Above: The luncheon allows diners to enjoy the grandeur and charm of Puffing Billy.
THE world famous Puffing Billy Railway is Australia’s favourite steam train and one of the finest preserved steam railways in the world.
The railway, which first opened on 18 December 1900, operates every day except Christmas Day and is a genuine relic of our more leisurely days.
The historic steam train was built to serve at the turn of the century and was used to transport goods and passengers throughout the district.
Puffing Billy has now upgraded its popular Steam and Cuisine luncheon menu and refurbished its heritage dining carriages to include heating on those cooler days so passengers can enjoy first class travel in comfort.
Trains depart from Belgrave, which is only 40kms or one hour east of Melbourne by car or coach.
Easy access is also available by electric train from Melbourne in about one hour, with a short walk from the electric train station to the Puffing Billy station.
The Steam and Cuisine Luncheon Train is a unique experience for locals and tourist alike, letting them enjoy the grandeur and charm of Puffing Billy.
Guests can enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal while they sit in heritage carriages more than 100 years old and enjoy the Dandenong Ranges’ spectacular scenic vista.
The Dandenong Ranges is one of Victoria’s leading tourism regions and is home to some superb flora and fauna, including a population of famous lyrebirds and some of Australia’s tallest eucalyptus trees.
“The Steam and Cuisine Luncheon Train allows visitors from all over Victoria, interstate and, of course, overseas tourists to enjoy this Australian icon as it journeys along the line between Belgrave and Lakeside return,” Puffing Billy CEO Eamonn Seddon said.
The three-course menu features the freshest local produce and wines from the neighbouring Yarra Valley region.
The train departs Belgrave Station at 12.30pm and is a three hour experience, with prices from $95 for adults, $85.50 for children aged under 16 and concession holders.
“Passengers now have the opportunity to travel in luxurious surroundings and feast on an array of dishes, whilst enjoying magnificent views of the Dandenong Ranges and soaking in the atmosphere of the steam locomotive’s rich and colourful history,” Mr Seddon said.
Go to www.puffingbilly.com.au or call 9757 0700 for bookings and more information.
