We did not get to experience the trip due to a blockage in the tunnel at Arthur's Pass. Had to hire a car in Chch to get to Greymouth. So, we can't comment further.
Highly recommended. Amazing views with mountains and valleys. Food was delicious and has many options
Lakeside Romantic Getaway is great value for money & such a great experience- really could do with a name change from “romantic” though to appeal to a broader market. We were part of a group of six couples who all thought this was a fantastic experience. The morning tea on the train was great & the afternoon tea on the way back was great too- very generous. Hotel Lake Brunner picked up from the train & took up back the next day. Dinner & breakfast was included & the meals were large & generous. Lovely platters were also included for the afternoon & they were beautiful presented & generous. The hot pool was fantastic & generous with our time allocation. Our accommodation was great with comfortable beds. The train ride with allocated seating was really good. We enjoyed walks around the lake & village. The absolute highlight of the trip though has to be the staff especially all the staff at the hotel & the train staff especially Matthew. We highly recommend this wonderful package.
The scenery is amazing. The service is fantastic. Food choices nice but goes quickly so take snacks if you can
We left Christchurch on a grey, cloudy day and were worried that the weather would spoil the views. However, once in the Alps, the clouds lifted and the scenery was truly spectacular. We were in Scenic Plus and were well looked after by Carla and her colleagues. There was an informative commentary at key points throughout the journey and accessing the open-air carriage provided a fabulous place for taking in the views and photography. The food, both breakfast and lunch, was tasty and plentiful and the whole trip lived up to its reputation as "one of the world's greatest rail journeys". Highly recommended.