A stunning member of the internationally-regarded suite of great Australian rail journeys, Great Southern takes its passengers on an exploration of the incredible landscapes and experiences found across Australia’s diverse south-eastern corner. As travellers have come to expect from The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland, exceptional food and wine and world-class hospitality will be at the heart of the Great Southern experience, along with opportunities to explore beyond the tracks. A stunning journey between Brisbane and Adelaide (or vice versa), passing by rugged coastlines, inland scenery and historical outback locations together with quintessential and unique Australian excursions along the way.
ADELAIDE TO BRISBANE: 3 days / 2 nights
As Adelaide fades into the distance, it’s time to relax and enjoy morning tea and savour a delicious lunch on board as the ever-changing landscapes passes by. View the rugged and must-see Southern Flinders Ranges vista before crossing the border into outback New South Wales to enjoy an off train experience in the historical town of Menindee, the oldest European settlement of the region, located on the Darling River. Day 2 sees a scenic arrival into the Australian capital of Canberra, from Yass Junction, where your day begins with a Canberra Icons tour including the famed Parliament House followed by a VIP lunch in the Grand Hall. From here you have the choice to visit one of three iconic locations such as the moving Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia or to stay at Parliament House for a more in depth discovery of the art, architecture and goings on of such a dynamic building.
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As the train continues north, adjacent to the nearby New South Wales coastline, day 3 brings the option of a Boardwalk to Beach off train excursion incorporating stunning coastline and Great Diving Range views before arriving in Coffs Harbour. Enjoy a relaxing morning here on the Coffs Harbour Explorer excursion travelling up to Sealy Lookout for panoramic views from the Forest Sky Pier before travelling back to Coffs for time to explore the markets, historic jetty or relax by the beach. Otherwise, simply make the most of Coffs Harbour’s beautiful beaches with an entire morning spent seaside with a short coach ride delivering you the waterfront precinct. Wander along the coast, have a dip in the ocean, play a game of beach cricket or simply relax on the sand. Take pleasure in lunch back on board the train before arriving in Brisbane.
BRISBANE TO ADELAIDE: 4 days / 3 nights
Travelling from Brisbane to Adelaide also sees a stop in Coffs Harbour with a unique beachside dinner. Feast on local produce and fresh seafood matched with fine wines, as the sun sets and the soothing sounds of the ocean become the soundtrack to the evening in this heavenly location. Day 2 includes spoilt for choice excursion options of meandering the gorgeous Hunter Valley Wine Region, discovering the sights of Port Stephens via 4WD or a relaxing cruise spotting dolphins in Port Stephens. Enjoy some of the region’s finest wines with generous tasting times of at least 1 hour at a renowned range of contemporary and historic cellar doors including a lovely long lunch to complete this indulgent Hunter Valley experience. Scenic Port Stephens, whether experienced by land or sea, will delight with stunning scenery and a sumptuous lunch for an essential insight into this impressive location.
As the train approaches the South Australian border, a unique touring experience in the outback New South Wales towns of Silverton and Broken Hill is a must before the journey ends in charming Adelaide. Explore quaint Silverton including the museum, intriguing galleries and Mad Max Museum before a refreshing drink at the iconic Silverton Hotel. Gain a true insight into mining life on a remote outback mine adventure with an afternoon tea of scones. Peruse the gallery of the famous artist, Pro Hart, in Broken Hill and have a try at creating your own masterpiece in his original studio, accompanied by Pro’s son or daughter.
If you are looking for a completely unique, all-inclusive train journey with a wonderful Australian fusion of the stunning outback, historical locations, dining pleasures and picturesque coast, along with pinch-me experiences, this is it.
Click here for our holidays with Great Southern or contact one of the Holidays of Australia and the World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
