Join award winning singer- songwriter DIANNA CORCORAN for the Country Music Fan’s Ultimate Tour

Two-time Golden Guitar Winner Dianna Corcoran is one of Australian country music’s  most distinguished talents. She released her first album in 2003 and won the Australian Country Music Golden Guitar for New Talent of the Year in ’04. Dianna’s 2nd release earned her 2nd Golden Guitar, the prestigious title of Female Artist of the Year at the ’08 Australian Country Music awards.

Dianna has been deployed 3 times with the Australian Defense Force to war zones to entertain the troops. She released her 3rd album in 2011 to rave reviews. It held the #1 position on the country charts for FIVE consecutive weeks, with it’s first single. The 2nd single, not only held #1 position on the Country Charts for 4 weeks, but also went to #1 on BigPond Music’s singles chart ahead of some the world’s biggest names.

Dianna was recently announced as Australian Country Music’s Independent Artist Of The Year. She took out the APRA/AMCOS Single of The Year and also won Female Vocalist Of the Year at the Southern Stars Australian Indi Country Music Awards. “Keep Breathing” scored 3 Nominations in the 2011 Jayco Country Music Awards of Australia.

CMA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL – 05-08 JUNE

Your 4 day pass includes
FOUR DAYS & NIGHTS OF LIVE MUSIC:
Reserved floor level seating at the night time concerts at the stadium; All-Star Lineups at LP Field, Riverfront Park, Bridgestone Arena Plaza, The Buckle Stage.

ENCOUNTERS & AUTOGRAPH SIGNINGS:
Fan Fair® Hall features autograph sessions and pictures with the stars, plus interactive displays, lifestyle exhibits and Acoustic Corner performances.

SPECIAL ACCESS: Get stage-front at LP Field and Riverfront Park in the Fan Photo Lines, reserved for 4-day ticket holders; Ride the convenient courtesy shuttle between official Festival venues.

MORE: Outdoor themed areas with activities, freebies and more in the The Buckle, the Fan Alley, the Beach.

The bright lights of Nashville Broadway

Day 1. May 30 – Australia – Los Angeles
Fly to Los Angeles where you will be met and transferred to the Hacienda Hotel. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel. You may like to do some bootscootin’ in the hotel’s Western Bar.

Day 2. May 31 – Los Angeles – Disneyland
A fun day as we head off to Disneyland. Enjoy the rides, see your favourite characters, soak up the atmosphere of ‘Main Street’ and the eight ‘lands’ of the magic kingdom.

Day 3. June 01 – LA to Memphis
We transfer to LA airport for our flight to Memphis, home of the Blues and the ‘Birthplace of Rock and Roll’. We’ll arrive mid afternoon and transfer to our downtown hotel. Tonight take a stroll down Beale Street where many musicians started their career.

Day 4. June 02 – Memphis
Today we tour Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley and his extended family. On our tour we visit the infamous ‘Jungle Room’ along with his trophy room which houses his collection of gold and platinum records. Our tour also includes admission to the museums with cars and aircraft collections and other memorabilia. We then move on to the Sun Studio Museum which was once a recording studio and where Elvis was discovered. Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins & Jerry Lee Lewis all recorded in the studio which is now Heritage listed. Then we visit the Rock & Soul Museum – a place which puts Gospel, Country, the Blues, Bluegrass and Soul music into perspective and shows how it not only shaped the Elvis sound but changed music forever.

Day 5. June 03 – Memphis
Today is at leisure; why not take a stroll through Memphis, or visit the famous Peabody Ducks, or nearby Mud Island to learn about the history of the mighty Mississippi River.

Day 6. June 04 – Memphis – Nashville
We set off for Nashville on our air-conditioned coach. We’ll stop on the way at the Casey Jones Museum and have a home cooked lunch in the Country Store. On arrival in Nashville enjoy a short tour of the city before checking in to the fabulous Gaylord Opryland Resort. The hotel features an exquisite indoor atrium with its own river and gentle waterfalls. This evening join Dianna for our exclusive cocktail party.

Day 7. June 05 – CMA Festival
Today is the first day of the CMA Country Music Festival. Meet in the lobby for the shuttle bus transfer downtown. Why not start at the Riverfront Park? Find a comfortable place, sit back and be entertained by some of Country’s best performers. Take a stroll along Broadway past the bars and restaurants in which many famous performers were discovered. Check your guide to see if your favourite performer is hosting an autograph session. This evening is the opening night of the 4 days of concerts and our reserved seats are right there on the field at the stadium. The performance begins at 7pm and is non stop until 11pm. You can join the shuttle back to the hotel, or stay in town and ‘whoop it up’.

Day 8. June 06 – CMA Festival
Take the shuttle downtown at your own pace today. Check your guide for performance times and autograph signing information. The Riverfront stages host some very talented new artists – well worth a visit. You will also have one included entry to the Country Music Hall of Fame which you can visit at any time during your stay in Nashville. This evening enjoy the big name stars at the second night of the Festival.

Day 9. June 07 – CMA Festival
Take the shuttle downtown at your own pace. Meet at 2.45pm at the Ryman Auditorium for the matinee session of the Grand Ole Opry. This famous radio show has been playing Country Music to America for over 80 years. Tonight there are more artists on show.

Day 10. June 08 – CMA Festival
Take the shuttle downtown at your own pace. This is the last day of the festival and your chance to do the things you haven’t got around to until now! Tonight’s show draws some huge stars so don’t miss out.

Day 11. June 09 – Jack Daniels Tour
Our tour this morning departs at 9.30 for Lynchburg, home of Jack Daniels. Tour the distillery, learn the secrets to making this fine Tennessee whisky and enjoy a private tasting and lunch here. We return to our hotel around 5pm. Tonight we’ll meet for informal farewell drinks.

Day 12. June 10 – Depart Nashville or extend your holiday (see below)
Transfer to Nashville Airport for our flight via LA.

Day 13. June 11 – In flight

Day 14. June 12 – Arrive Australia

Pictures courtesy Tennessee Dept of Tourist Development & CMA. Artists featured may not appear in 2014. Artist list not final at time of printing.

Tour Price per person in A$ ex SYD or MEL

Twin Share  $7,990

Single supplement  $1,300

Tour Includes

• Return Economy airfares – Sydney or Melbourne to Los Angeles/Memphis-Nashville –  including taxes
• 2 nights in Los Angeles
• 3 nights in Memphis
• 6 nights in Nashville at The Gaylord Opryland Hotel
• 4 day pass at CMA Music Fest in Nashville
• Welcome dinner in Los Angeles
• Visit to Disneyland
• Visit to Graceland – including admission to Elvis’ car museum & aircraft collection.
• Visit to the Rock & Soul Museum
• Visit to Sun Studio
• Entrance to the Casey Jones Museum
• Lunch at the Casey Jones Country Store
• Orientation tour of Nashville
• Exclusive cocktail party in Nashville
• Visit to the Grand Ole Opry
• Entry to the Country Music Hall of Fame
• Tour of the Jack Daniels Distillery wLunch in Lynchburg
• All transfers between airports and hotels
• All travel by air-conditioned coaches
• Elite Special Event Tours travel wallet

Not included: Meals other than listed in itinerary, tips, drinks, personal items.

Click here for important information and booking conditions

Download the brochure here: CMA Music Festival 2014

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS TO NEW ORLEANS AND/OR LAS VEGAS

NEW ORLEANS & LAS VEGAS – 5 nights
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the city known as ‘The Big Easy’ before heading to the bright lights, shows and shopping in Las Vegas.
Includes:

• Flights Nashville-New Orleans-Las Vegas - Los Angeles
• 3 nights in New Orleans
• 2 nights in Las Vegas
• New Orleans City tour and Riverboat Cruise, Plantation tour or Bayou tour
• Transfers between airports and hotels

A$1290 pp twinshare A$490 sgl supp

NEW ORLEANS - 3 nights
Experience the unique food and culture of the South in New Orleans
Includes:

• Flights Nashville – New Orleans - Los Angeles
• 3 nights in New Orleans
• New Orleans City tour and Riverboat Cruise, Plantation tour or Bayou tour
• Transfers between airports and hotels

A$920 pp twinshare A$390 sgl supp

LAS VEGAS – 3 nights
Bright lights and fabulous shows, dining and casinos await in
glittering Vegas.
Includes:

• Flights Nashville – Las Vegas – Los Angeles
• 3 nights in Las Vegas
• Transfers between airports and hotels

A$890 pp twinshare A$490 sgl supp

This way of exploring the USA has been enjoyed by Americans and Europeans for many years and we now offer Australians a cost effective way to discover the real America.
All our tours are led by an Australian tour manager who’s there to make things as easy as possible for you, whether you’re travelling solo or with the whole family. He’ll outline the route each day, or if you feel confident you can make your own plans and then catch up with the rest of our group at a pre-booked site each evening. Once you’ve discovered the freedom in holidaying this way you’ll be rushing back year after year with the confidence of a professional!

If you’ve considered this type of holiday before but not been too sure about how to go about it then our tours are a perfect fit for you.

Our itineraries have been carefully put together to ensure the best use of your time. What you learn and take away from your first experience will equip you for going it alone on subsequent trips when we can provide you with a detailed route map and sightseeing suggestions; you can free-wheel and stay as long as you like at each location.

We can provide information for the best RV Parks, so all you need to do is phone your chosen park a day ahead or simply go with the flow to out of the way locations.
Our tours are great fun and an easy and affordable way of seeing America. We carefully select scenic back-roads which you may not discover if you travel on your own and we avoid busy interstate freeways so that we don’t miss those sleepy little towns.
Have some fun – come and join us!

The below link is to the 2012 brochure – New Itenerary/Prices are available shortly.

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

….choose from these other great tour options

‘Border to the Bay’ – The Pacific Coast

‘Coyotes and Canyons’

Southern Country Hospitality

Discover the Authentic Old Route 66

Ride a Harley-Davidson through the majestic Rockies and Yellowstone, or take in the dramatic scenery of the Big Sur coast & Yosemite in California

A HASSLE FREE HOLIDAY WITH ELITE SPECIAL EVENT TOURS

Enjoy all that the open road offers when you ride with Elite Special Event Tours. With many years of running motorcycle tours in the USA, we know what it takes to ensure you have the best time, with all details taken care of. We plan each day’s ride with a balance of rest breaks and fuel stops; we know the best spot for a great coffee or a stunning photo and we’ll get you off the highways onto interesting roads. Our ride leader knows the road well and he’s in radio contact with our support van to provide extra security. The van becomes our shuttle to night time events so you don’t have to worry about how to get home and we pre-book our accommodation in comfortable hotels & motels.

All you have to do is relax and enjoy the scenery!

Tours to choose from:

• Canada & Yellowstone National Park
• America’s Wild West

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

There’s nothing like being there…

Ride iconic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles

Known as the “Mainstreet of America” or “Mother Road”, Route 66 is 2400 miles long from Chicago to Los Angeles, crosses three time zones and 8 States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. It has been the path of migrants, dreamers, desperadoes and an entire generation of vacationers discovering the way west. Much of Route 66’s classic roads, restaurants, gas stations and nostalgic landmarks are preserved just as they were in the 1950s. The famous and nostalgic Route 66 is the road created in heaven for motorcycle touring. Simply stated, this is the guided tour of America!

A HASSLE FREE HOLIDAY WITH ELITE SPECIAL EVENT TOURS

Enjoy all that the open road offers when you ride with Elite Special Event Tours. With many years of running motorcycle tours in the USA, we know what it takes to ensure you have the best time, with all details taken care of.

We plan each day’s ride with a balance of rest breaks and fuel stops; we know the best spot for a great coffee or a stunning photo and we’ll get you off the highways onto interesting roads. Our ride leader knows the road well and he’s in radio contact with our support van to provide extra security.

The van becomes our shuttle to night time events so you don’t have to worry about how to get home and we pre-book our accommodation in comfortable hotels & motels.

All you have to do is relax and enjoy the scenery!

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

Ride the ‘Tail of the Dragon’ and other great roads on your way from Washington DC to Daytona via Nashville, Memphis & New Orleans

Every biker knows the legendary Tail of the Dragon through the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. This 11 mile stretch has over 318 twists and turns, and is one of the most talked about rides in the USA.

Now you can tackle it too whilst heading towards the City of Speed – Daytona and on your way, visit Nashville, Jack Daniels Distillery, Elvis’ home Graceland, Sun Studio and New Orleans’ famous French Quarter where the Easyrider movie had its origins……this tour is packed with great roads, great sights, great cities and a great motorcycle rally.

A HASSLE FREE HOLIDAY WITH ELITE SPECIAL EVENT TOURS

You want to ride and enjoy the open road – right?

Then you need to travel with us.

We look after all the details; planned rides and tours, rest breaks, fuel stops, the best spot for a great coffee or a stunning photo. We’ll get you off the highways onto interesting back roads. Our experienced Australian ride leader knows the road well. He’s in radio contact with our support van to provide extra security. The van becomes our shuttle to night time events so you don’t have to worry about how to get home. Just relax and enjoy everything that’s on offer!

There’s nothing like being there…

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

There is nothing on Earth quite like the Isle of Man TT Races. No other motorcycle race is  held on such a challenging track as the 37-mile plus Mountain Course with its seemingly  never-ending series of bends, bumps, jumps, stone walls, manhole covers and telegraph  poles. The skill, bravery and concentration levels required are immense, with speeds  approaching 200mph, and, while difficult to learn and even harder to come first, the rewards for winning on the world famous course are unmatched.

No other motorsport event is like the world famous TT Races, where fans can revel in the Island’s special mix of incredible racing and world class entertainment – and all set amongst the beautiful scenery of the Isle of Man.

Join us for all the excitement and thrills of what is sure to be on every biker’s ‘bucket list’.

This is not a riding tour, but a relaxed week of motorcycle activity up close and personal.

YOUR UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION

Snoozebox is perfectly located in Noble’s Park close to the main TT grandstand,  start/finish line, paddock and TT hospitality suite…just minutes from the action! Adjacent to the hotel is a restaurant, bar and private guest lounge.

Your stay includes English Breakfast daily. Each Snoozebox room has an en-suite wet room with shower, basin and toilet, serviced daily with quality towels and toiletries. Comfortable beds, air conditioning, flat-screen TV, free WiFi and a personal safe guarantees you a relaxed and enjoyable stay.

There’s nothing like being there!

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Attend a radio broadcast in Chicago and enjoy a special guided tour of Chicago’s Blues clubs
• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
• Music in San Francisco & New York
• Nashville – Country Music Hall of Fame, Studio B, Private “Cash on Cash” performance
• Rockabilly Museum, Jackson Tennessee
• Memphis – Beale St, Elvis’ Graceland, Sun Studio,
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Clarkesdale – Delta Blues Museum and the Rock & Blues Heritage Museum with a private performance
• Lunch at Morgan Freeman’s “Ground Zero” juke joint
• Tour the B.B. King Museum in Indianola, Mississippi
• Natchez – Monmouth Plantation tour
• Lafayette – Cajun House Party, attend the Festival International of Louisiana
• New Orleans – Cajun Swamp cruise, Gator Farm visit, city sightseeing, Steamboat Dinner Jazz cruise

GLENN A. BAKER

Described by Rolling Stone magazine Music Editor David Fricke as “Not just Australia’s top pop scholar but a world class rock journalist who writes with the enthusiasm of a true fan” and by Phil Collins as “the most thorough and knowledgeable music journalist in the world today”, Glenn A. Baker is a three time winner of the BBC’s Rock Brain Of The Universe title, though possessing a knowledge of music well beyond rock.

An author of 15 books, Glenn is a nationally syndicated radio and television presenter of long standing, the specialist compiler and/or annotator of more than 500 highly acclaimed album anthologies (many for his own Raven label), a hit songwriter and a writer of features for more than 200 publications. He was the Australian Editor of Billboard for more than 20 years and is the owner of one of the most extensive music archives in the world.

He is now the music presenter on the Nine TV network’s Today Show and Mornings and presents Monday Night Legends and Up Close & Personal specials on the Arts & Entertainment channel Ovation. Glenn was once hailed by a former Australian Prime Minister as “A kind of cultural photographer who can vividly conjure up images and feelings of periods.”

Click here to view the full brochure.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

Enjoy 4 days and nights of fun & action in Las Vegas. There’s entertainment during the day, casinos, restaurants, clubs and cruising ‘the strip’.

Visit Vendor Village with over 300 vendors selling custom bikes, parts, apparel and more. Don’t miss ‘Artistry in Iron’ as 20 of the hottest custom builders show off their latest bikes for this annual competition. Your Ultimate Pass includes entry to the Custom Bike Show, Vendor Village and ‘Artistry in Iron’, the Poker Runs, Event Shirt, Welcome Party and Shuttle.

A HASSLE FREE HOLIDAY WITH ELITE SPECIAL EVENT TOURS

With many years experience running motorcycle tours in the USA, we know what it takes to ensure you have the best time, with all details taken care of.

We plan each day’s ride with a balance of rest breaks and fuel stops; we know the best spot for a great coffee or a stunning photo and we’ll get you off the highways onto interesting roads

Our Australian ride leader knows the road well and he’s in radio contact with our support van to provide extra security. The van becomes our shuttle to night time events so you don’t have to worry about how to get home and we pre-book accommodation in comfortable hotels & motels.

All you have to do is relax and enjoy the scenery!

• Australian Ride leader
• Support Van with spare bike
• Choice of bike model
• Daily maps and notes 4Sightseeing
• Sightseeing
• Planned rides
• Transfers

Day 1. Oct 01 – Las Vegas

Check into our tour hotel today. This evening meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner where we’ll finalise some paperwork for our bike rentals, review maps and discuss logistics for the days ahead.

Day 2. Oct 02 – Las Vegas Bikefest

This morning our transfer vehicle will take us to collect our bikes, followed by an orientation ridearound the city. Then we’ll head over to the Bikefest headquarters to complete registration for Bikefest 2014. Once this is done you are able to attend any or all of the planned events (please refer to your event guide for full information). Just about everyone in town for Bikefest will attend the ‘welcome party’ this evening – it’s an event not to be missed.

Day 3. Oct 03 – Las Vegas Bikefest

Why not start your day with a ride down the Las Vegas strip, breakfast at the Harley Davidson café and lunch at Caesars Palace? There’s so much to do here you’re almost spoilt for choice! There are Bikefest events throughout the day and planned for this evening and everyone is welcome.

Day 4. Oct 04 – Las Vegas Bikefest

For those interested, there’s a ‘Poker Run’ today. To enter, register at 7.30 am and be in line by 9 am. Join in for a scenic Las Vegas ride with a chance to win a cash prize if you have the best hand. You’ll finish the run at Vendor Village where you can see over 200 vendors selling custom bikes, parts and accessories. It’s a biker bazaar like nothing you’ve ever seen. You’ll see more crazy bike stuff than you can imagine, plus demo rides, nonstop music, competitions, food and beer. If you prefer a later start, consult your event guide for the day’s activities and for ideas on what to do tonight.

Day 5. Oct 05 – Las Vegas Bikefest

It’s the last day of Bikefest so make sure to visit Vendor Village to see the winning bikes in the ‘Artistry in Iron’ competition. You will see 20 of the hottest custom builders as they show off their latest bikes for this annual master builders’ competition. Come see this truly awesome show featuring the artistry of the most progressive bike builders in the world. You’ll get to check out the bikes, chat with the builders and get autographs from your favourites.

Day 6. Oct 06 – Las Vegas – Prescott

This morning we head to Prescott. Located in the central mountains of the state surrounded by large stands of ponderosa pine, Prescott was Arizona’s first territorial capital. Today it boasts almost 800 historic buildings with many examples of Victorian architecture.

Day 7. Oct 07 – Prescott – Sedona

Heading northeast today we’ll ride through ‘red rock’ country on our way to Sedona. This picturesque town is surrounded by red-rock monoliths and at the north end of town is the stunning Oak Creek Canyon, a breathtaking chasm featuring an equally spectacular road.

Day 8. Oct 08 – Sedona – Grand Canyon

Continuing north, we’ll pass through Flagstaff on our way to our overnight stop in Tusayan which is at the entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park.

Day 9. Oct 09 – Grand Canyon – Kingman

Today we follow the south rim of the Grand Canyon with stops at various lookouts en route. A powerful and inspiring landscape, the Grand Canyon overwhelms the senses through its immense size and the grandeur of the landscape is truly spectacular. You’ll have plenty of time to stop for fantastic photos. Later, we’ll leave the National Park and head to Kingman for our overnight stay. You may like to visit the historic Route 66 Museum here.

Day 10. Oct 10 – Kingman – Las Vegas

On our return journey, we’ll stop in the eccentric town of Oatman, where wild donkeys roam the streets, then ride through Lake Mead National Recreational Area on our way to Las Vegas where we return our bikes.

Day 11. Oct 11 – Tour ends Las Vegas

Your tour ends this morning after checkout from the hotel. Perhaps extend your stay in Las Vegas or travel to other parts of the USA. We can help with your bookings for any extra travel arrangements.

AIRFARES

We have not included airfares in the tour price in order to give you the opportunity to take advantage of the best airfare available at time of reservation. If you would like us to assist with your flight booking, contact us on 1300 884 891.

Click here to view the full brochure with prices.

Click here to view our terms and conditions.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the experience of a lifetime in a place where local people can still show you a thing or two about hospitality. Harley-Davidson and Victory introduce their new models each year during the Rally and you can demo virtually every kind of bike on the market.

As well as bikes there are concerts and races and bike shows, Main St bikes-only street vibe, the Annual Mayor’s Ride, World Championship of Custom Bike Building, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, organized rides and the Limpnickie Lot.

There’s some impressive watering holes, custom bike legends, blue skies, sunny days. It’s all waiting for you in Sturgis & the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.

Day 1. Jul 28 – Australia – Las Vegas

Fly to Los Angeles then connect on a domestic flight to Las Vegas. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the hotel. Later we’ll finalise paperwork for our bike rentals. Tonight we’ll meet for a welcome dinner to discuss logistics and review maps for the days ahead.

Day 2. Jul 29 – Las Vegas

Today our transfer vehicle will take us to collect our bikes, followed by an orientation ride around the city.

Day 3. Jul 30 – Las Vegas

There are no formal rides today. Take the opportunity to discover Las Vegas at your own pace.

Day 4. Jul 31 – Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

This morning we head to the Grand Canyon, travelling over parts of ‘Route 66’, the famous roadway that was for many years the main artery between Chicago & LA.

Day 5. Aug 01 – Grand Canyon to Kayenta

Today we follow the south rim of the Grand Canyon with stops at various lookouts en route; the grandeur of the natural landscape is truly spectacular. We arrive in Kayenta around 4.00 pm and should have time to ride out to Monument Valley.

Day 6. Aug 02 – Kayenta to Grand Junction

Our ride will take us through the Valley of The Gods, on to Glen Canyon, through Moab to Grand Junction. The scenery from movies such as Thelma and Louise, Indiana Jones and Cityslickers should be familiar.

Day 7. Aug 03 – Grand Junction to Steamboat Springs

Today’s ride takes us on exciting mountain roads into the spectacular scenery of the magnificent Rockies. We arrive at the cowboy ski resort of Steamboat Springs where we spend our evening.

Day 8. Aug 04 – Steamboat Springs to Cheyenne

Into the Rocky Mountain National Park this morning for some more beautiful scenery; we’re also likely to see native wildlife so keep your eyes peeled. We’ll follow the Big Thomson River through mountain gorges to our lunch stop at Loveland, where you’ll have time to visit the largest Harley dealership in Colorado. Our overnight stop at Cheyenne is about an hour’s ride from here.

Day 9. Aug 05 – Cheyenne to Rapid City

We head off to Black Hills National Park stopping at Fort Laramie which was founded in 1859. Then to Thunder Basin National Grassland and on into Custer, South Dakota, before arriving in Rapid City.

Days 10 -13. Aug 06 to 09 – Rapid City – Sturgis Rally

For the next four days we have time to get into the sights, sounds and feel of the world’s biggest Harley event in all its glory. Maybe ride out to Deadwood, Spearfish Canyon, Mount Rushmore and through the Black Hills. You can also attend the many events such as Thunder Road or the Drag Racing.

Day 14. Aug 10 – Rapid City to Buffalo

We bid farewell to Rapid City and Sturgis as we head west towards Wyoming. We’ll make a detour to the Devil’s Tower National Monument, rising 1280 ft above the valley floor. If it looks familiar, it was used as the spaceship landing site in Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Then to Buffalo, nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. This historic town has many original buildings dating back to the times of the ‘Old West’. Not far from here is where Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid had their ‘hole in the wall’ hideout.

Day 15. Aug 11 – Buffalo to Lander

Continuing along the Yellowstone Highway today we pass through the fabulous Wind River Canyon and on to the quaint town of Lander. There’s time this afternoon to ride out to the Sink Canyon reserve where you can see the river submerge into an underground cavern, re-appearing a mile downstream teeming with fish.

Day 16. Aug 12 – Lander – Salt Lake City

Our ride today is through some of Wyoming’s most peaceful countryside. We’ll arrive in Salt Lake City mid afternoon and return our bikes.

Day 17. Aug 13 – Salt Lake City – Bonneville Salt Flats

Today we’ll be transferred to the famous Bonneville Salt Flats, approximately 1 hour from the city, where we can discover the excitement of the annual Speed Week event. We have about 2 to 3 hours here to watch contestants attempt to set new land speed records on these intensely hot, shimmering salt flats. We return to Salt Lake City in time for our farewell dinner tonight.

Day 18. Aug 14 – Depart Salt Lake City

We transfer to the airport this afternoon for the flight back to Australia via Los Angeles. Or, why not extend your Sturgis experience with our visit to the home of Harley-Davidson in Milwaukee?

Day 19. Aug 15 – In flight

Day 20. Aug 16 – Arrive Australia

We arrive in Sydney at approximately 6.15am.

Optional extension to visit the home of Harley-Davidson in Milwaukee

Day 18. Aug 14 – Salt Lake City – Chicago – Milwaukee

Fly to Chicago, then board our coach for the 90 minute drive to Milwaukee. En route we will stop at one of Milwaukee’s best known Harley-Davidson dealerships at Kenosha, where we are always made welcome by the friendly staff. Later, we’ll check in to our downtown hotel close to Milwaukee’s Irish Pubs.

Day 19. Aug 15 – ‘The Steel Toe Tour’ – Harley-Davidson

Museum and Factory Tours

The Steel Toe Tour gives you a chance to learn HD history and get up-close and personal with V-Twin engine manufacturing at Harley-Davidson Motor Company’s 849,000 square-foot Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations facility in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, home of “Big Twin”. The Steel Toe Tour includes your entry ticket to the Harley-Davidson

Museum including the must-see Engine Room. A shuttle will take you from the Museum to the Pilgrim Road Powertrain Operations facility, where you’ll view the assembly line, powder coat process, cold testing and steel and aluminum machining.

Day 20. Aug 16 – Miller Brewery Tour and Irish Festival

This morning we will be transferred to another famous Milwaukee building, the Miller Brewing Company. Here we’ll take a short tour of the factory before sampling some of their local product. Tonight experience all the fun of the Milwaukee Irish Festival at the spectacular State Fair Grounds on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s a great way to celebrate the end of a great trip.

Day 21. Aug 17 – Milwaukee – Chicago – Australia

Today our coach takes us to Chicago Airport for your flight to Australia or to other exciting destinations…..the choice is yours.

All this for just an additional $850 pp twinshare

Single supplement $200

• 3 nights accommodation
• Flight from Salt Lake City to Chicago
• Transfers by air-conditioned coach
• Harley-Davidson Museum entry
• Steel
• Toe Tour of the Pilgrim Rd Powertrain Factory
• Miller Brewery tour & tasting

A HASSLE FREE HOLIDAY WITH ELITE SPECIAL EVENT TOURS

You want to ride and enjoy the open road? Then you need to travel with us.

We look after all the details; planned rides and tours, rest breaks, fuel stops, the best spot for a great coffee or a stunning photo. We’ll get you off the highways onto interesting back roads. Our experienced Australian ride leader knows the road well. He’s in radio contact with our support van to provide extra security. The van becomes our shuttle to night time events so you don’t have to worry about how to get home. Just relax and enjoy everything that’s on offer!

• Australian Ride leader
• Support Van with spare bike
• Choice of bike model
• Planned rides
• Daily maps and notes
• Transfers
• Sightseeing

Tour Prices PER PERSON in A$
NOTE:  You must be min. 21 years old &
hold a valid unrestricted motorcycle licence.

Price A $12,990

For 2 riders travelling together

Each person rides a bike and the 2 of you share a hotel room.

Price B $9,990

For 1 rider and 1 pillion travelling together

You travel on 1 bike together and the 2 of you share a hotel room.

Price C $14,990

For 1 rider travelling solo

You ride a bike and have a hotel room to yourself.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

• Return economy airfares – Sydney or Melbourne/USA, incl. taxes
• Accommodation at overnight stops as listed
• 4 days/5 nights attendance at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
• Day at the Bonneville Salt Flats Speed Week
• Welcome & Farewell dinners
• Harley-Davidson hire with saddle bags
• Comprehensive bike insurance for theft, damage, 3rd party supplemental liability
• Transfers between airport, hotel & bike rental
• Elite Special Event Tours travel wallet

Not included: Fuel, meals other than listed in itinerary, drinks, tips,
personal items.

Click here for Important Information and Booking Conditions

Click here for a copy of the Sturgis 2014 brochure

DON’T MISS OUT!

This tour sells out many months in advance, often by December of the previous year.

Call us now to secure your place on this fabulous ride.

England is beautiful in spring, with its colourful blooms and expectant air, just perfect for a leisurely tour of some of its most well known and well loved gardens. Sissinghurst, Great Dixter and of course, the highlight of the tour the Chelsea Flower Show, offer ideas and inspiration for all garden lovers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Chelsea Flower Show Tickets for entrance on ‘Members Only’ day
• Membership of the National Trust
• Membership of the
• Royal Horticultural Society
• Tour the lovely Cotswolds and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea
• Guided Tours of Leeds Castle, Oxford and Canterbury Cathedral

GARDEN VISITS

Abbey House, Blenheim Palace, Great Dixter, Hidcote Manor, West Green House, RHS Wisley, Sissinghurst, Stourhead, Sudeley Castle

Day 1. 12 May – Tour commences in Tunbridge Wells
Today a transfer will be available from London Heathrow to our hotel in Tunbridge Wells. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome drink then relax over dinner at the hotel. The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells (D)

Day 2. 13 May – Great Dixter & Sissinghurst
Our first visit is to Great Dixter, one of the most experimental gardens of our time, with its designs by Lutyens. Its variety includes yew topiary, colourful borders and the Exotic Garden around the lovely 16thC manor house. Then to Sissinghurst Castle, perhaps the most celebrated in England and one of the most beautiful. Developed by Vita Sackville-West in the 1930s around an Elizabethan mansion, the garden is a series of small ‘rooms’. These include the White garden, Rose garden, herb garden and the Moat walk. The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells [B]

Day 3. 14 May – Leeds Castle & Canterbury
Today begins with a visit to Leeds Castle. Set in 500 acres of parkland, it is considered to be one of the loveliest castles in the world. Then to Canterbury where there’s time to stroll ‘the Narrows’, (the medieval shopping streets), before our guided tour of the Cathedral. We return to our hotel. The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells (B)

Day 4. 15 May – Stourhead – Bath – Cheltenham
This morning our drive takes us first to Stourhead. Secluded in its own private valley, Stourhead features one of the world’s finest landscape gardens. The 18th-century design centres on the magnificent lake, surrounded by classical temples, enchanting grottoes and rare and exotic trees. After our visit here we continue to the lovely Georgian city of Bath where there is time to explore at your own pace – perhaps visit the Roman Baths or stroll the elegant streets. This afternoon we head to Cheltenham, our home for the next four nights. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham (B,D)

Day 5. 16 May – Sudeley Castle – Abbey House Gardens
We visit the gardens at Sudeley Castle this morning. Plantings around the ruins of the 15thC Tithe Barn contrast with intricate detail seen in the Knot Garden. Topiary features strongly and the famous Queens Garden, full of old fashioned roses and herbs, is flanked by magnificent double yew hedges. Next to Abbey House in Malmesbury, home of the ‘Naked Gardeners’ Ian & Barbara Pollard. With over 10,000 different plants this is a ‘must see’ garden with probably the best flower display you could find. We return to Cheltenham this afternoon. Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham (B)

Day 6. 17 May – Hidcote Manor and Cotswolds touring
Today’s first garden is at Hidcote Manor. Nestled in the Cotswolds with sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham, Hidcote is designed in the Arts & Crafts style, it is arranged as a series of outdoor rooms, each with a different ‘character’. This afternoon we drive through the pretty villages of the Cotswolds with their honey-coloured stone buildings. We’ll stop to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea before returning to our hotel. Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham (B)

Day 7. 18 May – Blenheim Palace & Oxford
This morning we visit Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough. The 5,000 hectares comprises of parkland, formal gardens and lakes. You will have the chance to tour inside the Palace as well as the grounds. Then to the university town of Oxford for a guided walking tour, with a visit to some of England’s oldest colleges, before returning to our hotel. Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham (B)

Day 8. 19 May – West Green House -RHS Garden Wisley – London
First to West Green House Gardens, restored by acclaimed gardener Australian Marylyn Abbott. With a neo-classical park studded with birdcages, monuments and a lake, they are some of the most spectacular gardens of recent times. If available, Marylyn will join us for an informal talk. Then to the Royal Horticultural Society Garden at Wisley. Its 97 hectares offer a blend of practical and innovative design with cultivation techniques. We end our day with a drive into London where we stay for three nights. Mercure Bloomsbury, London [B]

Day 9. 20 May – London at leisure
Spend today exploring at your own pace with your included London sightseeing “hop on-hop-off” all day ticket. Take advantage of the three different routes available to really explore the city. Mercure Bloomsbury, London [B]

Day 10. 21 May – Chelsea Flower Show
You have a full day to discover all the sights of the Chelsea Flower Show. Your membership of the RHS (included) gives you access on this special Member Day, which means you avoid some of the crowds of the public entry days. A late afternoon transfer at a set time will be available to return to the hotel. Tonight we have our farewell dinner in an up-market city restaurant. Mercure Bloomsbury, London [B,D]

Day 11. 22 May – Tour ends in London
Our tour ends this morning after breakfast. (B) We can arrange travel and accommodation if you’d like to extend your stay in the UK or travel to Europe.

Note: We have not included airfares in the tour price so that you can take advantage of the best airfare available at time of booking. Ask us for a quote on one of our special airfares. 

Tour Price per person in A$ Land Only
(Airfares not included)

• Twin Share $6190
• Single supplement $850

Tour Inclusions

• 10 nights accommodation in 4 star hotels
• The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells
• Queen’s Hotel, Cheltenham
• Mercure Bloomsbury, London
• English breakfast daily (B) • 3 dinners (D)
• Welcome Drinks Afternoon tea in the Cotswolds
• Membership of the National Trust
• Membership of the Royal Horticultural Society, including free access to RHS gardens & other recommended gardens, plus a monthly magazine
• Chelsea Flower Show Tickets for entrance on ‘Members Only’ day
• Sightseeing & entrance fees to all gardens listed
• All travel by air-conditioned coach
• Porterage of one suitcase
• Elite Special Event Tours travel wallet

Not included: Airfares, meals other than listed in itinerary, tips, discretionary gratuities to guides, drinks, personal items

Note: We have not included airfares in the tour price so that you can take advantage of the best airfare available at time of booking. Ask us for a quote on one of our special airfares.

Click here for important information and booking conditions

Download the brochure here: Chelsea Flower Show 2014