The Great Southern Rail Journey

Duration: 3 or 4 Days

Price: AU$2,340

Departure From: Adelaide or Brisbane

Departure Date: Dec 2024 & Jan, Feb & Dec 2025

Tour Type: Fully Hosted

Meal Plan: All Inclusive

Physical Grading: 1

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The Great Southern journeys between Adelaide and Brisbane, showcasing spectacular coastal and inland scenery and stopping along the way for guests to embark on memorable off train experiences. This is a true summer journey of discovery, from the rugged eastern coastline to buzzing cities and everything in-between.

With its craggy coastline, sun-kissed beaches, forested peaks, and exhilarating capital cities, the stunning train journey between Brisbane and Adelaide feels like nowhere else in Australia.

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

The Great Southern, Australia’s newest long-distance rail journey, made its inaugural trip from Adelaide to Brisbane, departing the City of Churches on 6 December 2019. From South Australia to Queensland this multi-day journey travels along more than 2000km of tracks, passing through Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory along the way. A laid-back, premium experience, the Great Southern is a rail journey like no other.

Operating 16 departures between December and January, the Great Southern invites you on a breathtaking journey. With its decades-old sister trains, The Ghan and the Indian Pacific, the Great Southern introduces a new journey for anyone with a taste for adventure.

Please note: The Great Southern only operates during the peak summer months and books well in advance, often 12 months before departure. Contact LOCO now to avoid disappointment.

Great Southern On Route
Great Southern en-route

Great Southern – Brisbane to Adelaide

Journeying from Brisbane to Adelaide over four days and three nights, Great Southern guests are immersed in some of Australia’s most spectacular coastal and inland scenery while tucking in to creative menus showcasing premium local food and wine. Guests will travel from Brisbane into northern New South Wales and regional Victoria and South Australia before the journey concludes in Adelaide.

Brisbane to Adelaide – Highlights and Inclusions

  • 4 days/3 nights aboard the Great Southern travelling from Brisbane to Adelaide
  • All-inclusive meals, fine wines and beverages
  • A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines
  • Off train experiences at Coffs Harbour, the Hunter Valley Region, regional Victoria and Melbourne

See below for departure dates and pricing.

Hunter Valley Wine Tasting

Included Off-Train Experiences

Enjoy these unique off-train extra experiences which are included in your Brisbane to Adelaide Great Southern Rail journey.

Coffs Harbour Dinner– After crossing from Queensland into northern New South Wales, enjoy a unique dining experience on the beach at the sublime coastal town of Coffs Harbour. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, enjoy a unique beachside dinner where you’ll feast on local produce and fresh seafood matched with fine wines. After a few leisurely hours, you’ll reboard the train and set off for the night.

Coffs Harbour Dinner

Hunter Valley – Known for superior semillon and shiraz, the Hunter Valley is around 50kms inland from the New South Wales coast. After breakfast on board, you’ll disembark and spend the day visiting cellar doors in Australia’s oldest wine region. Your day amongst the vines will take you to some of the region’s finest wineries, from stylish and contemporary to marvellously historic, and relaxed and fun.

Greater Melbourne – Get to know Melbourne city like a local with a 90-minute guided laneway walking tour, taking in the impressive street art and the stories behind it. Finish the tour on the banks of the Yarra River at Melbourne Skydeck – the Southern Hemisphere’s highest public observation tower. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of Melbourne and beyond, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground, historic Flinders Street Station and Port Phillip Bay. Your visit culminates in lunch at Eureka 89, where you’ll enjoy a sumptuous meal featuring seasonal produce, accompanied by wine from around the state.


Great Southern – Adelaide to Brisbane

Leaving Adelaide behind, you can relax, unwind and enjoy world-class service as the stunning landscapes glide by. On your three day journey, enjoy a mixture of time on train and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Off Train Experiences as you journey towards Brisbane. Lap up the spectacular scenery passing by your window, beginning in the magical Adelaide Hills and onto the ancient Grampians region in Victoria. Delve into the art, history and culinary culture of Canberra, and discover the nation’s capital. Feel the sand between your toes in the picturesque coastal town of Coffs Harbour. Then enjoy stunning views of northern New South Wales as you roll into the final destination of Brisbane.

Adelaide to Brisbane – Highlights and Inclusions

  • 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 at Grampians, Canberra and Coffs Harbour.

See below for departure dates and pricing.

Great Southern Gold Lounge

Included Off-Train Experiences

Enjoy these unique off-train extra experiences which are included in your Adelaide to Brisbane Great Southern rail journey.

Grampians – Enjoy a guided coach tour through the scenic town of Halls Gap, positioned in the Grampians National Park and a great base from which to explore this spectacular corner of Australia. From Halls Gap, continue to Boroka Lookout to gaze across panoramic vistas over the east of the Grampians and over the town of Halls Gap. It’s a short five-minute walk to two viewing platforms and from here, you’ll also be able to spot nearby Lake Bellfield. Take in the breathtaking views in the late afternoon sunlight before returning to the train for a late supper.

The stunning Boroka Lookout

Canberra – You will dine in the old Parliament House before embarking on an extended tour of Parliament House. Get lost in the history, the people and the scandals that make Parliament House a fascinating place to visit. Learn more about the building’s architecture and arts and the intricacies of working in such a dynamic building.

Coffs Harbour – Travel by coach to the Great Dividing Range. At 3,500kms, this is the third-longest mountain range in the world. Poised on the edge of the rainforest, Sealy Lookout is home to Forest Sky Pier, a viewing platform soaring dramatically out from the hillside. Back down in the town, go on a guided tour through the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden, which sits on 20 hectares. Meander through exotic plants from sub-tropical regions of the world as you learn about the history of the garden or set off at your own pace and enjoy the 5 kilometres of paths and boardwalks on a self-guided tour.

See below for departure dates and pricing


The Great Southern – Your Onboard Experience

Everything is Included.

There’s nothing like putting down your suitcase and allowing your journey to simply unfold. Once you step aboard our trains, you can relax, knowing everything has been considered and included in your fare. From world-class food and wine to a range of immersive Off Train Experiences, the hardest decision you’ll need to make is what to have for lunch and which experience to join.

In addition to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin onboard, you’ll find yourself indulging in sumptuous cuisine, fine wines, and camaraderie in our dining carriages.

Taking our cue from the diverse environments our trains travel through, our expert culinary team works closely with local suppliers, farmers and providores to source the best ingredients, creating an innovative, regionally-inspired menu accompanied by all-inclusive fine wines and beverages.

The Platinum Club

Great Southern – Platinum Service

Stylishly appointed and spacious cabins are complemented by discreet, personalised service and access to the exclusive Platinum Club carriage for meals, relaxation and socialising. As you’d expect, the food and wine is of the highest standard. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, two-course lunches and four-course dinners, all regionally inspired and paired with champagne and premium wines.

And it all begins before you’ve even stepped aboard. Platinum guests receive private transfers before and after your journey, beginning the adventure in style.

Platinum cabins offer premium extras, like a full-size en suite, expansive window views from the train, and exclusive use of the Platinum Club carriage. Add to that the luxurious linen, French Champagne, Bracegirdle’s chocolates, a nightcap at turndown and more, and you’re in for an exceptional experience.

Platinum Double Cabin

Platinum Service inclusions:

  • All-inclusive dining, beverages, and Off Train Experiences
  • Spacious Double or Twin cabin almost twice the size of a Gold Service Twin cabin
  • By day, cabins are set up lounge-style with a moveable table and two ottomans
  • By night, lounges are converted to double or twin beds
  • En suite equipped with separate shower, vanity with cupboard space, toilet and Australian bathroom amenities
  • Power outlets and in-cabin safe
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary
  • Panoramic windows offering views from both sides of the train
  • Access to the exclusive Platinum Club for dining and socialising
  • Freshly prepared continental breakfasts served upon request in-cabin
  • Refreshments served in-cabin
  • Transfers at the start and end of your journey available for guests within 60 km of the terminal
  • 90 kg checked luggage allowance per guest (3 x 30 kg each).
Platinum Double Cabin Plan LOCO Journeys

Great Southern – Gold Premium

Gold Premium is a new style of travel, with contemporary cabins that take inspiration from the colours and contours of the Australian outback. Think walnut timber and polished brass details, along with Indigenous prints on the upholstery. The cabins are designed to cocoon guests in comfort and come with exclusive access to the Gold Premium Lounge and Gold Dining carriages. Whether you want to share the highlights of your day with fellow guests over an aperitif in the Lounge or relax in your cabin as you admire the colours and contours of the passing landscape, you’ll enjoy special moments throughout the journey and a range of enhanced benefits, such as all-inclusive dining, premium beverages and fascinating Off Train Experiences.

Gold Premium Inclusions:

  • Newly designed, contemporary cabins
  • Premium amenities, luxuriously soft linen and silk eye masks
  • Exclusive access to the Gold Premium Lounge and Gold Premium Dining carriage
  • Two-course, regionally inspired lunches and four-course dinners
  • All-inclusive premium Australian wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All-inclusive Off Train Experiences and preferences on tour selections
  • 75kg checked luggage allowance per guest (3 x 25 kg each)
  • Priority luggage check-in
  • Power outlets in cabin
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary
  • Complimentary shuttle bus transfers available in Darwin and Brisbane to selected hotels in the city centre
Gold-Premium-Twin-Cabin-Night
Gold Premium Twin Cabin

Great Southern – Gold Service

Choose between Gold Twin or Single cabins, both of which provide the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day’s journey. Spend hours deep in conversation with new friends in the shared Outback Explorer Lounge, sipping on barista made coffee, or a glass of white wine. Later make your way to the Queen Adelaide Restaurant to dine.

Gold includes hearty breakfasts, two-course lunches and three-course dinners. You may also choose to complement your meal with our selection of premium wines and beverages, all included in your fare.

Gold Twin Cabin
Gold-Service-Single-Cabin
Gold Single Cabin

Gold Service Inclusions:

  • For Gold Twin, the most popular option, offers a comfortable sleeper cabin featuring private en suite and upper and lower berths that convert to a three-seater lounge by day
  • Gold Superior cabins feature a ¾ size double bed plus an additional fold down upper berth, lounge area, TV and DVD player, mini-bar and en suite.
  • For 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 Access Cabins are exclusively reserved for the mobility impaired. This cabin is subject to availability and assessment of the guest’s Fitness to Travel.
  • Power outlets in cabin
  • In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
  • All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
  • All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • All-inclusive Off Train Excursions and Short Stops
  • Luggage allowance is 60kg per guest
  • Complimentary Shuttle bus transfers available in Darwin to selected hotels in the city centre
Gold Service Twin Cabin The Ghan Plan
Gold Service Single Cabin The Ghan Plan

Great Southern Prices & Departure Dates 2025

The Great Southern only operates during the peak summer months and books well in advance, often 12 months before departure. Contact LOCO now to avoid disappointment.

2025 Great Southern Departures from Brisbane

Brisbane to Adelaide, 4 days, 3 nights, 9 meals. Departing Mondays, December.

CABINFARE TYPEJan – Feb & Dec
PlatinumEveryday$6,990
PlatinumFlexible$8,090
Gold premium TwinAdvance Purchase$4,290
Gold Premium TwinEveryday$4,890
Gold Premium TwinFlexible$5,590
Gold TwinAdvance Purchase$3,590
Gold TwinEveryday$4,090
Gold TwinFlexible$4,590
Gold SingleAdvance Purchase$3,190
Gold SingleEveryday$3,690
Gold SingleFlexible$4,190
*Advance Purchase fares are subject to availability. Prices are subject to change. Further conditions apply.

2025 Great Southern Departures from Adelaide

Adelaide to Brisbane, 3 days, 2 nights, 7 meals. Departing Fridays, January, February & December.

CABINFARE TYPEJan – Feb & Dec
PlatinumEveryday$5,390
PlatinumFlexible$6,190
Gold premium TwinAdvance Purchase$2,990
Gold Premium TwinEveryday$3,390
Gold Premium TwinFlexible$3,790
Gold TwinAdvance Purchase$2,490
Gold TwinEveryday$2,790
Gold TwinFlexible$3,190
Gold SingleAdvance Purchase$2,190
Gold SingleEveryday$2,490
Gold SingleFlexible$2,890

Should you wish to add pre or post night accommodation, activities or international flights to your Great Southern rail experience, please be sure to let us know at the time of booking. If you wish to start or conclude your rail adventure in Melbourne, link your Great Southern rail trip with The Overland. Find out how here.

Tour Inclusions

  • 2 or 3 nights onboard The Great Southern, depending on direction of travel.
  • Meals as indicated within the itinerary
  • All sightseeing, cruises, rail travel and entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
  • The services of an experienced train staff
  • The tour price does not include international flights

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised price based on per person, Twin Gold Cabin
  • Price based on Advance Purchase 2024 departures and subject to availability
  • Full payment is required at the time of booking
  • Price is subject to change unless paid in full
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking.
  • The Great Southern is a no smoking environment

Tour Itinerary

The Great Southern, Brisbane to Adelaide; Day 1 | Brisbane and Coffs Harbour (L,D)
After setting off from Brisbane, enjoy lunch on board and a relaxing afternoon settling in to your private cabin before arriving at the coastal town of Coffs Harbour. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, enjoy a unique beachside dinner where you'll feast on local produce and fresh seafood matched with fine wines, while the waves lap at the shore nearby. After a few leisurely hours, you'll reboard the train and set off for the night.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast on board before setting off for a full day of off train experiences. Today you get to choose your own adventure with your choice of the Hunter Valley, Newcastle or Port Stephens. In the evening, return to the train to enjoy a regionally-inspired meal prepared on board before returing for the night. // Your choice of Day 2 Experience > Hunter Valley Wine Region: Meander through the picturesque and historic vinyards of the Hunter Valley, where you can sample wines from both world-renowned brands and boutique celler doors. Your day will include cellar door experiences and a sumptous lunch. // Port Stephens by Land: Experience the impressive Stockton Bight Sand Dunes and beach by 4WD van, stopping to hunt for pipis and driving to the top of a sand dunes to take in the incredible views. Enjoy a relaxed lunch before returning to the train. // Port Stephens by Sea: Enjoy the stunnin views of Port Stephens with a relaxed morning of sailing on the water and the chance to spot dolphins along the way. Enjoy a relaxed lunch before returning to the train. // Newcastle Explorer: Discover the vibrant mix of old and new in the beautiful coastal city of Newcastle with a fun and informative tow-hour guided walking tour beforelunch. In the afternoon enjoy an hour of free time by the beach or in town.
After enjoying breakfast on board as you travel through Victoria's high country, you'll have a choice of off train experiences. Discover regional Victoria with options including wine touring and gourmet delights, visits to natural sights and charming towns. Alternatively, opt to visit cosmopolitan Melbourne and take in the soaring views from Melbourne Skydeck or enjoy free time and explore the city yourself.
As the train rolls into Adelaide, enjoy your last breakfast on board and the end of your Great Southern train journey.
As the train leaves Adelaide, take your time to settle in and get familiar with your cabin. Enjoy morning tea and then savour a relaxed lunch on board while watching the ever-changing landscape glide by. In the afternoon, the train will arrive in regional Victoria where you'll have a chance to experience the spectacular wilderness of the Grampians region. Choose from a range of train experiences.
Today is yours to spend in Australia's political and cultural capital, Canberra. After breakfast on board, enjoy a scenic coach ride to Canberra to experience a truly memorable lunch and immerseive touring at your pick of cultural institutions, including the National War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia and Parliament House, before returning to the train in time for dinner. Enjoy another sumptuous dinner on board before retiring to the lounge for a nightcap.
Choose your adventure today with a variety of options to suit your fitness level and interests. // The Urunga Boardwalk excursion starts from the small station of Urunga, where a local Indigenous guide will meet you. Stroll the boardwalk, look for stingrays and herons as your guide interprets this unique exosystem, highlighting local wildlife and bush tucker. After the boardwalk, immerse yourself in the rish cultural history of the Gumbaynggirr people, with a demonstration of traditional tools and weaponry, and the opportunity to see and taste bush tucker. // The Coffs Explorer experience travels up to Sealy Lookout offering views for miles from the Forest Sky Pier. After drinking in the sights, travel to the North Coast Regional Botanical Garden to explore this green oasis in the heart of Coffs Harbour. The botanic garden features a range of self-guided discovery walks amongst natural forests, planted garden areas including Australian plants, rainforests, sensory garden, international plants from seven regions, a tropical glasshouse and shadehouse, ponds and lakes. // After your Coffs Harbour morning, enjoy a final lunch onboard with your fellow travellers before arriving into Brisbane.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.