A trip from Mt Barker to Victor and back. Expect a long day. The the website wasn't updated and took a bit longer to get there than we thought. 3 hours instead of 2 1/2 hours. It was a nice ride glad to have done it. Nice scenery on the way and the sun setting on the way back. Not long in Victor Harbour, enough for lunch and a walk over the new jetty. Coffee and cakes to purchase on board.

Overall interesting experience even though not a serious train lover. The continually moving landscapes makes up for what is said to be a 3 hour journey (ideally 6 hours to Victor and back, though about 7 in total). Best time of travel: sunset.

We had a great time traveling from Mount Barker to Victor Harbor and back! Epic views, comfortable trip, good memories - such a nice family attraction. You can buy snacks and soft drinks on board, there is toilet on the train. Loved that everything is old and original on the steam train. Highly recommend!

Steam Ranger is an exceptional heritage railway renowned for its world-class offerings. With its five major heritage stations, carefully preserved architectural styles, and convenient proximity to vibrant towns, Steam Ranger provides a remarkable experience for travelers seeking a nostalgic journey. The heritage stations along the Steam Ranger route showcase a range of architectural styles, each reflecting a unique period in history. These stations serve as charming gateways to major towns that offer an abundance of amenities for visitors. From a diverse array of restaurants serving tantalizing cuisine to an array of hotels offering comfortable accommodations, travelers will find themselves immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of these bustling communities. Specialty shops, galleries, and takeaway options further enhance the experience, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, the presence of nearby heritage sites provides an opportunity to delve into the rich cultural and historical significance of the region, further enriching the journey. At the heart of Steam Ranger's operation is its fleet of meticulously maintained locomotives that transport passengers in style and comfort. The sight of these beautifully restored engines is awe-inspiring and evokes a sense of wonder and nostalgia. Paired with rail car sets that provide exceptional services, the locomotives create a truly memorable experience for all passengers. Whether you are an avid railway enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in a unique adventure, Steam Ranger delivers an exceptional journey. As you embark on your Steam Ranger adventure, be prepared to be enchanted by the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before your eyes The railway traverses rural landscapes, allowing passengers to witness the natural beauty of rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and meandering rivers. One of the highlights of the journey is a spectacular run along the coastline, where the crashing waves and panoramic ocean views create a truly unforgettable experience. The ever-changing landscape coupled with the rhythmic sound of the train's wheels creates a serene and captivating ambiance. Beyond the impressive infrastructure and stunning scenery, the dedicated operations team of Steam Ranger sets the railway apart. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff members are passionate about railways and eager to share their expertise with passengers. Whether it's engaging in delightful conversations, sharing captivating stories, or providing helpful assistance, the team goes above and beyond to ensure a warm and memorable experience for all travelers. Without a doubt, Steam Ranger stands as a testament to the finest heritage railways in the world. Its commitment to preserving history, offering exceptional services, and showcasing breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination for railway enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. So, don't miss the amazing journey!

We booked a trip on the Southern Encounter trip on a Sunday. Amazing little day trip from Adelaide Hills to Victor Harbor (and back) on this old-fashioned steam engine train. The seats are comfortable but it's still cold on the train (it's old, no heating installed as it is vintage). The views of the rolling hills landscape and then the coast between Goolwa and Victor Harbor are such pretty sights. We also spotted a few wild kangaroos of different sizes, various kinds of cattle/cows, prancing ponies and steadfast horses, sheep, goats, alpacas and some feral rabbits. It's a nice leisurely trip, very popular with families and friends travelling together, and photographers! I would highly recommend 👌 this lovely little trip. Check out their website for the months when this is available since it's run by amazingly dedicated volunteers.

We took the twilight trip to Victor. Surprisingly comfortable. Would have been good to have snacks available on the train as it's a long journey. Dinner in Victor was very rushed, an extra half hour would have been better but it was fun nonetheless.

These volunteers are great and hard working and are very knowledgeable full of history, and these beautiful trains have been beautifully restored especially the steamranger, the woodwork inside the carriages is superb. My trip from mt Barker to Victor harbour was fantastic.

it was fantastic to go on the steam train rx224 and 207 on one end and the 621 at the other end with six carriages in between. The staff was very freindly and helpfull top people you have working for you 👏👏👏👏🚂🚂🚂

What a fabulous day. First ever ride on the steam train highly recommend, we went from Mt Barker to Bugle Ranges, perfect for the whole family, the kids will love it. Totally have to do it. Well done Steam Ranger 👍😉🙂

This was so much fun! The trains vintage details are wonderful (sinks in bathroom), and the traditional steam engineering is a true marvel to admire. On a nice sunny day the return trip through the Adelaide Hills with the sun setting was magic, I had my head out the window with a smile on my face the entire time!

It's great to ride a living machine from the age of adventure and exploration. It's well worth the trip and watching the excitement from the kids that are riding for the first time and even adults reliving memories of days gone by. Get tickets online and enjoy the rattle and roll of steam.

We took my parents who were visiting from the UK on the railway to celebrate by father's 80th birthday. (He's a bit of a steam nut!) The railway is run professionally and the service is excellent. You certainly get a lot of train travel for your money. at least 3 hours each way travel aboard a comfy carriage through the beautiful South Australian countryside. A long enough stop off in Victor Harbor too. So you can get lunch and stretch your legs with a walk to Granite Island and back. Fantastic day. My Dad was absolutely thrilled. Thank you to all the volunteers.

Great day out worth the money and the step back in time of the old trains

Loved this ride so much. Can’t wait to come again. Perfect Father’s Day gift 😍

The ride on the Cockle train was awsome, the views along the way were amazing. Will definitely be doing it again.

This is a world class heritage railway stretching over 80 kilometres or 50 miles. There are five major heritage stations that reflect a range of architectural styles. Each of these stations and another stopping place are closely located to major towns that have many restaurants, hotels, specialty shops, galleries, takeaway options and heritage sites that provide plenty of options for travellers. There is a fleet of locomotives to haul passenger cars and rail car sets that provide services. The scenery is rather special and includes rural settings and a spectacular run along the coastline. The operations team are friendly and helpful and very keen to share their passion for railways. I think Steam Ranger are more than equal to many of the best heritage railways in the world. Make sure you visit and take a trip on Steam Ranger.

Good to see where it all happens. A good experience to see what goes on, in the workshops. Know a bit better how it works.

We were very disappointed called Steam Ranger but no steam engine just a diesel motor used on freight trains. No commentary for tourist. Big step to get on and off train and no one to help. One lady had a big fall off train. and was injured. Was not worth the money better tourism tours to go on

Fantastic crew of people maintaining the trains. Lovely day out.

Very cramped seating, especially with 4 people in the seating area and if you are a tall person. Was very hard to hear the commentary through the lack of speakers. Would also be nice if you could change the date on the weekend so it doesn't coincide with Schoolies at Victor harbour. Being turned away from certain pubs because schoolies have priority is a joke. Won't book again in November. Was nice to see Santa make an appearance, good if you have kids. I think an extra Cafe cart or someone who walks up and down should be added so one doesn't have to walk pretty much to the end of the carriage and back.

Wonderful volunteer run heritage railway in a superb location.

an amazing day out for families, and tourists, and railway enthusiasts alike. over some of the most stunning scenery in south Australia, ride on some of the most beautiful and comfy steam trains in Australia.

Loved it. Staff are hard working and friendly. It was fantastic we went from Mount Barker to Victor Harbour. Break for dinner was a little bit short. Pop into the Grosvenor Hotel.✅ They were great. Don't forget to take a drink! Scenery was fantastic. Watching everyone out of the window, getting so excited to see the train. An amazing trip. Would highly recommend it 👌

Great fun for a family day out, like traveling to the past, wish we can stay longer at Victor Harbor. We passed through strawberries and wine fields, saw lots of sheep’s, horses, kangaroo, cows, and people waving to passengers from the roads, their cars and their home.

O was inquiring about cost of per passenger plus it not wheelchair friendly. It's a pity that they don't have a decent sized ramps for disabled people and children. Please put in ramps for these people & kids. You would be more popular.

Great organisation, keeping history alive for future generations to enjoy. Love your work.

A great fun day

We had a lovely trip from Mount Barker to Goolwa. A bit rainy but it didn't spoil a thing. Wildflowers were in bloom and made the day. A suggestion that Steam Ranger consider partnering with Coral Expeditions who have several Adelaide cruises Nov/Dec

I went to the Christmas event in August, and I really expected more. I am a Christmas lover, and hope to find us Christmas atmosphere, but there was none of that, sad on that side. On the other hand, the tour was boring since, inside the train, there was no Christmas atmosphere as such and it was at night and the landscape could not be appreciated well. The town we arrived at surely has a lot to offer "but during the day" because at night it was very lonely. Sure with more activities and now tread more joy the atmosphere would be better.