SteamRanger Heritage Railway
The Southern Encounter

          Heritage train travel from the Adelaide Hills to the Fleurieu Coast




The Southern Encounter operates on the first and third Sundays from June until the end of November.

The journey commences from Mount Barker station - a pleasant 20 minute drive from Adelaide along the South Eastern Freeway.

Leaving Mt Barker mid morning, the train first climbs up to the crest of the line and then winds down the eastern escarpment of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, passing through several long abandoned station sites which bear testimony to the importance of this branch line a century ago.


Crossing the Angas River you then enter the historic township of Strathalbyn where many Scottish migrants settled in the early 1800s, influencing the early architecture which is still evident today. The town is well worth a visit to explore its well stocked antique shops and cafes.

The journey then continues southwards across the plains and well away from the main road native bushland unfolds from your carriage window and kangaroos and other animals might be seen trying to keep pace with the locomotive! Then its across the towering Currency Creek viaduct and on to Goolwa.

At Goolwa, the train draws alongside the river wharf and passengers alighting here have over four hours to explore local attractions, have lunch on the riverside, visit the Steam Exchange Brewery in the old goods shed or take a short river cruise.

Beyond Goolwa the train then meanders westwards to the picturesque holiday settlement of Port Elliot before cresting the cliffs where passengers can experiemce some of the most picturesque coastal scenery in the State, with nothing separating you from the beach below and a perfect view of the Southern Ocean - in winter the home of Southern Right Whale.

Then into Victor Harbor for a three hour stopover.


The Southern Encounter Experience

As well as proving an opportunity to sample the stunning Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu scenery, the Southern Encounter journey is full of excitement and surprises along the way.

The two and a half hour journey is a great experience for everyone, particularly on a misty winter's day. ......... and your ticket entitles you to valuable extras! - everyone receives our popular Southern Pack filled with discount vouchers for meals and activities in Victor Harbor and Port Elliot.




Train Running Dates - 2010

2009 services have now ceased for the Summer
2010 trains will operate on Sundays twice monthly between June and November

Please be aware that trains are at present being operated with a diesel locomotive,
but that a steam loco may be used later in the year.Please check nearer your date of travel.



Southern Encounter Timetable

Mt Barker
10.00am
Strathalbyn
10.45am
Goolwa
12.15am
Victor Harbor
12.45pm
Victor Harbor
3.45pm
Goolwa
4.15pm
Strathalbyn
5.10pm
Mt Barker
6.05pm


Ticket Prices
Return Trip


From Mt Barker
to - AdultChildSeniorFamily
Goolwa$51$29$45$125
Victor Harbor$64$35$55$155
    From Strathalbyn
to - AdultChildSeniorFamily
Goolwa$35$20$31$86
Victor Harbor$46$25$41$112

Children under 5 years travel FREE          Children 5 to 15 years travel at CHILD fares
Seniors fares apply to holders of State Government issued Seniors Card
Family fares apply to groups of 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children
Limited seats only available from Strathalbyn
Group discount fares are available if you prebook for a group of 10 or more.


Bookings

Pre bookings are strongly advised as these trains may fill quickly.

Click to make a booking



Further Enquiries

and to book a group
Call:    1300 655 991     (Monday to Saturday, 9.00am to 5.00pm)

EMAIL: bookings@steamranger.org.au



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Click on any of these images to enlarge them and read a description
Please note that due to major maintenance steam loco 621 featured in these shots will not be operating in 2009
Other steam and diesel locomotives will be heading our trains