Australia is such a vast country that traveling by plane may seem like the most logical option. However, there is another exciting alternative: exploring the continent by train. By piecing together connecting routes, it’s possible to embark on a remarkable rail journey across Australia, transitioning from savannah to forests and then to tropical landscapes, all while immersed in ever-changing scenery. Here’s how you can make this adventure a reality.
Gulf Savannah to the Pacific Coast
The Gulf Savannah in northwest Queensland is a captivating region characterized by grasslands and scattered trees, with rivers flowing toward the Gulf of Carpentaria. You have multiple options to kick off your epic train journey across Australia.
For those keen on an extensive journey, begin in western Mt Isa, one of Queensland’s historic mining towns. Before your departure, explore Outback at Isa, where you can experience three major attractions: the Hard Times Mine, the Isa Experience & Outback Park museum, and the Riversleigh Fossil Centre, showcasing fossils from the nearby Boodjamulla National Park.
Next, board Queensland Rail’s Inlander train to the coastal city of Townsville, known for its streets lined with beautiful historic architecture. This 21-hour journey takes you through open savannah, transitioning to the lush terrain east of the Great Dividing Range.
An Alternative Gulf Savannah Trip: Normanton to Cairns
An interesting alternative is to start your journey in Normanton, north of Mt Isa. This small town serves as the terminus for the Gulflander tourist train, affectionately known as the ‘Tin Hare’. Operational since 1889, it travels to the tiny town of Croydon on uniquely engineered tracks that withstand flooding. You can ride it as part of a tour that includes the Savannahlander, another historic train that continues to Cairns. In Cairns, embrace the relaxed tropical vibe at the central Esplanade, Boardwalk & Lagoon. From here, you can embark on a spectacular return day trip through the ranges west of the city via the Kuranda Scenic Railway.
North Queensland to Brisbane
Whether you begin in Cairns or Townsville, hop on the Spirit of Queensland, a modern train offering a selection of sit-up seats or Railbeds—airline-style seats that convert to beds at night. Regardless of your choice, you’ll have access to a seat-back entertainment system and the café-bar Club Car. This train tracks east of the Great Dividing Range, not far from the coast, heading south towards Brisbane; the journey takes 24 hours from Cairns or 18 hours from Townsville.
Brisbane to Sydney
The bustling capital city of Queensland, Brisbane, teems with options for dining, drinking, and exploring. Visit the Gallery of Modern Art, then stroll to trendy West End cafes like the Gunshop. For a scenic experience, catch a CityCat ferry for an economical river cruise. Conclude the day with a refreshing drink at the Regatta Hotel across the ferry terminal.
Be sure to rise early for the XPT train to Sydney, a trip lasting 14 hours. Departing in darkness, the train passes through breathtaking green landscapes in Border Ranges as dawn emerges. This scenic route leads to native forests and regional towns, ultimately nearing the Pacific coastline at Coffs Harbour, home to the iconic Big Banana. Additional impressive hills are encountered east of Barrington Tops National Park before entering commuter areas close to Sydney.
Sydney to Melbourne
Sydney’s stunning harbor is one of its main attractions. Enjoy it from the public transport ferries that regularly depart from Circular Quay, near the renowned Sydney Opera House and the grand Sydney Harbour Bridge. A brief ferry ride under the bridge takes you to Cockatoo Island, a former prison and shipyard turned fascinating tourist attraction.
Once you’ve experienced Sydney, board an XPT train for the 11-hour ride to Melbourne. The train heads westward to bypass the Snowy Mountains before traveling south through Albury and crossing the Murray River into Victoria. If you’ve selected the overnight option, the sun rises while you navigate Melbourne’s northern suburbs towards the impressive Southern Cross Station in the city center.
Melbourne to Adelaide
As Australia’s cultural and culinary capital, Melbourne is a must-visit. Start your day with excellent coffee and brunch at Auction Rooms, then explore the vegan offerings at Smith & Deli or modern Asian cuisine at Chin Chin. For culture, absorb the high-caliber Australian art at Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia.
Then, embark on the Overland train west to Adelaide. Launched in 1887, this was the first intercolonial (later interstate) train in Australia. Traveling during daylight, it swings southwest from Melbourne past Geelong, then follows an inland route through fertile farmlands and stunning views of the Grampians National Park, known by local Aboriginal people as Gariwerd. Ultimately, it threads through the picturesque Adelaide Hills, leading to the capital of South Australia.
The Ghan: Adelaide to Darwin
In Adelaide, indulge in the local food and wine scene. Sample delicious local cuisine at the vibrant Central Market, then venture into the Barossa Valley wine region. Afterward, prepare for your final train journey by boarding The Ghan, which transports you north to Darwin in the Northern Territory. This iconic rail journey spans 53 hours, crossing a continent and transitioning from a temperate climate through deserts into tropical regions, allowing passengers to enjoy incredible scenery along the way. Choices for accommodation include either Gold Service, featuring en-suite cabins with berths, or Platinum Service, offering suites with double beds. While it’s not inexpensive, the fare includes all meals, beverages, and off-train excursions.
Indian Pacific: Adelaide to Perth
Alternatively, consider traveling on the Indian Pacific train, renowned for its high-quality service, which connects Adelaide to Perth, the cosmopolitan capital of Western Australia. This two-night Indian Pacific journey allows travelers to dedicate an entire day to the desert, showcasing the mesmerizing Nullarbor Plain, characterized by its treeless expanse. There’s a unique experience in savoring a cocktail while watching the vast emptiness glide by outside your window.
In conclusion, whether traversing through the lush landscapes of Queensland or the stark beauty of the Nullarbor Plain, the varied train routes across Australia offer countless breathtaking experiences. From the colorful cities to the diverse terrains, a train journey through this vast continent guarantees unforgettable memories.
