-
Cruises
All Cruises
Cruise deals
From Australia
International
Don't Miss OutHot Offers
The best-selling holidays right now, at prices that won't last.
Browse Hot Offers -
Tours
All Tours
By region
Curated lists
Travel With CompanySocial Getaways
Small-group trips designed for over 60s who love good company on the road — new friends, shared adventures, no single supplements.
Browse Over-60 Getaways -
Destinations
All Destinations
Australia & Pacific
America
Not Sure Where to Start?Book a Call
Speak with one of our friendly travel specialists — no pressure, just honest advice to help you find the right holiday.
Browse Request a call with a travel expert - Social Getaways
- Solo Holidays
- Hot Offers
- Wishlist 0
Experience the beauty and diversity of Australia’s eastern seaboard on the East Coast Rail Escape, a journey that seamlessly connects vibrant capital cities with stunning coastal landscapes. Travel in comfort as you glide between iconic destinations, enjoying ever-changing scenery, from golden beaches and lush hinterlands to bustling urban hubs rich in culture and history.
This immersive rail experience is designed for those who want to explore more while travelling in relaxed style. With curated stops, memorable encounters, and time to discover each destination at your own pace, the East Coast Rail Escape captures the essence of Australia’s east coast in one unforgettable journey
Departures & Pricing
Great Southern departs on Fridays from Adelaide to Brisbane
Multiple dates available in 2026 & 2027
Prices below are for Departures - 18 December 2026 to 25 December 2026
- Gold Twin Cabin from $3,090 pp* twin share
- Gold Premium Twin Cabin from $3,690 pp* twin share
Prices below are for Departures - January 2027 to February 2027
- Gold Twin Cabin from $3,190 pp* twin share
- Gold Premium Twin Cabin from $3,790 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.
Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
Great Southern
Itinerary
- 1
ADELAIDE AND THE GRAMPIANS
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)
- 2
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, 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)
- 3
COFFS HARBOUR AND SURROUNDS
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 beachside 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. (B,L)
*Please note that the itinerary is subject to change
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- 3 days / 2 nights aboard the Great Southern, travelling from Adelaide to Brisbane
- All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages
- A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines
- Off-train experiences in the Grampians, Canberra and Coffs Harbour
- Discover the Grampians, walk through the Venus Baths over Stoney Creek, or enjoy wine tastings with a view
- Explore Canberra, visiting Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, or the National Portrait Gallery
- Explore the coastal town of Coffs Harbour, or walk the Urunga Boardwalk
- For a limited time, receive FREE* return flights at the beginning and end of your rail journey – Book by 31 August
Not included
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
Accommodation
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.
Common questions about this voyage
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.
Book this rail journey
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
You might also like
The Great Southern Journey - Adelaide to Brisbane
- Explore Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial or National Portrait Gallery in Canberra
- Choose guided walks, cellar door tastings or garden visits in the Grampians
- Enjoy private cabin accommodation with ensuite facilities throughout your journey
The Great Southern Journey - Brisbane to Adelaide
- Private cabin accommodation included throughout your rail journey
- Choose your own off train experience at each key stop
- Enjoy a beachside dinner with local produce at Coffs Harbour
Queensland Hinterland Rail Discovery
- Transfers and welcome group dinner arranged on arrival in Brisbane
- Private cabin accommodation included with ensuite facilities aboard the train
- Enjoy a gin appreciation class and koala nature-spotting safari included