Train Travel in Australia
Two years ago, I booked a Queensland Rail Travel package on the Spirit of Australia, travelling from Brisbane to Airlie Beach and return. It was 5 days inclusive of 2 overnight beds on the train and three nights in Airlie Beach in a 4 star hotel. For three days inclusive, we went on an evening sail and a fast boat past Hamilton Island to Whitehaven Beach. I am still raving about it - $1500 per person and worth every dollar.
What was particular special was the service on the train. The crew were incredible hospitable and transformed our chairs to comfortable beds, served us baked fish and a glass of wine then greeted us with breakfast before we departed - both ways!
My recommendation, if you are not quite ready to travel abroad, consider the following as I know you will enjoy the experiences, here in Australia.
There are very few global journeys considered national treasures but Journey Beyond Rail provides an iconic Australian experience. From the moment you step aboard these legendary trains, you can feel it – a spirit of adventure and a sense of something very special about to unfold. Traversing the full length and breadth of the world’s largest island by rail captures the rich tapestry of this land, and we take you there in unparalleled style.
Here are a list of Rail Travel experiences worth considering:
THE GHAN EXPEDITION one of the most popular rail journeys in the world, makes for a relaxing holiday between Adelaide and Darwin or vice versa. Feel the never-ending beauty of the iconic Australian outback travelling through the heart of Australia – the Red Centre and the stunning Katherine region in the Northern Territory.
The rail journey either way includes stops in unique locations paired with quintessential Australia off-train excursions or exciting optional ventures that completely immerse you into the local landscape, wildlife and culture. 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.
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.
Enriching your already inspiring rail holiday are several off train experiences between Perth and Sydney (or vice versa) that give you an opportunity to encounter some of the most fascinating locations in Australia, steeped in history, culture and genuine pinch-me moments. Enjoy true outback experiences in the Nullarbor, picturesque Adelaide and surrounds, the iconic town of Broken Hill or the breathtaking Blue Mountains.
GREAT SOUTHERN The newest addition to the internationally-regarded suite of Journey Beyond’s 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.
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 train journey between Brisbane and Adelaide (or vice versa), passing by rugged coastlines, sun-kissed beaches, forested peaks and exciting capital cities along the way. Off train excursions such as Coffs Harbour, Canberra, regional New South Wales and Victoria, embrace several iconic landscapes, locations and luxuries and immersive historical and cultural experiences.
THE SPIRIT OF QUEENSLAND manages to capture the very essence of a classic Queensland holiday: unrushed, relaxing and lush, beautiful scenery, via a train 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. 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 Australian rail holiday like no other.
The train journey embraces life in outback Australia including the famous country town of Longreach, passing through more authentic 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.
AURORA AUSTRALIS Experience Australia’s newest regional train holidays aboard Aurora Australis. Encounter breathtaking scenery, regional towns steeped in history and old world charm aboard a boutique vintage Australian train on rail holidays like no other.
Enjoy the old-fashioned service coupled with style and that exclusive feel on board a newly restored fleet of 1960’s ex-Southern Aurora sleeping carriages, returned to their original condition, ready to transport you back in time. These train tours are a celebration of Australia’s railway history, diverse outback landscapes, regional history, rich culture and the people that helped make Australia what it is today. Get away from the big cities and explore country New South Wales and beyond.
Finally, check this out: https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/these-luxury-sleeper-trains-bring-back-the-romance-of-rail-travel. for classy international train travel!