Riverina Vintage Rail Journey (2027)
Step aboard a unique rail adventure aboard the Southern Aurora, the iconic overnight passenger train that once connected Sydney and Melbourne from 1962 to 1986. Today, its original 1960s carriages have been meticulously restored, offering travelers the chance to rediscover the golden age of train travel through curated daytime journeys across New South Wales. With the train stationary overnight, you can enjoy peaceful rest before waking to explore charming regional towns, stunning landscapes, and the heritage-rich heart of Australia.
Embark on the Riverina Rail Tour, journeying south from Sydney into Australia’s renowned ‘food bowl.’ Enjoy a warm welcome from Riverina communities, discover their rich agricultural produce, and gain insights into the region’s challenges and innovations. Travel on exclusive rail lines without scheduled passenger services, adding a unique sense of adventure to this unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, these vintage rail tours promise a truly timeless escape.
2027 Departure Dates: 1 Feb / 15 Feb / 1 Mar / 15 Mar / 29 Mar / 12 Apr / 26 Apr / 10 May / 24 May
- Heritage Twin Cabin from $4,090 per person*
- Heritage Single Cabin from $4,690 per person*
*From prices are based on the Advance Purchase fare for travel in 2027. Prices are subject to change. Further conditions apply.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Sydney, Bowral and Goulburn
Begin your journey at Sydney Central Station and board the Vintage Rail Journey. Travel south towards Goulburn, enjoying lunch on board before choosing an Off Train Experience at Bowral, including historic Retford Park or the fascinating Fairground Follies. Return to the train for dinner as you travel to Goulburn. (L, D)
Overnight: Vintage Rail Journey
Day 2 – Junee and Coolamon
Travel through the scenic Canola Trail before arriving in Junee. Choose between exploring the historic Junee Roundhouse Museum or visiting the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory. Continue to Coolamon for an artisan cheese experience and lunch, with time to explore the township before returning to the train. (B, D)
Overnight: Vintage Rail Journey
Day 3 – Griffith and Temora
Discover the agricultural heart of the Riverina with a choice of experiences. Meet local producers at Southern Cotton and Whitton Malt House, or visit Morella Olive Grove and Yarran Wines for tastings and a regional lunch. Return to the train and continue towards Temora.
Overnight: Vintage Rail Journey
Day 4 – Temora and Orange
Explore Temora with a choice of visiting the Temora Rural History Museum or the impressive Temora Aviation Museum. Return to the train for lunch before continuing through the regional countryside towards Orange, with dinner served on board. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Vintage Rail Journey
Day 5 – Mount Victoria, Blue Mountains and Sydney
Travel towards the Great Dividing Range before arriving at Mount Victoria. Board the historic Zig Zag Railway for a scenic journey through the Blue Mountains, followed by lunch and a visit to Echo Point for spectacular views. Reboard the train for the final journey back to Sydney Central Station. (B, L, D)
*Please note that itineraries are subject to change.
Highlights
- All-inclusive dining, wines and beverages served throughout your rail journey
- Travel exclusive rail lines with no scheduled passenger services
- Enjoy heritage twin or single cabins with vintage 1960s fittings
Step aboard a unique rail adventure aboard the Southern Aurora, the iconic overnight passenger train that once connected Sydney and Melbourne from 1962 to 1986. Today, its original 1960s carriages have been meticulously restored, offering travelers the chance to rediscover the golden age of train travel through curated daytime journeys across New South Wales. With the train stationary overnight, you can enjoy peaceful rest before waking to explore charming regional towns, stunning landscapes, and the heritage-rich heart of Australia.
Embark on the Riverina Rail Tour, journeying south from Sydney into Australia’s renowned ‘food bowl.’ Enjoy a warm welcome from Riverina communities, discover their rich agricultural produce, and gain insights into the region’s challenges and innovations. Travel on exclusive rail lines without scheduled passenger services, adding a unique sense of adventure to this unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, these vintage rail tours promise a truly timeless escape.
Inclusions
Highlights & Inclusions
- All inclusive dining, wines, beverages, tea & coffee throughout your journey
- Delight in the sights and sounds of Fairground Follies, the Antique Mechanical Music Museum in Bowral
- Enjoy a tour and lunch experience at a Coolamon artisan cheese maker
- From farm to fork & vine to wine, meet a collection of some of the best producers in the Riverina
- Stop at Mt Victoria, for an adventure on the Zig Zag Railway
Exclusions
- Travel insurance
FAQs
Heritage Twin Cabins are designed to accommodate two guests, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey. During the day, the space transforms into a cosy three-seat lounge, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the passing scenery. At night, it converts into upper and lower bunk beds, with one guest needing to be able to climb a ladder to access the top bunk. Each cabin also features a private ensuite, complete with original 1960s fittings, including a fold-down hand basin and fold-down toilet, preserving the charm of vintage rail travel.
Heritage Single Cabins offer a comfortable and private space for solo travellers, featuring a day lounge with a footrest, a fold-down washbasin, and a mirror for convenience. As evening falls, the cabin transforms into a cosy bed, providing a restful retreat after a day of exploration. Guests in Single Cabins also have access to spacious shared bathrooms located at either end of the carriage, blending vintage charm with thoughtful amenities.
Lounge Carriage – the social heart of the train, invites you to unwind and connect with fellow travellers in a relaxed, welcoming setting. With all-inclusive travel, you can enjoy a selection of Australian wines and beers, as well as unlimited tea, coffee, soft drinks, and juices – all served as you sit back and take in the journey.
Dining Carriage – step into the original ex-Southern Aurora Dining Carriage, where the onboard chef serves hearty, delicious meals crafted with care and inspired by local flavours. Complement your meal with a selection of Australian wines, beers, and other beverages – all included in your fare.
Commences: Central Station, Sydney
12:30pm* Monday
*Please refer to pre-departure travel documents for guest check-in time.
Concludes: Central Station, Sydney
8:00pm Friday
Provided by: Vintage Rail JourneysFine Print
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Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.
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