Great Australian train escapes

For years Australia has offered several of the greatest train journeys – now the country is also home to some of the world's most luxurious rail experiences.

Imagine yourself as a guest in a fine hotel aboard the Great South Pacific Express, the latest addition to Australia's fleet of world-renowned luxury trains. The Express speeds for 3,000 km along the continent's eastern seaboard from Cairns to Brisbane and Sydney.

Australia's Great Southern Railway operates 3 of the continent's most famous rail journeys – The Ghan, The Indian Pacific and The Overland.

The Ghan has evolved into a comfortable and stylish rail trip connecting Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide with Alice Springs. Discover inland Australia's rugged beauty including the mighty MacDonnell Ranges and the red-baked earth of the Simpson Desert.

The Indian Pacific is a train enthusiast's dream - a 64-hour adventure spanning a continent, ocean to ocean. The train travels from Sydney to Perth via Adelaide, covering over 4,000 km and offering a superb platform from which to view Australia's changing landscapes, including the Nullarbor Plains, home to the world's longest straight stretch of railway at 478 kilometres.

The Overland pioneered inter-capital rail travel in Australia and a century on, now provides a convenient, comfortable overnight journey between Melbourne and Adelaide, taking just over 12 hours.

Queensland is home to an assortment of train routes combining legendary local rail journeys with attractions like a visit to the spectacular Undarra Lava Tubes, a helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef or a trip on Kuranda's unique Skyrail cable car through stunning rainforest.

Experience Queensland's new, high-speed Tilt Train that runs between Brisbane and Rockhampton, offering onboard video and audio entertainment, plus airline-style business and economy seating.

For something a little different try Puffing Billy, Australia's oldest and most meticulously preserved steam train which runs on original mountain tracks through Victoria's scenic Dandenong Ranges.

Australia's unique train experiences offer both style and freedom and guarantee a memorable holiday.

To learn more about Australia visit www.australia.com, featuring over 10,000 pages of information to help you plan your holiday.

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