Gold Rush & Skydeck Bus Tour with Wine Hop And Coastal Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approx 9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking on mixed terrain and standing during tours
Overview
Discover the rich history of Ballarat’s gold rush, the serene beauty of its botanical gardens, and Melbourne’s skyline from the highest viewpoint in the Southern Hemisphere—all in one day with Wine Hop And Coastal Tours.
Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens & Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour
Skydeck Views, Gold Rush Tales & Blooming Gardens
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience a captivating journey through history at Sovereign Hill, where you can pan for gold and witness traditional crafts. Stroll through Ballarat's stunning Botanical Gardens and Lake Wendouree, then conclude your adventure with breathtaking views from the Melbourne Skydeck, the highest in the Southern Hemisphere. A day of discovery awaits!
Step back in time to the Goldrush era at Sovereign Hill, visit the Eureka Centre, see stunning floral displays in the botanical gardens and finish the day with the best view of Melbourne from the Skydeck on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower.. You will be picked up in air conditioned comfort by an English speaking guide for this small group tour. Journey west out of Melbourne to Ballarat where your first stop will be the stunning Botanical Gardens for a wander amongst the flowers and heritage trees, then visit the picturesque Lake Wendouree. Time to step back in time to the Gold Rush of 1850 at Sovereign Hill where traditional craft demonstrations and opportunities to pan for Gold await you. From here we visit the Eureka Centre, historic site of the miner’s rebellion. Your day will finish with the most spectacular view from the Melbourne Skydeck, 88 floors up in the Eureka Tower!
All the above is included in ticket price except lunch. Adult $189 Child $165
Adventure Tips
Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour includes several walking stops at Sovereign Hill and the Botanical Gardens, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
Pack Layers
Weather can vary between Melbourne and Ballarat, especially at higher elevations like the Skydeck; layers keep you comfortable all day.
Bring Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during Summer and Spring when temperatures can rise significantly.
Camera Ready
From historic sites to panoramic city views, bring a camera or smartphone fully charged for photo opportunities.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black Swans at Lake Wendouree
- Native waterfowl and other birds around the gardens and lake
History
The 1854 Eureka Stockade was a key rebellion by gold miners at Ballarat that influenced Australia’s path to democracy.
Conservation
Efforts at Ballarat Botanical Gardens focus on protecting heritage-listed trees and promoting native biodiversity around Lake Wendouree.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Melbourne
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating uneven surfaces at Sovereign Hill and along garden paths.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protects skin during extended outdoor stops, especially under Australian sun.
spring|summer|fall specific
Light Waterproof Jacket
Useful for unexpected showers or wind during outdoor segments.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Supports hydration throughout the day and reduces single-use plastic waste.