post Journey Beyond compliments Indian Pacific's new Perth-Sydney itinerary First appeared on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.
Australian luxury railway Indian Pacific recently celebrated its first extended eastbound itinerary with a five-day journey.
This means more time for guests, new immersive experiences and more opportunities to explore Australia by train.
Executive General Manager of Journey Beyond for Rail David Donald has expressed his delight at a new five-day, four-night voyage to the Indian Pacific.
Donald says: “With all-inclusive meals, fine wines and beverages, passengers immersed themselves in a unique off-train experience as the train traveled coast to coast across Australia.”
A signature experience
Alicia Triggs, executive general manager for sales and partnerships, added: “An exclusive dinner for guests at Seppeltsfield Estate showcasing the flavors and wines of South Australia's Barossa Valley is set to become a signature experience. We've put together a wonderful array of off-train experiences for your clients as they cross the country from west to east, allowing guests to go further with new experiences. Highlights include a trip to the Super Pit in Kalgoorlie, a chance to pan for gold or try your hand at two-up. There's even a 'paint and sip' session at Pro Heart's original studio in Broken Hill.
Each leg of the newly extended itinerary is marked with bespoke off-train experiences and authentic encounters for clients included in their fare price.
These experiences tell the land's unique story, providing a sense of place, people and culture.
Highlights include unique off-train experiences at Kalgoorlie, Cook on the Nullarbor, Barossa Valley, Broken Hill and the Blue Mountains.
What travelers can expect on a Perth – Sydney itinerary
New off train experiences from Perth – Sydney include:
Kalgoorlie:
Arriving in Kalgoorlie on Sunday morning, guests can immerse themselves in one of three experiences.
- Super Pete: Tour one of Australia's largest gold mines. Start with refreshments at Hannans North Tourist Mine before donning hi-vis gear for an exclusive bus tour of The Super Pit, with its workshops and viewing platform. Learn about the history of the Golden Mile before getting back on the train for brunch.
- Gold Treasure: 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 Kalgurli: Discover the quaint charm of Kalgoorlie-Boulder by exploring its historic streets. Highlights include the gold-plated courthouse dome, the rare Gaucher stage curtain at Boulder Town Hall, and a visit to Chunky Timber Co., where local craftsman Chunky shares his story and unique “Nullarbar Beads.”
Each experience highlights a unique aspect of Kalgoorlie, a blend of history, culture and adventure.
Nullbar:
Guests will arrive at Cook's on Sunday for an afternoon experience.
- Cooking: Located in the heart of remote South Australia is Cook, a ghost town that was once bustling with activity. Now home to just a few residents and a few weathered buildings, the city played an important role in shaping Australia's interior. Founded in 1917 as a railway support hub, Cook housed more than 50 workers who maintained the tracks. Today, visitors can step off the train for a memorable nightcap and late-night bonfire, soaking in the tranquility under the vast Nullarbar sky while the shooting stars count.
Barossa Valley:
On Monday mid-afternoon, guests will arrive in Long Plains, where they will 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 Sepeltsfield Estate, famous 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 Wayne Andrews. Guests sample regional produce and traditional methods that reflect the story of the Barossa. Platinum guests are also treated to a special 100-year-old vintage tawny tasting experience.
Broken Hill:
Guests arrive at Broken Hill on Tuesday for a morning experience, where they can choose from one of five experiences.
- Silver City Highlights: Explore the highlights of Broken Hill on a scenic outback drive in Living Desert State Park. Discover fascinating sandstone sculptures against the backdrop of the desert and enjoy native tea. Visit the Sulphide St. Railway and Historical Museum to learn about the town's mining heritage and early railroads, ending at the Line of Lode Miners Memorial for panoramic views.
- Draw like a pro: Unleash your creativity with a 'paint and sip' session at Pro Hart's original studio, run 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 to be inspired by the art, culture and beauty of Australia.
- Historical Daydream Mining: Visit the historic Daydream Mine near Silverton to experience the life of early miners at Broken Hill. Travel from the Indian Pacific Ocean, learning about the region's rich history along the way. At the mine, prepare for a guided tour above and below ground with a helmet and headlamp. Walk through 1880s tunnels, visit a replica miner's hut and discover the hardships of Cornish silver miners. Enjoy freshly baked scones in 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 Chechin. Learn to identify native plants and use them in bush tucker-inspired cooking sessions. 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 indigenous spices and fruits, as Chef Lee shares their origins, flavors and traditional uses.
- Shelita, Queen of the Outback: Experience Broken Hill with local drag queen sensation Shelita Buffett. This entertaining city tour blends Shellita's unique sense of humor and flair with mining history, iconic landmarks and art installations. Wander the streets on a short walking tour, then learn about the vibrant mix that defines Broken Hill, then board the bus for a gorgeous guided ride. The fun continues at the historic Old Brewery with a lively drag bingo session, hilarious performances and fabulous prizes.
Blue Mountains:
Guests will arrive at Blue Mountain for a morning experience, where they can choose from one of four experiences.
- Scenic World and Eco Point: The Scenic Skyway takes you above the ancient canyon, visible 270 meters below through glass cabin floors. Your vista is 360 degrees and includes the Three Sisters, Jamison Valley and Katoomba Falls. Then, join the Scenic Cableway and ride over the forest as you descend more than 500 meters to the valley floor before riding the Scenic Railway, the world's steepest passenger railway. Next, travel to Eco Point Lookout, located at the edge of the Katoomba Escarpment, to enjoy a light lunch with award-winning wines and beers to complement the more spectacular views.
- Scenic World and Eco Point Cultural Experience: After disembarking, transfer to Scenic World for four unforgettable experiences. Join Uncle David King, a Gundungura Custodian, to learn about Aboriginal culture and stories. Ride the world's steepest passenger railway in the valley, walk under the rainforest canopy with your guide to explore native plants, animals and seasonal lore. Climb the escarpment on the Scenic Cableway and hear stories of the Jamison Valley dream. Soar 270 meters above the rainforest on the Scenic Skyway, then head to Eco Point Lookout for a light lunch with award-winning wine and beer, along with stunning views.
- Blue Mountain Discovery Trail: Go off the beaten path in the Blue Mountains with a 3km guided bush walk. Start at Scenic World by following the Prince Henry Cliff Trail to Echo Point. Join a local expert guide and enjoy spectacular views of rugged mountains, forests and the famous Three Sisters. Connect with nature as you pass towering eucalyptus and ancient tree ferns. Finish with a light lunch at Katumba's Eco Point Lookout, with panoramic views and optional award-winning wine or beer.
- High Tea in the Blue Mountains: Begin your adventure in the charming village of Mount Victoria before heading to Govet's Leap Lookout, a photographer's dream with sweeping views of dramatic cliffs and cascading falls. Next, immerse yourself in the charm of the historic Hydro Majestic. With more than a century of stories to tell, this iconic venue comes alive with a guided history tour, offering an exclusive glimpse into its rich heritage. Indulge in a sumptuous high tea featuring delicate pastries, fluffy scones and savory delights, all while enjoying panoramic views of the majestic Blue Mountains.
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