logo

18 Sep: Second Inaugural Gippsland slow rail journey

Join Slow Rail Journeys' inaugural Gippsland from Melbourne to explore the best of both eastern and western Gippsland.
18 Sep: Second Inaugural Gippsland slow rail journey image

18-20 September: The inaugural Gippsland Slow Rail Journey to Bairnsdale, the Gippsland Lakes and historic Walhalla.

Tour Gippsland by private train on the inaugural Slow Rail Journey to tour this spectacular corner of Victoria

Relax into your private sleeping compartment as your Private Train departs Melbourne for an epic adventure to the spectacular waterways, mountains and rainforests of Gippsland. Cruise the vast Gippsland Lakes, dine at some of the region's most acclaimed venues and enjoy unique touring options on the inaugural Gippsland-bound Slow Rail Journey.

Highlights of your Gippsland Slow Rail Journey adventure include:

  • Cruising the spectacular Gippsland Lakes including visits to Paynesville, Metung and more

  • A chartered journey on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway and the opportunity to visit the fascinating history of the region

  • Touring options including a walking tour of Raymond Island's Koala population

  • Enjoying a daylight slow rail experience from Bairnsdale back to Melbourne

  • Be tempted by the region's best produce, with gourmet meals served in iconic venues across the region.

Image 0

All Slow Rail Journeys Fares include:

  • All meals (two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners and an afternoon tea)

  • All touring and off-train experiences

  • Two nights onboard in a comfortable sleeping compartment.

bed icon

View information, images and more regarding cabins, cabin layouts, lounge and dining cars here: https://www.slowrailjourneys.com.au/onboard

path icon

Your experience will commence at 7:30 pm (Friday) with check-in, followed by dinner at the Savoy Hotel.

The train generally arrives back into Melbourne's Southern Cross Station late afternoon on Sunday.

Loading Map…

Your Adventure to Gippsland

1. The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins Melbourne

630 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

2. Bairnsdale (Saturday Touring Kick-off)

Bairnsdale VIC 3875, Australia

3. Tambo Valley Honey

64 Main St, Bruthen VIC 3885, Australia

4. Bruthen

Bruthen VIC 3885, Australia

5. Wyanga Park Winery

248 Baades Rd, Lakes Entrance VIC 3909, Australia

6. Peels Cruises

Post Office Jetty, 288 Esplanade, Lakes Entrance VIC 3909, Australia

7. Raymond Island (Koalas)

Raymond Island, VIC 3880, Australia

8. Warragul Station (Sunday Touring Kick-off)

Warragul VIC 3820, Australia

9. Walhalla (Railway and Historic Town)

Walhalla VIC 3825, Australia

10. Tour Concludes

Spencer St, Docklands VIC 3008, Australia

Friday - Melbourne to wild East Gippsland

Depart Melbourne under the cover of darkness bound for the wilds of East Gippsland.
Friday - Melbourne to wild East Gippsland image

Your Slow Rail Journey commences in Melbourne with an overnight journey to Bairnsdale and East Gippsland

bed icon

View information, images and more regarding cabins, cabin layouts, lounge and dining cars here: https://www.slowrailjourneys.com.au/onboard

general icon

Relax into your private sleeping compartment and settle into the rythm of the train

Your journey begins at the historic Savoy Hotel, where a smiling train manager will check you in, followed by a gourmet bon voyage dinner. This is your chance to meet your fellow adventurers before a quick briefing and safety demonstration.

You are then escorted to the train at Southern Cross Station. The string of heritage ex-Overland and Southern Aurora carriages creates a stunning visual against the station's modern architecture.

As the whistle sounds, your private train pulls out of Southern Cross. Settle in, explore the train, or grab a drink in the Club 1 Lounge.

meal icon

Dinner

Join your fellow travellers for an included bon voyage dinner at Melbourne's art deco Savoy Hotel.

transport icon

Tonight's Journey

After pulling out of Southern Cross Station, the train will reverse direction in Western Melbourne before running back through Southern Cross and Flinders Street, before running along Melbourne's busiest suburban rail line to Pakenham, before continuing through Warragul, Moe, Morewell, Traralgon and Sale to Bairnsdale.

accommodation icon

Accommodation

Accommodation will be in your private sleeping cabin onboard your private sleeping train.

Saturday: Tour Wild East Gippsland

Enjoy a private cruise of the Gippsland Lakes, explore seaside villages, roam amongst one of Australia's largest colonies of Koalas and more!
Saturday: Tour Wild East Gippsland image

Tracks, Tides, and Tree-Dwellers: From Bairnsdale Breakfasts to a Coastline Cruise, Cap off the Ultimate Rail Journey with Koalas and Fine Dining.

general icon

Touring East Gippsland

This morning, wake up and have breakfast in the car, savouring fresh flavours to start their day. Afterwards, a bus will transfer you to some of the best food and wine attractions in the lakes region before enjoying a gourmet lunch at Wyanga Park. After lunch we embark on one of the highlighs of the weekend - a privately chartered cruise from Lakes Entrance to Paynesville before a visit to the famous koala colony on Raymond Island, where guests can see these adorable creatures in their natural habitat. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner on the waterfront in Paynesville.

Image 0
meal icon

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Breakfast today will be served in the Dining Car.

Lunch will be served at the Wyanga Park Winery (to be confirmed).

Dinner will be served lakeside in Paynesville

accommodation icon

Accommodation

Accommodation will be in your private sleeping cabin onboard.

path icon

Today's tours visit some the most interesting attactions in East Gippsland, including those outlined below:

Peels Cruises offers scenic boat tours that highlight the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Lakes Entrance. Experience wildlife spotting, including playful dolphins, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into the area's rich history. Departing from the historic Post Office Jetty, Peels Cruises also features specialized fishing tours and customizable private charters for unique experiences.
activity icon

Paynesville

Paynesville offers stunning waterfront views and access to beautiful lakes and beaches, making it a scenic retreat. This vibrant area features a lively local dining and shopping scene. Unique to Paynesville is its status as the home to the largest fleet of inland boats in the Southern Hemisphere, providing a gateway to the picturesque Gippsland Lakes.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
The Koala Trail offers scenic paths that highlight local wildlife and stunning nature views. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays about koalas, along with dedicated observation areas that emphasize conservation. This unique trail combines education and nature, providing a memorable experience in the heart of the Australian landscape.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
activity icon

Tambo Valley Honey

Tambo Valley Honey offers a delightful array of local honey products, perfect for those looking to savor unique flavors. Visitors can enjoy educational experiences about beekeeping, complete with honey tasting sessions. The charming atmosphere and guided tours make it a must-visit for honey enthusiasts and gift shoppers alike.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
activity icon

Bruthen

Bruthen is a charming rural town known for its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere. Explore local shops and cafés while immersing yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage. Enjoy access to nearby rivers and nature trails that highlight the area's natural beauty and community spirit.

Sunday: Explore the Goldfield's history of West Gippsland

Settle into your private train for a daylight return journey to Melbourne
Sunday: Explore the Goldfield's history of West Gippsland image

Breakfast in Motion, History in the Hills: Journey Through the La Trobe Valley to the Historic Goldfields of Walhalla, Before a Final, First-Class Coast Into Melbourne.

general icon

Explore historic West Gippsland

Awaken as the train departs from Bairnsdale and enjoy a delightful breakfast in the dining car while the train glides through lush dairy farming areas.

Marvel at the scenery as you pass the La Trobe Valley before the train stops in Warragul, where we will board buses to tour the historic town of Walhalla, known for its gold-mining past and rich heritage.

Hop aboard the Walhalla Railway, a charming steam train that takes you through stunning landscapes.

Finally, embark on the last leg of your journey to Melbourne, where the excitement of the city awaits.

meal icon

Breakfast, Lunch and Afternoon Tea

Breakfast today will be served in the Dining Car.

Lunch will be served on tour in West Gippsland

Afternoon tea will be served in the Club Car as the train approaches Melbourne.

transport icon

Today's Journey

Departing Bairnsdale in the early morning, the train will make its way west as the stunning Gippsland scenery unfolds, featuring lush forests and tranquil lakes, before arriving in the vibrant city of Melbourne. The route offers a picturesque journey through charming towns and picturesque landscapes, connecting Bairnsdale to the bustling metropolis. Enjoy the relaxing ride as you travel through the heart of Victoria, with opportunities to experience the region's rich natural beauty and cultural highlights along the way.

path icon

Today's tours visit some the most interesting attactions in West Gippsland, including those outlined below:

activity icon

Walhalla

Discover Walhalla, a picturesque town rich in gold mining history, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Explore its charming heritage architecture and take a ride on the historic Walhalla Goldfields Railway.

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
activity icon

Walhalla Goldfields Railway

Experience the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, where scenic train rides take you through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Discover the rich history of gold mining as you explore the picturesque town of Walhalla. Enjoy a unique steam train journey, offering educational insights into the gold rush era, perfect for all ages.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5
Image 6
Image 7