Australia in Luxury with Lizard Island

City Streets and Tasty Treats

With some of the finest produce and seafood in the world, Australia is home to an eclectic, multi-cultural foodie scene that will leave you craving for more. Explore the vibrant culinary microcosm of Sydney on an exclusive privately guided tour with a knowledgeable localhost. Sydney has some of the best farmers’ and fresh-food markets in the world and your host will take you to the best one available on the day of your experience. Depending on the day of the week, you may visit beachside Bondi, cool and edgy inner-city markets at Carriageworks, the Entertainment Quarter, the leafy eastern suburbs, or the funky Marrickville in the inner-west. The Sydney fish markets are the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and are not to be missed. Here you will find seafood that you may not be able to see elsewhere in the world. Your host will take you to the best vendors to sample some Sydney Rock and Pacific oysters and fresh ocean trout sashimi with a cold beer to match. For lunch you may choose between a vegan café in Bondi Junction, a hidden lobster roll spot in Kings Cross, or a burger place right on the beach – the possibilities are endless and your itinerary will be tailored according to your preference. Finish your day off with something sweet and boozy in Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter. Here you will find the country’s first urban winery and enjoy a comprehensive tasting of incredible local favorites. Head right next door to Black Star Pastry for some of the famed strawberry watermelon cake. With a full belly and a big smile on your face, you will be privately transferred back to your hotel.

Breathe the Mountain Air

Experience the UNESCO-listed beauty of the Blue Mountains on an idyllic horseback ride through this mesmerizing landscape located right on Sydney’s doorstep. Meet your private local host and leave the city limits behind to explore this beautiful wild habitat. Known for the dramatic scenery, the Blue Mountains encompass steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, waterfalls, and villages dotted with guesthouses, galleries, and gardens. Get off the beaten tourist path and discover the stunning secluded vantage points only a true local would know. Visit the legendary Three Sisters and hear the rich history of the curious rock formations. Drive down into the Megalong Valley and enjoy a 1.5-hour guided horse ride on a stunning 2000-acre property. Make your way across pastures and past ridges with close-up views of the magnificent cliffs and down into the wilder areas. With a little bit of luck, you may even meet the friendly wallabies inhabiting this area. After an invigorating morning with the horses, enjoy a two-course lunch with a glass of premium local beer or wine. Take time to savor the clean mountain air and relish in the local cuisine. Upon the conclusion of your tour, you will be privately transferred back to your accommodation in Sydney.

A Change of Scenery

You will be privately transferred between your accommodations and Sydney Airport alongside a professional driver.

Board a flight in Sydney with service to Cairns. The approximate direct flight duration is three hours and 5 minutes.

This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.

Board a flight in Cairns with service to Lizard Island. The approximate direct flight duration is one hour.

Luggage restrictions apply for this flight: one suitcase (medium-sized, 67x45x29cm) weighing a maximum of 44 lbs (20 kg) and one carry-on item weighing a maximum of 11 lbs (5 kgs) for a total of 55 lbs (25 kg) per traveler.

Your flight ticket includes a shared transfer from the Cairns Main Terminal to the East Air Terminal with Coral Reef Coaches (shared with other passengers connecting from Lizard Island). If arriving domestically, please allow one hour in between flights. If arriving internationally, allow two hours and 30 minutes between flights.

Upon arrival to Lizard Island, you will be met by a concierge representative from Lizard Island Resort who will shuttle you to the reception, found just minutes from the airstrip.

Hidden Gems

Travel into the depths of the balmy Coral Sea and discover the wonders of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, one of the globe’s most mesmerizing underwater habitats. Your experience takes you to the fringes of the ribbon reefs where you will have multiple chances to explore the underwater world below. One of the sites, the Cod Hole, has justifiably become one of the most renowned diving destinations in the world thanks to its awe-inspiring variety of wildlife. Here, you are likely to see the friendly potato cod, reaching up to 100 kg! Whether you wish to snorkel or dive, you will see a variety of aquatic life and this adventure to the Great Barrier Reef is sure to be one of the most unforgettable adventures of your Australian holiday.

Sun and Surf

Lizard Island is truly secluded from the rest of the world. The Great Barrier Reef resort is the northernmost resort located directly on the Barrier Reef. The Reef is home to millions of different life forms, ranging from micro-organisms all the way up to some of the largest mammals on earth including the world-famous Clownfish. The waters surrounding Lizard Island are a diving and snorkeling wonderland,  featuring an array of outstanding sites such as North Point and Cobia Hole With the island’s location less than one hour away from the outer and inner reefs, many more wold class sites are easily accessible including the world-famous Cod Hole.

Lizard Island Resort provides guests with a variety of free recreational activities including the use of motorized dinghies, tennis, paddle skis, a well-equipped gymnasium, and much more to explore the extraordinary nature. For trips to the inner or outer reef and Azure Spa treatments charges may apply.  If you have enough water you may engage in self-guided walks. There are a variety of trails on which you can learn about Lizard Island’s original inhabitants and their bush tucker, follow the footsteps of James Cook on a hike to the summit of Cook’s Look or visit Watson’s Cottage to learn about Lizard Island’s first European inhabitants.

The Journey Continues…

Upon arrival to Lizard Island, you will be met by a concierge representative from Lizard Island Resort who will shuttle you to the reception, found just minutes from the airstrip.

Board a flight in Lizard Island with service to Cairns. The approximate direct flight duration is one hour and this flight is included in your itinerary cost.

Luggage restrictions apply for this flight: one suitcase (medium-sized, 67x45x29cm) weighing a maximum of 44 lbs (20 kg) and one carry-on item weighing a maximum of 11 lbs (5 kgs) for a total of 55 lbs (25 kg) per traveler.

Your flight ticket includes a shared transfer from the East Air Terminal with Coral Reef Coaches (shared with other passengers connecting from Lizard Island) to the Cairns Main Terminal.

Transfer between Cairns airport and the beautiful town of Port Douglas with private vehicle and driver.

Port Douglas is a vibrant tropical village home to an array of fantastic local restaurants. Among our very favorites include Zinc and Hi-Tide by the Beach, two modern Australian eateries celebrated for their fresh seafood and creative flair. Tonight, consider making a reservation at one of these excellent establishments. For a more casual evening, stroll along Macrossan Street and you’re sure to find some delicious pizza and gelato.

Lace-Up for Some Fresh Air

Set among the forest-clad peaks of northern Queensland, Mossman Gorge is the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. Today, explore this lush paradise accompanied by your private guide. After a short drive north through the scenic sugar cane country ride the Eco-Shuttle up to the start of the gorge where your rainforest adventure begins. Your knowledgeable local guide introduces you to the fauna and flora of this incredibly interesting ecosystem. Walk among the ancient foliage and let your guide answer all the questions you may have about the species you encounter. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the tranquil waterholes along the walk, or a more adventurous swim in the main gorge. Have a well-deserved lunch at the Visitor Center before heading out to the hidden section of the beautiful Mossman River – it is time for river draft snorkeling! Your river guides help you get fitted with the proper equipment before you start exploring the crystal-clear waters of this rainforest waterway. Keep your eyes out for turtles, the elusive platypus, and many more species that live in the river. After drifting along under the verdant canopy of the Daintree Rainforest you will be transferred back to your accommodation in Port Douglas.

Date Night

Port Douglas has a lovely cafe culture with many charming spots for breakfast. Whether you are looking for a flat white and croissant or a hearty brunch, there are a wide variety of excellent choices in and around Macrossan Street. Some of our favorites include Little Larder, Hi-Tide, Cafe Freqs, and Cafe Ziva.

Today, spend some time at leisure in the laid-back tropical oasis that is Port Douglas. Restore and revitalize the aquamarine waters of Four Mile Beach. With a small village vibe, Port Douglas is a lovely place to while away the day in its boutique shops and cafes.

Enhance your holiday in Australia and have a private chef prepare a meal for you and your guests in-house at Coconut Grove Port Douglas. A local chef will create a menu tailored to meet your requirements. This experience includes an indulgent, 4-course menu with selections based on your dietary needs and available seasonal produce. You will want for nothing as your chef cooks a delicious meal for you in the privacy of your own apartment.

Until Next Time…

You will be picked up from your Port Douglas Hotel and taken by private car to Cairns City or airport.