Written by Julie Jones, Have Wheelchair Will Travel, February 25, 2025
Last year we took a quick trip to Adelaide and while staying in Victor Harbor we had the opportunity to take a ride with the SteamRanger Heritage Railway. A variety of heritage steam and diesel hauled trains operate in the area which gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to step back in time. The coastal trip from Victor Harbour to Port Elliot was a short, but scenic ride offering good accessibility.
SteamRanger Heritage Railway South Australia
The SteamRanger Heritage Railway in South Australia is manned by enthusiastic volunteers from the Australian Railway Historical Society. They are a friendly and helpful bunch, clearly keen to share their passion with others.
We bought tickets to ride the train from Victor Harbor to Port Elliot, as it was the shortest train ride and there was the promise of a much hyped bakery in Port Elliot.
The coastal views from the train were spectacular. And the best part of taking a train, rather than driving, was that we could all enjoy them without concern about someone veering a little too much while driving and trying to take in the scenery.
I love seeing these beautiful heritage trains getting a new lease on life. Adults and children alike seemed so excited to be taking a train ride. For me, it was interesting to see the various carriage details from a lost era.
We had the opportunity to ride on two trains, one to Port Elliot and a different one on the return to Victor Harbour. Both trains offered good accessibility and volunteers were on hand to assist with ramp access.
Carriages which offer ease of access ensure that parents with prams, visitors using mobility devices and wheelchairs are able to ride the steam trains.
Accessibility at Victor Harbour station is top notch with ramp access leading to the ticket booth and to the platform.
Accessible parking is provided at the station.
Port Elliot
We expected the famed Port Elliot bakery to be busy because we’d even heard our flight attendant recommending it to other passengers, but a queue stretching down the street was more than I’d anticipated. We joined the queue because I am a sucker for not wanting to miss out and we waited.
A narrow steep ramp provides access to the bakery.
Once inside the bakery, multiple savoury and sweet treats dazzled from the glass cases. We bought delicious pies and a Bee Sting cake and gobbled them up gratefully after the long wait.
I’d highly recommend visiting the bakery outside of peak times. Brunch-time queuing might be easier than lunchtime. We were in South Australia in the peak period between Christmas and New Year so perhaps it was exceptionally busy due to that.
There are many stores, cafes and restaurants in Port Elliot which offer step-free access. We particularly liked the antique and old wares stores.
There is a unisex stand-alone accessible bathroom in town close to the railways station on the corner of The Strand and Henry Street.
Find accessible accommodation in Port Elliot here.
If you have the time, and the ability to do a section of steeper uphill wheeling or walking, I highly recommend heading to Freeman’s Knob for gorgeous views of the pretty beach of Horseshoe Bay. If you drive to Port Elliot, head to the lookout where you’ll find accessible parking and unobstructed views of the coast.
Port Elliot is a really lovely town, so even if you don’t have the time to travel there with with one of the heritage trains, I suggest popping it on your itinerary as a stop.
If you are heading to Adelaide and looking for day trips, check out these ideas.