Canberra Sights and Lights Tour: 5th - 10th March 2025

Welcome to the Enlighten Festival, a vibrant celebration that brings culture and creativity to the heart of Canberra. Join us in Autumn 2025 for an exciting program of diverse events and entertainment. Experience the city come alive at the @Enlighten Festival.

Embark on a captivating tour, starting on Wednesday 5th March 2025, as we take you from the Central Coast to Goulburn. Your day will kick off with the convenience of a home pick-up service from the Central Coast region, ensuring a seamless and stress-free beginning to what promises to be an unforgettable adventure. Set out from Kariong at about 8:00am, with a "pit stop" at Eastern Creek, before making our way to the delightful Darrell Lee Chocolate Factory, where you can treat yourself to an array of delectable sweets. After satisfying your sweet tooth, we will head to the charming Courtyard Cafe in Berrima for a delicious Ploughman's Lunch, offering you a chance to relish in culinary delights and explore the quaint village at your own pace. Dive into the rich history of the area with a guided tour of the historic Berrima Courthouse, offering insights into the region's past, before we reach our accommodation for the night, the Mercure Goulburn, at about 4:00pm. Take some time to unwind and relax in the comfortable surroundings before enjoying a two-course dinner at the Mercure Goulburn at 6:30pm.

Day 1 of this journey includes our convenient home pick-up service (within our advertised pick up area), transportation, a delightful lunch, accommodation at the Mercure Goulburn, two-course dinner & guided tour of Berrima Courthouse.

 Don't miss out on the opportunity to make lasting memories and enjoy every moment of this tour which promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this adventure.

Welcome to Day 2 of your Canberra journey on Thursday March 6th, 2025. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the Mercure Goulburn. As the day unfolds, prepare to embark on a remarkable adventure towards Canberra, starting at about 9:00am. The day's itinerary is carefully curated to offer you a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. This morning, you'll explore the enchanting Cooma Cottage with a guided tour, delving into its rich history and captivating stories. From there, indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Blackwattle Alpaca Farm amidst picturesque surroundings. As the journey continues, your next destination is the awe-inspiring Mount Ainslie Lookout in the afternoon. Revel in the breathtaking views that stretch before you, offering a moment of serenity and natural beauty. Following this, you'll visit the iconic Australian War Memorial, a place steeped in history and honour. The day culminates with a poignant experience at the Last Post Ceremony at 4:00pm, a solemn and moving tribute. Finally, retreat to your comfortable accommodation at the Ramada Diplomat, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

Included in Day 2 is breakfast, transportation, morning tea, lunch, entry fee into war memorial, tour of an historic house, accommodation at Ramada Diplomat, and two-course dinner.

Immerse yourself in a day filled with enriching experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime against the backdrop of Goulburn and Canberra's beauty. Join us on this journey as we guide you through a day that promises to captivate your senses, expand your horizons, and leave you with treasured memories.

Step into a world of excitement and exploration with Day 3 of your unforgettable journey on Friday 7th March 2025. Starting off the day with a buffet breakfast at the Ramada Diplomat, we then depart at 8:45am, where our first stop is the captivating Signature Tour of Parliament House from 9:30am to 1:30pm. This very special tour includes high tea. Immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of one of the country's most iconic landmarks as knowledgeable Guides take you through the corridors of power. Next up, explore the world of art at the National Portrait Gallery. Following this, we step aboard a leisurely afternoon cruise with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises, where you can unwind and soak in the scenic views while cruising along the tranquil waters. As the day winds down, return to the comfort of Ramada Diplomat by about 4:00pm before indulging in a two-course dinner from 6:30pm at the hotel.

Day 3 includes buffet breakfast, transport, signature tour of Parliament House + high tea, Lake Burley Griffin cruise, two-course dinner and accommodation at Ramada Diplomat.

This itinerary promises a range of cultural experiences & leisure activities that cater to the interests of everyone. Whether you have a passion for history, art, leisurely cruises, or simply enjoying good food and relaxation, Day 3 has something for everyone to enjoy.

Discover the enchanting city of Canberra on Day 4, Saturday 8th March 2025, starting your day with a delicious breakfast at the Ramada Diplomat, setting the perfect tone for the adventure ahead. At 9:00am, embark on a journey to explore the vibrant city, beginning with a visit to the National Zoo & Aquarium. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the animal kingdom before heading to the picturesque Dairy Farm Lookout, offering stunning panoramic views that will take your breath away. Satisfy your appetite with lunch at the National Arboretum Canberra while surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Following lunch, you have the option to have a restful afternoon back at your accommodation or dive into the rich history of Canberra at the Museum National Mint gaining insights into the heritage and culture of the city & explore the iconic Old Parliament House, stepping back in time to witness the political legacy of Australia. Return to the comfort of your accommodation at Ramada Diplomat at about 4:00pm, where you can relax and rejuvenate before enjoying a two-course dinner from 6:00pm. End the evening with a night drive over to see the nation’s capital in a dazzling new light when Enlighten Illuminations light up some of Canberra’s iconic buildings with stunning architectural projections. Please Note; the coach will drop you off in a central location & you will be required to walk (as a group) to see most of these illuminations as they are not visible from the coach.

Included in your Day 4 package is transport, breakfast, entry fee into the zoo, accommodation at Ramada Diplomat and dinner

Immerse yourself in the beauty, culture and history of the city with this itinerary, designed to make your visit truly unforgettable. So, come and join us on this journey as we explore the wonders of Canberra together. 

Click here to view photos from the 2024 Enlighten Festival

Welcome to Day 5 of our tour on Sunday March 9th, 2025. Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Ramada Diplomat before departing at 9:00am. Our first stop is the quaint Old Bus Depot Markets, where you can browse unique stalls and immerse yourself in the local culture. Next, we will visit the renowned National Museum, a hub of historical artifacts and information, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the region. Next we wander over to the National Art Gallery, a haven for art enthusiasts, where you can marvel at exquisite masterpieces. We then depart Canberra & travel back to the Mercure Goulburn, arriving by about 4:30pm. Indulge in a two-course dinner served at the accommodation from 6:30pm.

Day 5 includes breakfast, transportation, guided tours of historical landmarks and dinner.

Dive into a blend of educational and leisurely activities that cater to all interests. Come along and be a part of this remarkable journey filled with discoveries and moments of relaxation. 

Embark on the last day of this incredible tour on Monday 10th March 2025. Start your day with a buffet breakfast at the Mercure Goulburn. We'll depart at 9:00am for an exciting day ahead. One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the enchanting historic house, Retford Park where you can immerse yourself in rich history and breathtaking architecture. Following this, we'll venture into the charming town of Bowral for a leisurely lunch before continuing our journey back home to the Central Coast, arriving by about 4:00pm.

Day 6 package includes breakfast, transport, guided tour of Retford Park Historic House & home drop off service (within our advertised drop off area).

Join us on this incredible escapade where every moment is meticulously curated for a truly unforgettable experience!

Terms & Conditions:

Important: The terms, conditions and limitation of liability under which the tour operates are detailed below and the payment of the tour deposit &/or balance represents acceptance by the passenger of the following:-

1. This tour has been organised by and will be operated by Connect Coaches. 

2. To confirm your reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $300 per person must be received within 14 days of booking. The balance must be paid 10 weeks before departure date. Reservations will only be held until this date unless a prior arrangement has been made with Liam & Alison. Connect Coaches reserves the right to accept waitlist passengers in place of applicants failing to finalise within the prescribed time.

3. Occasionally it may be necessary to alter or amend *itineraries, accommodation and sightseeing arrangements from those published. This may be due to road, weather and other operational needs prevailing at the time and is always made in the best interest of your comfort. Times listed on the *itinerary are approximations only. Any personal expenses incurred by a passenger as a result of any delay, alteration or curtailment of any tour, whether caused by mechanical defect, strikes or any other cause are the responsibility of the pas­senger.

4. A minimum number of bookings is required to operate a tour and also to ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere. Where sufficient numbers cannot be achieved, Connect Coaches reserves the right to cancel or postpone a scheduled departure date or tour. When a tour is cancelled by Connect Coaches, your monies will be refunded in full. If the tour is postponed & you are unable to travel on the new date, your monies will be refunded in full.

5. Any special passenger requirements must be notified to Connect Coaches on the Booking Form provided at the point of booking. No passenger will be permitted to embark or continue on the tour while their mental or physical condition is, in the opinion of any representative of Connect Coaches, such as to render themselves incapable of caring for themselves, or whereby they become objectionable to other passengers, or they become a hazard to themselves or other passengers. Connect Coaches will not be responsible for expenses resulting in such persons being precluded from completing the tour for any such reason.

6. Where a tour is cancelled prior to the departure date, according to sections 2 or 3 above or due to an outbreak of Covid-19, Connect Coaches shall endeavour to offer the nearest possible alternative tour (subject to a refund or payment to cover any tour price difference.) or, if this is not acceptable, refund your monies in full.

7.  Connect Coaches cannot guarantee exact arrival and departure times and is not liable for any failure to make connections with any other service or guarantee the operation of any particular service.

8. Connect Coaches reserves the right to cancel any ticket or booking or to refuse to carry any passenger where payments have not been received within the times specified. It is a condition of carriage that a passenger has paid all tour monies prior to departure of the tour.

9. Cancellation Fees – Connect Coaches’ tours require extensive planning, coordination and costs, as well as advance bookings and payments of accommodation and activities. In the event that you have to cancel your tour with us, the following rates will apply to our transport component of the tour. Any motel or additional travel cancellation costs may be applicable as per their individual cancellation policies:

·       43 - 59 days’ notice - 100% refund of coach component                                

·       28 - 42 days’ notice - 50% refund of coach component                                                                               

·       less than 28 days’ notice - 0% refund of coach component

10. Comprehensive travel insurance cover is strongly recommended for all tours to cover you against possible associated risks of travel including cover for medical expenses and costs, loss of luggage, and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays or other disruptions.    

11. Although your safety and comfort are our highest priority, all passengers who participate in our tours do so at their own risk and Connect Coaches cannot accept responsibility for any loss of personal belongings, accident, illness or injury incurred by you.                                                                                         

12. "Act of God" or "Force Majeure" Clause:  the occurrence of an event that is beyond Connect Coaches' reasonable control and which could not have been reasonably prevented which includes, but is not limited to: (a) pandemic events such as Covid-19; (b) natural disaster (including but not limited to flooding, fire, earthquake, landslide), adverse weather conditions, high or low water levels; (c) nuclear or other industrial accident causing environmental pollution or contamination; or (d) change in government restrictions or regulations.  Should a Force Majeure event prevent Connect Coaches from providing your tour as planned, we will change our travel arrangements as reasonably practicable to ensure your safety and invoice you for any possible additional costs if required.