The Q Train

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Posted 2023-04-18 by Nekoburro ⇒ follow

After months of planning and 2 years of lockdowns in Melbourne and Victoria, the day had finally arrived!

Booked for the 3 of us on the Q train , which included my mother-in-law as it was her belated birthday present, we headed west towards the Bellarine Peninsula. This is an area of Victoria that we haven't explored as much. The day started out wet and grey however that wasn't going to dampen our spirits as we knew what we were about to experience.

Our drive to Drysdale was about 1 hour and 20 mins from Melbourne. Drysdale is a simple 20-minute drive from Geelong.

We arrived a little early so we had time to park at the train station . The blue Q Train was stationed and ready to depart, but not before we were welcomed by the friendly staff and provided with our welcome drinks.

We were seated in Q class on a table for 4, which is an open restaurant dining carriage. Ours had a bar which was handy!

There is also an option to book in First Class which provides your own butler and private compartment. The train slowly started moving along at a relaxed comfortable pace. Plenty of time for enjoying the seasonal menu and taking in the bush and Swan Bay views and wetlands of Wadawarrung country.

We opted for the vegetarian menu, and the 5 courses including dessert was a fine dining experience. Food is sourced from the local wineries and farmers from Geelong, Bellarine and the Otways.

We stopped for 30 mins at Suma Park railway station which was right next to a winery. This was an opportunity to stretch our legs and soak up some sunshine. The weather had cleared by the time we arrived at this stop.

The staff were pleasant and very attentive, serving out our dishes. Opportunity for any tea, coffee or alcohol could be ordered anytime during the degustation for an additional cost, from local wines which can be paired up with your meals.

Dessert was served on the leg back to Drysdale, we really enjoyed the Poached pear with creamy vanilla fraiche, Wattle Grove honey, walnuts and river mint.

In total the train journey was approx 3.5 hours, we enjoyed the scenery along the way accompanied by a delicious seasonal menu and great service and company. So whether you are a train nerd like me, or want to surprise someone special for their birthday, a romantic lunch or simply a get-together with family or friends, this is one experience that will be cherished by all.

Don't forget to check the Qtrain website for booking and dates, or why not buy a gift voucher which is valid for 3 years!