Over the last few years I’ve re-discovered trains. By that I mean longer trips, not just the 20 minute hop into Melbourne. Here are some of the ones I did. But first:
- You can get timetable information from V/Line
- Most of the larger country stations have town maps or even tourist information stands in them.
Geelong
Only about 45 minutes away. I went from Newport station. Things to do:
- National Wool Museum
- Walk and coffee at Waterfront Geelong, including Eastern Beach
- Geelong Art Gallery
- Shopping/browsing
Ballarat
About 1 hour and 20 minutes from Footscray station, so catch a suburban train first. Check the timetables for exact details as it may be easier to go into Southern Cross (not sure if all trains stop at Footscray).
- Beautiful goldrush-era buildings. Circa 1860s
- One of the best art galleries around
- Shopping etc
- The world-class Sovereign Hill (an outdoor museum presenting the story of Australia’s fabulous goldrush history) Whilst it is too far to walk to, it is a must-see. I have just read about “A new V/Line train initiative – the Goldrush Special now delivers visitors directly to Sovereign Hill’s front door. As part of the Goldrush Special a courtesy return service coach meets the train at Ballarat station and brings visitors directly to Sovereign Hill.” I’d be calling them up.