Great Southern: Australia’s Stunning Coastal Train Journey from Adelaide to Brisbane

Why the Great Southern is Australia’s Most Spectacular Coastal Rail Journey

If you’re looking for a luxury train experience that captures Australia’s stunning eastern landscapes, the Great Southern is the perfect choice. This four-day, three-night journey travels from Adelaide to Brisbane, passing through rolling vineyards, pristine beaches, and rugged mountain ranges.

As one of the best scenic train journeys in Australia, the Great Southern offers a seamless blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure, making it a must-do for rail enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature seekers.

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A Unique Rail Journey with a Rich History

The Great Southern is operated by, the same company behind The Ghan and Indian Pacific. Introduced in 2019, it quickly became one of the most sought-after seasonal rail experiences in Australia, available from December to February.

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The Route: Adelaide to Brisbane (Or Reverse)

Day 1: Departing from Adelaide & the Vineyards of South Australia

Your adventure begins in Adelaide, a city known for its world-class wine regions and gourmet food. Shortly after departure, you’ll be treated to a welcome feast featuring local South Australian produce as the train rolls through rolling vineyards and picturesque countryside.

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Day 2: Grampians National Park, Victoria

Wake up to breathtaking mountain scenery as the train stops for an off-train excursion in the Grampians. Highlights include:

• Guided walks to lookouts with panoramic views of the region
• Wine tasting at renowned local wineries
• Exploring native wildlife, including kangaroos and emus

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Day 3: Canberra – Australia’s Cultural Capital

The journey continues to Canberra, where passengers can explore the nation’s capital through curated tours, including:

• Visiting Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial
• Exploring the National Gallery of Australia
• Enjoying a delicious long lunch at a scenic location

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Day 4: Arriving in Brisbane

The final stretch of the journey showcases New South Wales’ beautiful coastline, with stunning views of golden beaches and lush hinterland before arriving in Brisbane, a vibrant city known for its riverfront lifestyle and cultural scene.

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Luxury Onboard: What to Expect

1. Accommodation Options

• Gold Service: Comfortable private cabins, all-inclusive meals, and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge.
• Platinum Service: Spacious cabins with panoramic windows, premium dining, and personalised service.

2. Gourmet Dining with Local Flavours

Each meal is crafted with fresh, local ingredients, highlighting the regional specialties of South Australia, Victoria, and Queensland. Expect dishes like Barossa Valley lamb, Tasmanian salmon, and Hunter Valley cheeses.

3. Exclusive Off-Train Excursions

Unlike traditional train journeys, the Great Southern offers carefully curated off-train experiences, allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves in the stunning destinations along the route.

“The combination of luxury travel, off-train adventures, and breathtaking scenery makes the Great Southern one of Australia’s most unforgettable rail experiences.” – Australian Traveller Magazine

Sustainability & Responsible Travel

The Great Southern is dedicated to eco-conscious travel, featuring:

• Sustainable dining with locally sourced produce
• Low-emission rail technology for a reduced carbon footprint
• Partnerships with local businesses to support regional tourism

Who Should Take This Journey?

The Great Southern is ideal for:
✔ Luxury travellers seeking a scenic and relaxing holiday
✔ Train enthusiasts who love immersive rail experiences
✔ Food and wine lovers wanting to savour regional flavours
✔ Nature enthusiasts looking to explore breathtaking landscapes

Other Great Train Tours to Consider

If you love the Great Southern, you might also enjoy these other luxury train journeys:

• The Ghan Expedition – A stunning journey from Darwin to Adelaide, passing through the Outback’s most iconic landscapes.
• Indian Pacific – A transcontinental adventure from Sydney to Perth, crossing the vast Nullarbor Plain.
• The Overland – A historic rail route linking Melbourne and Adelaide, ideal for a shorter scenic experience.

🔗 Related: Discover Australia by Train

Key Takeaways

• The Great Southern is an exclusive seasonal train journey running from December to February, covering Adelaide to Brisbane.
• The experience includes luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and immersive off-train excursions in the Grampians, Canberra, and New South Wales coastline.
•  Onboard service features Gold and Platinum accommodations, fine dining, and panoramic views of Australia’s most scenic landscapes.
• The train prioritises sustainable tourism, supporting local food producers and reducing environmental impact.
• A perfect journey for luxury travellers, train enthusiasts, and food and wine lovers looking for a unique rail adventure.

Ready to Experience the Great Southern?

The Great Southern offers a truly unforgettable way to explore Australia, combining luxury, fine dining, and immersive experiences in some of the country’s most stunning regions. Whether you’re drawn to coastal beauty, gourmet cuisine, or world-class rail travel, this journey is a must-do.

Book your Great Southern adventure today and explore Australia’s east coast in style!