A Family Discovery of Australia
Trip highlights
- Discover museums, galleries and beaches in Melbourne
- Explore Phillip Island with its famous little penguins
- Board a private cruiser for a tour of Sydney Harbour
- Enjoy a magical train ride through Queensland's Wet Tropics
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–4 Melbourne
- Days 4–7 Sydney
- Days 7–11 Port Douglas
- Days 1–4 Melbourne
- Days 4–7 Sydney
- Days 7–11 Port Douglas
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Three nights in Melbourne
Melbourne sits at the end of Port Phillip Bay, split by the winding Yarra River, with its suburbs reaching out around the shoreline. With handsome Victorian-era architecture, museums, galleries, theatres, green parks, and an innovative art and nightlife scene, this is undoubtedly Australia’s cultural heart.
It’s also a city known for a collective obsession with coffee, with hip cafes and delis at every turn, and love of sport, especially Australian rules football, cricket, horse racing and motorsport.
Where you could stay
Victoria and Melbourne
Overview
Incredible views of the Melbourne skyline greet guests from every angle at the Crown Metropol, a contemporary urban sanctuary in the heart of the city’s bustling Southbank district.
Rooms are modern and luxurious, with specially commissioned works of art, bespoke fittings and designer furniture. Large windows mean they are filled with natural light and offer some of the best views to wake up to.
For the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity, the Apartment on the 25th floor has its own lobby entrance, kitchen and large lounge and dining room, and en-suite bathroom with spa bath.
Choose to dine at The Crown’s warm and rustic restaurant, Mr Hive, or venture out to the multitude of restaurants and bars that occupy Crown Towers. The hotel is also home to the city’s highest bar, 28 Skybar Lounge, where through the floor-to-ceiling windows guests can look out across the sparkling lights of Melbourne and out as far as the Dandenong Ranges.
After a day of sightseeing, relax and unwind at Isika Spa where treatments are inspired by traditional and modern rituals from around the world. The indoor pool on the 27th floors offers panoramic views across the city and there is a state-of-the-art fitness centre.
→ Find out moreVictoria and Melbourne
Overview
Located in the city of Melbourne on Australia’s southeast coast, Crown Towers rises over the Yarra River and affords guests sweeping vistas of the skyline.
The 482 rooms and suites are spacious, affording you an insight into the lives of the rich and famous. Decked out with contemporary flair and chic designs, your stay in this iconic Melbourne landmark will not lack in grand comfort and stately refinement.
There is a dazzling selection of dining options. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal offers modern takes on 14th century British recipes while both Koko and Nobu offer flavours from Japan. Bistro Guillaume is a nod to France’s neighbourhood bistros, Rosetta focuses on Italian fine-dining and the Conservatory’s menu is both local and international. Silks is Asian-themed with interiors reminiscent of great Eastern mansions, The Atlantic specialises in seafood and the Spice Temple is a dedication to regional Chinese cuisine. Lastly, you can always keep it simple at the Rockpool Bar & Grill.
There is no better way to end your day, or begin it for that matter, than a session spent at Australia’s most celebrated wellness centre, the Crown Spa. You will be sure to leave feeling rejuvenated and energised. After time spent at the state-of-the-art fitness centre, you can always go for a leisurely dip in the large indoor pool or let go in the sauna and steam baths.
→ Find out moreVictoria and Melbourne
Overview
Nestled on the bustling Southbank Promenade, The Langham Melbourne enjoys a central location and magnificent views.
The 388 Rooms are classic and comfortable with rich fabrics, large windows looking out over either the Yarra River or the sparkling city skyline. Some of the larger rooms and suites feature private balconies from which to soak up the sun and the views.
Guests can enjoy the open and interactive kitchen at the Asian-inspired Melba. The Aria Bar & Lounge is the perfect setting for afternoon tea or a glass of wine from the Yarra Valley, and here you can savour light bites to eat with ingredients sourced from the Tasman Sea and Victoria’s bountiful farmlands.
Relax and unwind at the hotel’s award-winning wellness centre which features the Chuan Spa, indoor pool and fitness equipment.
→ Find out moreVictoria and Melbourne
Overview
Located in the buzzing metropolis of Melbourne, the Park Hyatt is an endearing blend of the old world and the new.
The hotel features 240 spacious rooms boasting Italian marble bathrooms. The suites feature dark wood, polished metal and plush fabrics some with views overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Dining at the Park Hyatt is varied, from the international inspirations of radii restaurant & bar to memorable afternoon teas which offer fresh scones, delicate desserts and a varied supply of robust teas and coffees.
For that most relaxing of experiences, indulge in a treatment at the spa, take a dip in the indoor swimming pool, work out in the fitness centre or enjoy a game of tennis.
→ Find out moreFamily adventures in Melbourne
Wildlife
City explorations
Phillip Island Penguin Parade
A trip to Phillip Island is a must for nature lovers and those seeking a unique Australian experience. The island is home to a collection of Australian native wildlife including the famous little penguins, fur seals and koalas. The little penguins – the smallest species of penguin – come out of the surf and return to Summerland Beach at sunset. They waddle up to their burrows, just as their ancestors have done for thousands of generations, meandering straight past eager visitors who wait in anticipation for the night’s performance.
A bike ride through Melbourne
Start your day with a fun, relaxing bike ride in the great outdoors. Experience real Melbourne hospitality on this leisurely ride with a local guide. It’s the perfect way to start any Melbourne visit.
To round out the day, your guide will take you on a private driving tour where you will learn more about this sophisticated yet approachable city.
Three nights in Sydney
The city of Sydney on the east coast of Australia is as idyllic as it appears from its instantly recognizable cityscape. It boasts a rich and intriguing history, famous beaches and iconic landmarks, with a diverse and friendly population, all spread around an elaborate shoreline of Port Jackson’s yacht-filled inlets, bays and rivers.
Where you could stay
Sydney
Overview
The beautiful port city of Sydney plays host to the luxury Shangri-La Hotel located in the historic Rocks district.
The rooms are both contemporary in design and spacious in size, soundproof windows ensuring you get the perfect night’s sleep. Guests are treated to breathtaking panoramas, views covering both the iconic Sydney Opera House as well as the vast expanse of the Harbour Bridge.
After a day of exploring the city, nothing beats coming back and sitting down for a bite to eat at the world-class Altitude Restaurant. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide a beautiful backdrop as you enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine and world-class wines.
The Café Mix offers all-day dining with a menu of Asian classics with a twist. For some of best views of the city, head to Blu Bar on 36 where the sparkling lights of Darling Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House are laid out before you.
The health and wellness centre provides you with everything you need to unwind. Sink into the Jacuzzi, indulge in a treatment at the spa, take a dip in the indoor pool or stick to your usual routine in the full-equipped gym.
→ Find out moreSydney
Overview
With its perfect location in the heart of the city, the Four Seasons offers fantastic panoramas and proximity to landmark attractions such as the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.
Rooms and suites are decorated in contemporary grand-luxe style, with big windows that look out over the Sydney skyline. In the larger suites, guests are treated to full harbour views that show the city in all its glory.
Enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine at Mode Kitchen and Bar where locally-sourced produce is served in a relaxed bistro-style environment. Head to the Grain for craft beers, organic wine and a selection of expertly mixed cocktails.
After a day of exploring, relax and unwind at the hotel spa or take a dip in the outdoor pool. For those who like to stay active on holiday, there is a fitness centre with the latest equipment while the sauna and Jacuzzi act as soothing tonics.
The Four Seasons is close to Sydney’s vibrant shopping districts as well as operating as the ideal spot from which to begin your adventures in the surrounding Port Jackson region.
→ Find out moreSydney
Overview
Located in the historic district of The Rocks, Pier One is right at the heart of what makes the city so special. Built on, and over, the harbour it allows guests to experience the very best of the bustling waterfront.
The 189 rooms at the Pier One carry a contemporary aesthetic, tastefully complemented by early 20th-century Federation elements. Some look out over landmark sites including the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, while others offer views of Walsh Bay. All rooms and suites are bright and spacious, large windows flooding the spaces with natural light.
The Gantry enjoys a reputation as one of the most popular waterside restaurants and here you can relax and enjoy views of Walsh Bay and the harbour while sampling a menu of fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
To sooth sore muscles after a day of exploring, Pier One offers spa treatments in the comfort of your room. Massages, scrubs and facials await while the gym lets you carry on with your fitness routine.
→ Find out moreSydney
With its beautiful golden sandstone façade Sydney’s heritage-listed Department of Education building has reawakened as the luxurious Capella Sydney. The hotel boasts 192 rooms and suites spanning eight levels, and balances storied architectural features with modern design, celebrating Australia in both its aesthetic and ethos. In the rooms and public areas you’ll find carefully curated artworks, elegant furnishings and intriguing objet d’art.
When it comes to dining, take a table at Brasserie 1930 where the menu highlights small-batch growers and farmers and age-old cooking methods like curing, smoking and fermenting take centre stage. Named for the building’s original architect George McRae, McRae Bar invites you to enjoy the glamour of days gone by as you sip on refined cocktails looking out on Loftus Street.
Highlights
- 192 rooms and suites
- Two restaurants and a bar
- Swimming and vitality pools
- Fitness centre
- Yoga platform
- Spa
Overview
With its beautiful golden sandstone façade Sydney’s heritage-listed Department of Education building has reawakened as the luxurious Capella Sydney. The hotel boasts 192 rooms and suites spanning eight levels, and balances storied architectural features with modern design, celebrating Australia in both its aesthetic and ethos. In the rooms and public areas you’ll find carefully curated artworks, elegant furnishings and intriguing objet d’art.
When it comes to dining, take a table at Brasserie 1930 where the menu highlights small-batch growers and farmers and age-old cooking methods like curing, smoking and fermenting take centre stage. Named for the building’s original architect George McRae, McRae Bar invites you to enjoy the glamour of days gone by as you sip on refined cocktails looking out on Loftus Street.
→ Find out moreMake it mine
A luxury cruise
Whale-watching adventures
Sydney Harbour cruise and Bondi Beach
Board your private cruiser for a two-hour trip around the Harbour. Enjoy lunch on board as you cruise past the houses of the rich and famous or stop for a dip in a quiet bay. Hop off your boat and head to Bondi for a surfing lesson at Australia’s most famous beach. If surfing isn’t mom and dad’s thing, you can leave the kids to ride the waves with an instructor while you go behind the scenes at Australia’s oldest Surf Lifesaving Club or embark on the famous Cliff Walk.
Fun for all the family
Marvel at these incredible creatures frolicking and swimming in the tranquil waters of the Pacific Ocean. Whale watching off Sydney Heads is an exhilarating adventure, an awe-inspiring treat that you will remember forever. The southern hemisphere humpback migration typically increases by 11% a year – quite amazing considering these magnificent creatures were nearly hunted to the point of extinction 40 years ago.
Four nights in Port Douglas
Enjoy your remaining days on this trip in the seaside town of Port Douglas. Known for its beach resorts, it is perfectly located to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland , including the rainforests of Daintree National Park. The town itself has many boutique shops and restaurants and the popular Four Mile Beach curves south around the bay.
Where you could stay
Great Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland
Overview
Feel truly at home while you’re on holiday in one of Coconut Grove’s spacious, luxurious apartments.
The 33 three-bedroom apartments – terrace, balcony or penthouse – are designed as serene havens where guests can truly relax and treat themselves. Décor is stylish and inspired by the gentle hues of the nearby ocean. Soft natural colours and textures work well with modern furnishings, creating a refined refuge in the centre of Port Douglas.
The perfect option if you’re looking for a peaceful escape, the penthouse apartments offer sea and mountain views, as well as a private pool and spa.
While the neighbourhood boasts a variety of restaurants, each apartment has its own fully-fitted kitchen, and access to entertainment areas and barbecue facilities, so entertaining is breeze.
Cool off in the 20m lap pool, relax in the gardens, or take the short walk down to Four-Mile beach. The nearby Macrossan Street has a variety of shops, day spas and eateries to explore, or enjoy a round of golf in the area.
→ Find out moreGreat Barrier Reef and Northern Queensland
Overview
A haven of tranquility, the Pullman Sea Temple is located on the southern end of Four Mile Beach in the beautiful surrounds of Port Douglas. An invaluable gateway to some of the country’s most recognised hot spots, you’re ideally situated to explore the Great Barrier Reef and the tropics of North Queensland.
The 150 rooms at the Sea Temple are contemporary and range from studio spa rooms to one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments. There is also a three-bedroom villa, perfect for families, as well as a range of feature apartments with their own plunge pools or rooftop terrace with Jacuzzi.
AQUA Restaurant should be your first port of call when it comes to dining, offering a contemporary menu with both Australian and international influences. A specialist tapas menu means delectable shared plates, using only the best local ingredients.
Vie Spa is a sanctuary in which to relax, indulge and simply drift away and there is a large lagoon pool with a bar for refreshing drinks.
→ Find out moreHighlights of Port Douglas
On the water
Rainforest adventure
On the rails
On the rails
Low Isles catamaran cruise
Transfer to Marina Mirage Port Douglas and board your sailing catamaran vessel ready for a full-day cruise to the Low Isles. Relax on the white sandy beaches, snorkel over the coral gardens, enjoy a guided snorkelling tour or perhaps even swim with turtles in their natural habitat.
A journey through the Daintree Rainforest
Travel into the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, one of the most diverse and ecologically unique areas on the planet. Take a walk along Cape Tribulation Beach or on one of the scenic boardwalks and learn about the diversity of the rainforest, before lunch and a wildlife-spotting cruise on the Daintree River – keep an eye out for the elusive saltwater crocodile, snakes, rainforest frogs , eagles, birdlife and flying fruit bats. Finally, it’s on to Cooya Beach where you’ll meet your Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat guide.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
The Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site is among the oldest on earth. Here, thousands of species of plants and hundreds of remarkable creatures inhabit this verdant world. Step aboard the renowned Kuranda Scenic Railway train as it winds its way through Gimuy (Cairns) via Bubundji (Freshwater), to Ngunbay (Kuranda), the village in the rainforest. On this incredible journey to Kuranda, you’ll spot spectacular waterfalls as the train glides through the stunning Din Din (Barron Gorge).
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.