Vintage rail journeys that offer travellers the comfort and convenience of staying on board in a stylish way have made a remarkable comeback and are increasing in popularity around the world.
Southern Australia
All aboard for stunning natural landscapes, vibrant marine life and a chance to learn more about the iconic outback. Lovingly resorted original train carriages owned by Australia’s Southern Aurora passenger train that operated from 1962 until 1996 between Sydney and Melbourne, give rail lovers the option of 3 carefully curated rail tours. Itineraries are all inclusive with hearty local meals in the dining carriage. The trains travels by day and gathers local product along the way. They’re stationary overnight.
Golden West Rail Tour
The original, that takes a journey to the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the great dividing range and the vineyards of the Hunter Valley and Orange. Real treats – special access to the across the Liverpool Plains from Werris Creek and the spectacular scenery of the Capertee Valley on the way to Rylstone.
Riverina Rail Tour
Head south into the heart of the “food bowl” of Australia to learn about the produce, the innovations and the challenges of growing here. Located south of Sydney, these rail lines don’t have other scheduled passenger service.
North Coast Rail Tour
A favourite coastline journey. Discover the amazing Hastings Ricer at Port Macquarie, the fantastic hinterland rain forests and the communities, clear creeks and uncrowded beaches of the Northern Rivers region and the Macleay Valley Coast.
England and Wales
Changing the pace of travel, the Britannic Explorer took to the rails in July of 2025. The first ever luxury sleeper train in England and Wales, it celebrates the British railway history while ushering in the slow travel experience. On route, you’ll visit charming English countryside villages, explore historic cities and embark on a scenic journey through the rolling hills of Wales. A quirky and quintessentially British experience, when you’re not looking out the window, time on board can be spent in your luxurious grand suite, the observation car and bar or enjoying Chef Simon Rogan’s farm to fork dining experiences.
An exclusive railway adventure option on Britannica that’s considered an art form, guests can time cocooned in the onboard Wellness Suite with one of Wildsmith’s nature-inspired Wildsmith’s spa therapists. Offering guests a serene escape rooted in Wildsmith’s renowned radical botany treatments designed to harmonize the mind and body, the onboard treatment menu focuses on five bespoke wellness experiences with mindfulness, grounding techniques and personal reflection at the core.
Photos: Vintage Rail Journeys
