As autumn’s welcome cooler days and evenings arrive, Australia-based cultural and special interest tour operator Renaissance Tours has some wonderful short breaks to tempt travellers to local arts-themed tours, opera performances and historical and cultural heritage adventures.
The short breaks across Australia on offer this autumn are detailed here with some highlights including:
o Boyd and Bundanon. Led by esteemed arts journalist Matthew Westwood, this weekend getaway heads south to the Shoalhaven for two nights at artist Arthur Boyd’s residence Bundanon staying at The Bridge. Guests discover a collection that includes Australia’s art icons Boyd, Streeton, Nolan and Whiteley in Bundanon’s new, purpose-built Art Museum as well as Ngununggula, the new Southern Highlands Regional Gallery and the personal project of artist Ben Quilty. Dates: April 28 -30, 2023. Tour prices are from $3,500* per person twin share. More here.
o Ancient Landscapes and Sacred Sites. Travellers who appreciate First Nations art and cultural heritage will appreciate this seven-day tour that explores the ancient landscapes, archaeological treasures and sacred sites at the spectacular Mungo and Mutawintji National Parks. The itinerary is led by cultural historian Dr Alex McKay and includes an exploration of the World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park for a chance to learn about the significant archaeological discoveries of Mungo Lady and Man, evidence of human history and culture in the region dating back thousands of years. Dates: May 7-13, 2023, with tour prices starting at $5,950* per person twin share. For more, please see here.
o History and Landscapes of Norfolk Island. Travellers who appreciate history, as well as wildlife, wild landscapes and gardens will love six days Explore the unique history of Norfolk Island and admire its extensive botanical gardens, endemic wildlife and rugged coastline. Led by historian Brad Manera this six-day island adventure traces the island’s narrative, from early Polynesian arrivals to the ruins of convict buildings above Slaughter Bay, and the history of the Pitcairn Islanders. Dates: May 8-14, 2023. Tour prices start at $5,750* per person twin share including return flights ex Sydney. For more, please see here.
o Tannhäuser in Concert. This very special three-day weekend features Wagner’s Tannhäuser in concert at the Arts Centre Melbourne, with Renaissance Tours guests enjoying some of the best seats in the house. The tour is led by Wagner expert Peter Bassett, while the concert features German Heldentenor Stefan Vinke, renowned Wagnerian conductor Asher Fisch and singers American soprano Amber Wagner as Elisabeth and Australian soprano Anna-Louise Cole as Venus, joined by the Opera Australia Chorus. Guests enjoy luxury accommodation at The Langham Melbourne. Rates for the weekend start at $3,250* per person from May 19-21, 2023. For more, please see here.
To find out more and to make a booking, visit www.renaissancetours.com.au or call 1300 727 095 (AU) or 0800 403 621 (NZ)
*Terms and Conditions apply; tour prices do not include travel to and from departure points.
ABOUT: Renaissance Tours was founded in 1996 with a view to delivering enriching, expert-led experiences for groups of like-minded travellers. A long-time fan of the brand and its offering, Evan Petrelis purchased Renaissance Tours in 2017. In 2023, Renaissance Tours will offer around 80 tours around the world with tour leaders sharing their knowledge and expertise in the fields of art, music, opera, ballet, gardens and wine.
