Tasting Australia invites adventure by Train, Plane and Road

Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond invites guests to see South Australia by plane, train and road in new events sharing the state’s best eating and drinking experiences.

Three highlights from the festival’s 2026 program go on sale today, each offering a fresh perspective on culinary tourism alongside renowned chefs and beverage producers.

An evolution of popular and previously sold-out Tasting Australia by Train invites culinary travelerstravelers to board The Ghan in Darwin and travel southbound to Adelaide, joined onboard by renowned chefs including Michelin -starred Nieves Bar ragán Mohacho (Spain /UK), Jo Barrett (VIC), Mark Best (NSW ), Shannon Flemming (SA ) and host Mandy Hall (SA) . The three-night journey is also set to include a full day in Coober Pedy, exploring the outback town and its remarkable landscapes , together with lunch at Simpsons Gap /Rungutjirpa , dinner beside the Alice Springs Telegraph Station and a bespoke Bollinger tasting and masterclass.

Tasting Australia Airlines will travel to the Eyre Peninsula in celebration of seafood and coastal vistas. This full-day experience includes time aboard a historic tuna fishing boat, a visit to Coffin Bay National Park and food from chefs Mindy Woods (NSW), Ben Devlin (NSW) and Jimmy Toone (SA).

The new Tasting Australia by Road series is a chance to explore Adelaide’s surrounding regions with the local food and beverage identities who know it best. Guests will travel in small groups to McLaren Vale, the Barossa, Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu Peninsula, spending time on private farms , orchards , kitchens and cellar doors .

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said the festival’s latest program would highlight culinary experiences unique to South Australia.

“We know quality food and wine are the top driver s of interstate visitation to our state, and Tasting Australia is where the very best eating and drinking experiences are brought together,” Minister Bettison said.

“Its next edition is a renewed invitation to discover South Australian people, produce and places – to share adventures and enjoy the warm hospitality we are renowned for.” 

Tasting Australia Festival Curator Kane Pollard said the first program release was an exciting milestone. “These new program highlights speak to the spirit of adventure that runs through this festival,
now in its 19 th year and with a reputation for consistently raising the bar,” he said. 

“South Australia’s hospitality scene is as diverse and delicious as ever. We can’t wait to feature its heroes in joyful events that chart their own course .”

Tasting Australia Festival Curator Meira Harel said the new events would highlight the strength of South Australia’s year -round offering.

“The state’s remarkable food and beverages are woven through the program, with a focus on going beyond convention and to unexpected places ,” she said.

“It’s so easy to eat and drink well here – and Tasting Australia distils that through experiences that stay with guests long after th eir time at the festival .” 

Journey Beyond Executive General Manager of Marketing Justine Lally said the third edition of Tasting Australia by Train promise d to be the most memorable yet.

“Just like Tasting Australia, Journey Beyond plays an important role in the state’s visitor economy with over 85,000 guests travelling to South Australia annually onboard our iconic rail journeys The Ghan, Great Southern, Indian Pacific and Overland ,” Ms Lally said.

“We are delighted to partner with Tasting Australia and provide a platform to showcase Journey Beyond ’s exceptional iconic brands , travel experiences and culinary highlights across our magnificent state and country. 

“Journey Beyond is dedicated to creating extraordinary food and wine experiences that are a highlight of a guest’s journey. On board our iconic trains, guests indulge in multi -course menus thoughtfully crafted by our talented chefs. Dish es that celebrate the rich diversity of Australia’s seasonal, regional produce . This commitment ensures a dining experience that is as memorable as the journey itself.

“This year’s Tasting Australia by Train onboard The Ghan redefines indulgence with a Bollinger masterclass and curated off -train experiences. Guests are invited on a culinary journey that pairs the romance of rail travel with uninterrupted views to enjoy Australia’s ever - changing colours and landscape.”
 
The full Tasting Australia 2026 program will launch in February. Visit tastingaustralia.com.au
for more information and to purchase tickets and gift vouchers.