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Australian luxury railway Indian Pacific recently celebrated its first extended eastbound itinerary to a five-day journey.
This means more time on board for guests, new immersive experiences, and greater opportunities to explore Australia by train.
Journey Beyond’s executive general manager for rail David Donald expressed delight that the new five-day, four-night journey onboard the Indian Pacific.
Donald said:With all-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages, passengers immersed themselves in unique Off Train Experiences as the train wound its way across Australia from coast to coast.”
A signature experience
Executive general manager for sales and partnerships Alicia Triggs added: “What is set to become a signature experience is the exclusive dinner for guests at Seppeltsfield Estate, showcasing the flavors and wines of the Barossa Valley in South Australia. We’ve put together an amazing array of Off Train Experiences for your clients as they traverse the country from west to east, with stand-out new experiences allowing guests to go further. Highlights include a tour of the Super Pit in Kalgoorlie, the opportunity to pan for gold or try your hand at two-up. There is even a ‘paint and sip’ session in Pro Hart’s original studio in Broken Hill.
Each leg of the new extended itinerary is marked with tailored Off-Train Experiences and authentic encounters for clients all included in the price of their fare.
These experiences tell the unique story of the land, providing a sense of place, people, and culture.
Highlights include unique Off-Train Experiences in Kalgoorlie, Cook on The Nullarbor, the Barossa Valley, Broken Hill, and the Blue Mountains.
What travelers can expect on the Perth – Sydney itinerary
Among the new Off Train Experiences from Perth – Sydney are:
Kalgoorlie:
Arriving at Kalgoorlie on Sunday morning, guests can immerse themselves in one of three experiences.
- The Super Pit, Tour one of Australia’s largest gold mines. Begin with refreshments at Hannans North Tourist Mine before donning hi-vis gear for an exclusive bus tour of The Super Pit, including its workshops and viewing platforms. Witness massive haul trucks in action and learn about the Golden Mile’s history before returning to the train for brunch.
- Golden Treasures: Explore the Hannans North Tourist Mine and its 30 exhibits. Try panning for gold, play a game of Two-Up, and visit the Super Pit Lookout to see one of the world’s richest gold deposits. Morning tea and stories about Kalgoorlie’s gold rush history complete the experience.
- Curious Kalgoorlie: Discover Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s quirky charm with a tour of its historic streets. Highlights include the gold-plated courthouse dome, the rare Goatcher Stage Curtain at Boulder Town Hall, and a visit to Chunky Timber Co., where local craftsman Chunky shares his story and unique “Nullarbor Beads.”
Each experience highlights a unique aspect of Kalgoorlie, blending history, culture, and adventure.
The Nullarbor:
Guests will arrive at Cook on Sunday for an afternoon experience.
- Cook: Tucked away in the remote heart of South Australia lies Cook, a ghost town that once thrived with activity. Now home to just a handful of residents and a few weathered buildings, this town played a vital role in shaping Australia’s interior during its prime. Founded in 1917 as a railway support hub, Cook housed over 50 workers who maintained the tracks. Today, visitors can step off the train for a memorable nightcap and a late-night bonfire, soaking in the tranquility beneath the vast Nullarbor sky while counting shooting stars.
Barossa Valley:
On Monday mid-afternoon, guests will arrive at Long Plains, where they disembark and transfer to the Barossa Valley. After dinner, guests return to the Indian Pacific, continuing their rail journey through the night.
- Barossa Valley: The evening is spent at Seppeltsfield Estate, renowned for its wine production, where guests enjoy a signature dining experience in the historic cellar. A traditional ‘Firing of the Barrel’ display is part of the evening, accompanied by a curated food and wine pairing by Executive Chef Owen Andrews. Guests savor regional produce and traditional methods that reflect the Barossa’s story. Platinum guests are also treated to a special 100-year-old vintage Tawny tasting experience.
Broken Hill:
Guests arrive in Broken Hill on Tuesday for a morning experience, where they can select from one of five experiences.
- Silver City Highlights: Explore Broken Hill’s highlights on a scenic outback drive to the Living Desert State Park. Discover striking sandstone sculptures against the desert backdrop and enjoy native teas. Visit the Sulphide St Railway & Historical Museum to learn about the town’s mining heritage and early railways, concluding at the Line of Lode Miners Memorial for panoramic views.
- Paint like a Pro: Unleash your creativity with a ‘paint and sip’ session in Pro Hart’s original studio, guided by his family. Explore the Pro Hart Gallery, showcasing iconic outback scenes. Then, marvel at the ‘Big Picture,’ the world’s largest acrylic painting, at Broken Hill’s Silver City Mint. Return to the Indian Pacific inspired by art, culture, and Australia’s beauty.
- Historic Day Dream Mine: Visit the historic Day Dream Mine near Silverton to experience the life of Broken Hill’s early miners. Travel from the Indian Pacific, learning about the region’s rich history along the way. At the mine, gear up with a helmet and headlamp for a guided tour above and below ground. Walk 1880s tunnels, visit a replica miner’s hut, and discover the hardships of Cornish silver miners. Enjoy freshly baked scones at the tearoom before returning to the train.
- Taste of the Outback: Discover the flavors of the outback at Living Desert State Park with Chef Lee Cecchin. Learn to identify native plants and use them in a bush tucker-inspired culinary session. Explore the Broken Hill Sculpture Symposium, an outdoor gallery of global artworks set against the dramatic outback landscape. End your journey at The Old Saltbush, enjoying Mojito mocktails and sampling native spices and fruits, with Chef Lee sharing their origins, flavours, and traditional uses.
- Shelita, Queen of the Outback, Experience Broken Hill like never before with local Drag Queen sensation Shelita Buffet. This entertaining town tour blends mining history, iconic landmarks, and art installations with Shelita’s unique humor and flair. Stroll through the streets on a brief walking tour, then hop on a bus for a dazzling guided ride, learning about the vibrant mix that defines Broken Hill. The fun continues at the historic Old Brewery with a lively Drag Bingo session, hilarious performances, and fantastic prizes.
Blue Mountains:
Guests will arrive at the Blue Mountains for an early morning experience, where they can select from one of four experiences.
- Scenic World & Echo Point: The Scenic Skyway takes you above ancient ravines, visible 270 meters below through the glass cabin floor. Your vista is 360 degrees and features the Three Sisters, the Jamison Valley, and Katoomba Falls. Then, join the Scenic Cableway and glide over the forest as you descend more than 500 meters to the valley floor before boarding the Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world. Next, travel to the Echo Point Lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, to enjoy a light lunch paired with award-winning wine and beer to complement more spectacular views.
- Scenic World & Echo Point Cultural Experience: After disembarkation, transfer to Scenic World for four unforgettable experiences. Join Uncle David King, a Gundungurra Custodian, to learn about Indigenous culture and stories. Ride the world’s steepest passenger railway into the valley, walking beneath the rainforest canopy with your guide to explore native plants, animals, and seasonal lore. Ascend the escarpment on the Scenic Cableway and hear dreamtime stories of the Jamison Valley. Soar 270 meters above the rainforest on the Scenic Skyway, then visit Echo Point Lookout for a light lunch with award-winning wine and beer, paired with stunning views.
- Blue Mountains Discovery Trail: Go off the beaten path in the Blue Mountains with a 3km guided bush walk. Start from Scenic World, following the Prince Henry Cliff path to Echo Point. Join a local expert guide and enjoy spectacular views of rugged cliffs, forests, and the famous Three Sisters. Connect with nature as you pass towering eucalypts and ancient tree ferns. End with a light lunch at Echo Point Lookout in Katoomba, with panoramic views and optional award-winning wine or beer.
- High tea in the Blue Mountains: Begin your adventure in the charming village of Mt Victoria before journeying to Govetts Leap Lookout, a photographer’s dream with its sweeping views of dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Next, immerse yourself in the elegance of the historic Hydro Majestic. With over a century of stories to tell, this iconic venue comes alive through a guided history tour, offering an exclusive glimpse into its grand heritage. Indulge in a sumptuous High Tea, featuring delicate pastries, fluffy scones, and savory delights, all enjoyed with panoramic views of the majestic Blue Mountains.
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