Norfolk Pines at Christmas Time – Escorted Tour

(B = breakfast, BR = brunch, L = lunch, D = dinner)

Day 1 - Tuesday 23 December  - Depart Brisbane (D)
This morning meet your dedicated guide for the week at Brisbane International Airport before a short 2-hour flight to beautiful Norfolk Island. On arrival be transferred to Governor’s Lodge, your home for the next 7 nights. Governor’s Lodge is a serene retreat of 55 individual units, set in 12 acres of landscaped subtropical gardens dotted with majestic Norfolk Pines. The hotel has three on-site dining options, a swimming pool and heated spa, and a full-service reception to cater to any unexpected need. The property and all cabins are non-smoking. This evening get to know your fellow travellers with a welcome drink and dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 - Wednesday 24 December - Island Life Tour (B,L,D)
After breakfast this morning set off on the Island Life Tour. Spend the morning touring Norfolk Island, gaining a true insight into the intricate nature of modern island life. Your guide will share the latest information on the island's ethnic groups, nationalities and languages spoken, including the Norfolk Island indigenous language.  The tour will conclude with lunch at the Boatshed Restaurant at Governor’s Lodge Hotel. This afternoon spend some time on activities which will ensure that everyone is feeling the Christmas spirit. This evening we will make our way to one of Norfolk’s fabulous restaurants for dinner. Do you own a VERY colourful shirt? An outlandish frock?  A very Christmassy outfit?  Can you add some sparkle? Wear it tonight we have a prize for the best dressed!

Day 3 - Thursday 25 December - Merry Christmas (B,L,D)
Merry Christmas. After breakfast, kick off the day with a group Secret Santa exchange. Lunch will be a sumptuous Christmas Buffet in the Boatshed Restaurant with beverages included. This afternoon is at leisure. Your tour leader will have some suggestions on how you might like to spend the afternoon. You may prefer to have a swim in the pool or take a nap in your cabin. Well, after all it’s Christmas and you can do whatever you like. Tonight’s dinner will be a 2-course dinner at Bailey’s Restaurant.

Day 4 - Friday 26 December - Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, Barney Duffy BBQ (BR,D)
A lazier start to the day today, walk across the road to Hilli Restaurant for brunch. The word ‘hilli’ is a word from our unique Norf'k language which can be defined a drowsy, lazy feeling... A feeling of lethargy. And it’s Boxing Day. After brunch visit the amazing Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama. This amazing 360° panoramic painting brings to life the history of the Norfolk Island people and their connection with the infamous mutiny on the ‘Bounty’. An outstanding attraction this stunning 360° panoramic painting with realistic 3D effects has been impressing visitors to Norfolk Island with its ‘wow’ factor for over 18 years. This evening indulge in a hearty BBQ feast featuring steak, sausages, and a variety of sides and trimmings. Listen to local guest speakers as they share memorabilia, stories, and fascinating insights into the Island's history and governance. After dinner, embark on the breathtaking Wonderland by Night tour, and then return to 'the shed' for a delicious dessert.

Day 5 - Saturday 27 December - Natural Wonders, Island Fish Fry (B,L,D)
This morning after breakfast discover Norfolk Island's stunning geological wonders and natural beauty. Your expert Natural Wonders guide will introduce you to the island's diverse flora, including native, endemic, and introduced species of trees, shrubs, plants, palms, ferns, flowers, and fruits, offering insights into their unique characteristics and significance. The tour will conclude with a picnic lunch at one of Norfolk’s many scenic locations. A perfect way to spend a summer’s day. This evening head to another scenic outdoor location to enjoy scrumptiously fresh fish prepared the local way, and accompanied by a range of seasonal island dishes. The evening kicks off with an entertainer and very talented Tahitian-style dancers whose singing and dancing will set the tone for an evening of fun and relaxation.

Day 6 - Sunday 28 December - Sunday Markets, Lavender Farm (B)
Today is at leisure. We have arranged for the group to be transferred to the Sunday markets this morning for those who would like to have a browse through island souvenirs, locally made handcrafts, jewellery, artwork, and much more! From there transfer to the Norfolk Island Lavender farm where you might like try a waffle or gelato - or sip on a glass of wine at lunch (Own expense). Transfer back to Governor’s Lodge where the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. This evening your tour leader is going to take anyone who would like to join them to the Norfolk Island RSL for dinner. If you prefer to stay and have dinner at the hotel you are welcome to do so. Dinner tonight is at own expense.

Day 7 - Monday 29 December - Paddock to Plate, Progressive Dinner (B,L,D)
During your week on Norfolk you will have realised that our  food has zero food miles—it's truly paddock to plate. This morning visit a market garden that supplies vegetables to the Island and learn about providing seasonal produce. Tour a farm with beef cattle to understand the unique farming practices on Norfolk Island. Next, visit a free-range chicken farm and learn how they supply the Island with farm fresh eggs. The final stop will be at a local home for a delicious two-course lunch featuring local ingredients. This afternoon is at leisure and your final chance to explore the shops in the Burnt Pine area. Norfolk Island is a duty-free and GST-free shopping haven where you’ll find over 50 stores selling everything from sporting goods and imported shoes to cosmetics, jewellery and artwork. You won’t find chain stores here. Norfolk Island’s shops are locally owned and operated. For your final evening on Norfolk enjoy a delicious 3-course meal, with each course served at a different Norfolk Island family home. Each home has been carefully selected to showcase the island's rich culture and history, and each dinner host has a sensational story to tell.

Day 8 - Tuesday 30 December (B,L)
Sadly, the week has come to an end. After you have checked out of the hotel this morning the group will enjoy a final light lunch together before being transferred to Norfolk Island Airport for the flight home. We send you home with fond memories and some newfound friends.