Taste of Two Cities 2024

You’ve arrived in Darwin – it’s yours to explore. Spend the day at your leisure before checking in to your accommodation.

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Hilton Garden Inn Darwin

Today is for further exploration of the Darwin waterfront and its top-notch restaurants, taking in the relaxed pace of life in the north. Alternatively, consider an optional tour (additional expense) to make the most of your time in the Top End. (B)

Stroll around the city today, taking in its fascinating history at your own pace. Wander to the Stokes Hill Wharf area, the Botanic Gardens or the Chinese Temple and don’t miss a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. This evening prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking tropical sunset from a location like no other – savour the sights and enjoy the swirl of the sea breeze as you sail and on a spacious, modern catamaran. Enjoy a sumptuous meal onboard focused on local produce and fresh seafood. Nothing is more relaxing than soaking up the splendour of the skies, champagne flute in hand. (B,D)

Settle in to the comforts of The Ghan, relaxing in your cabin or mingling with fellow guests in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End’s best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge. The stunning gorge lies within
the 292,000-hectare Nitmiluk National Park. You’ll have the chance to explore it from the water with guided cruise options – an Off Train Experience you’ll never forget. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights The Ghan

Your arrival into Alice Springs after breakfast provides you with time to explore the iconic town in the red heart of Australia. Prepare for a day of fascinating experiences and in the evening, join your fellow guests at a spectacular barbeque dinner under a million stars at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station. (B,L,D)

From your morning stop at the outback outpost of Manguri, you’ll venture into the weird and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. Here, you’ll enjoy a day of discovery, and a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations: underground. Discover the incredible diversity of Coober Pedy’s spectacular Breakaways on your guided walking tour, taking in the colourful low hills that from a distance look as if they have ‘broken away’ from the higher ground of the reserve. The landscape was once an inland sea and over time has been transformed into a dramatic landscape that changes colour with the passing of the sun, creating an almost surreal panorama. Dinner is served back on the train, where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey continues. (B,L,D)

After completing the famous north-south crossing of the interior, you will arrive into Adelaide, where you will be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free for you to explore one of the many dining options close by. (B)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Mayfair Hotel

Travel through the Adelaide Hills to the Barossa Valley to experience a day of historical wineries, regional food, beautiful scenery and the people who make the Barossa Valley such a special destination. The first tasting is at Château Yaldara, one of the most photographed historic buildings in South Australia. Then, we traverse picturesque scenery and cross Jacobs Creek, heading towards the heart of the valley and the historic township of Tanunda. More internationally acclaimed wines are on the menu at the beautiful Peter Lehmann winery, paired with a lunch platter of local produce. After a stop a Mengler’s Hill Lookout to admire the valley views, we head onwards to a wine-tasting experience at Lambert Estate Wines. Our final destination is Wolf Blass Wines, where we’ll explore the state-of-the-art cellar door of the multi-award-winning wine brand. (B,L)

Make the most of a free day to explore Adelaide, the food and wine capital of South Australia. Stroll along the cultural boulevard of North Terrace, home to the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia. Not far from here is Rundle Street and Rundle Mall, where you can indulge in some retail therapy or quench your thirst at one of the many bars or restaurants. Alternatively, the beachside suburb of Glenelg is an easy 25-minute tram ride away. (B)

Your journey comes to an end this morning as you farewell Adelaide and check out of your accommodation after breakfast, leaving with memories of awe-inspiring landscapes and unique outback experiences that will last a lifetime. (B)