Australian rail journeys provide such an authentic encounter crossing through the country’s cities, outback towns and diverse, vast landscapes not seen by many, via a relaxing locomotive. They also embrace all the benefits of slow travel; unrushed and even paced, just sit back, relax and take it all in. Choose from the all-inclusive sumptuous cuisine, fine wines, warm hospitality and immersive experiences aboard the Ghan, Ghan Expedition, Indian Pacific and Great Southern with Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions. How about the old world charm, unique touring and inclusive dining aboard a Vintage Rail journey exploring regional New South Wales? Or perhaps discover the iconic coastal and outback scenery of Queensland together with the modern comforts of the Spirit of Queensland and Spirit of the Outback trips. Whichever train you choose, an unforgettable Australian rail journey awaits.
The Ghan
The Ghan, one of the most popular rail journeys in the world, makes for a relaxing voyage between Adelaide and Darwin or vice versa. Those on board will feel the never-ending beauty of the iconic Australian outback as they travel towards the heart of our glorious country – the Red Centre in the Northern Territory.
Heading out of Adelaide, watching the remote desert come to life at sunrise, freshly brewed coffee in hand, is a truly a one of a kind experience to be had in Marla, an outback outpost in the remote reaches of South Australia. For those heading towards Adelaide, dinner on the train is followed by an extraordinary evening experience in outback Manguri where you will see the Milky Way like you have never seen it before. Simply breathtaking.
Your time in Alice Springs, the ‘capital out of the outback’, offers numerous opportunities to explore its historic legacy and unique environment. One of the included excursions is the Alice Springs Desert Park - an inspiring portrayal of Australia’s desert environment that effortlessly blends the plants, animals and people of the arid regions. The Simpsons Gap Discovery Walk, just out of Alice Springs, is an enjoyable 4 kilometre walk through one of the most prominent gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Featuring the towering cliffs of Simpsons Range, a permanent waterhole, and a magical location where important elements of flora, fauna and Indigenous culture all come together. Explore this fascinating town’s history on the Alice Explorer with visits to the School of the Air, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base, the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame and a short trek up to ANZAC Hill for panoramic views over Alice and beyond to the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Stopping in Katherine provides you with the opportunity to experience the iconic Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise, in one of the Northern Territory’s most monumental natural wonders. Relax and breathe in the serenity as you cruise along the Katherine River with the impressive sandstone cliffs tower from either side encompassing the stories of the traditional Indigenous owners, the Jawoyn people. The Katherine Outback Experience makes for a unique afternoon, run by Tom Curtain, it showcases Top End cattle station life via a fun and interactive show.
The Ghan Expedition
This is the ultimate Ghan experience, with even more spectacular off train experiences and an additional night to enjoy on this immersive, all-inclusive journey, operating March to October travelling from Darwin to Adelaide.
Enjoy time in Katherine and Alice Springs, as per the Ghan journey above, in addition to an authentic Outback BBQ dinner underneath a canopy of bright stars at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station. A true pinch-me experience.
Coober Pedy, in the South Australian outback, is known as the ‘underground’ town famous for its opal mining and unique abodes, or ‘dugouts’ as they are called, beneath the surface. Here you’ll be whisked away to explore this sun-scorched opal capital of the world. A friendly guide will show you around the tunnels and places of interest followed by a spectacular golf club lunch at the only golf course with reciprocal playing rights to St Andrews in Scotland. To top it off, stop for a breathtaking view and photo opportunity of The Breakaways, like no other landscape you have seen before. Or there is also the option for a half day Opal Experience for a more immersive gemstone exploration or a guided walking and interactive tour of the majestic Breakaways and Umoona Opal Mine and Museum.
Indian Pacific
The train tracks running between the Indian Ocean coastline and Pacific Ocean coastline of Australia have many a story to tell, ones you might not get to experience without the help of the incredible Indian Pacific journey.
The journey between Perth and Sydney (or vice versa) includes a once in a lifetime outback experience in Rawlinna on the Nullarbor Plain. During the cooler months guests are invited out for drinks and canapes surrounded by a warming bonfire under the stars.
Both journeys also stop in Adelaide where you can explore the city of churches and its vibrant culture of world-renowned festivals, buzzing food and wine scene and laid back cosmopolitan living on a city tour or enjoy an exclusive crafted tour of the South Australian Museum. The famous Adelaide Oval tour is high on many people’s list as the stadium tour uncovers the colourful history of cricket and football and the personal insights and stories make it all totally worthwhile. For the foodies, the Central Market Progressive Breakfast is a must as you taste some of the best local produce and meet the stall owners before a refreshing coffee and light market breakfast. Venture further out of the city for an iconic winery experience to the renowned McLaren Vale, known worldwide for its premium Shiraz production, including lunch and wine tastings or head for the hills to the picturesque ‘village’ of Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.
The mining town of Broken Hill reveals its most fabulous side, travelling on Sydney to Perth, with a Drag Queen performance, thanks to the cult classic movie ‘The Adventure of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’. Or a visit to the oldest regional art gallery in New South Wales for an extensive display of Australian colonial works including James Coutts Michie and James Ashton along with several important Victorian painters such as Arthur Hacker RA. You will be delighted by Broken Hill’s much-loved attraction, the ‘Big Picture’, the world’s largest acrylic painting by a single artist housed in the Silver City Mint and Art Centre.
The World Heritage-Listed landscape of the Blue Mountains allows another tick off the bucket list, travelling on Perth to Sydney, as you are immersed into the beauty of this must-see part of Australia. Enjoy panoramic views from a cable car or via the scenic walkways through the eucalypt forests, providing a fitting recharge before arriving into bustling Sydney.
Great Southern
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.
Leaving Adelaide behind, you can relax, unwind and enjoy world-class service as the spectacular landscapes glide by. Lap up the wild and spectacular scenery passing by your window, from the picturesque Adelaide Hills to the ancient Grampians in regional Victoria. Delve into the art, history and culinary culture of Canberra, and discover the nation’s capital. Feel the sand between your toes in the picturesque coastal town of Coffs Harbour. Then enjoy stunning views of northern New South Wales as you roll into the final destination of Brisbane.
Or departing Brisbane, you’ll travel south into the rolling hills of New South Wales before indulging in an incredible beachside dining experience in Coffs Harbour. Meander through the historic vineyards of the Hunter Valley, explore beautiful Port Stephens by land or sea or discover the iconic city of Newcastle. Enjoy an afternoon of unique touring experiences in the regional Victoria or vibrant Melbourne before arriving into the final destination of Adelaide the following day.
Spirit of Queensland
The Spirit of Queensland manages to capture the very essence of a classic Queensland holiday: unrushed, relaxing and lush, beautiful scenery. Albeit via rail, but not just any rail, rather via a journey that embraces the true spirit of this sunshine state while travelling in completely modern and comfortable surroundings.
This 25 hour train journey, spanning 1,681 kilometres, traverses between Brisbane and Cairns and stops at the popular coastal cities including Bundaberg, Townsville and Airlie Beach, therefore giving easy access to more stunning Queensland holiday destinations such as The Whitsundays and the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Passing by picturesque sugar plantations, tropical landscapes, the scenic Sunshine Coast, crossing expansive rivers and transiting through sleepy outback towns in between.
Spirit of the Outback
A quintessential exploration of the Queensland outback beckons. Traversing the tracks between Brisbane and Longreach on a traditional diesel hauled train is the Spirit of the Outback rail journey. Passing through the ever-changing, rugged landscapes and historic outback towns along the way, it makes for a legendary rail experience like no other.
Longreach, famous for the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, Outback Heritage Centre and the Qantas Founders Museum, is the heart of the Queensland outback situated on the Tropic of Capricorn. It has a thriving cattle and wool industry and a fascinating history of Aboriginal culture, stockmen and pioneers, not to mention it’s warm and welcoming country hospitality. The 26 hour rail journey passes through more authentic outback towns such as Barcaldine, Emerald and Blackwater with Queensland’s vibrant capital, Brisbane, putting its cosmopolitan flair in for a contrasting taste of city life.
Vintage Rail Journeys
Remember the good old days of travel? Well that old-fashioned service coupled with style and that exclusive feel is back on board. A newly restored fleet of 1960’s ex-Southern Aurora sleeping carriages have been returned to their original condition by Vintage Rail, ready to transport you back in time. These rail tours are a celebration of Australia’s railway history, diverse outback landscapes, regional history, rich culture and the people that helped make this unique sunburnt nation what it is today. Get away from the big cities and explore country New South Wales and beyond.
The Aurora Australis offers an all-inclusive on board two-course dining experience with alcoholic beverages available at an additional cost to purchase for the tour duration. The Dining restaurant features a regionally inspired menu freshly prepared by on board chefs and in support of local producers where possible. With three different itineraries; Golden West, Riverina and North Coast, each rail tour gives you unique daily encounters during the exclusive Off-Train Experiences that give such a fantastic insight into the destination and its history with highlights including the Blue Mountain Villages, a ‘Riverboat Postman’ cruise on the Hawkesbury River, historic Goulburn, Emeri De Bortoli’s Private Garden, Byron Bay and the Slim Dusty Museum.
Click here for our range of Australian rail holidays or contact our Holidays of Australia team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for more.
Image credit: Journey Beyond, Queensland Rail, Vintage Rail
