The Puffing Billy Train of Lights is over, but there’s still a couple of magical train rides to try this winter, such as the evening experience by The Bellarine Railway. And if you’re travelling east to Gippsland or the High Country this August, you can’t miss the stunning Walhalla Winter Light Trains. Venture to the tiny, mountainside town of Walhalla, and hop aboard a historic train for a special journey through the bush. The trains will depart at 7pm each Saturday night in August. Bookings are essential.
Walhalla Winter Light Trains
This experience by Walhalla Goldfields Railway will take you on a return journey from Walhalla Station to Thomson Station. As you trundle through the night, you’ll meander down Stringer’s Creek Gorge, cross over trestle bridges and see the lights from the train dance through the darkness.
When you arrive at Thomson Station, warm up with a cosy cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows. Relax under the stars and huddle by the roaring open fire. There will also be hot water bottles and blankets if you need an extra bit of heat.
After a short time, hop back on the train and return to Walhalla.
This wonderful winter train ride is $45 for adults and $40 for children, excluding the booking fee. The experience takes about one hour to complete. For more information and bookings, click here.
What else can you do?
If you arrive earlier in the day, explore the stunning streetscapes of this historic town. In the late 1800s, Walhalla was home to over 4000 people. Now, it has just 20 residents. Feel like you’ve travelled back in time and check out the heritage buildings, such as the old post office and the former fire station.
Venture beneath the surface with a guided tour of the Walhalla Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine. The tour will take you about 260 metres underground, and 300 metres into the hillside, into a large machinery chamber. Learn more about the mining methods and history of the area. Tours run daily and take about 50 minutes. Learn more here.
For a spookier look at history, explore the cemetery, or wait until nightfall to go on a chilling ghost tour. Enjoy a bite to eat at the quirky Walhalla Witchery Cafe & Magical Wares, where you can sip on coffee while surrounded by witchy knick-knacks.
Stay overnight at charming places like the Star Hotel or Windsor House B&B for a nice getaway.
