Christmas and New Year Australia rail bucket list, 21 Nights in

Cairns, QL, Australia
for £6633 pp
Inclusions

  • Flights

  • Hotel

  • Meal

  • Activity
 
  • Reference: O37873
  • Valid Between 20 December 2026 - 13 January 2027
  • Book by 15 July 2026
  • 21 Nights
  • London Heathrow
  • Room Only
 

What's Included

  • Includes snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef on Christmas Day
  • Celebrate the New Year in Sydney - Ring in the new year before anyone else!
  • Travel on the iconic Indian Pacific train from Sydney to Perth
  • Stay in surfers paradise -the Gold Coast

Selected Upgrades

    Early Bird
    Offer Details
    Experience the very best of Australia this festive season, from the tropical beauty of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef to the vibrant cities of Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sydney. Celebrate Christmas with a reef snorkelling adventure and welcome the New Year in Sydney before embarking on the lege ...

    Experience the very best of Australia this festive season, from the tropical beauty of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef to the vibrant cities of Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sydney. Celebrate Christmas with a reef snorkelling adventure and welcome the New Year in Sydney before embarking on the legendary Indian Pacific rail journey across the Australian Outback to Perth. Combining iconic sights, spectacular landscapes and one of the world's greatest train journeys, this is an unforgettable coast-to-coast Australian holiday.

    Tropical Christmas

    Your Hotel
    Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Cairns

    Cairns, QL, Australia
    Standard
    Room Only
    Reviews
    (2956)
    4 nights
    Description

    DoubleTree by Hilton hotels are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere. Typically, they offer comfortable and stylish accommodations, modern amenities, and a focus on providing a memorable guest experience. Guests often enjoy signature warm chocolate chip cookies upon check-in, a distinctive feature of DoubleTree hotels.

    Accomodations

    The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Cairns likely offers a blend of modern comfort and Hilton's renowned hospitality. Guests can anticipate well-appointed rooms with contemporary amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Hilton's commitment to guest satisfaction often includes features such as fitness centers, swimming pools, and on-site dining options. The hotel may also provide convenient access to key attractions in Cairns, offering a central location for both business and leisure travelers.



     

    Conference

    Meeting Rooms: Expect a variety of meeting rooms equipped with modern technology, suitable for conferences, seminars, workshops, and other events.



    Event Spaces: The hotel likely offers versatile event spaces that can accommodate different group sizes, from intimate meetings to larger conferences.



    Audiovisual Equipment: Conference facilities are typically equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, including projectors, sound systems, and video conferencing capabilities.

    Recreation

    Fitness Center: Expect a well-equipped fitness center with modern exercise equipment for guests who want to maintain their workout routines during their stay.



    Swimming Pool: Many Hilton hotels feature swimming pools, providing a refreshing place to relax and unwind. Depending on the location and facilities, there may be outdoor or indoor pool options.



    Spa or Wellness Services: Some Hilton hotels offer spa services or wellness facilities, allowing guests to indulge in massages or other rejuvenating treatments.



    Outdoor Spaces: Hilton properties often provide outdoor spaces, such as gardens or terrace areas, where guests can enjoy the pleasant surroundings.



    Local Excursions: The hotel may also assist in organizing local excursions or activities, especially given Cairns' proximity to attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and the rainforest. This could include snorkeling or diving trips, rainforest tours, or other outdoor adventures.

    Other Details

    Our oceanfront hotel in Cairns is surrounded by landscaped, tropical gardens with views of the Coral Sea.

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    Your Hotel
    Mantra Terrace Brisbane

    Brisbane, QL, Australia
    Standard
    Room Only
    Reviews
    (1444)
    1 night
    Description

    A stay at Mantra Terrace Hotel places you in the heart of Spring Hill, walking distance from St. Andrews Lutheran Church and Cathedral Square. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of King Edward Park and St John’s Cathedral.

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    Your Hotel
    Mercure Gold Coast Resort

    Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
    Resort View Room
    Room Only
    Reviews
    (1772)
    4 nights
    Description

    Mercure Gold Coast Resort is a premier accommodation option nestled in the heart of the vibrant Gold Coast, Australia. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the resort offers a tranquil oasis just minutes away from the region's iconic beaches and attractions. With a focus on providing a comfortable and stylish stay, Mercure Gold Coast Resort boasts modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a range of leisure facilities, including a stunning outdoor pool and tennis courts. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, the resort's convenient location and warm hospitality make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience on the Gold Coast.

    Accomodations

    Indulge your stay at a Golf Resort in Gold Coast. Our 292 guest accommodation rooms are spread over 10 acres of lush tropical gardens, surrounded by Palm Meadows Golf Course. The resort features nine three story low-rise accommodation buildings, accessible via stairs (no elevators). All rooms open onto either a balcony or patio with views of the resort’s gardens, pool or Palm Meadows Golf Course. In addition, our resort offers a wide range of facilities to enhance your stay.

    Conference

    nspire, produce and have peace of mind at Mercure Gold Coast Resort for your next Gold Coast event. With seven indoor conference rooms, most boasting natural light and sweeping views, and state of the art audio visual equipment and technical support, whether you’re planning an intimate board meeting, gala dinner, seminar or exhibition, Mercure Gold Coast Resort is the perfect choice.



    Inspire your delegates with unique outdoor spaces bound only by your imagination. Think cocktails and canapes beneath the stars, a tipi or marquee event on Lakeside Lawn, or sunrise yoga on The Deck to start your day. Create some food for thought with our Mercure Meetings packages and menus, constructed using clean, whole food ingredients to increase productivity and engagement throughout the day.



    With 292 accommodation rooms available at the resort, speak to our dedicated events team today about a group rate and host your delegates with ease for residential conferences, gala events, and trade shows.

    Recreation

    The resort also comes perfectly equipped with facilities including two outdoor pools, great for a refreshing dip or poolside cocktail in the beautiful Gold Coast sun, two floodlit tennis courts and gymnasium to get the pulse racing. Future Therapy Massage is also a great addition to help soothe away stress, either in the sauna or outdoor spa with a pampering massage to fully relax.

    Wedding

    Pre-wedding soirees, stylish accommodation, alfresco ceremonies and receptions. Share your special day with family and friends among the lush surroundings of the resort with sweeping views of the Gold Coast hinterland, creating the perfect ambience. As an all-inclusive venue from pre-wedding spa treatments, a round of golf for the boys, to the big day itself, including unique ceremony and reception options. Our creative wedding professionals can design everything from a cosy indoor soiree to a night under the stars, or an indulgent banquet feast to a relaxed reception with cocktails and canapes. After dancing the night away, escape to your private room to spend your first night as newlyweds. Wake up to an indulgent breakfast delivered to the bridal suite, or perhaps share some selfies with family and friends in the restaurant. You and your guests won’t forget your wedding day with amazing photo opportunities throughout the gardens and our grand staircase.

    Other Details

    Nestled amongst a picturesque green-belt of golf courses, Mercure Gold Coast Resort is perfect for relaxing, unwinding and rejuvenating in peace and quiet.



     

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    Your Hotel
    The Ultimo

    Sydney, NSW, Australia
    Double Room
    Room Only
    6 nights
    Description

    The Ultimo features modern accommodation in the vibrant Chinatown district. Constructed in 1911 as a key component in Haymarket’s transition to become Sydney’s fresh fruit market, the heritage-listed building is a reminder of Sydney’s bustling and vibrant commercial heritage which continues to this day. After an extensive refurbishment in 2016, the character of the hotel was transformed to showcase its original historic roots within a contemporary setting as seen through its exposed brick walls and graphic tile. You will experience an iconic story of heritage meets industrial modernism, East meets West, New York in China Town

    Accomodations

    Make yourself at home in one of the 95 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as desks and coffee/tea makers, newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/ laundry services, wireless Internet access and tour/ticket assistance.

    Your Tour
    Indian Pacific Rail

    Start: Sydney, NSW, Australia
    End: Perth, Australia
    3 nights
    Description

    Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions have owned and operated The Ghan (Adelaide-Alice Springs-Darwin), the Indian Pacific (Sydney-Adelaide-Perth) and The Overland (Melbourne-Adelaide) rail journeys since 1997 when they became the first transcontinental passenger rail business to be privatised in Australia.
    Today, they are passionate and always evolving, building on their trains’ remarkable heritage and inspired by the wonder of Australia, connect travellers to enriching, powerful experiences both on and off their iconic trains.


    Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions have owned and operated The Ghan (Adelaide-Alice Springs-Darwin), the Indian Pacific (Sydney-Adelaide-Perth) and The Overland (Melbourne-Adelaide) rail journeys since 1997 when they became the first transcontinental passenger rail business to be privatised in Australia.
    Today, they are passionate and always evolving, building on their trains’ remarkable heritage and inspired by the wonder of Australia, connect travellers to enriching, powerful experiences both on and off their iconic trains.

    Additional Information
    Highlights
    Day Itinerary Destination  
    1 Sydney Sydney, NSW, Australia
    Meals:AI
    Destination:Sydney, NSW, Australia

    Departing Sydney's Central Station, get acquainted with your cabin and fellow travellers. Leaving city skylines and the fast-paced urban lifestyle behind, the Indian Pacific winds through the Blue Mountains with spectacular views to the left and right. Relax in your cabin or socialize in the lounge with a cup of coffee or afternoon tipple on request. Tonight, you will enjoy your first meal on board - a regionally inspired dinner paired with fine wine and beverages. After dinner, consider a nightcap in the lounge before you retire to your cabin.

    2 Broken Hill, Barossa Valley and Adelaide Surrounds Adelaide, Australia
    Meals:AI
    Destination:Adelaide, Australia

    After breakfast, prepare for your first Off Train Experience in Broken Hill, the Silver City. Explore mining heritage through visiting the Broken Hill Trades Hall and the striking Miners Memorial that stands over the town or for a different take on Broken Hill, go on a tour of the main drag with fabulous local Drag Queen sensation, Shelita Buffet.

    Art aficionados may opt to visit the captivating Living Desert Sculpture site or take in the exhibitions at the oldest regional art gallery in New South. Alternatively, ignite a sense of nostalgia at Bells Milk Bar, an icon of Broken Hill, sipping on malted milk while a performance by Cindy and Johnny takes you back to the 50's.

    Lunch is served back on board as the Indian Pacific enters the southern tip of the ancient Flinders Ranges.

    Arriving in Adelaide in the late afternoon, you'll have the opportunity for an Off Train Experience, exploring the South Australian Museum or indulging in an epicurean experience. Visit the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale to sample fine South Australian wines before an indulgent meal, or try a cheese or gin tasting in the charming Adelaide Hills village of Hahndorf before feasting at Haus, Haus - a German restaurant showcasing the best in local produce. Alternatively, visit Adelaide Central Markets for a tour and exclusive sit-down dinner.

    After dinner, return to the train to continue your journey west.

    3 Nullarbor Plain Nullarbor, SA, Australia
    Meals:AI
    Destination:Nullarbor, SA, Australia

    Today is all about those amazing outback views as you cross this famous stretch of the Australian interior, the Nullarbor Plain, on the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. En route, the Indian Pacific calls in to Cook, once-bustling, now almost-ghost town that was originally built as a support town for the railway.

    Travelling further west, the next stop is at Rawlinna on the fringe of Australia's largest sheep station for a signature dinner under a thousand stars (seasonal).

    4 Perth Perth, Australia
    Meals:AI
    Destination:Perth, Australia

    Admire the delightful undulations of the Avon Valley and enjoy a final breakfast on board as the final stage of your transcontinental crossing unfolds.

    Your Hotel
    Four Points by Sheraton Perth

    Perth, Australia
    Standard
    Room Only
    Reviews
    (1425)
    3 nights
    Description

    This 4 star hotel is located in the city centre of Perth and was established in 1986. It is a short drive away from the Burswood Casino and the nearest station is Murray Street Station. The Hotel has a coffee shop, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre/gym. All 278 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe, ironing set and air conditioning. 

    Accomodations

    All 278 modern smoke-free rooms and suites come equipped with contemporary furnishings, sitting area, Wi-Fi access (fees apply), cable 37-inch flat-screen TV, IDD telephone and refrigerator. Each unit has bathroom with walk-in shower.

    Conference

    Our hotel features four meeting spaces with seven layout options, fully flexible to meet the needs and size requirements of your next gathering. Plus you will find us in one of the best spots in town, at the western end of the Central Business District. We’re just minutes from the city centre and St. Georges Terrace with the many world-class corporations and businesses. Plus, a short walk takes you to the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

    Recreation

    Recharge your batteries in our brand new Fitness Centre, fully equipped with all the essentials for a great workout. Our Fitness Centre offers state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, fitness balls and free weights complete with a plasma TV screen with cable channels.

    Wedding

    Plan your wedding with us for a perfect day you’ll remember forever. Our beautiful 230 square metre ballroom is the ideal venue with large crystal chandeliers, neutral tones to theme the way you like, creative menu selections and personalised service.

    Other Details

    We offer what matters most to keep you comfortable and connected. With 278 guest rooms and four flexible meeting spaces, we offer an ideal location for business and leisure travellers alike. Conveniently located on Wellington Street directly opposite the Perth Arena and just minutes away from Perth's Central Business District, you can step out for great local shopping, dining and entertainment.

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    31st July - 7 August 2 adults, 1 room

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