Join the Vinelander, one of Slow Rail Journeys' signature itineraries, as it travels from Melbourne deep into Outback Victoria to the oasis of Mildura.
Don't miss your chance to be one of the the first people to tour the spectacular Trail of Lights and more!
$2,545 per person twin share and $2,990 for solo travellers. All fares include all four nights' accommodation, meals, tours, and rail travel.
Depart Melbourne onboard Slow Rail Journeys' private broad gauge sitting car train hauled by steam locomotive R707 as it makes a spirited run from Melbourne to the Goldfields.
After enjoying a night at the luxurious RACV Goldfields Resort, transfer to Maryborough to board Slow Rail Journeys' standard gauge diesel-hauled sitting train to Mildura. Sit back and relax as the Goldfields melt into the vast plains of the Mallee and the arid landscapes of Outback Victoria before reaching the vines that travellers past woke up to signal the train's arrival into Mildura and the oasis of the Sunraysia.
Enjoy three nights at the Grand Hotel, the Commodore Motel or equivalent in Mildura.
Tour the spectacular Mungo National Park, or take part in the town's Mildura Day celebrations
Be one of the first people to experience Mildura's spectacular Trail of Lights
After a restful morning with optional tours featuring exclusive access to Mildura’s best attractions, join the PB Mundoo to cruise upstream to the spectacular Trentham Estate. After sampling some of the best wine and cheese in the region, enjoy dinner onboard as the Mundoo cruises back to town
On the return journey travel along the little visited Ararat to Maryborough link on a day long rail journey from the Goldfields to Melbourne.
All fares include:
Return rail travel from Melbourne to Mildura and v.v (travelling by private steam-hauled broad gauge sitting car train between Melbourne and Ballarat and by private diesel-hauled Standard Gauge sitting train between Maryborough and Mildura and back from Mildura to Maryborough and, after a night in the Goldfields, on to Melbourne (with a bus transfer between Ballarat, the RACV Goldfields Resort and Maryborough).
Two nights at the luxurious RACV Goldfields Resort
Two nights at the Grand Hotel, the Commodore Motel or equivalent in Mildura.
All meals, tours, transfers and more
Mildura's Trail of Lights
Prepare to be captivated by the Trail of Lights, a transcendent experience that allows connection with both the artwork and the natural environment.
Through the interplay of 12,500 firefly lights, Gone Fishing sculptures, and the natural landscape, the lights, curated by British artist Bruce Munro, will not disappoint.
From the iconic Field of Light at Uluru to the mesmerising Sensorio in the rolling hills of Paso Robles in California, Munro’s installations are more than just art; they're experiences.
His work is a captivating blend of creativity and engineering. Thousands of lights come together to tell stories of wonder and human connection.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where imagination meets reality, and light becomes the ultimate storyteller. invites contemplation and reflection, creating a space for introspection and wonder.
As night falls, this spectacle will turn Lock Island into a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors. Don’t miss this chance to see art and nature come alive in a whole new way!
The Vinelander Tour Highlights
Summary Itinerary
Thursday 29 May
With a sense of anticipation, meet your fellow travellers this morning to commence our epic exploration of one of the most spectacular corners of Victoria. Early afternoon, board our steam-hauled broad-gauge Vinelander as it bids farewell to the suburban sprawl of Melbourne and Geelong as R707 hauls the train up the ranges through Merridith and Lal Lal to Ballarat before arriving at the Goldfields and our luxury accommodation for the evening.
Thursday in detail
Friday 30 May
Today, we leave the Ironbark forests and granite hills of the Goldfields behind, travelling north into the great vistas of Mallee Depression before finally arriving at the irrigated oasis of Sunraysia.
Friday in detail
Saturday 31 May
Experience two of Australia's most unique attractions - visit the moonscapes of Mungo National Park, home to the oldest human remains outside Africa, followed by being one of the first to tour Mildura's spectacular Trail of Lights curated by British artist Bruce Munro, the inspiration behind Uluru's Field of Lights.
Saturday in detail
Sunday 1 June
Experience the best of the Sunraysia and some relaxation time in Mildura before boarding the PB Mundoo for a daylight cruise to Trentham Estate. After sampling some of Sunraysia's best wine, reboard the Mundoo for an evening dinner cruise back to Mildura.
Saturday in detail
Monday 2 June
Bid farewell to the Sunraysia as the Vinelander transports you to the heart of the Mallee. Admire awe-inspiring silo art, feast on locally sourced produce and finish the day in the granite peaks and ironbark-clad forests of the Goldfields.
Sunday in detail
Tuesday 3 June
All good things must come to an end, and today we transfer to Maryborough to join the diesel-hauled standard gauge Vinelander for a day of rail cruing across Victoria, travelling along the little seen freight line from Maryborough to Ararat, as wide vistas of the Mallee and Sunraysia are replaced by the back fences of the houses in the populated Port Phillip basin, and finally the gleaming glass skyscrapers of Melbourne’s CBD.
Tuesday in detail
Full Itinerary
Thursday 29 May
Your Slow Rail Journey will commence with check-in at the historic Savoy Hotel.
Entering Melbourne's busy Southern Cross Station, you will immediately realise you are embarking on a journey like no other. Sitting on the platform is the Vinelander, its steam locomotive and heritage carriages perfectly juxtaposing the modernity and hustle surrounding it.
Upon boarding, settle into your private train for our epic journey from Melbourne to Ballarat onboard the steam-hauled Vinelander.
Right on time, the Vinelander will wake up the station as the whistle sounds, announcing our departure along the broad gauge line toward Geelong and on up the ranges to Ballarat. Relax as a welcome drink is served to your seat, and Melbourne disappears behind the train.
Our adventure begins shortly after our departure when we divert from the main Melbourne—Ballarat passenger line to run along the original rail link between Melbourne and Ballarat via Geelong.
The line from Geelong to Ballarat was opened in 1862, connecting to the main Melbourne to Geelong railway that had opened five years prior. It was used to transport freight and miners from the primary ports of Melbourne and Geelong to the Goldfields of Ballarat. The journey from Geelong to Ballarat was instantly reduced from a day by horse-drawn coach to just four and a half hours on the uphill run from Geelong and two and a half hours on the downhill run back. It was not until 1889 that the route used by all V/Line commuter trains today via Ballan and Bacchus Marsh opened.
The line via Geelong remained the route taken by many express trains, including the Vinelander, the Wimmera Limited and the Overland, until the final Vinelander in 1993. In 1995, the Overland was diverted to run via Cressy to Ararat when the Melbourne to Adelaide line was converted to Standard Gauge, a route it uses today.
Today, the Geelong to Ballarat line is rarely seen, and we hope you enjoy the journey.
Built in 1862, Ballarat Station is a grand monument to the riches of Victoria's gold rush era. Its 19th-century architecture, with an arched roof and clock tower, stands proudly in the city centre. A heritage gem, it offers a glimpse into the bustling past when trains ferried hopeful prospectors from across the globe to the region.
After steaming into the historic Ballarat Station, a coach will transfer guests to the luxurious RACV Goldfields Resort, approximately 20 minutes away, to enjoy dinner and night in a luxurious hotel room.
Set perfectly amongst the history and nature of the Goldfields, mid-way between the mineral springs of Daylesford and the historic city of Ballarat, RACV Goldfields Resort is set in beautiful bushland outside Creswick.
Rooms feature fairways or forest views set amongst the sounds of the Australian bush. Dine on classic favourites and signature dishes featuring quality local produce and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a luxurious spa treatment (additional) and unwind for the evening.
This evening, join your crew for the Train Manager's welcome drinks, followed by a gourmet dinner.
Friday 30 May
After a gourmet breakfast in the RACV Resort's dining room, guests are transferred to Maryborough to join the Vinelander for the journey north.
Upon arrival in Maryborough, our private standard gauge fleet of carriages will proudly form the Vinelander as we travel north toward the Sunraysia under the power of the diesel locomotives that once hauled the namesake train on its overnight journey to Mildura.
Maryborough's historic railway station is one of the most beautiful in Australia. Departing Maryborough, the Vinelander passes the historic town of Dunolly before continuing north through St Arnaud (where the town's spectacular silo art may be visible) to Donald, where a brief stop is made. Donald is a country town with a lively spirit. Situated on Lake Buloke and close to several famous granite outcrops, the city is also known for the Lions' Train Park, a railfan heaven adjacent to the station.
Continuing north, relax as the flat Mallee plains make way for the arid landscapes of the outback as the Vinelander continues north through towns the trains' famous namesake sped through in the middle of the night - Lascelles, Speed—Tempy and more.
During your time onboard, enjoy locally sourced morning, lunch, and afternoon tea provided in partnership with our regional partners.
Mid-afternoon, the Vinelander will make a stop in Ouyen - a small country town located 441km from Melbourne by road; the Ouyen township is in the heart of the Victorian Mallee and surrounded by a beautiful array of national parks: Wyperfeld, Hattah-Kulkyne and Murray Sunset National Parks. All three parks have an abundance of drought-resistant wildflowers (as many as 100 varieties), unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, with access tracks throughout. Built to serve the dryland grazing surrounding it, Ouyen proudly supports an array of community clubs within the town, including a thriving Football and netball Club, Lawn Bowls, Lawn Tennis Courts, a Golf Course and a Swimming Pool.
Departing north, the train skirts the spectacular Hattah-Kulkyne National Park. This park is typical Mallee country, with extensive low scrub and open native pine woodland. Superbly adapted birds, animals, and vegetation thrive in the poor, sandy soils and searing summers.
Creeks connected to the Murray seasonally fill the freshwater Hattah Lakes, providing food and shelter for waterbirds and fish. The lakes can remain full for up to ten years without flooding, but flooding occurs once every two years.
Continuing north along the Calder Highway, we will enjoy spectacular views as we pass Red Cliffs to the historic city of Mildura at the crossroads of Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.
After transferring to your accommodation for the next two nights and settling in, enjoy a gastronomic experience served at the historic Grand Hotel, and be welcomed by Chaffey Trail President Mark Eckel and his amazing team.
Saturday 31 May
Today, visit two of Australia's most spectacular attractions - the moonscapes of Mungo National Park, home to the oldest human remains outside Africa, and Mildura's spectacular Trail of Lights.
Uncover a starkly beautiful landscape of ancient dry lake basins and sand formations in Mungo National Park. Home to Mungo Woman and Mungo Man, this area of NSW is rich with Aboriginal history and significant to the local indigenous people.
Our Mungo Explorer Experience offers the chance to visit and explore one of the oldest known civilisations outside Africa, walk amongst the moonscape at the Walls of China, and learn more about this fascinating region.
Departing Mildura, travel by coach for just under two hours along an unsealed road deep into the Outback, crossing the Murray River and venturing into the great unknown.
On arrival, enjoy morning tea at the iconic Mungo Lodge before exploring the Woolshed and the Visitors Centre to learn about the region's rich Aboriginal history.
After lunch back at Mungo Lodge, we will be joined by Barkindji guides to tour the spectacular moonscapes of the Walls of China before returning to Mildura for dinner.
After dinner, prepare to be captivated by the Trail of Lights, a transcendent experience that allows connection with both the artwork and the natural environment.
Through the interplay of 12,500 firefly lights, Gone Fishing sculptures, and the natural landscape, the lights, curated by British artist Bruce Munro, will not disappoint.
From the iconic Field of Light at Uluru to the mesmerising Sensorio in the rolling hills of Paso Robles in California, Munro’s installations are more than just art; they're experiences.
His work is a captivating blend of creativity and engineering. Thousands of lights come together to tell stories of wonder and human connection.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where imagination meets reality, and light becomes the ultimate storyteller. This piece invites contemplation and reflection, creating a space for introspection and wonder.
As night falls, this spectacle will turn Lock Island into a must-visit destination for locals and visitors. Don’t miss this chance to see art and nature come alive in a whole new way!
Sunday 1 June
Mildura is a vibrant regional city of contrasts. From the Murray River to the outback, there is something for everyone. While we can only sample the tip of this fascinating region's attractions, we hope your brief stay whets your appetite for a longer journey to the area.
Today is about doing as much or as little as you choose! Our flexible touring options, casual breakfast and lunch options and the relaxing cruise this afternoon are just what the doctor ordered after our journey north on the Vinelander.
For those seeking a more active morning, a team of volunteers from the Chaffey Trail and the council will host the historic riverfront, or you can visit Orange World, where Mario will not disappoint! If you feel like a lower-key morning, join our town shuttle for some shopping, a coffee, or just exploring the vibrant community of Mildura.
In the mid-afternoon, join the PB Mundoo on a cruise up the Mighty Murray to the spectacular Trentham Estate.
After sampling some of the region's best wines, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Mundoo back to Mildura.
Monday 2 June
Welcome back on board the Vinelander!
After being picked up and valeted back to Mildura Station, it is time to relax into the rhythm of slow rail travel as we retrace our steps south through Hattah and Ouyen toward Mallee and its many attractions. Settle in next to a panoramic window as we depart Mildura. Chat with newfound friends, read a good book or stare at the majesty of this spectacular state out the window as the Vinelander speeds south.
Mid-morning, the Vinelander will stop in the small town of Lascelles, where guests will be invited to step from the train for an off-train experience marvelling at the spectacular silo artwork which looms above the town.
In Lascelles, Renowned Melbourne Street Artist “Rone” has painted the images of a local couple, Geoff and Merrilyn Horman, on the defunct wheat silos that tower above the town.
The town has a population of only 48 people on a good day, but Rone selected the Horman's above all others. They are a humble couple who are both wise and knowing and have nurtured the town with their vast farming experience and longstanding connection to the area.
Their family has lived in the area for four generations. Geoff and Merrilyn were born in the district and married in Lascelles in 1967. Together with their two sons and their families, they have continued the family tradition of wheat farming and strong community involvement.
Lunch will be served onboard the Vinelander as we make our way south through Birchip, Donald, and St. Arnaud toward Maryborough, our stopping point for the evening.
Arriving in Maryborough, board coaches for the short drive to the luxurious RACV resort - your luxury oasis for the evening. Relax in the resort's exquisite facilities after a long day on the road!
After settling into your overnight accommodation, join your fellow passengers and crew for a final dinner of the tour - a chance to solidify new friendships and relive some of the life-long memories you will have made over the past several days.
Tuesday 3 June
All good things must end, and today, our epic slow rail adventure onboard the Vinelander concludes with a scenic journey back through the Pyrenees, along the flanks of the Grampians and across the western plains toward Geelong and Melbourne.
Today, guests will be offered two options. Either:
Return to Melbourne on our Express Return option, taking advantage of a transfer to Wendouree to board a regular V/Line train arriving at 10:51 a.m. or
Remain onboard the Vinelander to retrace our steps through Ararat to Melbourne, arriving at 7:02 pm.
Those remaining onboard the Vinelander will be transferred to Maryborough to reboard the train, which will then set out west along the little-seen Ararat to Maryborough cross-country freight line.
The Standard Gauge railway line between Ararat and Maryborough is rarely used by passenger trains—ours is the first to operate along since standardisation. While high-speed Velocity trains operate on the broad-gauge network speed between Maryborough and Melbourne in approximately two hours via Ballarat, our leisurely 7-hour slow rail experience sees us loop the west of the state. We spend the morning travelling 87km west to Ararat before setting the course south to Maroona and Cressy and finally east through Geelong to Melbourne!
Joining Ararat's main Western Standard Gauge line, the Vinelander speeds toward Melbourne across one of the state's most productive wheat and canola growing regions.
It's not long before the open vistas outside are once again replaced with Melbourne's suburbs, and all too soon, the train arrives back into the modern world at Southern Cross Station, right on time.
Those taking the express return option will be bused to Wendouree Station, where they will board an escorted V/Line service back to Melbourne, arriving mid-morning.
Onboard Facilities and Package Inclusions
Enjoy a premium epic adventure while staying in the region's best hotels, travelling in spacious carriages, and attending premium events.
Inclusions:
Enjoy the best experience the regions we visit can offer.
Between Melbourne and Ballarat (and vice versa) enjoy our Broad Gauge open saloon and compartment sitting cars, and the BK Lounge as R707 pulls the train up and down the ranges.
Onboard our Steam Hauled Broad Gauge Vinelander
From Maryborough to Mildura, travel in Slow Rail Journeys' standard gauge sitting carriages. Each guest is seated in a forward-facing seat or a spacious booth seat arranged perfectly around a picture window. Each group has a guaranteed window seat.
Onboard our Standard Gauge Vinelander
Accommodation will be in the following hotels en route:
The Goldfields (Two nights): RACV Goldfields Resort
Sitting on 150 acres in Victorian Spa Country, RACV Goldfields Resort features various wellness facilities, rooms, and suites with luxurious spa baths. It also has an impressive 18-hole championship golf course on site.
The resort has health and wellness facilities, ideal for guests seeking a relaxing break or business travellers who need to unwind. Swim in the pool, enjoy a post-journey game of tennis, or work out in the gym before spending a peaceful afternoon in the spa.
Mildura: (Three nights):
Grand Hotel Mildura, the Commodore Motel or Equivalent
Please note: While Slow Rail Journeys has done extensive work to source the best rooms in Mildura, Mildura is a regional town and hotel rooms are clean and functional rather than luxurious, and are not at the standard of our accommodation in Creswick.
Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel Mildura's sophisticated accommodation is in a historic building opposite the beautiful Murray River in the heart of Mildura. Mildura is a modern and vibrant town between Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Whether planning a holiday to Mildura itself or simply passing through, the Quality Hotel Mildura Grand offers a very convenient and relaxing place to stay. Note that some rooms at the Grand are small, with limited viewing windows.
Commodore Motel
Superbly located opposite Mildura's majestic Murray River and within walking distance to the shopping and dining precinct, the Commodore Motel's renovated rooms are some of Mildura's most comfortable and recently refurbished.
Optional Upgrades
Enjoy the very best with the following optional upgrades available:
Room+: Upgrade to a Fairway View or above room at the RACV Goldfields Resort and a Superior or above room in Mildura
Space+: Upgrade to receive more space onboard the train, including guaranteed No-Neighbour seating. Enjoy a booth of four for single packages and six for twin packages on the standard gauge train between Maryborough and Mildura, and private saloon seating or a private compartment on the broad gauge Vinelander. Please note that on the Broad Gauge Vinelander, you will receive two seats in a 2+2 layout.
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