These trains are so much more than a way to get from A to B.
Lonely Planet has launched Amazing Train Journeys, a book spotlighting 60 incredible scenic railways around the world. Impressively, Australia has scored four mentions that span classic tourist rail journeys to regular commuter trains.
In an era of travel where we are more eco-conscious than ever, trains are the perfect way to slow down and see more. So, whether you’re trying to leave a lighter footprint, or simply appreciate the romance of the railway, here are four of Australia’s most amazing train journeys, as listed in Lonely Planet’s Amazing Train Journeys.
The Ghan
As the old adage goes, “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey". And although it may be a cliché, it’s never felt truer than onboard one of Australia’s most luxurious trains. The Ghan is an Australian icon, cleaving the country’s Red Centre as it travels between Adelaide and Darwin.
The Ghan is a locomotive with some serious history. (Image: Matt Munro/Lonely Planet)
Over three to four days (depending on the direction of travel) and nearly 3000 km, passengers will experience a cross-section of outback wilderness in complete comfort, from the onboard fine dining options to the Art Deco-inspired bar car that recalls the romance of rail travel. The Ghan is a locomotive with some serious history. Named for the Afghan Cameleers transporting freight around the country, the Ghan was constructed between 1878 and 1929. 2024 marks 95 years of The Ghan adventuring through the outback.
Embark on an exhilarating adventure aboard the legendary Ghan.
The South Coast Line
To Sydneysiders, this regular commuter train line may not sound special. But according to Lonely Planet, the views from the South Coast Line line that connects Sydney, Wollongong and Bomaderry on the NSW South Coast, are some of the country’s prettiest.
The South Coast Line is one of Australia’s prettiest commuter rail lines., (Image: State of NSW – Transport for NSW)
The train skirts the Royal National Park before dazzling views of the Pacific Ocean open up on the onward journey towards Thirroul. There are plenty of places worth stopping, whether at the pretty townships of Berry, or the beaches of Gerringong and Kiama to watch the whales migrate in autumn.
There are plenty of gems along this train route. (Image: State of NSW – Transport for NSW)
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The West Coast Wilderness Railway
The West Coast Wilderness Railway in Tasmania is not just a scenic route, but a feat of human engineering. When it was built in the 1890s to transport copper to Strahan’s port from Queenstown, the task seemed near impossible due to the density of the terrain.
Steam between Strahan and Queenstown on the West Coast Wilderness Railway. (Image: Tourism Tasmania & Nick Osborne)
Now, riding the West Coast Wilderness Way couldn’t be further from the toil and sweat of the train’s mining history. Onboard the vintage steamer, you’ll chug through the rainforest as staff hand out glasses of bubbly. On the train’s outdoor balcony, the air is fragrant with Huon Pine and cool in the shade of the rainforest canopy. This is one for nature lovers, as well as the railway buffs, too.
The luxurious West Coast Wilderness train passes through the temperate forests of Huon Pine. (Image: Tourism Australia)
The Kuranda Scenic Railway
Starting from Cairns, the 37-kilometre railroad to Kuranda was hand-hewn in the late 1880s by 1500 labourers using just picks and shovels. The only thing more impressive is the captivating vistas taken in on the train journey, from tropical rainforests to the tumbling waterfalls of Barron Gorge.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway is a must-see in Tropical North Queensland. (Image: Queensland Rail Travel)
Begin your journey with breakfast in an authentic antique train carriage at Freshwater Train Station, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountainscapes before you embark on an unforgettable jaunt through the tropics on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. Currently, Kuranda Scenic Railway is running weekend services only but will reinstate a full timetable from 2 March.
The Kuranda Scenic Railway takes in tropical rainforest and waterfalls. (Image: Queensland Rail Travel)
Elizabeth Whitehead is a writer obsessed with all things culture; doesn't matter if it's pop culture or cultures of the world. She graduated with a degree in History from the University of Sydney (after dropping out from Maths). Her bylines span AFAR, Lonely Planet, ELLE, Harper's BAZAAR and Refinery 29. Her work for Australian Traveller was shortlisted for single article of the year at the Mumbrella Publishing Awards 2024. She is very lucky in thrifting, very unlucky in UNO.
Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.
Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.
Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.
If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.
The Murray Farm Gate Trail
The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.
1. Rich Glen
Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)
Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.
2. How Now Dairy
A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy, lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.
3. Cactus Country
Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)
Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.
4. The Olde Creamery
The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.
Wineries, breweries and distilleries
The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.
1. Squires Winery
Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)
With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.
2. Cape Horn Vineyard
Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.
3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery
Enjoy a tipple at this historic homestead.
A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.
4. Monichino Wines
Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.
5. Corowa Distilling Co
Sit down to a hearty lunch. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.
Farm-to-table dining
If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.
1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine
O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.
2. Stock and Barrel
Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.
3. The Bend
With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.
4. Blacksmith Provedore
Taste Blacksmith Provedore’s delicious pizzas. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)
If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore. Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.
5. Broken Willow
As soon as you enter Broken Willow’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.
While you’re there
Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)
Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.
Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.
If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail.
In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.
