A stunning member of the internationally-regarded suite of great Australian rail journeys, the Great Southern takes its passengers on an exploration of the incredible landscapes and experiences found across Australia’s diverse south-eastern corner. In line with the premium services of The Ghan & Indian Pacific, the Great Southern offers exceptional food, wine and world-class hospitality at the core of the experience, along with opportunities to explore beyond the tracks with included Off Train Experiences. 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 pass by. View the rugged mountainous beauty as you pull into the Grampians for your first stop. Here you'll be spoiled with a plethora of options in included Off Train Experiences, giving you the flexibility to tailor your own experience. Be it exploring Halls Gap and the viewing platforms over Lake Bellfield, walking through the Venus Baths Loop, or tasting the vineyards of Pomonal estate. Day 2 sees a scenic arrival into the Australian capital of Canberra, from Yass Junction, where you may discover the political hub of Parliament House, pay your respects at the Australian War Memorial, or witness the National Portrait Gallery.
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 Experience, incorporating stunning coastline and Great Diving Range views. Enjoy a relaxing morning in Coffs Harbour provides an opportunity to travel 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 to 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. Your rail journey will continue through Victoria's high country, where you will have an opportunity to discover wine touring and gourmet delights through regional Victoria, or visit cosmopolitan Melbourne to take in soaring views from the Melbourne Skydeck or explore at your own leisure.
If you are looking for a 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
