Indian Pacific: Southwest Escape (Tour code: 14944)

Your journey begins at Sydney’s Central Station as you board the iconic Indian Pacific for an unforgettable transcontinental adventure. Settle into your cabin and watch the city gradually give way to the dramatic sandstone cliffs and valleys of the Blue Mountains. Relax in the lounge with fellow travellers and enjoy a drink as the landscape unfolds. This evening, savour your first regionally inspired dinner in the dining car, complemented by fine Australian wines and beverages. Afterwards, unwind with a nightcap in the lounge or retreat to your cabin as the Indian Pacific continues west.

Overnight stay aboard Indian Pacific.

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains

Your day begins in Broken Hill, the legendary Silver City, where you’ll step off the Indian Pacific for your first Off Train Experience. Discover the town’s rich mining heritage with a visit to the Miners’ Memorial, or take a more colourful journey through Broken Hill with local drag queen Shelita Buffet, combining stories, creativity, food and plenty of fun. Enjoy refreshments before returning to the train.

Back on board, breakfast and lunch are served as the Indian Pacific travels through South Australia, passing the southern reaches of the Flinders Ranges. Arrive in Adelaide during the late afternoon and choose from a selection of memorable experiences.

Indulge in McLaren Vale wines followed by dinner at the clifftop Star of Greece, or enjoy a gin and cheese tasting in the Adelaide Hills before dining at Haus, a German restaurant showcasing exceptional local produce. Alternatively, discover Adelaide’s highlights with a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting at Coopers Brewery, a scenic drive, teppanyaki dinner at Shiki and a twilight stroll to Adelaide Oval. Or explore Adelaide Central Market on a guided tour before enjoying an exclusive sit-down dinner within the market.

After an evening filled with exceptional food, wine and experiences, return to the Indian Pacific and continue your journey west.

Overnight stay aboard the Indian Pacific.

Indian Pacific in Broken Hill

Today, immerse yourself in the extraordinary landscapes of the Nullarbor Plain as the Indian Pacific crosses this vast and remote region. Follow the world’s longest straight stretch of railway, with seemingly endless horizons stretching beyond your window. Along the way, stop at Cook, a former railway town now standing as a remote outpost, offering a glimpse into its fascinating history.

By evening, arrive at Rawlinna, on the edge of Australia’s largest sheep station. From September to May, enjoy a memorable long-table dinner beneath a canopy of stars. During the cooler months, gather around a roaring bonfire with drinks and canapés, taking in the atmosphere of this remarkable outback setting.

Overnight stay aboard the Indian Pacific.

Nullarbor Plain

Admire the delightful undulations of the Avon Valley and enjoy a final breakfast on board as the final stage of your transcontinental crossing unfolds, heading into Perth. Transfer to your accommodation, with the remainder of the day free to start exploring.

Overnight stay in Perth at DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront (or similar). 

View of Perth

Your day starts with a picturesque drive south to the fabulous Margaret River region, with several stops along the way. In Mandurah, a coffee break by the foreshore is followed by a visit to the Featured Wood Gallery in Bunbury. At Busselton, walk off your delicious lunch with a stroll along the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.

Next is a visit to everyone's favourite, the Margaret River Chocolate Company, with its beautiful handmade chocolate truffles and more.

From here, travel along the coast and see the action at Surfers Point, where the world's best surfers come to compete. You'll also see where the Margaret River meets the Indian ocean.

Visiting the quaint coastal town of Prevelly, learn of the fascinating wartime connection with Crete and see Prevelly's charming Greek memorial chapel. (Please note: sometimes, there might be a need to switch this around and include this on Day 6 or 7).

Continuing along the coast, to arrive at your overnight accommodation. The evening is at leisure. Your guide will suggest options for dinner, which is at your own expense.

Overnight stay at Margaret’s Beach Resort or Margaret In Town.

Busselton

Today is all about exploring the region’s stunning scenery and fantastic natural and cultural attractions. You'll start by visiting Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park and see remainsof megafauna over 50,000 years old found at Mammoth Cave, a gigantic, underground limestone cave.

Next is a scenic drive through the majestic Boranup Karri Forest, where awe-inspiring trees tower over 65m tall. This forest is a feast for the senses, with the forest floor carpeted with wildflowers, orchids and fungi (in season), together with the sounds of native birds and the fresh smell of eucalyptus.

Continue south to picturesque Hamelin Bay, where a jetty once stood. Built for exporting timber, this old jetty has been in ruins for many years. The bay is now known for the friendly stingrays that cruise the shallow waters.

Passing through the hilltop coastal town of Augusta, you'll have views of the Blackwood River on the way to the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, Australia's tallest mainland lighthouse. Here, you will be able to see the Southern Ocean meeting the Indian Ocean. Learn what life was like for the lighthouse keepers and their families on a guided tour.

Lunch will be at either The Colour Patch, overlooking the beautiful Blackwood River, or at Hamelin Bay Wines, with magnificent views over there Karridale vineyard. Both have delicious options for lunch to match with a glass of wine or beer.

This afternoon, there is time to explore the town of Margaret River before returning to your accommodation. Your evening is at leisure, with dinner at your own arrangements.

Overnight stay at Margaret’s Beach Resort or Margaret In Town.

Sunset at Margaret River region

Today is all about food and wine. Visit Yahava Koffee Works, where the proprietors are so passionate about coffee that they travel the world looking for the best coffee beans, which are then roasted in house. Indulge in tastings while you learn how to make the perfect cup of coffee.

Margaret River is famous for award-winning wineries and cellar doors. Today, visit two wineries for tastings. At the second winery, your premium wine tasting will be paired with local cheeses from the Margaret River Dairy Co.

Your gourmet day continues at Olio Bello, an olive oil farm. Experience first-hand the subtle flavours of extra virgin olive oil, including citrus pressed oils and enjoy a tasing ofthe incredible range of condiments. The Olio Bello Café has a menu inspired by their award-winning oils and fresh farm produce and this is where you will sit down for a delicious lunch accompanied by a glass of wine, beer or juice.

After lunch, your Margaret River Escape concludes as you return to your Perth accommodation.

Overnight stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront (or similar). 

Margaret River

Make your way to Barrack Street Jetty and board Rottnest Express, bound for Rottnest Island, 22kms offshore. A 90- minute air-conditioned bus tour around ‘Rotto’ takes you to some spectacular locations, including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the boardwalk lookout at the rugged west end. Feast on a delicious lunch before exploring the island at your leisure – make sure you meet a quokka. Return to Perth by ferry in the afternoon.

Overnight stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront (or similar). 

A quokka

It’s time to check out of your accommodation concluding, your rich and rewarding discovery of the south west of Western Australia.