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Train travel and the lure of the outback make for a heady double dose of romance on this epic rail expedition through the heart of Australia.
Starting out from Adelaide, join The Senior Newspaper and Travelrite International from September 9 to 19, 2024, for this exploration of our continent's vast and remote interior. What better way to travel than on The Ghan, a rail journey lasting three days and two nights.
Before boarding your locomotion, check out Adelaide, then head to Hahndorf, Australia's oldest German town, in the Adelaide Hills.
The next morning travel to Cape Jervis for a ferry ride to Kangaroo Island.
One of the world's great nature reserves, Kangaroo Island is known for exotic wildlife, remarkable landscapes and its burgeoning food and wine industry.
Sample wine, cheese and gourmet food native to the island before exploring Flinders Chase National Park. The park has access to views of rock formations such as The Remarkables and Admirals Arch. Later take a tour of Seal Bay and its sea lion colony.
At McLaren Vale you can taste the local wine then go on to Victor Harbor for a ride on the Cockle Train at the mouth of the mighty Murray River. Later take a ride on the historic Victor Harbor horse drawn tram across the Causeway to Granite Island.
Back in Adelaide the group boards The Ghan, renowned as one of the world's great rail journeys, and the ultimate way to watch the outback go by.
After lunch the next day, the red heart of the country, Alice Springs, is reached. Experience 'the Alice' with visits to Royal Flying Doctor's Base, and the National Pioneers Women's hall of Fame which extols the contribution to Australia's heritage women in history have made.
The evening is spent back on The Ghan, relaxing as the train makes its way through the vast outback.
Katherine is often described as where the outback meets the tropics and is the next stop. You can choose from three different excursions. A favourite pastime is to take a cruise down the Katherine River to marvel at the huge rock formations of the gorge, towering over the calm waters below.
Back on board, destination Darwin is in sight as The Ghan is scheduled to arrive late afternoon.
Darwin has evolved into a vibrant, dynamic modern capital city so, if you haven't visited before, you're in for a treat.
Sightseeing starts with a visit to Crocosaurus Cove for a up close look at some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in captivity - this is how you want to experience such a giant and deadly reptile. From a safe distance watch the jumping croc feeding and walk through the reptile display.
Other places of interest in Darwin includes the Chinese Temple and lush Botanic Gardens, not to mention the historic East Point Military Precinct after which a farewell dinner is enjoyed.
For more call 1800 630 343 or visit travelrite.com.au/rail-tours/ghan-rail.
