Departing Sydney’s Central Station mid-afternoon, leave city skylines and the fast-paced urban lifestyle behind. Get acquainted with your cabin and fellow travellers as the Indian Pacific heads west winding through the Blue Mountains. Relax in your cabin or socialise in the lounge, enjoying an 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. (D)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Indian Pacific

After breakfast, embark on your first Off Train Experience in Broken Hill, the Silver City. Discover its mining heritage at the Broken Hill Trades Hall and the dramatic Miners Memorial. For a unique twist, join a tour with local Drag Queen Shelita Buffet.

Art lovers can explore the Living Desert Sculpture site or the oldest regional art gallery in New South Wales. For a nostalgic treat, visit Bells Milk Bar, where you can enjoy malted milk and a 50’s performance by Cindy and Johnny.

Lunch is served on the train as it approaches the southern tip of the Flinders Ranges.

Arriving in Adelaide in the late afternoon, choose from various Off Train Experiences. Explore the South Australian Museum or indulge in a culinary adventure. Sample fine wines in the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale, or enjoy cheese or gin tasting in Hahndorf before dining at Haus, a German restaurant featuring local produce. Alternatively, visit Adelaide Central Markets for a tour and exclusive dinner.

After dinner, return to the train to continue your journey west. (B,L,D)

Today is all about those amazing outback views as you cross this famous stretch of the Australian interior, the ancient 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). (B,L,D)

Admire the delightful undulations of the Avon Valley and enjoy a final breakfast on board as the final stage of your transcontinental crossing unfolds, heading into Perth. Transfer to your accommodation, where your Perth discovery begins. (B)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Waterfront

Make your way to Barrack Street Jetty and board Rottnest Express bound for Rottnest Island, 22kms offshore. A 90-minute air-conditioned bus tour around ‘Rotto’ takes you to some spectacular locations, including Wadjemup Lighthouse and the boardwalk lookout at the rugged west end. Feast on a delicious lunch before exploring the island at your leisure – make sure you meet a quokka. Return to Perth by ferry in the afternoon. (B,L)

It might be the largest state in Australia, but Western Australia’s capital city features a conveniently compact centre, packed with things to see and do. Enjoy your day at leisure in Perth visiting Kings Park, Barrack Square or some of the many museums and galleries. (B).

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation. This signals the end of your epic journey across Australia. (B)