Luxury Train Travel: A New Era of Rail Travel in Australia
In 2026, Australia’s iconic trains – The Ghan, Indian Pacific, and Great Southern – will welcome two new luxurious additions to their lineup: the Australis and Aurora Suites. These suites represent a new chapter in Australian luxury train travel, offering an experience that blends timeless elegance with the sweeping beauty of the Australian outback. Whether you’re journeying across the vast desert landscapes or through lush hinterlands, these new suites offer a vantage point like no other.
Renowned for its immersive train experiences, Journey Beyond has long been synonymous with luxury travel in Australia. Now, with the introduction of these two exceptional suites, it’s pushing the boundaries of what train travel can be. Designed by global design firm Woods Bagot, the interiors of the Australis and Aurora Suites embody a sophisticated take on Australian luxury, where every detail evokes the natural beauty of the country and the cultural richness of its history.
A Masterclass in Design and Comfort
The Australis and Aurora Suites redefine the idea of luxury train travel. Drawing inspiration from art deco design and Australia’s pastoral heritage, the suites feature a rich palette of materials – from warm timber accents to sleek marble and iron filigree. Each suite tells the story of the land through elegant references to Australia’s wool industry, with touches like sheepskin and saddle leather.
The Australis Suite, the largest of the two, is an impressive space that triples the size of a standard Platinum cabin. It boasts a fixed queen-sized bed, a spacious lounge area, a personal bar, and a large en suite with a double vanity. The suite’s design, which includes a writing desk, wardrobe, and plenty of room for relaxation or entertaining, creates a true sense of ‘home away from home’. The Aurora Suite, while more compact, is still a generously sized retreat, offering a similar level of comfort with a queen-sized bed, lounge area, and en suite.
Both suites focus on providing a serene and elevated experience, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Attention to detail, from the luxurious bed linen to the personalised pillow menu, ensures a restful stay. And for those seeking to unwind after a day exploring Australia’s vast landscapes, there’s always a glass of Champagne Bollinger La Grande Année on hand – included throughout the journey.
Tailored Service and Exclusive Experiences
What truly sets the Australis and Aurora Suites apart is the level of service. A dedicated butler is at your service to ensure every need is met, from unpacking your luggage to curating your private in-suite bar. The experience is further enhanced by in-room dining options and access to the Platinum Club lounge and dining carriage.
But the luxury doesn’t stop there. Off the train, guests can indulge in exclusive experiences that connect them to the land they are passing through. Whether it’s a guided tour, a private excursion, or a cultural immersion, these excursions are tailored to deepen your connection to the regions the trains traverse.
A Unique Way to Experience Australia
The Australis and Aurora Suites are the epitome of indulgence on rail journeys, yet they’re also about more than just opulence. They offer a unique perspective of Australia’s diverse landscapes, where you can watch the sun set over the outback or greet the dawn in the southern highlands from the comfort of your suite. It’s a truly immersive way to explore the country, offering moments of quiet reflection alongside unforgettable vistas.
From the moment you step aboard, you’re taken care of with luxury touches that elevate the whole journey. The personal chauffeur service ensures your arrival and departure are as smooth as the journey itself, adding an extra layer of sophistication.
The New Benchmark for Train Travel Worldwide
As the demand for international travel continues to soar, the introduction of these suites signals a commitment to maintaining Australia’s place on the world stage for luxury travel. The Australis and Aurora Suites are set to become the benchmarks for train travel worldwide, offering a style and comfort that is unparalleled.
For those seeking to experience Australia in the lap of luxury, these new suites offer the ultimate way to travel – where every moment on board is as breathtaking as the landscapes outside.
Prices start from $11,890 pp for the Australis suite and $7,990 pp for the Aurora suite for a 3 day journey on The Ghan. To find out more to book the trip of a lifetime, visit www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/your-train-experience/aurora-australis/
