This itinerary will be conducted at a relaxed pace. You will typically spend several nights at one location which means less time spent packing and unpacking, and more sightseeing. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and handling your own luggage.
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Leave your passport at home, get your snacks and driving playlist sorted – it’s Road Trippin’ time! From local weekend escapes to 4WD outback adventures. Road Trips are dedicated to discovering your own backyard and this expansive country.
✓ Incredible inclusions, including a 3-course farm-to-table dinner and market garden tour at award-winning Homage Restaurant, sunset cheese and wine tasting, scenic wildlife refuge tour, and a guided rainforest tour to the mystical glow worm grotto in Lamington National Park
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ 7 days Hertz Group G car rental including unlimited kilometres & Hertz Maximum Coverage (NIL excess)
✓ 7 nights in deluxe 4 and 5-star accommodation
✓ 8 meals: 7 Breakfasts and 1 dinner
✓ Stay at Spicers Hidden Vale, a luxury retreat set on 12,000 acres of pure Australian bush in the Gold Coast hinterland
✓ 3-course farm-to-table dinner at award-winning Homage Restaurant, including a behind the scenes market garden tour
✓ Sunset cheese and wine tasting overlooking the Australian bush
✓ Off-road scenic wildlife refuge tour of Spicers Hidden Vale’s scenic property
✓ Guided rainforest tour to the mystical glow worm grotto in Lamington National Park
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Brisbane! On arrival, make your way to your hotel in central Brisbane and start exploring this cosmopolitan city.
Check in & arrival information.
Hotel check in is at 2pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
Today, collect your vehicle from Hertz Brisbane - a short taxi ride from your hotel - and set off on your Scenic Rim road trip. Leave the urban sprawl of Brisbane behind as you drive to the Scenic Rim. The Scenic Rim is a region of abundance, with ancient rainforests, national parks, quaint villages, galleries and incredible food and wine on offer.
Your hotel for the next two nights is Spicers Hidden Vale, a luxury retreat set on 12,000 acres of pristine bush and home to abundant wildlife and magnificent views. On arrival, check in to your room and discover what is on offer at your retreat.
At 5pm this afternoon, join the in-house cheese and wine tasting. Sample three Australian cheeses paired with three Australian wines. Relax as the sun sinks into the surrounding countryside and toast to the revitalising adventure that awaits you.
Approximate distance driven: 148km
This morning, awaken your taste buds with a delicious breakfast before heading out on a guided wildlife refuge ATV tour. With 12,000 acres at Spicers Hidden Vale, 3,000 acres are a declared nature reserve with 6 ecosystems. The all terrain vehicle is ideal for exploring areas you wouldn’t otherwise see and your guide will share their extensive knowledge of the landscape, nature refuge, historic and current farming aspects of Hidden Vale. On this one hour tour, your guide will take you to the most scenic lookouts on the property with 360 degree views and with plenty of time for photos.
At 5pm this afternoon, join the market garden tour led by one of the chefs at the award-winning Homage Restaurant. You will be taken behind the scenes of the preserving room where the walls are adorned with jars filled with an array of ingredients on their pathway to your plate. The smokehouse is used to create flavours renowned at Homage and you’ll learn about the smoking process. The orchard and vegetable garden are ever changing so you’ll try what’s in season and very likely what you’ll be eating this evening.
There is no better way to spend the evening than to dine on the fresh ingredients you have discovered in the market garden. Enjoy a three course meal at Homage Restaurant and delight in the truly paddock to plate experience developed by head chef Ash Martin.
After breakfast, continue your Scenic Rim road trip towards Lamington National Park, driving through rolling verdant green hills with views of the majestic Scenic Rim mountains. En route, you may wish to stop in at Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm to sample their famous lavender ice cream, or do a tasting at their award-winning cellar door.
There is no better way to experience this ancient landscape than to put the hiking boots on, and we recommend the Yellow Pinch Lookout track in the Mount Barney National Park. This 2km return walk leaves from the Yellow Pinch trailhead and climbs steadily through open eucalypt forest to the Yellow Pinch gate. There the track turns right and climbs steeply along a rocky ridge until it levels at a natural lookout above an exposed cliff edge. Learn about the geological history of this ancient landscape - its volcanoes and ring faults - and be mesmerised by the commanding presence of Mount Barney before you.
Afterwards, continue your journey into the Lamington National Park and your home for the next two nights, nestled deep in the rainforest.
This evening, board the four-wheel-drive bus for a guided rainforest tour to the mystical Glow Worm grotto. Perch yourself beside the secluded gully, home to millions of ancient Glow Worms, illuminating the cliff face in a blanket of twinkling stars.
Keep your eyes peeled for other nocturnal dwellers such as pademelons, possums, bandicoots, frogs, insects and even a Carpet Python or Lamington Spiny Crayfish.
Approximate distance driven: 186km
Today is at your leisure to further discover Lamington National Park and the Gold Coast Hinterland. There are numerous free activities on offer at your retreat, including a stunning tree top walk through the forest canopy, numerous walking trails and waterfalls to discover, a guided early-morning birdwalk, or simply relaxing by the infinity pool.
After breakfast today you will swap the bush for the coast as you drive to Surfers Paradise for your 5-star stay on the Gold Coast. After checking into your luxury hotel, the day is yours to relax and enjoy all that the Gold Coast has to offer. You might like to spend the day at the beautiful beach, or make the most of the facilities at your hotel.
Approximate distance driven: 104km
Today is yours at leisure to enjoy the Gold Coast.
All good things must come to an end! At the appropriate time today make your way to the airport or continue your onward journey.
Check out & departure information.
Depending on your onward travel plans, you may return your rental vehicle to Hertz Surfers Paradise, Hertz Gold Coast Airport or Hertz Brisbane Airport.
Upgrade to an Intermediate SUV - Mitsubishi Outlander or similar
You may want to upgrade your car hire to an Intermediate SUV, 5 Door SUV, 4 Cylinder, Cruise Control, Reverse camera or sensors (Group K) or Similar for an extra $200 in total.
Upgrade to a Large SUV - Toyota Kluger or similar
Full Size SUV, 5 Door SUV, 4 Cylinder, Cruise Control, Reverse camera or sensors (Group H) or Similar for an extra $775 in total.
Bring Your Own Vehicle (No Car Rental Included)
A total of $230 per person (two people booking) or $460 (one person booking) will be reduced from the total price. As this trip is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.
Driving in Winter
Whilst Tasmanian roads are well maintained, during snowy weather in the winter months, some roads may be temporarily closed to all but all wheel drive vehicles. If travelling in winter, please consider upgrading your car hire to an all wheel drive one. See below under Car Hire Upgrade for more information & prices
Drivers Licence Requirement
Avis Australia will rent to drivers that present a current drivers licence. The renter has to have held the licence for 12 months. Avis Australia will not rent to any person on a Provisional or Probationary licence.
If foreign licence is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by an International Drivers Permit (containing an English translation).
Age Requirement
Medium size cars, minimum 21 years of age
SUVs & larger vehicles, minimum 25 years of age
Additional Drivers
Additional Driver fees will apply to each individual additional driver - with the exception of the lead driver’s spouse.
* $5.00 + GST per day, per additional driver
* Max charge of $25.00 + GST per additional driver (5 day max charge)
It is essential that proof of a valid driver’s licence is provided and that the additional driver signs the rental agreement.
The Spouse of the Lead Driver includes someone (of any gender) they are married to or in a relationship with.
Digital Drivers License
A Digital Drivers License is not accepted. Drivers require a hard copy license until further notice.
Rates Include
Vehicle Registration Fee (VRF), Administration Fee, Goods & Services Tax (GST),
Premium Location Surcharge (PLS) / Concession Recovery Fee (CRF), Loss Damage Waiver, Unlimited Kilometres, Nil Damage Excess.
Please note: The renter must always pay to Avis the following costs and fees:
The cost of repairing any:
· (a) ‘Overhead Damage’ means damage (excluding hail damage) to the Vehicle during the Rental Period above the top of the front and back windscreens, damage to third party property, caused by the Vehicle coming into contact with anything overhanging or obstructing its path, objects being placed on the roof of
the Vehicle, or You or any person standing or sitting on the roof of the Vehicle;
· (b) ‘Underbody Damage’ means damage to the Vehicle during the Rental Period caused by the Vehicle coming into contact with anything below the bottom of the door seal and the bottom of the front and rear bumper bars where Avis considers, acting reasonably, that the driver of the Vehicle is reasonably at fault for that damage;.
(c) You driving the Vehicle in a manner that results in total or partial inundation or immersion of the Vehicle in water or exposure of the Vehicle to salt water (including, without limitation, damage which occurs as a result of You driving the Vehicle through floods, creeks or rivers);
(d) damage to the Vehicle caused by a breach of clause 3, 4.1, 5.1 or 5.6 of the Avis Australia Rental Terms and Conditions (save, in respect of clause 4.1(m), for minor infractions);
(e) damage to a tyre or an Accessory not attributable to Fair Wear and Tear that is caused deliberately or recklessly by You;
(f) theft of the Vehicle, unless You report the Vehicle as stolen to the police immediately on becoming aware of the theft and provide a copy of the police report to Avis as soon as you receive it; or(g)
loss or damage to Your property, the property of a member of Your immediate family or of a person related to You if that loss or damage is from a breach of these terms and conditions.
The cost of any professional cleaning or odour extraction incurred by Avis because the driver or another person has been smoking in the Vehicle during the Rental Period and/or a reasonable administrative fee reflecting the cost of making arrangements for professional cleaning or smoke extraction.
For the purposes of paragraphs (a) to (g) above, any reference to You includes an Authorised Driver and any person You or the Authorised Driver allow to drive the Vehicle.
Rates Exclude
Airport Concession Fee, Fuel, Optional Extras (baby seats, snow chains etc)
Deposits
All rentals are subject to a deposit at the time of vehicle collection to cover miscellaneous/optional charges and may also have to cover the applicable insurance excess and a $100.00 fuel bond. A credit or debit card is required. Avis Australia accepts all major credit cards. Debit cards will be accepted if they meet the following requirements: Be issued by a recognised bank, Display the Visa or Master Card logo and hologram, Display the Cardholder Name and Display the Card Number. Prepaid and Reloadable Debit Cards as well as Travel Cards and EFTPOS cards will not be accepted.
The amount of the deposit is not debited to the card at rental collection; an authority only is taken until the conclusion of the rental when any applicable charges will be debited. All renters must provide a credit card or approved debit card to enable LINKT to directly charge their applicable toll fees.
Restricted Driving Roads/Areas
The below detailed driving restrictions apply to rentals on Avis Tour Rates. Should the Avis vehicle be driven over the restricted roads / areas detailed below, or on the Rental Agreement, Avis Coverage will be void. Vehicle hire is subject to satisfactory road and weather conditions at all times.
General
The vehicle must only be used on roads that are properly formed and constructed as sealed, metalled or gravel roads (Unless the Vehicle is a 4 wheel drive vehicle).
All vehicles cannot be driven on beaches or through streams, dams, rivers or floodwaters. Vehicles may not be driven above the snow line.
Avis full Rental Terms & Conditions can be found HERE.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
Flexible Date Change Option
Book now, change later with our Flexible Date Change option. You may select this $99pp option at time of purchase, giving travellers the flexibility to change your date without penalty (subject to availability, less third party costs incurred, plus any applicable surcharges for the new date selected).
Date change must be requested prior to 65 days before your original selected departure date*. Once inside 65 days of departure, date changes are not permitted. *some packages may have a varied period in which you can request a date change due to limitations with the third-party provider.
Please refer to our 'Book with Confidence' section for terms and conditions.
The Flexible Date Change option does not cover cost incurred for components not fulfilled by Inspiring Vacations or in the event extra services have been booked with Inspiring Vacations outside of the standard package, including but not limited to airfares, pre/post accommodation or insurance.
Cooling off period
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment as part of our cooling off period. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7 day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to support@inspiringvacations.com, including the reason for cancellation.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Booking On Request:
Upgrade to an Intermediate SUV - Mitsubishi Outlander or similar
You may want to upgrade your car hire to an Intermediate SUV, 5 Door SUV, 4 Cylinder, Cruise Control, Reverse camera or sensors (Group K) or Similar for an extra $200 in total.
Upgrade to a Large SUV - Toyota Kluger or similar
Full Size SUV, 5 Door SUV, 4 Cylinder, Cruise Control, Reverse camera or sensors (Group H) or Similar for an extra $775 in total.
Bring Your Own Vehicle (No Car Rental Included)
A total of $230 per person (two people booking) or $460 (one person booking) will be reduced from the total price. As this trip is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving early or staying longer upon conclusion of the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post tour accommodation
Pre and Post accommodation is subject to availability and pricing may differ based on your season of travel.
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “2”.
2 – Leisurely: This itinerary will be conducted at a relaxed pace. You will typically spend several nights at one location which means less time spent packing and unpacking, and more sightseeing. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and handling your own luggage.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,469 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Not Available
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including, e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
This package is made up of multiple components which will be provided by different operators throughout your trip. As such, group size will differ between operators and can be as intimate as 2 people or as lively as up to 60 people, depending on the activity and advertised inclusions. There may be unique cases where your selected travel date exceeds the expected group size for special events or types of activities, particularly during popular times of travel. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is a Independent style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
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