famous Booderee National Park.

Experience the best of this region in a leisurely long degustation food and wine trail through blooming spring wildflowers in Morton National Park. Choose from 8 courses over 4km or 10 courses over 9.5km. The terrain is flat and the degustation is social distancing friendly.

We have created a two-night luxury Southern Highlands Highland Valley Forage foodie getaway which includes the Highland Valley Forage, a private olive oil tasting experience and accommodation at luxurious Barrranca in Kangaroo Valley.

Luxury Barranca in the Southern Highlands of NSW

Itinerary

Friday 23rd October 2020: Truly immerse yourself in nature with an adventure filled weekend in Kangaroo Valley. Make your way to Kangaroo Valley on Friday evening, checking into the picturesque accommodation of Barranca, with a welcome pack of wine and cheese awaiting your arrival. You will have time to wander around the stunning property before heading inside for a delicious pre-prepared dinner box in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants.

This luxury retreat offers guests with privacy and picturesque views of the sandstone escarpment of the valley. As well as being surrounded by native wildlife, guests have the delight of meeting the resident animals on the property, including the magnificent shire horses the playful donkeys and the cheeky, yet friendly Buffalo.

Saturday 24th October 2020: Breakfast will be at your leisure with a food box provided in your cabin including all the essentials such as bacon, eggs, bread, cereals and fresh fruit.

You will then embark on an olive degustation, where you will sit amongst the olive grove and sample the freshest oil and products produced on-site. This is the perfect spot to sip on some local wines and enjoy the views of the valley.

The afternoon will be filled with wine tasting at Yarrawa Wines and a chance to explore the local village of Kangaroo Valley. At the end of the day you will have time to explore the village before spending a relaxing evening back at your accommodation where another delicious pre-prepared dinner box will be in your kitchen provided by one of the local award-winning restaurants

Highland Valley Forage in the Southern Highlands

Sunday 25th October 2020: After another delicious breakfast we can check out of Barranca and embark on our signature food, wine and nature walk trail – the Highland Valley Forage. This is your chance to put on your walking shoes and venture the less explored region of Morton National Park.

On the Highland Valley Forage, you will learn about the food and wine trail from coast to highlands. The leisurely long degustation walk winds through regenerating escarpment bush and blooming spring wildflowers. Bringing together local producers from the region, you will be surprised with a different kind of food experience.

This luxury Southern Highlands Highland Valley Forage foodie getaway includes:
– 2 nights accommodation at Barranca, Kangaroo Valley
– Breakfasts & Dinners
– Welcome pack of wine and local produce
– Private Olive Oil Degustation for two people
– 10 course Highland Valley Forage for two people

This experience can be tailored for any number of people. Please enquire with the Alquemie team at alquemie@alquemie.com.au.

 

Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island

Even if you think you’ve seen it all, a visit to Seal Bay on Kangaroo Island to see the endangered sea lions is a definite must do. It rates up there with other global wildlife travel experiences, alongside the whales of Antarctica, the gorillas of Uganda and the orang-utans of Borneo.

Seal Bay is home to the third largest population of sea lions in the world and as their numbers decline the researchers and guides at Seal Bay play an important part in monitoring the colony of around 800 individuals. In the 19th century sea lions were over-hunted for their leather and oil. These days entanglement in marine debris and fishing gear pose the main threat to sea lions but sharks, boats and overfishing also play a big role.

At Seal Bay an intimate eco experience lets you onto the beach to get up close to these cute creatures without visibly disturbing them (the sea lions have been habituated to humans here over the past 25 years ).  Sea lions are quite incredible swimmers. For three days, the mothers leave their pups alone on the beach to travel over 50 kilometres off shore to access food. They will dive up to depths of 50 to 100 metres between 900 and 1200 times (yes that’s correct!). When they return, completely exhausted they will simply sleep for three days before doing it all again.

When I visited in early March 2018, there were more than 50 sea lions all around us – a combination of mothers and pups, and males. They were in various states of activity; some sunning themselves, some heading in or out of the water and young pups calling out to their absent mothers. To see and hear them so active in the wild is something very special.

Located on the southern side of Kangaroo Island, Seal Bay was completely unaffected by the 2019/2020 bushfires on Kangaroo Island. Seal Bay is best experienced early in the morning when you’ll have the beach to yourself before the tourist buses arrive.

Talk to Alquemie about including a private Seal Bay experience in your Australian itinerary.

 

Click here to enquire about an itinerary like this.

 

 

Kangaroos & Koalas by Private Jet

This example itinerary is for guests who love to see their wildlife in the wild, and who like to travel in style.

Hobart to Saffire via Maria Island 

Begin your Australian experience with a private flight to the gorgeous Maria Island, a world heritage listed national park just off the east coast of Tasmania. Its tranquility combined with its natural beauty, rare wildlife and fascinating history makes it a unique and special place. Known as the ‘Noah’s Ark’ of Australia because of its abundance and variety of wildlife, guests will enjoy a scenic stopover with wine and cheese before continuing on to Saffire Freycinet.

For those interested in conservation we can arrange time with one of Tasmania’s most acclaimed wildlife naturalist experts who will provide many fascinating insights into the lives of the various rare and unusual birds and animals that inhabit this remarkable island sanctuary – the most recent of which is the endangered Tasmanian Devil which were introduced to the island recently to form a “breeding insurance population”.

 

Spend two to three nights at Saffire Freycinet – a Luxury Lodge of Australia

The Freycinet Peninsula extends south-eastwards from Tasmania’s coastline and is a gazetted National Park that includes the internationally acclaimed Wineglass Bay. Freycinet’s landscapes are soft & warm pink granite mountains, white sand beaches, grey-green casuarinas, seawater blue as sapphire! Saffire is located on the inside of the gentle curve of sandy coastline that joins the peninsula to mainland Tasmania. Saffire overlooks the wide expanses of Great Oyster Bay, where migrating whales and dolphins come to play; local farms produce fresh, succulent oysters in some of the world’s cleanest waters; and fishing boats and trawlers bring in their daily catch of crayfish, scallops and deep sea fish, dripping and salty-sweet straight from the ocean.

Featuring a day spa, guest lounge, bar, and a range of exclusive experiences and adventures, Saffire delivers warm Tasmanian elegance amidst unparalleled access to the natural surroundings and ancient landscapes. Palate, the on-site restaurant, is Tasmania’s most exclusive venue. The head chef prepares menus inspired by the freshest local produce available.

A complimentary experience not to be missed is the Freycinet Marine Oyster Farm. Don a pair of waders, learn the inner workings of the farm, and then eat oysters plucked from the bay. With its breathtaking location, extremely personalised service, and amazing gastronomy, our team highly recommends this hotel for your Tasmanian stay.

 

Play golf on one of the world’s top courses (and most isolated!) at Cape Wickham

Play golf on King Island

After a relaxing time at Saffire, hop on your private jet to King Island in the middle of Bass Straight half way between Tasmania and the Australian mainland. Here you will find Australia’s #1 public golf course and one of the top 50 in the world.

Immerse yourself into a rare and dramatic mix of coastal holes cleverly routed around Cape Wickham Lighthouse on the northern tip of King Island, with some holes leaning gently toward the ocean (Bass Strait), and others set atop a rocky headland. The 11th is almost “in” the sea and the 18th is built directly above the beautiful beach at Victoria Cove, which comes into play as bunker on the final hole. Few courses in the world, if any, interact with the ocean quite like this.

Cape Wickham Links is also home to an abundance of wildlife, such as short tailed shearwater mutton birds, copperhead and tiger snakes, wallabies and even wild turkeys. Keep an eye out for seals basking in the sun on the rocks beside the 2nd green, or whales breaching as they pass by Bass Strait.

King Island is also known for its produce, delivering world-class cheese, beef and seafood so if golf is not your style then we can help you explore the island with your tastebuds.

 

Enjoy a coastal safari on the Eyre Peninsula

From King Island you’ll fly north-west to spend your next two to three days on a wildlife encounter in one of Australia’s lesser known and delightfully deserted regions – The Eyre Peninsula of South Australia. You’ll be shown the very best in native wildlife with visits to Big Swamp (freshwater) Wetlands, Coffin Bay National Park, Avoid Bay, Mount Dutton Bay Conservation Park, Baird Bay, Port Lincoln National Park, and Mikkira Station.

Apart from experiencing land-based wildlife and birdlife in their natural habitat, you’ll get to spend an amazing day in Baird Bay swimming with Australian sea lions — one of only two places in the world where this is available. You’ll also get out into deeper water where you can swim with bottlenose dolphins. These lightning-fast and powerful animals sometimes come so close you can hear them chatter.

Back on land, make sure you pack your binoculars or camera because, over the next few incredible days, your guide will point out the diverse range of animals and birdlife much of which is rare, endangered or vulnerable. You’ll be especially astounded at the variety of birdlife in the region including seabirds, shorebirds, songbirds, parrots (including the rare Port Lincoln parrot) and raptors such as osprey and the white-bellied sea eagle.

Love oysters? You’ll love The Brother Cruise where a local Oyster farmer will take you cruising to The Brothers where you can watch seabirds, seals and dolphins that frolic in this area. You’ll also learn about, and sample, fresh Pacific and native agassi oysters including the farming practices involved in growing, harvesting and processing this marine delicacy.

Finish off with one of the best wildlife encounters – getting up close with koalas – where an environment of stunted gums mean the koalas are often sitting in tree branches at, or just above, head height meaning you can view these beautiful animals up close in their natural habitat.

 

Spend a few days at one of Australia’s best conservation stories at Arkaba in the Flinders Ranges

Exclusive Australian accommodation for groups at Arkaba
Exclusive Australian accommodation for groups at Arkaba

 

Fly from one amazing South Australian wildlife experience to the next – Arkaba Conservancy. With a completely different feel to that on the coast, Arkaba’s true luxury comes in the fact that its 60,000 acres are shared by just 10 guests, taking the definition of exclusivity to a new level in Australia. Nestled inland amongst the ancient landscape of the Flinders Ranges, Arkaba is a genuine blend of conservation and tourism.

The Flinders provides an insight to the depth of Australia’s geological history, extending back more than a billion years, with the evidence of long-disappeared mountain ranges, beaches, tidal flats, reefs and glacial moraines still visible in the rocks to this day.

Formerly a sheep station, the land is today managed as a private conservation sanctuary. De-stocking and on-ground conservation programs have resulted in significant repopulations of bird, reptile and mammal species. Arkaba’s management team is happy to share their conservation experiences and the broader challenges faced in Australia to secure the country’s diverse natural heritage.

Recognised as one of the most beautiful outback properties in the country, Arkaba’s history stretches back to the 1850s. The homestead’s 5 ensuite bedrooms have been tastefully restored in tune with the property’s pioneering history and, in tune with Wild Bush Luxury’s understated Australian style, a stay is more like staying with friends in the country than a typical luxury hotel. Each homestead bedroom opens out onto a shaded verandah with individual views of the surrounding ranges.

In early morning, the sight from the breakfast table as the rugged peaks of the Elder range are set alight by the morning sun provides a teaser for what the rest of the property has in store. Arkaba’s wildlife is prolific – with Australia’s three largest macropods (Red Kangaroo, Western Grey Kangaroo and Common Wallaroo) all regular sightings. The country’s most endangered, the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, has also returned to Arkaba’s range since the introduction of active conservation programs.

For those keen to learn more of the challenges Australia faces in saving its diversity of wildlife, join one of Arkaba’s field guides one evening to track a radio collared feral cat or set up the trip cameras that monitor key sites across the property. The tourism dollars that are spent at Arkaba go straight back into wildlife conservation on the property and an ever improving wilderness experience.

Arkaba provides the opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the story of the bush – its ancient geology, diverse wildlife and the chance to get ‘hands on’ with the conservation programs of the property. Arkaba’s team of expert field guides live and breathe the bush and through a mix of walks, open top safari drives and sheer passion, they will open up the secrets of one of Australia’s most fascinating and spectacular landscapes.

Arkaba offers some of the best bushwalking in the country. With an Aboriginal history going back thousands of years and a geological history that dates back hundreds of millions of years – today a walk on Arkaba is a walk through Australia’s geological history, with the exposed rock strata revealing Australia’s journey through time.

An open top 4WD safari drive reveals the vistas and secrets of the property in a different way, usually capped off with a sundowner drink on top of the ranges with the scale and grandeur of outback Australia laid out for miles around. Arkaba’s expert field guides pull together the incredible geological history, wildlife and pastoral heritage of this region with 4WD safaris, guided bush walks and a chance to take in the sights and sounds of the bush.

 

Finish your journey witnessing the rebirth of our bush at Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley in the Blue Mountains.

Witness the true majesty and strength of Mother Nature. The Australian bush is remarkably resilient, having evolved with fire for millions of years. At Luxury Lodge of Australia, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley you’ll see and hear first hand about the regeneration of the bush after the fires.

Over golden-green plains, bubbling creeks, and dramatic ridgelines, you’ll find a sanctuary devoted to nature. Nestled among Australia’s World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains, you can seek refuge and find adventure;
enjoy the freshness of summer and the unique magic of winter.

Committed to the preservation of the surrounding environment and its native wildlife, Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is home to over 7,000 acres of conservation reserve. Perfect for horseback riding, campfires, stargazing, gourmet picnics, and rediscovering your equilibrium amidst the epic landscape.

Click here to enquire about an itinerary like this.