Sunday may be Mother’s Day, but Saturday 13 May is International Train Day.
Celebrating the history and inspiring adventures of one of the oldest forms of transportation, Airbnb has rounded up the top ten converted train carriages in Australia.
From the icnonic Blue Mountains to the adventurous terrain of regional Victoria, a stay in a converted train carriage certainly makes for a truly unique and quirky getaway experience.
1. The Carriage, Blipin, NSW
This charming re-modelled Sydney train carriage features spacious accommodation complete with living and dining room, with expansive views over a lush 100-acre paddock garden.
2. Royal Train Carriage, Pokolbin, NSW
Located in the heart of the vineyards, these themed carriages are beautifully decked out with Rosewood walls, French antiques, and a spa bath. Guests can also enjoy access to the on-site tennis court, and outdoor spa and swimming pool.
3. The Angas Carriage, Alpine, NSW
Fully refurbished and renovated, the original Angas Carriage can be booked out for accommodation or functions, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion with a difference. True train fans can also check out Trainworks, the rail and train museum in Thirlmere, just 25 minutes away.
4. Safari Train Carriage, Pokolbin, NSW
Beautifully decked out with a quirky African theme, this carriage features two compartments with double beds and two with two single beds in each, and the kitchen has a fully-equipped under-bench oven and cooktop.
5. Vintage Tram & Caravan, Lauriston, VIC
This 1920’s tram is located on the edge of Lauriston forest, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Featuring vintage furnishing, it includes a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and lounge room, complete with wood fire, comfy chairs, bar cart, books and board games.
6. Kookaburra Yoga Stay, Bedfordale, WA
Surrounded by nature just 40-minutes from Perth CBD, this newly renovated studio apartment-style railway carriage is located at Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre, and guests are invited to join yoga classes, free of charge. A personal retreat program and vegetarian meals can also be included. Eco-friendly, the carriage is solar-powered and includes with a comfortable queen size bed (or two single beds), a lounge, kitchen and en-suite bathroom.
7. Retro Railway Carriage, Hazelmere, WA
Perched on the edge of the Swan Valley wine region, this restored 1908 carriage features a double bedroom and two extra single beds, eco-friendly yet comfortable bathroom, full galley-style kitchen, outdoor BBQ, and lounge room, complete with TV, DVDs, board games and books. The veranda offers an ideal spot from which to enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine in hand.
9. Victorian Train Carriage, Pokolbin, NSW
Fitted out for comfort whilst retaining its authentic train feel, this 1935 carriage features a main bedroom, complete with en-suite bathroom. There are two compartments each with two single beds and a compartment with a double bed, plus a bathroom, full kitchen and open fire with BBQ on the deck.
10. Converted Steam Train, Forrest, VIC
With its steam punk feel, this Victorian era train carriage is certain to make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Featuring three bedrooms, this holiday house train carriage is ideal for families with a sense of imagination, and can sleep up to six, with various sleeping configurations available.
11. 100 Year Old Railway Carriage, Minto Heights, NSW
Comfortable yet compact, this carriage is set amongst beautiful native bushland and is suitable for couples or solo guests seeking solitude and peacefulness. There is an open pavilion and entertainment area with cooking facilities and beautiful nature walks both on the property and surrounding it.