Highlights
• Visit Coober Pedy and stay underground at the Desert Cave Hotel
• Travel by 4WD to uncover the dramatic landscapes of the Flinders Ranges
• Enjoy the luxurious comforts of ‘The Louise’ in the heart of the Barossa Valley
• Experience spectacular aerial views from a privately chartered aircraft of the world’s largest salt lake - Lake Eyre - and the rugged breathtaking landscapes of Wilpena Pound
• Cruise the Murray River and uncover its unique flora and fauna
• Spend 2 nights at the fascinating Arkaroola Resort

Itinerary:
Day 1: Adelaide
Arrive into Adelaide and transfer to the Intercontinental Hotel. There will be a welcome dinner tonight at a local Adelaide restaurant. Accommodation: Intercontinental Adelaide or similar

Day 2: Adelaide - Coober Pedy
This afternoon board a private light aircraft for a spectacular flight inland across the vast salt plains of South Australia to land at Coober Pedy. Explore this colourful frontier township and learn of its interesting origins and lifestyle, as most of the locals have built their homes underground to escape the scorching summer temperatures. Be guided by a miner through a working Opal mine in Coober Pedy. This renowned opal producing town has the unique characteristic of underground living. Accommodation: Desert Cave Hotel

Day 3: Flightseeing - Lake Eyre
To be able to truly appreciate the unique landscape of this region, board small charter aircraft for spectacular aerial sightseeing over Coober Pedy and the majesty of Lake Eyre. The private aircraft awaits for another remarkable flight over Muloorina Station concluding at Arkaroola, a private 610 square kilometre wilderness sanctuary. Accommodation: Arkaroola Resort

Day 4: Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary
Arkaroola is one of Australia’s most spectacular areas, rich in history. This morning we journey by 4WD to the Ridgetop area to view the rugged escarpment that has been carved over countless years and is home to a unique collection of fauna and flora. From Stiller Lookout you will have spectacular panoramic views across Freeling Heights, Yuda Gorge, Lake Frome and the desert beyond. This afternoon is free to explore the remarkable diversity of the wilderness or simply relax in the comfort of the resort. Accommodation: Arkaroola Resort

Day 5: Flinders Ranges
The journey continues by dirt road from the wilderness of Arkaroola to the majesty of the Flinders Ranges. Have lunch today at the well know Prairie Hotel, Parachilna - location for the famous movies including Gallipoli, The Lighthorseman and Rabbit Proof Fence. The Flinders are an insight into the depth of Australia’s geological history, extending back more than a billion years, with long disappeared mountain ranges, beaches, tidal flats, reef and glacial moraines- the evidence remains in the rocks to this day. Accommodation: Wilpena Pound Resort

Day 6: Wilpena Pound
Spend the day exploring the beautiful sights of the Flinders Ranges. Home to some of the most fascinating ancient landforms on earth, it is also famous for its many and varied wildflowers which see native plant life carpeting the semi-arid landscape of the Ranges. A highlight of today’s touring includes aerial sightseeing of Wilpena Pound. Wilpena Pound rises as an immense crater-like fusion of stark purple ridges and overhanging bluffs, strewn with tough and colourful vegetation, in jarring contrast to the flatness of the surrounding plains. Accommodation: Wilpena Pound Resort

Day 7: Vineyards of The Barossa
Our journey today takes us from the rugged ranges of the Flinders Ranges to the fine wines of the Barossa Valley. We pass through some interesting small townships en-route, each with its own history and country charm. Petersborough has a railway history and is the only place in the southern hemisphere that has the broad, standard and narrow gauge lines together. Visit Burra, one of the best heritage towns in South Australia. Very few mid-nineteenth century settlements have been preserved like Burra. The journey concludes in the picturesque Barossa valley at the luxurious The Louise. Accommodation: The Louise

Day 8: Barossa Valley
The wineries of The Barossa have received world acclaim. When visiting the area there is not only the opportunity to sample some of these fine wines, there is also a chance to explore the beautiful countryside and rustic towns. A visit to the area would not be complete without visiting a couple of the local wineries to sample produce and for those who aren’t interested in wines, the gardens at each of the wineries are a delight to explore. Accommodation: The Louise

Day 9: Cruise the Mighty Murray River
Transfer this morning to Murray Bridge to board our private cruise vessel for a delightful cruise on the Mighty Murray River. Today we enjoy the river passing slowly by as we view the ever changing countryside and watch for Murray long-necked tortoises, spoon-beaked egrets, darters and herons feeding along the river’s muddy edges. We return to Adelaide late afternoon. Accommodation: Intercontinental or similar

Day 10: Homeward Bound
Transfer to the Adelaide airport for connecting flights to your homeport.

2012 Departure Schedule

Tour Code SA200 SA201

Departs: Adelaide 20 March 09 October

Returns: Adelaide 29 March 18 October

Please enquire about our Early Bird Fares - Save $750 per person if you book and pay in full by 15 November 2011. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other. The offer is based on per person twin share. Cannot be used in conjunction with Free Single Supplement

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