Curated Travel Experiences
Tracks of Wonder: Exploring Australia by Luxury Train
There’s something undeniably romantic about train travel—the rhythm of the rails, the ever-changing landscapes, the art of slow, elegant exploration. In Australia, this timeless mode of travel has been elevated to something extraordinary.
Luxury train journeys here aren’t just about getting from A to B—they’re immersive experiences that connect you to the heart of the land. Whether you’re chasing crimson sunsets across the Red Centre or following the Southern Ocean’s edge, these iconic rail adventures invite you to see Australia through a whole new lens—one of comfort, style, and wonder.
Here are three of the most iconic luxury train journeys to inspire your next grand escape.
1. The Ghan: An Icon of the Outback
Route: Darwin to Adelaide (or reverse)
Duration: 3–4 days
Widely considered one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan is a legendary route that slices through the heart of the continent. Starting in the tropical north and ending in the cultural capital of South Australia—or vice versa—you’ll cross more than 2,700km of spectacular terrain, from ochre deserts and ancient rock formations to remote outposts and star-strewn skies.
Expect off-train experiences in Katherine Gorge, Alice Springs, and the opal town of Coober Pedy. Onboard, it’s all about understated luxury: gourmet dining showcasing regional flavours, curated wines, and plush cabins with private ensuites.
Perfect for: Lovers of wild landscapes, history buffs, and those seeking a deeply immersive Aussie Outback experience.
2. The Indian Pacific: Ocean to Ocean in Style
Route: Sydney to Perth (or reverse)
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
For an epic cross-continental adventure, The Indian Pacific delivers. This journey stretches across Australia’s vastness from the Pacific to the Indian Ocean—spanning rugged Blue Mountains, sweeping goldfields, and the endless Nullarbor Plain.
With off-train stops in Broken Hill, Adelaide, and Kalgoorlie, you’ll get to explore Australia’s mining towns, food scenes, and unique outback culture. Onboard, enjoy panoramic windows, sophisticated interiors, and world-class service that rivals any five-star hotel on wheels.
Perfect for: Adventurers, epic journey seekers, and those who love the romance of wide open spaces.
3. The Great Southern: Coastal Cruising by Rail
Route: Brisbane to Adelaide (or reverse)
Duration: 3–4 days
The newest addition to Australia’s luxury rail offering, The Great Southern, is a summer-exclusive experience blending coastal beauty with inland charm. From Queensland’s subtropical capital to South Australia’s wine country, the route showcases stunning beaches, national parks, and gourmet regions.
Off-train excursions might include a winery lunch in the Hunter Valley, time to explore Coffs Harbour or an immersive visit to the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road. This journey is designed for those who crave a softer, more coastal take on luxury rail travel.
Perfect for: Foodies, nature lovers, and those who want a lighter, more relaxed Australian rail journey.
Why Travel by Luxury Train in Australia?
Luxury rail in Australia offers the rare chance to slow down and truly absorb the landscape. It’s sustainable, stylish, and soul-stirring—a way to see places inaccessible by road while enjoying the kind of personalised service and thoughtful details that turn travel into an experience.
At The Wanderlust Edit, we curate bespoke Australian rail journeys tailored to your pace and passions. Whether you want to pair your train adventure with a reef-and-rainforest stay, a wine country immersion, or a private island escape, we’ll design it seamlessly.
Ready to Ride the Rails?
Let’s plan your unforgettable luxury rail journey through Australia. Email us at hello@thewanderlustedit.co.uk or DM us on Instagram @the_wanderlustedit to start designing your bespoke itinerary.
