Collect your car this morning and head south to the mountains and the nation’s capital of Canberra.

This elegant, well-planned garden city was created 100 years ago to be the seat of national government, and many of its national museums and institutions are based here. Top of the list to visit is the National War Memorial, National Arboretum and Parliament House itself. Be sure to drive up Mount Ainslie for a wonderful view of the city, Lake Burley Griffin and the mountains beyond.

Sydney > Canberra | 290 kms

Standard: Rydges Canberra

Deluxe: Hotel Kurrajong Canberra

Enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery as you travel down the Snowy Mountain Highway towards the New South Wales southern coast.

Your stop for the night is the seaside resort of Merimbula, popular with holiday makers and surfers alike. There is an excellent wildlife sanctuary and an aquarium here or look out for passing whales as you amble along the scenic coastal walks.

Canberra > Merimbula | 245 kms

Standard: Fairway Motor Inn

Deluxe: Robyns Nest Guesthouse

Pass through the extensive forests of southeast NSW today as you cross the border into Victoria for a two night stay at the popular coastal resort of Lakes Entrance. The town is at the mouth of the largest inland waterway system in Australia, and you have a full day here to relax or explore.

Local wildlife includes dolphins, water birds, kangaroos, wombats and koalas, and the shores of the lakes are dotted with jetties used by local fishermen to land their catch. There are several sightseeing cruises available locally or simply head to the perfect local beaches for a day by the sea.

Merimbula > Lakes Entrance | 260 kms

Standard & Deluxe: Waverley  House

As you head west along the highway be sure to stop at the historic town of Moe and the fascinating Gippland’s Heritage Park for an insight into the area’s pioneer history. The nearby, virtually deserted, old goldrush town of Walhalla is also worth a visit.

Return to the coast and drive on to Phillip Island for your final night’s stay. There is an interesting koala and wildlife centre here, but the island is most famous for its colony of Fairy Penguins which waddle up the beach each night, despite the crowd of waiting onlookers!

Lakes Entrance > Phillip Island | 310 kms

Standard: Kaloha Resort Phillip Island

Deluxe: Oak Tree Lodge

Before leaving the island, take a walk around the delightful Phillip Island Nature Park, which has some magnificent coastal views out to the Bass Strait.

On the short drive to Melbourne you could also take a detour round the pretty Mornington Peninsula, popular with locals for its secluded beaches, charming coastal towns and prolific vineyards and wineries.

Return your car to the airport or city depot, or ask your FREEDOM Expert to arrange extra nights in Victoria’s capital city.

Phillip Island > Melbourne | 145 kms