The newest addition to 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 many opportunities to explore beyond the tracks. A stunning journey between Brisbane and Adelaide, passing by rugged coastlines, sun-kissed beaches, forested peaks and exciting capital cities along the way.
Off train excursions embrace several iconic landscapes, locations and luxuries and immersive historical and cultural experiences. Adelaide to Brisbane first stop is The Grampians entailing an incredible outdoor dinner overlooking the mountains and local wildlife before a walk to the lookout for a truly breathtaking view of this monumental nature reserve.
Followed by the Australian capital of Canberra where your day
begins with either a day of wine tasting along the Murrumbateman Food and Wine
Trail or 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 several
iconic locations such as the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of
Australia or the National Museum of Australia. I chose the Australian War
Memorial on this occasion which was both amazing and moving and soaked up every
minute of it.
The Coffs Explorer excursion travels up to Sealy Lookout offering views for miles 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. Wander along the coast, have a dip in the ocean, play a game of beach cricket or simply relax on the sand.
Travelling from Brisbane to Adelaide also sees a stop in Coffs Harbour, followed by spoilt for choice excursion option between meandering the gorgeous Hunter Valley, discovering the unique blend of old and new in Newcastle or relaxing cruise spotting dolphins in Port Stephens. Day 3 excursion options deliver the same spoilt predicament, a choice between a city tour of bustling, picturesque Melbourne, wining and dining along the Geelong Waterfront or the wonders of the Great Ocean Road. I chose the latter and was welcomed with that famous majestic scene of the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge and my most favourite surprise of all, the hidden secret that is Loch Ard Gorge.
If you are looking for a completely unique, all-inclusive
train journey with truly stunning mountain and coastal scenery and pinch-me
experiences, this is it.
Click here for our holidays with Great Southern.
Image credit: Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions and Destination NSW.
