Rock & Rail
17 day Holiday Idea – from £3119
With flights from £4419
Australian icons are aplenty on this multi centre Australia holiday. Enjoy three city stays, two of the country’s great rail journeys and a self drive Outback adventure.
Highlights:
- Explore Sydney Harbour, visit the Opera House or relax on Bondi Beach
- Experience sophisticated rail travel and fine dining on board the Indian Pacific
- Journey from Adelaide to the Red Centre on the world-renowned Ghan train
- Visit otherworldly Uluru and Kings Canyon on a self drive tour
- Spend three nights in the cultural capital of Melbourne
Your Itinerary
Expand AllYou can customise your Australia rail holiday by adding extra nights or destinations. Just let us know what you would like to do.

Touchdown in Australia’s iconic and picturesque city of Sydney. Spend four nights in your choice of accommodation and explore the city and beyond.
Perhaps you’d like to relax on Bondi Beach, cruise Sydney Harbour, or conquer the Harbour Bridge climb. By night the city comes alive with a host of incredible dining options and lively bars, or alternatively join the locals in a performance at the famous Sydney Opera House. You could even venture out of the city for a day, exploring the majestic Blue Mountains, or sampling fine wines in the Hunter Valley.
Your chosen Sydney hotel


Day 5 to 6 – The Indian Pacific Train
Feel the excitement build this morning as, as you are about to experience one of Australia’s great rail journeys. Board your Indian Pacific rail journey from Sydney to Adelaide, and settle into your private cabin.
Watch the incredible and constantly changing views, as you travel through the Blue Mountains and then enter the South Australian Outback. In the evening, you’ll enjoy world-class hospitality and fine dining, with a regionally inspired menu and wine pairings, all included in your journey.
After spending the night onboard the Indian Pacific, you’ll arrive in Broken Hill, where you can choose to take one of several tours on offer. After exploring the ‘Silver City’ you’ll return to the train for lunch, passing through the spectacular Flinders Ranges in the afternoon. Your journey aboard the Indian Pacific train comes to an end as you pull into Adelaide.
Onboard the Indian Pacific and your chosen Adelaide hotel


Day 7 to 8 – Adelaide
Spend the next two days exploring South Australia’s capital, Adelaide. You’ll find galleries and museums in abundance along the tree-lined streets of North Terrace, or head to Rundle Mall for some retail therapy. Adelaide Central Market offers a huge range of fresh produce, making it a great place to explore and check out some of Adelaide’s best eateries. Take a stroll along the riverbank, and explore the city’s Botanic Gardens.
Further afield, travel out to the picturesque Adelaide Hills, or sample the fine wine produce of the Barossa and Clare Valley. Alternatively, you may like to opt for an overnight stay on Kangaroo Island instead of a night in the city, encountering some of the island’s abundant wildlife and enjoying some beautiful scenery.
Your chosen Adelaide hotel


Day 9 – The Ghan Train
Your next rail adventure is an epic outback journey on board The Ghan train from Adelaide to Alice Springs.
Wind your way through the diverse South Australia terrain, travelling through the majestic Flinders Ranges, lush green wine-producing regions and finally into the expansive phenomenon of the outback.
You’ll spend one night on board The Ghan, with all-inclusive meals and drinks, and your choice of cabin. Enjoy the incredible views and world-class service aboard.
Onboard The Ghan


Day 10 – Alice Springs
This morning, The Ghan will stop at the remote outpost of Marla, where you will disembark to watch a spectacular sunrise over the Outback. Enjoy a delicious brunch on board as you enter the Northern Territory and wind you way through the MacDonnell Ranges. Leave The Ghan in Alice Springs, ready for your next adventure.
Pick up your Avis intermediate automatic sedan or full size 4WD automatic vehicle at Alice Springs Depot.
In Alice Springs, we recommend that you visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air which both give you a good insight into life in the Australian Outback. Then, head up to Anzac Hill for views over Alice Springs and the surrounding area.
Perhaps visit the Old Telegraph Station, situated 3 km north from the Town Centre, or visit the the Alice Springs Desert Park. Discover the landscapes, plants and animals of Australia’s unique desert environment.
Alternatively, for a deeper insight into ‘Alice’ you may wish to join a guided tour of the town.
Your chosen Alice Springs hotel


Day 11 – Kings Canyon
Depart Alice Springs and travel south along the Stuart Highway and on to Kings Canyon.
This afternoon, you may wish to take a relaxed walk through the peaceful and shady boulder strewn canyon floor.
Kings Canyon is the deepest gorge in the Red Centre and magnificently beautiful. Waterholes on the canyon floor never completely dry up and foster lush growth, which includes palms of ancient biological origin. A path to the rim of the gorge leads to the Lost City, where the rock has worn away to resemble ruins. High in the canyon and very difficult to reach is the Garden of Eden, an oasis of waterholes and plant life.
Whilst staying a Kings Canyon you may like to visit the Light Towers art installation, the innovative3 work of Bruce Munro. See the Red Centre in a unique light, as the sun sets over these two metre tall illuminated towers.
Your chosen Kings Canyon hotel


Day 12 to 13 – Uluru (Ayers Rock)
This morning, make an early start to avoid the heat of the day and drive in to the Kings Canyon car park to discover the wonders of this ancient geological formation via the rim walk. The walk may take up to 3 hours and is suitable for those with a good level of fitness.
Mid morning, travel back along the Luritja Road to re-join the Lasseter Highway heading west to Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park. Perhaps take a detour en-route to explore the domes of Kata-Tjuta (The Olgas) before arriving at Uluru.
Kata Tjuta / The Olgas are a dramatic series of 36 dome-like rock formations which stand up to 546 metres high and cover an area of 35 square kilometres. Like Uluru, they produce an incredible light show at sunset, and to walk amongst them is a memorable experience.
Uluru (Ayers Rock) is the world’s largest monolith, measuring over 9kms around the base, and rising 348 metres above the Mulga plain. Named “Uluru” by the Aborigines, it is a sacred monument to them, and the walls of the caves, which comb the base, are covered in Aboriginal carvings and paintings, many of which are thousands of years old.
Whilst staying at Ayers Rock Resort, you may wish to experience the Field of Light art installation, enjoy dinner to the Sounds of Silence, or wonder at the Wintjiri Wiru light display.
Ayers Rock Resort


Day 14 to 16 – Melbourne
This morning you may wish to take a walk through the caves at the base of the Rock, then drop off your rental vehicle at the depot at Ayers Rock Airport before catching your flight to Melbourne. Make sure to soak in the views and the colours of the Outback one last time as you take off.
With a three night stay you have time to ride the iconic trams, explore the cafes and boutique shops or join a guided tour through the Laneways. You can also wander through the city’s impressive botanic gardens, or visit the beach huts in Mornington Peninsula. For panoramic views of Melbourne, head up 88 floors to the Eureka Skydeck.
Heading out of the city, join a wine tasting tour to the Yarra Valley, ride the Puffing Billy Railway, or even head out to Phillip Island to witness the nightly Penguin Parade.
Your chosen Melbourne hotel


Day 17 – Farewell from Melbourne
Bid a fond farewell to Melbourne as you make your way back to the airport for your flight home.

Your Itinerary
You can customise your Australia rail holiday by adding extra nights or destinations. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Day 1 to 4
| Sydney
Touchdown in Australia’s iconic and picturesque city of Sydney. Spend four nights in your choice of accommodation and explore the city and beyond.
Perhaps you’d like to relax on Bondi Beach, cruise Sydney Harbour, or conquer the Harbour Bridge climb. By night the city comes alive with a host of incredible dining options and lively bars, or alternatively join the locals in a performance at the famous Sydney Opera House. You could even venture out of the city for a day, exploring the majestic Blue Mountains, or sampling fine wines in the Hunter Valley.
Your chosen Sydney hotel

Day 5 to 6
| The Indian Pacific Train
Feel the excitement build this morning as, as you are about to experience one of Australia’s great rail journeys. Board your Indian Pacific rail journey from Sydney to Adelaide, and settle into your private cabin.
Watch the incredible and constantly changing views, as you travel through the Blue Mountains and then enter the South Australian Outback. In the evening, you’ll enjoy world-class hospitality and fine dining, with a regionally inspired menu and wine pairings, all included in your journey.
After spending the night onboard the Indian Pacific, you’ll arrive in Broken Hill, where you can choose to take one of several tours on offer. After exploring the ‘Silver City’ you’ll return to the train for lunch, passing through the spectacular Flinders Ranges in the afternoon. Your journey aboard the Indian Pacific train comes to an end as you pull into Adelaide.
Onboard the Indian Pacific and your chosen Adelaide hotel

Day 7 to 8
| Adelaide
Spend the next two days exploring South Australia’s capital, Adelaide. You’ll find galleries and museums in abundance along the tree-lined streets of North Terrace, or head to Rundle Mall for some retail therapy. Adelaide Central Market offers a huge range of fresh produce, making it a great place to explore and check out some of Adelaide’s best eateries. Take a stroll along the riverbank, and explore the city’s Botanic Gardens.
Further afield, travel out to the picturesque Adelaide Hills, or sample the fine wine produce of the Barossa and Clare Valley. Alternatively, you may like to opt for an overnight stay on Kangaroo Island instead of a night in the city, encountering some of the island’s abundant wildlife and enjoying some beautiful scenery.
Your chosen Adelaide hotel

Day 9
| The Ghan Train
Your next rail adventure is an epic outback journey on board The Ghan train from Adelaide to Alice Springs.
Wind your way through the diverse South Australia terrain, travelling through the majestic Flinders Ranges, lush green wine-producing regions and finally into the expansive phenomenon of the outback.
You’ll spend one night on board The Ghan, with all-inclusive meals and drinks, and your choice of cabin. Enjoy the incredible views and world-class service aboard.
Onboard The Ghan

Day 10
| Alice Springs
This morning, The Ghan will stop at the remote outpost of Marla, where you will disembark to watch a spectacular sunrise over the Outback. Enjoy a delicious brunch on board as you enter the Northern Territory and wind you way through the MacDonnell Ranges. Leave The Ghan in Alice Springs, ready for your next adventure.
Pick up your Avis intermediate automatic sedan or full size 4WD automatic vehicle at Alice Springs Depot.
In Alice Springs, we recommend that you visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air which both give you a good insight into life in the Australian Outback. Then, head up to Anzac Hill for views over Alice Springs and the surrounding area.
Perhaps visit the Old Telegraph Station, situated 3 km north from the Town Centre, or visit the the Alice Springs Desert Park. Discover the landscapes, plants and animals of Australia’s unique desert environment.
Alternatively, for a deeper insight into ‘Alice’ you may wish to join a guided tour of the town.
Your chosen Alice Springs hotel

Day 11
| Kings Canyon
Depart Alice Springs and travel south along the Stuart Highway and on to Kings Canyon.
This afternoon, you may wish to take a relaxed walk through the peaceful and shady boulder strewn canyon floor.
Kings Canyon is the deepest gorge in the Red Centre and magnificently beautiful. Waterholes on the canyon floor never completely dry up and foster lush growth, which includes palms of ancient biological origin. A path to the rim of the gorge leads to the Lost City, where the rock has worn away to resemble ruins. High in the canyon and very difficult to reach is the Garden of Eden, an oasis of waterholes and plant life.
Whilst staying a Kings Canyon you may like to visit the Light Towers art installation, the innovative3 work of Bruce Munro. See the Red Centre in a unique light, as the sun sets over these two metre tall illuminated towers.
Your chosen Kings Canyon hotel

Day 12 to 13
| Uluru (Ayers Rock)
This morning, make an early start to avoid the heat of the day and drive in to the Kings Canyon car park to discover the wonders of this ancient geological formation via the rim walk. The walk may take up to 3 hours and is suitable for those with a good level of fitness.
Mid morning, travel back along the Luritja Road to re-join the Lasseter Highway heading west to Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park. Perhaps take a detour en-route to explore the domes of Kata-Tjuta (The Olgas) before arriving at Uluru.
Kata Tjuta / The Olgas are a dramatic series of 36 dome-like rock formations which stand up to 546 metres high and cover an area of 35 square kilometres. Like Uluru, they produce an incredible light show at sunset, and to walk amongst them is a memorable experience.
Uluru (Ayers Rock) is the world’s largest monolith, measuring over 9kms around the base, and rising 348 metres above the Mulga plain. Named “Uluru” by the Aborigines, it is a sacred monument to them, and the walls of the caves, which comb the base, are covered in Aboriginal carvings and paintings, many of which are thousands of years old.
Whilst staying at Ayers Rock Resort, you may wish to experience the Field of Light art installation, enjoy dinner to the Sounds of Silence, or wonder at the Wintjiri Wiru light display.
Ayers Rock Resort

Day 14 to 16
| Melbourne
This morning you may wish to take a walk through the caves at the base of the Rock, then drop off your rental vehicle at the depot at Ayers Rock Airport before catching your flight to Melbourne. Make sure to soak in the views and the colours of the Outback one last time as you take off.
With a three night stay you have time to ride the iconic trams, explore the cafes and boutique shops or join a guided tour through the Laneways. You can also wander through the city’s impressive botanic gardens, or visit the beach huts in Mornington Peninsula. For panoramic views of Melbourne, head up 88 floors to the Eureka Skydeck.
Heading out of the city, join a wine tasting tour to the Yarra Valley, ride the Puffing Billy Railway, or even head out to Phillip Island to witness the nightly Penguin Parade.
Your chosen Melbourne hotel

Day 17
| Farewell from Melbourne
Bid a fond farewell to Melbourne as you make your way back to the airport for your flight home.

This Holiday Includes
Flights & More
Ask your FREEDOM Consultant to include Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for a complete ABTA and ATOL protected package.
They can also add extra nights and experiences in places you choose, to create the exact holiday you are looking for. Popular options include:
- Extra nights in Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne
- A day tour to the Barossa Valley or Blue Mountains
- A guided tour or experience in the Red Centre
- Extend the journey aboard The Ghan or the Indian Pacific Trains
- An upgrade to Platinum Class cabin on the Ghan or Indian Pacific from £415
- A stopover to Australia in Singapore, Dubai or another destination
Next Step
Please get in touch with our Australia Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.
Rock & Rail
17 day Holiday Idea – from £3119
With flights from £4419
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin room. Flights, hotels and tours are subject to availability and seasonal variations may apply. Please call Freedom Destinations for details.
Please note, The Ghan is only running from March to November.
A $550 one way free applies for the Red Centre car hire.
Map

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