West Coast Wilderness Railway

2467 Reviews

Star Travel Rating

5/5

Review type

Things to do

Location

Date of travel

2011

Product name

Product country

Product city

Travelled with

Solo

Reasons for trip

This is a journey that everyone from infants to grannies will enjoy. No need to ba a hardened railway buff for this trip.

The original west coast wilderness railway was completed in 1896. Pure copper was hauled from the Mount Lyell mine to the Macquarie harbour port of Strahan. Following improved road links the railway closed in 1963. In 2002 the restored railway reopened faithfully following the route of the original except for a small part when floods washed away an old bridge.

Trains run every day. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket office at the impressive Queenstown station or Strahan. A choice of tickets are available including return by coach. The train journey from Queenstown to Strahan takes about 4 hours. A coach returning will add another hour to the journey.

One highlight has to be the larger than life young Aussie girl attendent. A gift for the gab & a few tall stories brings a smile from all ages.

This has to be one of the most spectacular scenic rail journeys anywhere. The route covers 22 miles taking in 42 bridges travelling through dense rainforest crossing the King River into sheer sided forested gorges.

The beautifully restored carriages from Strahan to Dubbill Barrill are hauled by diesel locomotives. At Dubbill Barrill we stop for lunch provided in cute boxes from the catering car. Rolls, crackers, apple & fancy chocolates make a mouthwatering treat.

From Dubbill Barill to Queenstown we change trains. It is now the turn for steam. Two of the original steam locomotives have been fully restored & operate using the unique abt rack & pinion system invented by the Swiss Dr. Roman Abt, required because of the many steep gradients.

The train stops at stations at Rinadeena, Lynchford & Lower Landing where toilet facilities are available & the unique Tasmanian Leatherwood honey can be sampled.

At Queenstown station railway memorabillia are there to be enjoyed & photographed. . Friendly, relaxed & most enjoyable. First class service & a most memoriable experience for everyone. A great day out.

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