The Brando

New Zealand, Martinborough: Day 5 to 9

Island hop to Wellington, the nation’s capitol, located in New Zealand North Island. Grab your rental car for a 90-minute scenic drive through the rolling hills overlooking Palliser Bay before arriving at Wharekauhau. Hugging the coastline of the small rural region of Wairarapa, the Wharekauhau Lodge is surrounded by nothing but 5,500 acres of rugged farmland. Take in the dramatic vistas from your Cottage Suite before indulging in some of New Zealand’s best wine before dinner. Reawaken your taste buds with the freshest local produce and ingredients, hand-crafted menus offering a contemporary twist on New Zealand classics. If you can pull yourself out of the luxuries of your Cottage, there are plenty of experiences to be had on and off property. On property, enjoy walking or biking, or explore the diverse farmland by enjoying a 4×4 tour, go for a swim in the indoor pool, or try your hand at clay shooting or archery. Visit the nearby vineyards of Martinborough, renowned for its Pinot Noir, go jet boating on the Ruamahunga River near Lake Onoke, discover Cape Palliser Lighthouse, a local landmark or golf at two great courses are in easy reach.

Waiheke Island: Day 11 to 13

Continue North to Auckland where you will return your rental and meet your private guide for a private viewing of the city. You’ll witness dramatic views from Mount Eden, a dormant volcano summit, savor the beauty of the Royal Botanical Gardens and bustling city neighborhoods before being dropped pier side for your short boat transfer to Waiheke Island. Waiheke Island, rich in natural beauty, was recently listed as one of the world’s best island destinations by Conde Nast Traveler. Known for its vineyards, olive groves, and sandy beaches – you have entered foodie and vino paradise. The Boatshed is the ultimate home away from home, sitting above the sun-drenched bay and white sandy beaches of Oneroa. Take an invigorating coastal and Native beach walk or wander through gardens. The Boatshed is also close to the art galleries and local olive oil mill, so you can indulge your mind and taste buds at the same time. If you feel like spending a little down time indoors, open the library windows to sea breezes, overlooking the town and the beach and it’s the perfect place to curl up with a great book to end your escape.

Maria Island Walk: Day 3 to 6

Named one of Australia’s Great Walks, Maria Island (pronounced Mariah) National Park is less than 3 miles off the east coast of Tasmania. The island is a walker’s paradise with no motor vehicles or shops to distract you from the island’s unspoiled wilderness. This Great Walk is an active but pampered experience, designed for you to experience the remote wilderness in comfort. You will hike with your guide and small group exploring historical convict settlements, the famous painted cliffs, pristine white sand beaches, ancient Blue Gum forest, encounter rare wildlife while enjoying gourmet food and wine after each day’s unique adventures. The walks are set at a moderate pace to observe the amazing wildlife, listen to the native birds, and to discover the fascinating history of the island. In the evening, your efforts are rewarded as you relax and enjoy candlelit gourmet dining and comfortable accommodation in two wilderness camps and the restored, heritage-listed Bernacchi House. The magic of walking on Maria Island will be mesmerizing.

Melbourne: Day 8 to 9

It’s time to head back to the mainland. Fly to Melbourne where you pick up your rental car and check into the Park Hyatt. An elegant hotel, situated on top Collins Street overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral, bordering the charming Fitzroy Gardens will make a great stay for your short stint in the city. In the early evening, wander through the laneways feeling like a local. You might want to enjoy Hopetoun Tea Room, one of the oldest tea rooms dating back to 1892 or browse through the quirky local shops like Clementine’s only showcasing fine foods and gifts made and crafted in Victoria. We’re sure you won’t come out empty handed.

Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy: Day 11 to 12

Port Lincoln: Day 13 to 15

Ayers Rock: Day 4 to 6

After a few days in the metropolis, fly to Uluru where you’ll be checked into Sails in the Desert deep in the outback. Located far away from anything you will find peace and serenity in this desert oasis. Be captivated by the colors of the red sand and the unique rock formations of Kata Tjuta. Gaze at Uluru as the light changes from a golden hue to bronze and glowing red as the sun sets. You will have an intimate dinner under the stars with Uluru in the background, as a local storyteller shares stories of the Aboriginals, passed down for thousands of years. You have never experienced a night sky like this.

Hamilton Island: Day 9 to 13

End your iconic Australian escape retreating to Hamilton Island staying in your very own pavilion at the luxury chic Qualia. Secluded on the northern point of the island offering stunning views of the Coral Sea surrounded by the splendor of the Great Barrier Reef. Find yourself floating in your private infinity pool, sailing catamarans, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and water-skiing in these clear waters. Consider a scenic flight to the famous Whitehaven Beach taking in the sheer beauty, relaxing and enjoying a beach picnic.

Lake Wanaka, New Zealand: Day 5 to 9

Fly to Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will travel to Lake Wanaka. In a perfect world, can you imagine having lakes, mountains, rivers, wineries, excellent dining and an endless number of activities to experience? It all exists in Wanaka, at Tin Tub Luxury Lodge. Your hosts will get you settled into your suite, where you can relax taking in the mountain and lake scenery. It is the perfect base, whether you visit in warmer months for biking, fly fishing, walking, wine tasting, or in winter months ski the untracked terrain of the Southern Alp’s on an exhilarating heli-ski adventure. Off property, Rob Roy Glacier Track leads you into Mount Aspiring National Park. This 3-4 hour hike takes you through an amazing world of mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes. You’ll be sure to escape the ordinary in Wanaka.

Kangaroo Island: Day 4 to 7

After a few days in the city, we’re flying you to Kangaroo Island (via Adelaide) where you can marvel at the Australia wilderness from Southern Ocean Lodge. Wake up seeing the kangaroos and wallabies from the nearby dunes, creatures you’ll likely get close and personal with. During your stay you might like to try your luck at beach fishing, walking for miles on the white sand beaches, mountain biking over the dunes, or kayaking out to sea. Not the active type? Then try your hand at a cooking class learning about the island produce and seafood or indulge in one of many spa treatments. Romantic bliss.

Daintree Rainforest: Day 8 to 10

Explore the Daintree Rainforest from the luxury of Silky Oaks Lodge. Take a relaxing stroll along the lush riverbank, explore the local area by bike, paddle a canoe or snorkel the Mossman River, join a guided rainforest walk or play tennis.  Whichever pursuit you choose, the end of vigorous activity demands rest and rejuvenation, so indulge yourself with a relaxing treatment at The Healing Waters Spa.