Adelaide & Brisbane Classic City Stay 2027 (Great Southern) : Adelaide to Brisbane

Welcome to Adelaide. After checking into your accommodation in the heart of the CBD, there are plenty of opportunities to delve into its food, wine, arts and shopping scenes as you get to know the laid-back capital of South Australia. OVERNIGHT: 3 nights The Playford Adelaide – MGallery

Explore more of Adelaide at your leisure. If you’d like to get to the source of that gourmet experience by visiting another wine-growing region, McLaren Vale is the perfect option. (B)

McLaren Vale Winery Experience $250 per person A tour to McLaren Vale along the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula includes four cellar door experiences and a delicious restaurant lunch. The region is best known for its Shiraz, but expert vignerons will explain why Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grapes also thrive in this unique microclimate.

Today, delight your senses with boutique wine and food touring to the historic Barossa Valley, with its 80 cellar doors. You’ll even visit one of the oldest vineyards in the world, where Shiraz vines were planted in 1843. Enjoy running commentary from your driver as you make your way towards the world-renowned wine region and be guided though some of the best wines South Australia has to offer. Tours are small groups up to eight people only to ensure a relaxed and unhurried day. Whether you prefer red or white, there will be something to tantalise and delight with tastings at three wineries throughout the day, and a delicious lunch with an accompanying glass of wine included in your tour. (B,L)

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. (B,L,D) OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Great Southern

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)

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. Once settled into your accommodation, the evening is yours to start your exploration of this vibrant river city. (B,L) OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Sofitel Brisbane Central  

Today, visit Mount Tamborine in the Gold Coast hinterland. The mountain has spectacular views and ancient rainforests which you can explore at your own pace at Skywalk. Enjoy the native flora and fauna as you walk above the rainforest canopy. Savour a 2 course lunch before enjoying time to discover the boutique shops on Gallery Walk, from arts and craft, fashion to fudge, to honey and Australia’s most awarded distillery, Tamborine Mountain Distillery. Travel through lush green hillside and valleys on your return to your Brisbane accommodation. (B,L)

Your time in Brisbane continues today, with a day to explore at your leisure. Perhaps catch a City Cat and take in the city from the water, or venture across to South Bank, Brisbane’s premier lifestyle and cultural destination. It's the perfect place to relax and unwind. (B)

Your Adelaide and Brisbane City Stay comes to an end when you check out of your accommodation this morning. (B)