Monarto Luxury Stay

Your East Coast journey begins with a warm welcome at Hanworth House in East Brisbane, where you'll check in gather with fellow travellers for a celebratory start to your summer journey. After setting off from Brisbane on the Great Southern, life on board begins to unfold. Savour lunch as the train winds south, then settle into the rhythm of your cabin and the passing landscapes.

In the afternoon, the Great Southern arrives in the coastal town of Coffs Harbour. Here, the evening unfolds in true coastal style. As the sun sinks below the horizon, enjoy drinks and canapés on the sand at Charlesworth Bay before a signature outdoor dinner - weather permitting- showcasing fresh seafood and regional produce paired with local wines. The soundtrack is set by a live band and the gentle rhythm of waves on the shore.

After a few unhurried hours, reboard the train and settle in for your first night on board. Stay: Great Southern (3 Nights) (L/D)

Start the day with a hearty breakfast on board before setting off on your choice of Off Train Experiences. Wine lovers can explore the picturesque Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest wine region. Known for Semillon and Shiraz, here you'll spend the day amongst the vines, visiting Tulloch and Brokenwood Wines followed by a platter-style lunch featuring local produce at Twine Restaurant. If you'd prefer to take to the skies, treat yourself to an optional upgrade with a Hunter Valley helicopter flight that soars over the rolling green hills, showcasing the best of the wine region and beyond.

Alternatively, discover Port Stephens by land or sea. Venture by 4WD across the vast Stockton Bight Sand Dunes, the largest mobile dunes in the Southern Hemisphere. Stop to admire your surrounds and drive to the top of a dune to take in the sweeping views - you may even choose to sandboard down.

On the water tour, be dazzled by turquoise seas as you soak up the coastline on a relaxed boat cruise, with the chance to spot dolphins along the way. Whether by land or sea, after your Port Stephens adventure you'll enjoy a leisurely lunch at Nelson Bay Golf Club before returning to the train in the afternoon.

Closer to the city, explore Newcastle on a guided walking tour that reveals its coastal charm, capped with lunch at Scratchleys on the Wharf before returning to the train for a regionally inspired dinner. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the Great Southern travels through Victoria's high country before choosing your next Off Train Experience. Victoria is well-known for its excellent food and wine scene, which is on show at Clyde Park in the Moorabool Valley. Clyde Park is a beautiful vineyard, cellar door and bistro set among rolling hills. Here, you'll enjoy a long lunch and sample cool-climate wines while being entertained on the glorious lawns.

Alternatively, spend the day in cosmopolitan Melbourne to discover why it's considered the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. Highlights include the Ian Potter Centre at NGV Australia, with its remarkable collection of Australian art, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, guided by a club member. History buffs may prefer the Old Melbourne Gaol, where stories of the past, including those of Ned Kelly, come to life.

To complete your Melbourne experience, take in the sweeping views from Melbourne Skydeck before ascending to Eureka 89 for a curated lunch showcasing seasonal local produce. Afterwards, return to the train to continue your journey south. (B/L/D)

Catch the morning light over regional South Australia, a final reminder of the landscapes you've travelled through. Sit back and enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board, savouring the last moments of life on train. Soon, the Great Southern glides into Adelaide, where you will be transferred by private vehicle to Monarto Safari Lodge, approximately 1 hour from the city centre and nestled in South Australia's expansive Murraylands. Monarto Safari Lodge offers an extraordinary escape into nature's embrace, combining luxurious Safari Tents with authentic experiences, during your stay you'll be surrounded by Africa's wildest animals.

With some free time before checking in, you may choose to laze by the Lodge plunge pools, enjoy a game of pickle ball or indulge in the luxurious day spa at Monarto Safari Resort. Settle into your luxurious Safari Tent and enjoy the views as far as the eye can see. This evening dine at the Lodge delighting in a three course menu carefully curated by the onsite chef. Stay: Monarto Safari Lodge (2 Nights) (B/L/D)

This morning breakfast is served in the Lodge before heading out to explore Monarto Safari Park via the guided Zu-Loop bus experience, or a combination of the Zu-Loop bus and walking. Monarto is the largest open-range safari experience in the world outside of Africa and spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles.

You can hop on and off the bus at the wildlife viewing platforms and spend time observing your favourite animal species. Additionally, you can enhance your visit by attending Daily Keeper Presentations and booking a range of intimate behind-the-scenes animal experiences.

Early evening, join the Sunset Wildlife Safari, soaking in the last rays of sun on your small group guided tour. Enjoy exclusive access to Monarto Safari Park's Wild Africa area after hours with ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast parklands and watch the free-roaming herds of African animals across 550 hectares.

As you explore the lands from the comfort of a custom built Safari Landcruiser, you'll have the opportunity to observe and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. Light refreshments will be served during the tour, capping off the unforgettable experience. Tonight you may choose to dine at the Lodge or in the Resort restaurant, Kutjera. (B/L/D)

Today, your wild Monarto Luxury Stay comes to an end. After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and transfer by private vehicle to your choice of the Adelaide Airport or Adelaide CBD Hotel. (B)