The Great Southern is Journey Beyond’s youngest luxury train, launched to showcase the striking contrast between the surf-battered coast of New South Wales and the vineyard-striped hills of South Australia. Running between Brisbane and Adelaide over three or four days, the 2026 season captures a growing appetite for slow travel that fuses gourmet cuisine with dramatic landscapes.
Coastal Vistas and Alpine Air
Departing Brisbane, the train curves south through the Gold Coast hinterland before reaching the Pacific shoreline near Coffs Harbour. Passengers wake to the sight of banana plantations and the sparkle of the Solitary Islands Marine Park. The route then climbs into the New England region, where eucalypt forests give way to crisp mountain pastures. According to the 2026 Great Southern itinerary (https://www.journeybeyond.com.au/), the journey includes a seasonal winter departure that capitalises on the Southern Highlands’ misty beauty.
Gourmet Dining Rooted in Place
Onboard chefs work with suppliers in Byron Bay, the Hunter Valley and the Barossa, crafting dishes that distil each region’s essence. A Hunter Valley winemaker often hosts a tasting in the lounge car, while dinner might feature Coffin Bay oysters and wagyu beef. The train’s open-air “rear viewing deck” becomes a prime spot for watching sunsets behind the Grampians.
2026 Highlights and Real-World Appeal
A standout excursion this year is the Hunter Valley immersion, where guests visit family-run vineyards and meet fourth-generation vintners. Journey Beyond reports that 2026 winter departures reached 95% occupancy within weeks of release, driven by strong interest from North American and European markets. Travel blogger Clara S. documented her April trip, calling it “a feast for the senses that redefines what a train holiday can be.” Her account, shared widely on social media, triggered a fresh wave of inquiries, underlining how digital storytelling is transforming rail tourism.
