Journey Beyond announced earlier this year it would expand its product offering after acquiring Vintage Rail Journeys, which allows it to run regional NSW tours on ex-Southern Aurora classic sleeper carriages.
The 2025 itineraries will be all-inclusive for the first time and include the state’s Golden West, the Riverina Rail Tour into Australia’s ‘food bowl’, the Northern NSW coast, and the Bathurst 1000.
Journey Beyond Executive General Manager, David Donald says, “We can’t wait to welcome guests aboard our private Aurora Australia train for adventures through regional New South Wales in 2025.
“It’s the most scenic way to experience the region at leisure and travel. Guests will now enjoy all-inclusive meals and beverages in our dining carriage, lovingly crafted by our onboard chef with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss whilst seeing the best of NSW’s scenery travelling primarily during daylight hours.”
Vintage rail journeys
The ‘Golden West Rail Tour’ four-night journey departs from Sydney and includes the Hunter Valley and Orange vineyards, a cruise on the Hawkesbury River; a bespoke winery experience in the Hunter Valley and the chance to wander Bathurst’s landmark historical home, Abercrombie House.
‘Riverina Rail Tour’ heads south from Sydney into the heart of Australia’s ‘food bowl’. The four-night journey gives guests the chance to learn about the produce grown and the challenges and innovations of the region. Tour and lunch at a Coolaman artisan cheese maker, meet a collection of some of the best producers in the Riverina and stop at Mt Victoria for an adventure on the Zig Zag Railway.
‘North Coast Rail Tour’ takes guests to the hinterland rainforest, creeks and uncrowded surf beaches of the Macleay Valley Coast. The four-night tour also includes a chance to visit the Byron Bay Lighthouse, Maitlands historical and cultural icons and Port Macquarie.
For car racing enthusiasts, ‘Bathhurst Race’N Rail’ offers a unique way to experience Australia’s greatest touring car race, the Repco Bathhurst 1000. Guests travel to and from the race aboard the Aurora Australis and stay onboard the train for three nights with general admission to the race and coach transfers from the train to the race.
For more information, visit Vintage Rail Journeys.
