Lux/special Sydney or Melbourne experiences

[mamato3rascals]

Hi there
My mum and dad who are amazingly supportive and help out with my kids are spending a month in Aus and NZ in Feb.

I'd like to get them an experience whilst there as their Christmas gift. I'd looked at a private sunset champagne cruise in Sydney or a voucher for dinner at Bennelong. I really have no idea though so would love some suggestions from anyone with experience.

Looking at a budget of 500-500 GBP total and they are mid 60s (so a Sydney climb etc probably not ideal).

Thank you!

A night at the Wildlife retreat at Taronga Zoo? Looks pretty amazing but as someone who lives in Sydney I can’t really justify it 😁 Otherwise a restaurant voucher sounds good, Quay would be another good choice. Do be aware that the fancy restaurants get booked up well in advance so you would need to make sure they had a booking not just a voucher. Q Station in Manly is a bit different and great if they are into history and there is a nice restaurant so accommodation and dinner would be well within budget. They do ghost tours too! Summer in Sydney is fab.

Q stations has a lot of stairs, a LOT of stairs, not sure how fit your friends are. Bennelong has a great location but I wouldn't call it luxury. Tiny tables, no tablecloth. Very expensive for just a view of the bridge.
You can book a Sydney to Palm beach by sea plane.

I agree with both points about Q Station - fascinating place with lots of history but also a lot of stairs if mobility is an issue. Amazing sunsets.

Bennelong is ok but trendy and, in my opinion, overrated.

Other options - I’m trying to think of something but I’m struggling! Tickets to something at the Opera House (in which case Bennelong becomes a better choice) but it really depends on when they are coming and what they would consider worthwhile.

Personally, I’d love a private sunset cruise as you have already suggested but that’s just me.

Are they driving? A night glamping at Peninsula Hot Springs outside of Melbourne (with a VIP pass to the springs) is magnificent.

Or, if they're driving the Great Ocean Rd, a night at the Pole House in Fairhaven. (Google it!)