On Tuesday 16th January 2024, I boarded the Puffing Billy train for the first time to celebrate my birthday. The weather was perfect for the day, and I loved every moment. Built in 1900 to serve the local communities; the Puffing Billy is the oldest running steam train in Australia. It runs from 'Belgrave to Lakeside Victoria daily, and serves as a Shore excursion scenic train when the cruise ships dock in Melbourne.
Step into a timeless world of wonder with Australia’s favourite steam train, Puffing Billy, located in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and only one-hour east of Melbourne. Whether it’s energetic adventure, a touch of nostalgia or cultural experiences, there is something for everyone at Puffing Billy Railway. Take in the magic of steam train travel from the moment you arrive, with the sight of the historic locomotives being prepared for departure at the station, the smell of steam billowing out of the vessel’s chimney and the evocative sound of the train’s whistle. Before long, our friendly conductors will help you on board the open-side carriages for a serene ride over the hills, across the iconic timber trestle bridges, down the valley and into the forest on the original mountain track between Belgrave, and Gembrook Victoria.
The journey goes for one hour (both ways), each passenger is assigned a ticket cabin for the journey to Lakeside, it's the best way to explore the Dandenong Ranges, and the adults are invited to sit with their legs dangling outside the carriage. When the train arrives in Lakeside, the passengers have approximately an hour to have lunch and explore the area before boarding the train for the return trip to Belgrave Station where the journey began.
The trip itself us a lot of fun (especially watching the train crossing over the wooden bridge as your legs dangle over the edge. As an Australian; I would definitely recommend it to everyone who either lives or is planning to Visit Melbourne. To book your very own Puffing Billy adventure go to: https://puffingbilly.com.au/buy-tickets/
To watch my VLOG via YouTube go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NrIpo4GUXo&t=17s