Queensland Hinterland Rail Discovery

  • history
    DURATION
    7 days, 6 nights
  • history
    DURATION DAYS
    7 days
  • history
    DURATION NIGHTS
    6 nights
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    DEPARTURE MONTHS
    January 2027 - December 2027
  • See the stunning seascape of northern New South Wales 
  • Admire the tree-top view from Mount Tamborine’s newest eco-adventure, Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk
  • Visit the Eco Gallery’s comprehensive displays and showcase of local animals, birds and reptiles 

Journey aboard the iconic Great Southern and discover the natural beauty, rich heritage, and welcoming charm of Queensland’s hinterland. From the vibrant city of Brisbane to the lush rainforests, rolling countryside, and picturesque villages of the Scenic Rim, this unforgettable rail holiday combines spectacular landscapes with immersive local experiences.

Explore ancient Gondwana rainforests, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and uncover hidden gems as you travel through one of Australia’s most scenic regions. With comfortable accommodation, memorable sightseeing, and the convenience of rail travel, this journey offers the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and adventure.

Photos

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Adelaide, South Australia, Australia

Inclusions/Exclusions

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  • 2 nights aboard the Great Southern, Adelaide to Brisbane, including all meals, beverages and Off Train Experiences in the Grampians, Canberra and Coffs Harbou
  • 4 nights of intimate small-group Queensland Hinterland touring with Outback Spirit, including accommodation, meals and guided touring 
  • 6 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners 
Your fare excludes:
  • A​irfares
  • Travel Insurance

Itinerary

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DAY 1 – BOARD THE GREAT SOUTHERN IN ADELAIDE

Your East Coast summer adventure begins the moment the Great Southern’s bright orange locomotive leaves Adelaide on its epicurean adventure. Life on board quickly finds its rhythm - settle into your cabin, get acquainted with the lounge, and watch the landscapes shift as you savour morning tea and a long, leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, the train rolls into regional Victoria and your first Off Train Experience awaits in the spectacular Grampians. Explore at your own pace: Join a guided coach tour through the picturesque town of Halls Gap, taking in breathtaking vistas, including the stunning Boroka Lookout, stretch your legs on a guided walk to the serene Venus Baths, or indulge in a cellar door tasting at Pomonal Estate or Fallen Giants, steeped in 50 years of winemaking tradition. For a different kind of immersion, discover WAMA Environmental Arts & Garden, where art and nature meet at the edge of the national park. Return to the train and continue travelling up the east coast, with a delectable dinner on board. (L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Great Southern

DAY 2 – GREAT SOUTHERN, CANBERRA AND SURROUNDS

Wake up to breakfast on board, before stepping into the heart of the nation. Today is all about Canberra, Australia’s political and cultural capital. Following a coach ride to the city centre, choose from a selection of curated Off Train Experiences, each offering a different perspective on the city - reflect at the Australian War Memorial, explore the halls of Parliament House, or wander through the National Portrait Gallery, where stories of identity and influence come to life. Midday, QUEENSLAND HINTERLAND SPECTACULAR gather at Old Parliament House for an exclusive lunch in this landmark setting. As afternoon turns to evening, return to the train in time for another gourmet dinner on board. Later, unwind with a nightcap in the lounge, or in your cabin, as conversation flows with fellow travellers and the Great Southern carries north underneath the Milky Way. (B,L,D)

DAY 3 – GREAT SOUTHERN, COFFS HARBOUR AND BRISBANE

Linger over breakfast on board as the Great Southern arrives in Coffs Harbour where a day of coastal discovery awaits. Choose from a selection of Off Train Experiences that reveal the charm of this vibrant region. The Coffs Explorer travels up to Sealy Lookout, offering views for miles from the Forest Sky Pier, before heading to the spectacular North Coast Regional Botanical Garden. Soak in the beach side vibe at the boutique Sunday Markets, where you can explore the popular market stalls, take a leisurely walk on the historic jetty, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the local music. Alternatively, take a stroll from the Urunga Boardwalk to the Beach with a local Indigenous guide, who will help you spot native wildlife through the walk and teach about the history of the Gumbaynggirr people, with a demonstration of traditional tools and weaponry and the opportunity to see and taste bush tucker. After your Coffs Harbour morning, indulge in a final lunch on board before arriving into Brisbane, completing your coastal train journey. Here you will be met by your friendly Outback Spirit crew who will transfer you to your central city accommodation ahead of a welcome group meeting and dinner. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night InterContinental Brisbane

DAY 4 – MOUNT TAMBORINE AND MOUNT LAMINGTON

Get ready for a day full of sites and activities as we leave the city behind us bound for Tamborine Mountain, located in the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland and a drawcard for nature lovers and epicureans alike. Get a birds’ eye view of the spectacular environment on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk which extends for 1.5kms on trails above and below the canopy. Enjoy the spoils of a delicious lunch before we make tracks for O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, located inside Lamington National Park and a true highlight of the Scenic Rim region. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, be wowed by the diversity and density of rainforest species including nearly all of Australia’s northern-most Antarctic Beech species. For those wanting to stretch their legs, many short walks around the retreat beckon. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

DAY 5 – EXPLORING LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK

A guided walk to Moran Falls (4.6K return) or Pat’s Bluff (5.5K return) or a more gentle option, will get the heart pumping and build your appetite for lunch back at the retreat. A bird of prey demonstration, the opportunity to witness the plethora of birdlife with a daily feeding and some free time to further explore or just relax by the pool, will lead into sunset drinks ahead of dinner. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 – MOUNT LAMINGTON AND SPICERS HIDDEN VALE

Get up early to tackle another short hike (optional) before we head down the mountain bound for a farm tour and wine tasting at Albert River Wines. Enjoy a wee tasting tipple ahead of lunch on the verandah at the peaceful Auchenflower Restaurant with views back towards Tamborine Mountain. The mountain oasis of Spicers Hidden Vale, situated amid the rolling hills of Grandchester, is our destination this afternoon. Settle into your charming accommodation before a welcoming pre-dinner drink on the deck then prepare for a delightful paddock-to-plate dining treat. Board games or a hand of cards anyone. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night Spicers Hidden Vale

DAY 7 – SPICERS HIDDEN VALE TO BRISBANE, FAREWELL

Be as active or restful as you please this morning with options of a morning yoga session before a guided nature and market garden walk. A koala safari tour on the sprawling 12,000-acre property rounds out the morning’s activities. Our final lunch will be a curated barbeque before we bid farewell to the peace and serenity of Hidden Vale to return to the city and parts further afield. Your tour ends at your Brisbane hotel accommodation or at the Brisbane Airport. (B,L)

Dates and Prices

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Great Southern departs Mondays from Adelaide to Brisbane

Jan, Feb, Dec 2027

  • Gold Single Cabin from $8,390 pp* solo traveller
  • Gold Twin Cabin from $7,490 pp* twin share
  • Gold Premium Twin Cabin from $7,990 pp* twin share
  • Platinum Twin Cabin from $11,090 pp twin share *

Please note that prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change without notice. Advance Purchase fares are only available until sold out.

Accommodation

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Platinum Service - night configuration

Relax with everything taken care of while onboard including fine dining, premium wines and world-class hospitality, as you’re transported from buzzing cities to diverse landscapes and natural marvels.

Spend hours deep in conversation with a travelling partner or lose yourself in a lifetime of thoughts. And after a day of off-train activities, your cabin provides the perfect place to relax and recharge before heading for the lounge or dining carriage. With room to stretch out and all the comforts of home, Gold Service is the most popular level of service aboard The Ghan, Great Southern, and Indian Pacific. You’ll enjoy private cabin accommodation together with all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of fascinating Off Train Excursions at key stops.

  • Gold Twin, a comfortable sleeper cabin featuring private ensuite and upper and lower berths that convert to a three-seater lounge by day
  • Gold Single, a compact sleeper cabin featuring a bed that converts to a seat by day and shared shower/toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage
  • Gold Premium is a new style of travel sitting between Platinum and Gold. These contemporary cabins take inspiration from the Australian Outback. Convert from a lounge by day into upper and lower sleeping bugs at night, and have a compact ensuite including a toilet, washbasin and shower.
  • Platinum Twin cabins are almost twice the size of a Gold Twin and features two single beds by night. By day, this cabin is configured as a private lounge with deluxe seating, a table and two ottomans.

FAQs

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Question: Is parking available at the railway station?

Answer: Short term parking is available at all terminals so you can have your family or friends see you depart at the beginning of your journey.

We do not recommend leaving your car at our terminals for extended periods of time.

Question: If I am travelling in a Gold twin or single cabin, can I visit and/or dine with friends and family travelling in Platinum or Gold Premium?

Answer: Due to the exclusive nature of Platinum and Gold Premium, guests will not be able to move through the train to dine or socialise with guests travelling at different levels of service.

Question: Can I request a forward-facing seat?

Answer: Yes, you are able to request forward facing-cabins aboard The Indian Pacific and Great Southern at the time of booking; however, as approximately half of our cabins face forward, we are unable to guarantee a forward facing cabin depending on the number of requests we receive for any given departure.

T&Cs

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Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.

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Prices per person from

A$7,490

A$8,390

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Prices per person from

A$7,490

A$8,390