Gone, Gone, Ghan

If you have not guessed by now but I am a big fan of trains and if I can replace a plane ride with a train ride, then count me. So when I was researching our travels to Australia, I came across the Ghan. (Pronounced “gone”) 

Photo: junkee.com

One of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan, (named after the Afghan cameleers who, from the 1860s to the early 20th century, helped explore and build infrastructure in the outback) traverses Australia's wide open spaces. It goes from the pastoral hues of the South Australian hills and plains to the rusty Red Centre and the tropical greens of the Top End. On the way, you can explore the famous outback towns of Alice Springs and Katherine on whistle-stop tours. (Australia.com)

Once I read the hype, I was hooked, that is till I saw the price. Quickly calculating in my head, this 3 day train ride would work out to approximately $1.35 Aus per minute. On top of that would be the cost to fly to Darwin.  I quickly gave up idea but as time went on, I kept returning and returning and returning. At this point, I must apologize to the kids as their inheritances took a substantial hit on this trip.

Day 32

From Darwin, take in the remarkable Top End views before stopping in Katherine for an afternoon of unique touring. Prepare to experience one of the region’s most impressive natural wonders near Katherine. The stunning Nitmiluk Gorge lies within the massive 292,000 hectares of the Nitmiluk National Park, and you’ll have the chance to explore it from the water with guided cruise options – an experience you’ll never forget. (journeybeyondrail.com)

Thank goodness the bus was air-conditioned because Nitmiluk Gorge was not.

Day 33

Next stop is Alice Springs, where more Off Train Excursions await. Explore Simpson’s Gap, tour the town attractions, or get up close to some of the Red Centre’s native wildlife. Dinner on the train is followed by an extraordinary evening experience in the outback where you will see the Milky Way like you have never seen it before. Simply breathtaking. (journeybeyondrail.com)

The kangaroo steak was particularly tasty. Though the crocodile sausage was a close second. 

Nonie’s favourite stop was a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air. The centre of Australia is a remote place. Families are spread out over 1000’s of square miles. The children are linked together through computer for classes and can interact with other students and with a teacher based in the School. 

Mine was a visit to the original site of Alice Springs.  It was the site of a telegraph station that serviced the area and was named Alice after the boss’s wife who never came near the place. Alice Springs is also not a spring but just a depression in the ground that would fill with water after heavy rains and was mistakenly thought to be a spring. 

All the original buildings are intact and are operated as a museum for Alice Springs 

 Day 34

From your cabin window this morning you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape, as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the majestic Flinders Ranges and prepare for your mid-morning arrival into Adelaide, completing one of the world’s great travel experiences.(journeybeyondrail.com)

We arrived in Adelaide right on time. 

Was the trip worth the expense. The jury is still out on that. But seeing the inside of Australia from the ground was definitely memorable and very sweaty.