ATE16 NSW FAMILIARISATION PROGRAM BLUE MOUNTAINS AND EASTERN & WESTERN BUYERS

POST ATE – 20 - 23 MAY 2016

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains. Image Courtesy of James Horan; Destination NSW

This itinerary showcases the cultural heritage, nature-based and indulgent experiences of the Blue Mountains Lithgow and Oberon region. The Blue Mountains is one of ’s natural wonders. Stretching for over more than million hectares it is an inspiring mix of rainforest, canyons, tall forests and headlands, commencing less than 90 minutes from central . Discover a tempting combination of breathtaking nature, romantic accommodation, fine restaurants, ornate gardens, luxurious spas and indulgent shopping.

This familiarisation aims to update your product knowledge of the Blue Mountains region, and encourage you to see the region as more than just a day tour destination.

• Please note itinerary is subject to change and all activities will be confirmed prior to your departure. • You will be asked to sign the Destination NSW participant release form prior to the start of the famil.

DAY ONE

Meet your Destination NSW escort in hotel lobby ready to depart Sydney for your Blue Mountains experience.

Arrive at the award winning Leura Garage for lunch. A shining light in eco construction and chef Misha Laurent has created his own food niche in the mountains. Tapas, pizza, pasta, share plates or risotto and the underlying theme will be swift friendly service, quality, and using local produce. The Leura Garage wine list is a cellar door for the vineyards of the NSW central ranges.

Take your time to explore Leura Village’s quaint shops, galleries and cafes at your leisure.

Old Leura Dairy is leading the way in Australia’s luxury, boutique, eco accommodation; offering a unique and exclusive travel experience in the beautiful World Heritage Blue Mountains. Nestled in the quaint village of Leura you are central to all the rugged beauty, attractions, dining experiences, pampering and shopping that the upper mountains have to offer.

Experience an Aboriginal dance performance at Waradah Aboriginal Centre. Showcasing the extraordinary talents and proud celebration of Aboriginal culture, art and dance, Waradah Aboriginal Centre is a landmark product, an ideal way for global visitors to experience authentic song and dance performances, Dreamtime stories and quality authentic artworks and crafts. Located next to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park at Echo Point. Admire the view of the , including the iconic Three Sisters.

Overnight: Blue Mountains DAY TWO

Arrive at the newly restored including the Hydro Majestic Pavillion providores marketplace which is an attraction featuring “A Taste of the Blue Mountains” showcasing local food, wine, souvenirs and historical displays.

Take in the spectacular view of the majestic and its steep canyons at Govetts Leap Lookout. Visit the luxury boutique property, Parklands Country Gardens and Lodges before heading onto Wolgan Valley.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is a conservation-based retreat that combines absolute luxury and seclusion with a quintessentially Australian bush experience. Located a scenic 2.5 hours’ drive (190kms) from Sydney in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, the resort is nestled between two national parks and set within just one percent of a 7,000 acre, carbon-neutral conservation and wildlife reserve. All resort accommodation and amenities have been designed using cutting-edge technology and innovative conservation measures whilst perfectly echoing the heritage architecture of the original Homestead located on the property.

Upon arrival enjoy a delicious lunch at the Resort followed a property tour of the guest facilities and Wolgan Suites. Join the Resorts Signature Wildlife & Heritage tour which combines an introduction to the reserve, our unique wildlife & the heritage of the property. The tour finishes at our stunning colonial homestead, where guests can enjoy Sundowners refreshments whilst gaining an insight into Australia’s

bush heritage & the history of the homestead. Return to the Blue Mountains for your overnight accommodation. Overnight: Blue Mountains DAY THREE

Arrive at and enjoy this world class attraction. Experience the Scenic Railway, the steepest in the world, the Scenic Walkway through pristine rainforest in the Jamison Valley and back up on the Scenic Cableway. Enjoy a return trip on the Scenic Skyway with its breathtaking views of and the Three Sisters.

Visit the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mt Tomah, one of the best collections of cool climate plants from around the world. Experience the picturesque and expansive views across the valleys and ranges of the northern Blue Mountains from this beautiful mountaintop setting.

Enjoy morning tea at Tomah Gardens Restaurant where Chef Sean Moran has created a beautifully rustic restaurant. His philosophy is to use local produce and high quality ingredients as well as sourcing locally- made furniture and design.

On your return to Sydney, enjoy a face-to-face encounter at Featherdale Wildlife Park with one of the zoo’s koalas beforehand feeding kangaroos and wallabies from around Australia. Featherdale is home to one of Australia's largest private collections of native animals and birds in a natural bush setting within the Sydney metropolitan area.

Arrive in Sydney and connect with your flight home.

We trust you have enjoyed your NSW experience!