Gold, River & Gourmet: 3-Day Bendigo, Echuca & Shepparton Escape
Gold, River & Wine: 3-Day Bendigo, Echuca & Shepparton Escape
Perfectly balanced 3-day escape! Designed for savvy travelers seeking rich heritage, riverside charm, and world-class Shiraz with unique character.
Leisurely explorations through historic streets, scenic riversides, and extraordinary Shiraz —pure enjoyment at a relaxed pace!
Highlights:
- Heathcote Wine Region 🍷
- Central Deborah Gold Mine🏆
- Paddle steamer cruise ⚓️
- Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) 🚗
- Cactus Country 🌵
Begin your journey with a visit to Heathcote, a renowned wine region celebrated for its bold Shiraz. Enjoy an immersive tasting experience at one or two of its standout wineries, such as Domaine Asmara, Heathcote Winery, or Sanguine Estate, where rich flavours and local charm set the perfect tone for the trip ahead.
In Bendigo, admire the grand Sacred Heart Cathedral, one of Australia’s largest cathedrals with breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture. Its intricate stained-glass windows cast colorful light patterns inside, creating a serene and awe-inspiring ambiance.
Step into history at Central Deborah Gold Mine, where you can descend into the tunnels of a real 19th-century gold mine. Finally, visit the Bendigo Art Gallery, one of Australia’s oldest and most significant regional galleries, featuring an impressive collection of Australian and international art. With a mix of classic and contemporary works, the gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into both history and modern creativity.
Start with a ride on the Bendigo Tramways, an iconic vintage tram that offers a glimpse into the city’s rich gold rush past. Stroll through either the Conservatory Garden, a peaceful floral retreat, or visit Bendigo Pottery, Australia’s oldest working pottery, showcasing interactive exhibits and artisan craftsmanship.
In Echuca, cruise along the Murray River on Paddle Steamer Canberra, a restored 100-year-old steam-powered vessel offering scenic river views. Learn about Australia’s paddlesteamer era at the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, home to historic wharf buildings and working steam engines. Wrap up your day at The Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum, a quirky and fascinating collection of vintage beer memorabilia, historic farming equipment, and classic Aussie nostalgia.
Experience the surreal beauty of Cactus Country, a unique desert landscape home to thousands of cacti from around the world. Snap incredible photos among towering succulents and enjoy a taste of cactus ice cream. Strolling through this otherworldly garden feels like stepping into a different continent, with vibrant blooms adding seasonal bursts of color.
Next, relax by Victoria Lake, a picturesque spot perfect for a scenic walk or a peaceful break. The lake’s calm waters reflect the sky beautifully, making it an ideal place to unwind and soak in nature.
Discover a remarkable collection of vintage and modern automobiles at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE), which showcases everything from classic cars to transport history. Finally, indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Apple Factory, famous for its delicious chocolate-dipped apples and handcrafted treats. Each bite offers a delightful mix of rich chocolate and crisp, juicy apple, making it a must-try treat before heading home.
- 1 night Accommodation in Bendigo
- 1 night Accommodation in Shepparton
- 2-10 pax: 4-star serviced apartments or hotel
- Lunch (at own expense)
- Dinner (at own expense)
- 3 days Private Tour with Comfortable Vehicle
- Driver cum Tour Guide
- Return Hotel Transfers
- Parking & Toll Fees
- Bottled Water
- Child Safety Chair (if required)
- Heaps of FUN!
- Central Deborah Gold Mine Tour
- Bendigo Tramways (Vintage Talking Tram)
- Murray River Paddle Steamer PS Canberra 1 hour cruise
- The Great Aussie Beer Shed & Heritage Farm Museum Entry
- Cactus Country Entry
- Museum of Vehicle Evolution Entry
- Meals
- Wine Tasting Fees
- Flight Tickets
START & END LOCATION & TIME
Hotel Bookings:
For groups of 2–3 guests, your package includes 4-star hotel accommodation, each room can accommodate up to 2 adults (excluding children).
For groups of 4–6 guests, your package includes 1 x 2-bedroom or 3-bedroom serviced apartment suite with a shared living area OR 2 – 3 x Double Rooms
For groups of 7–10 guests, your package includes 2 x 2-bedroom or 2 x 2-bedroom apartments + 1 x studio serviced apartment suite OR 4 – 5 x Double Rooms
When booking hotels, we require the full names of all guests as shown on their passports (first name followed by last name).
* Please note that the above pricing does not apply during special events in Bendigo & Shepparton, as hotel rates can be much higher. In such cases, we will provide a revised quote based on the prevailing rates at the time.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Within 3 Days (tour start date): No refund for the entire trip.
2 Weeks to 3 Days: No refund of the deposit.
More Than 2 Weeks: 50% refund of the deposit is available.
70% of the tour fee is required at the time of booking.
WHAT TO BRING
Pack smart and comfy! Bring clothes that match the weather, your favorite comfy shoes, and anything else you can’t live without. Melbourne’s got a thing for wild temperature swings—daytime sunshine, cool evenings, Bendigo and Shepparton are situated at a higher altitude, making the average temperature slightly lower than Melbourne, so warm jacket is a must, no matter the season. Oh, and Australia’s sun means business, so slap on some sunscreen, throw on your sunnies, and grab a hat to stay sun-safe!
