Discover Australia by train
14 Jul 2016
If the thought of longhaul travel isn't appealing, why not get out there and explore the vast and natural beauty of our own back yard? There’s no better way to discover Australia than on one of the most enduring modes of transport – a train trip – where the journey is as much the destination, as the destination itself.
One of the longest stretches of rail in the world, the iconic Indian Pacific train runs 4,352 km through Australia from Sydney, down to Adelaide and across to Perth. It includes the world’s longest stretch of straight track, travelling for an incredible 478 km.
The three day, two night journey from Adelaide to Perth gives you ample time to relax and enjoy the ever-changing landscape across some of the most uninhabited countryside in Australia. Marvel at the raw beauty and limitless space of the Nullarbor Plain. Gaze in awe a millions of twinkling stars, shining bright in the desert night sky. Admire the contrast of the green vales in the picturesque Avon Valley.
The 24-hour journey from Adelaide to Sydney offers the opportunity to sit back, unwind and admire the passing scenery of some of Australia’s most productive farming country and into the arid outback as the sun sets. Visit Broken Hill and browse the wide selection of colourful artworks by famous Australian painter, Pro Hart, in his gallery or learn about the town’s rich mining history at the unique Line of Lode Miners Memorial and Visitors Centre. As dawn breaks the following morning, the final leg of the trip has you travelling through the spectacular Blue Mountains before arriving in Sydney.
Explore the Australian outback aboard The Ghan. The epic four day, three night journey from Adelaide to Darwin covers 2,979 km across some of the most remote and captivating of Australia. You’ll notice a dramatic change in landscape as the beautiful green fields and pastoral lands of South Australia make way for the rich ochre tones of the Flinders Ranges. As you make your way across the stunning outback moonscape of the Breakaways, venture into the tunnels and caves of the underground town of Coober Pedy, admire the beautiful opals that have been mined in the area and visit a unique underground church.
Cast your eyes skywards and ponder the vastness of the night sky as you gaze out your window across the barren land of Australia’s red centre or admire the sheer magnificence of an outback sunrise – one of the most incredible sights you will ever see. Visit the outback town of Alice Springs or take a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. From here, the scenery change is stunning, from desert to the lush green of the tropical north in Katherine before arriving in Darwin.
Guests travelling in Gold and Platinum Class can enjoy all-inclusive wining and dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, private cabin accommodation with all the comforts of home and a selection of Off Train Excursions at scenic and fascinating locations along the way.