Queensland Hinterland Spectacular 2027

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. (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. Here you will be met by your friendly Outback Spirit crew who will transfer you to your central city accommodation ahead of a welcome group meeting and dinner. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night InterContinental Brisbane

Get ready for a day full of sites and activities as we leave the city behind us bound for Tamborine Mountain, located in the picturesque Gold Coast hinterland and a drawcard for nature lovers and epicureans alike. Get a birds’ eye view of the spectacular environment on the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk which extends for 1.5kms on trails above and below the canopy.

Enjoy the spoils of a delicious lunch before we make tracks for O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, located inside Lamington National Park and a true highlight of the Scenic Rim region. Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, be wowed by the diversity and density of rainforest species including nearly all of Australia’s northern-most Antarctic Beech species. For those wanting to stretch their legs, many short walks around the retreat beckon. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat

A guided walk to Moran Falls (4.6K return) or Pat’s Bluff (5.5K return) or a more gentle option, will get the heart pumping and build your appetite for lunch back at the retreat. A bird of prey demonstration, the opportunity to witness the plethora of birdlife with a daily feeding and some free time to further explore or just relax by the pool, will lead into sunset drinks ahead of dinner. (B,L,D) 

Get up early to tackle another short hike (optional) before we head down the mountain bound for a farm tour and wine tasting at Albert River Wines. Enjoy a wee tasting tipple ahead of lunch on the verandah at the peaceful Auchenflower Restaurant with views back towards Tamborine Mountain.

The mountain oasis of Spicers Hidden Vale, situated amid the rolling hills of Grandchester, is our destination this afternoon. Settle into your charming accommodation before a welcoming pre-dinner drink on the deck then prepare for a delightful paddock-to-plate dining treat. Board games or a hand of cards anyone. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night Spicers Hidden Vale

Be as active or restful as you please this morning with options of a morning yoga session before a guided nature and market garden walk. A koala safari tour on the sprawling 12,000-acre property rounds out the morning’s activities.  

Our final lunch will be a curated barbeque before we bid farewell to the peace and serenity of Hidden Vale to return to the city and parts further afield. Your tour ends at your Brisbane hotel accommodation or at the Brisbane Airport. (B,L)