Discover Adelaide and Darwin Expedition

Today is for further exploration of the Darwin waterfront and its top-notch restaurants, taking in the relaxed pace of life in the north. Alternatively, consider an optional tour (additional expense) to make the most of your time in the Top End. (B)

• Croc N History Explorer Ticket (From $110 per person)
  Combine three of Darwin's premier attractions with one ticket and save. The flexible Croc n History Explorer package gives you Full day Entry to Crocosaurus Cove, RFDS Tourist facility and the Darwin Big Bus, for a hop-on, hop-off transport option.

Stroll around Darwin today, taking in the fascinating history of the northern capital at your own pace. Wander to the Stokes Hill Wharf area, stroll through the Botanic Gardens or the Chinese Temple and don't forget a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. You haven't seen a sunset until you see a Darwin sunset, and this evening you'll understand why they're so special.

Board Darwin Harbour Cruise's catamaran, the Charles Darwin, to savour the sights and enjoy the swirl of the sea breeze as you cruise the harbour by water. Enjoy a sumptuous meal on board focused on local produce and fresh seafood. Nothing is more relaxing than soaking up the splendour of the skies, champagne flute in hand. (B/D)

Settle into the comforts of The Ghan, relax in your cabin, or mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End's best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge and a cruise is on offer to showcase the beauty of this spot.

Alternatively, the Katherine Outback Experience lets you into the lives of those who call the outback home, while the Cutta Cutta Cave system is home to a variety of native wildlife and is rich in Indigenous culture and modern European history. Or, take it all in from the air, with an optional upgrade helicopter flight over Nitmiluk. (B/L/D) Stay Three Nights: The Ghan Expedition

Your arrival into Alice Springs after breakfast provides you with time to explore this iconic town in the red heart of Australia on an Off Train Experience. There's an experience to suit everyone, including an off-road e-bike adventure, the Alice Explorer tour that takes in the historic Telegraph Station and Royal Flying Doctor Service, a cultural experience at Standley Chasm, meeting the wildlife at the Desert Park, or taking in the astounding beauty of Simpson's Gap.

Alternatively, spot Uluru and Kata Tjuta from the air, with an optional upgrade scenic flight. In the evening, the hallmark experience of The Ghan Expedition begins. Dine under a blanket of stars at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, with red earth at your feet and white tablecloths at your fingertips. This will be a night to remember. (B/L/D)

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 Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide, completing one of the world's great rail experiences.

After disembarking the train, you'll be transferred to your accommodation, your home for the next three nights. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure as you acquaint yourself with Adelaide's city centre. Stroll to the Adelaide Central Markets for lunch and see over 70 traders bring colour and life to the undercover markets. Or, visit the Art Gallery of South Australia to see local and international works. As a city of food and wine, there is no shortage of delicious restaurants, take your pick and enjoy your first evening in Adelaide. (B) Stay Three Nights: The Playford Adelaide – MGallery

Today, delight your senses with boutique wine and food touring to the historic Barossa Valley, with its 80 cellar doors. You'll even visit one of the oldest vineyards in the world, where Shiraz vines were planted in 1843. Enjoy running commentary from your driver as you make your way towards the world-renowned wine region and be guided though some of the best wines South Australia has to offer.

Tours are small groups up to 8 people only to ensure a relaxed and unhurried day. Whether you prefer red or white, there will be something to tantalise and delight with tastings at three wineries throughout the day, and a delicious lunch with an accompanying glass of wine included in your tour. (B/L)

Explore more of Adelaide at your leisure. If you'd like to get to the source of that gourmet experience by visiting another wine growing region, McLaren Vale is the perfect option. (B)

• McLaren Vale Winery Experience ($225 per person)
  A tour to McLaren Vale along the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula includes four cellar door experiences and a delicious restaurant lunch. The region is best known for its Shiraz, but expert vignerons will explain why Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay grapes also thrive in this unique microclimate.