None of us could have imagined the unprecedented events that have unfolded in recent months. For most of us, travel is now paused but that doesn’t mean dreaming and planning should be put on hold. Here is some inspiration for when we can travel again.

Have you ever wanted to embark on a trip around Australia? So many start their engines and drive down the Great Ocean Road – only to find that they’ve undertaken a lot of driving.

But don’t fret, there are still ways of travelling Australia’s scenic routes that don’t require you to do any navigating.

Great Southern Rail

Where does it take you?

If you’re travelling via the Great Southern Rail, you can take one of three trains: the Indian Pacific, the Ghan and the Overland.

What attractions and sights can you see along the way?

When travelling on the Indian Pacific Railway, you’ll experience all types of Australian landscape, from the great Outback to the shining coast. You can stop to experience attractions like Broken Hill, Barossa Valley, Kalgoorlie or Rawlinna – there’s much to see on this trip!

The Ghan experience offers stops in national parks like Nitmiluk as well as Alice Springs to see the amazing flora and fauna of Australia’s unique environment.

The Overland whisks you past the unique landscape between the two great cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, allowing you to take in lush vineyards and rolling valleys.

When is the best time to go?

Because you’ll travel across different regions of Australia, there really isn’t a bad time to go!

Queensland Rail: Spirit of Queensland

Where does it take you?

The Spirit of Queensland takes you from Brisbane to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, all the way to Cairns and includes tracks to Mt Isa, Charleville, Kuranda and Longreach.

How long can the journey take?

Depending on where you want to go, longer trips can last from six to eight days whereas shorter trips are days or just hours.

What attractions and sights can you see along the way?

The various trips can take you to some of Australia’s most desired attractions including the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday Islands and Townsville.

When is the best time to go?

The best time to visit this area is during the summertime (December to February).

NSW TrainLink

Where does it take you?

The NSW TrainLink is a journey from Sydney to northern and country parts of NSW, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra.

How long can the journey take?

These journeys typically range from hours to days.

What attractions and sights can you see along the way?

NSW is home to some of the most beautiful scenes in Australia including the Sydney skyline, Blue Mountains and more!

When is the best time to go?

For the best experience, book your trip during the summertime!