Cairns To Sydney

Itinerary

Day 1 Cairns

Underwater adventures are a must in Cairns - to stay cool if nothing else. Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, it's the best place for ocean exploration.

Day 2 Magnetic Island

Named for the magnetic effect it had on Captain Cook's compass, 'Maggie' (as the locals call it) is a rugged, mountainous island surrounded by secluded beaches and bushland teeming with wildlife. Look out for koalas dozing in the treetops.

Days 3-4 Airlie Beach

Be dazzled by the beauty of the Whitsundays, a cluster of 74 islands surrounded by turquoise waters. Splash out on a sailing trip through the archipelago, dropping anchor on a secluded island for a touch of paradise.

Day 5 Eungella

The mist-shrouded mountains and lush rainforests of the Mackay Highlands make up the longest stretch of subtropical forest in Australia. Explore it on foot, weaving through ancient gum trees and along forest creeks for a chance to glimpse its famous duck-billed inhabitant, the platypus.

Days 6-7 Outback Farmstay

Learn how to crack a stockman's whip and milk cows during this overnight stay on an outback cattle station. Try an invigorating bush shower and spend a night in a swag under the stars.

Day 8 Hervey Bay

Whale watchers and dolphin spotters alike adore Hervey Bay, while anglers swarm to this beachside town all year round. Nothing beats watching night fall over the ocean with a feast of fish and chips on the beach.

Days 9-10 Fraser Island

Scale soaring sand dunes, dive into freshwater lakes, take part in a game of beach cricket and enjoy a barbecue on this island utopia.

Days 11-12 Byron Bay

Surfies and hippies alike flock to Byron for its relaxed, beachside atmosphere. Great food, stunning beaches and friendly locals make it hard to leave.

Day 13 Myall Lakes

Boasting towering sand dunes and picturesque rainforest walks, Myall Lakes is sure to dazzle. Take a relaxing bushwalk to the Yacaaba Headland - the view from the top is legendary.

Day 14 Hunter Valley/Sydney

Saunter through the vineyards and vines in the Hunter Valley, quaffing world-renowned wines and feasting on local cheese and olives. Round off a delicious day in Sydney, where this east coast odyssey ends.