The Hills Encounter provides a day’s journey from Victor Harbor, travelling the famous Cockle Train route along the picturesque Fleurieu Coast to the heritage river port of Goolwa. Departing Goolwa the journey continues over the most historic section of the 82km of railway track, including bridges, small rail sidings, natural scrublands and rich farmlands to Strathalbyn.

 A 20-minute stop at Strathalbyn allows time to stretch the legs. The journey then winds its way over the southern slopes of the Mt Lofty Ranges to the destination of Mt Barker (the ‘home’ of the SteamRanger Heritage Railway). Spend some leisurely time visiting the myriad of shops and eateries.

On the return journey, relax and relive the history of part of the 120-year-old line from Adelaide that once upon a time served the farming communities of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges and the seaside holiday resorts of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Passengers are welcome to travel as far as Strathalbyn, enjoy a meal at a local eatery, and perhaps partake in a little antiquing before catching the return train back to Goolwa or Victor Harbor.

Train Operating Dates for 2022

Duration: 10:00am to 6:00pm BOOKING ESSENTIAL 

Departs: Victor Harbour Railway Station

JULY: 9th

OCTOBER: 1st

Fares

Bookings are Essential

Children under 4 years travel FREE but are not issued a seat.  Children 4 to 16 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
Group discount fares are available if you pre book for a group of 10 or more.

Booking: Monday to Friday: 9:00AM – 4:00PM Saturday & Sunday: Booking Line Closed

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Timetable

Location Time
Victor Harbor dep. 10:00am
Port Elliot dep. 10:10am
Goolwa dep. 10:30am
Strathalbyn dep. 11:30am
Mt Barker arr. 12:40pm – dep. 3:00pm
Strathalbyn dep. 4:05pm
Goolwa dep. 4:45pm
Port Elliot dep. 5:05pm
Victor Harbor arr. 6:00pm