Australia’s cities & private island experience

Sydney Harbour to Hunter Valley

There’s no better starting point than Four Seasons Sydney, a hotel renowned for its stupendous views of Sydney Harbour and exceptional hospitality, with attentive and friendly staff who go above and beyond. You’ll struggle to find a better location; The Rocks - a historic area with boutiques, galleries, fine dining, and markets on weekends – is within strolling distance, as are the Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge. Take a ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo or Watsons Bay, or head to Manley Beach (a favourite beach with Sydney-siders). Back at the hotel, head to the rooftop for a dip in the outdoor heated pool. 

A private day trip to the Hunter Valley is included. The rolling vineyards and eucalyptus-scented countryside set the stage for a guided exploration of boutique wineries. 

An adults-only retreat in the heart of the Whitsundays

Next, escape to the boutique Qualia, the most exclusive and intimate resort on Hamilton Island. Surrounded by the aquamarine hues of the Coral Sea, feel the soft sand slip between your toes and breathe in the salty ocean air. Savour the textures and flavours of modern Australian cuisine at Long Pavilion or Pebble Beach, where the dishes are as vibrant as the horizon. Unforgettable experiences include exploring the island on your golf cart or taking to the skies in a private helicopter for aerial views of Whitehaven Beach and the Insta-famous Heart Reef. Here, you’ll descend to enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour of the lagoon, before reaching the flourishing Hardy Reef, one of the best snorkelling spots along the Great Barrier Reef. 

Sunrise adventures and cafe society

The final chapter of your journey unfolds in Melbourne, equally flourishing with its vibrant arts scene and café culture. Stay at the Park Hyatt Melbourne, an understated, elegant hotel. As part of this itinerary, you’ll have the chance to start one of your days here with a sunrise hot air balloon flight, where the cool morning air brushes your face as the cityscape and countryside stretch out below. After a gourmet breakfast, you’ll head back to the city, perhaps to wander through its famous laneways, their walls alive with street art and the aroma of fresh coffee wafting from hidden cafés, or to the hotel’s serene health club and day spa to enjoy a signature treatment. 

Suggested itinerary

This 15-night luxury trip to Australia visits the two most popular cities and includes an indulgent, peaceful 6-night island retreat on the most famous island in the Whitsundays, Hamilton Island. It can be tailor-made to your exact preferences and tastes, so you can choose to stay longer in a certain location, opt for alternative types or styles of accommodation, or include different experiences that suit your party or interests.

• Days 1–5: Four Seasons Sydney – Iconic harbour views, thoughtful city exploration, and a full-day private Hunter Valley wine experience.  

• Days 5–11: Qualia, Hamilton Island – Exclusive seclusion, award-winning dining, and a private helicopter journey over the Great Barrier Reef.  

• Days 11–14: Park Hyatt Melbourne – Luxurious accommodation, a sunrise hot air balloon experience, and Melbourne’s thriving culture.