By the beach

Today, you have the day at leisure in Sydney. You can take a relaxing ferry ride to the seaside suburb of Manly or head out to Bondi Beach — arguably Australia's most famous beach — and do the spectacular coastal walk to Bronte.

Collect your hire car this morning and make your way south out of the city and along the stunning coastal route, the Grand Pacific Drive, to the pretty region of Jervis Bay. This area is famed for its natural beauty, including some of Australia's whitest sand beaches, pretty seaside towns and extensive national parks so there's plenty to explore upon arrival.

Spend today at leisure and get to know the region further. Perhaps take a canoe from your accommodation and paddle into town for fish and chips by the beach. Perhaps explore some brilliant but lesser-known up-and-coming wineries dotted around the region. Alternatively, pack a book, claim a stretch of chalky white sand as your own, and take a more relaxed approach to your exploration.

From Jervis Bay, you will go to the Hunter Valley, located north of Sydney. Our recommendation is to travel via the very pretty Southern Highlands region, which would make the perfect spot to stop for your morning coffee or lunch and take in one of its attractive towns before venturing onto the Hunter Valley, where you will spend the next two nights.

No visit to the Hunter Valley would be complete without a spot of wine tasting and we've arranged a fun, full day of touring for you today. Your tour will take in multiple wineries, include a cheese and wine masterclass, chocolate tasting and will give you a fantastic overview of the rich food and wine scene that the Hunter Valley is known for.

Hit the Pacific Highway and travel north to Port Stephens. Take an evening stroll along Birubi Beach and watch the surfers.

At your leisure drive inland to the pretty town of Bellingen. We recommend visiting the local quaint markets to see the woodcrafts and local produce.

Bellingen — pronounced with a soft g but inevitably known in Australia as 'Bello' — is a pretty riverside town. It's a great place to relax and not do too much; perhaps wander the historic main street or take a dip in the river.

Continue north along the coastline and arrive at Byron Bay. Spend the afternoon taking a walk up to the scenic lighthouse, the most easterly point of the country. This evening enjoy an alfresco meal at one of the town's fine eateries.

Spend the day getting to know the vibrant food scene of the region with a full-day tour of the hinterland of Byron Bay. You'll visit small farms, renowned local restaurants and taste locally sourced produce and return to your hotel both full and understanding a lot more about the region.

Spend your morning at leisure and perhaps return to the beach for a final dip before driving along the Pacific Highway to Brisbane. Spend the afternoon around the city exploring the Wheel of Brisbane or taking a walk along the river.

Make your way to Brisbane Airport and return your car before boarding your onward flight.