The whistle blows a haunting sound reminiscent of an old black and white movie. Picture the hero aboard an old heritage carriage, smoke mingling with early evening mist as the train slowly pulls away, the heroine, tears running down her face and handkerchief in hand, tries in vain to run beside the carriage, but the train picks up speed, leaving her alone on the platform and, no doubt, a tad hungry.
Now, if only that train was the Spirit of the West, then both our hero and our heroine would be together feeding their hunger pangs. For when the whistle blows from the old steam engine, it's all aboard for an enchanting evening of romance and fine silver-service dining.
Whatever the occasion, Perth's luxury restaurant train knows how to turn on the style and transport you back to a gracious bygone era, when legendary trains like the Orient Express were the playgrounds of fashionable society.
Both train lovers and fine-dining fans are going to love this one. With the red carpet to welcome you in, champagne awaits and then a good dollop of Western Australia's prettiest countryside is served as Spirit of the West follows the Avon River through the green landscapes and colourful bushranger territory of the Avon Valley.
In begins in East Perth and travels past the National Trust-listed heritage buildings of Guildford and Midland, then crosses the picturesque Swan River before the urban sprawl gradually gives way to rolling green countryside as you follow the course of the Avon River.
Each and every season has its own distinct mood, from the spectacular rapids of winter and spring to the gentle pools of summer and autumn.
Much of the countryside is only accessible by train and features breathtaking wildflowers and birdlife. As you dine in style and soak up the nostalgia of the splendid vintage carriages, it's easy to be transported back to the era of the notorious bushranger Moondyne Joe, one of the Avon Valley's most infamous characters.
Aboard the historic, meticulously restored Federation carriages you can journey through Australian history. The three oldest carriages, built in 1915 and 1917, were created for the original Trans-Australian Railway, the rail link between Western Australia and the eastern States promised at Federation.
The 1915 carriage was the first Commonwealth Railways carriage in service. During World War II, the carriages were used to transport soldiers and were still in use on the Indian Pacific and The Ghan until the early 1990s.
Fully crafted from timber, these carriages feature extensive, rich timber-panelled interiors, gleaming brass and colourful leadlight detailing, all creating a warm and welcoming ambiance.
Throughout the journey, an award-winning five-course meal including fine wine from WA's own Jane Brook Winery is served. Each meal is prepared fresh on board and uses produce from the Swan Valley and surrounding areas. It's a taste sensation to excite even the fussiest of diners.
Spirit of the West can only be described as opulent, lavish, and completely unique. Warm friendly service, crisp white linen, the soft clink of champagne glasses and the endearing laughter of good friends ensure an unforgettable atmosphere.
A taste of history, gourmet cuisine and sightseeing, all rolled into one.
Seeing the country by train is a once in a lifetime experience so you'd better make tracks!
