Tasmania has some of the most scenic and enjoyable rail journeys in the world, with a range of routes to choose from.

The West Coast Wilderness Railway is one of the more popular tours and departs daily from Queenstown and Strahan.

In the late 19th century, the 35 km stretch of railway was used to transport copper from the mines in Queenstown to the port city of Strahan.

The steam train ride has been faithfully reconstructed and features timber trestles and an abt rack and pinion system for steeper grades.

And it is this attention to detail that makes boarding one of the West Coast Wilderness steam trains feel like you are journeying through time.

However, it is the region's natural beauty that will really take your breath away on this train ride.

Crossing river gorges, trestle bridges and travelling through the thick rainforest that separates the former mining town and port city is a truly unforgettable experience.

There are also a number of restored railway stations that you will get to stop at along the way, where you can stretch your legs and breathe in the cool mountain air.

History buffs will no doubt want to learn more about the area and a number of knowledgeable staff will be on hand to offer insights into an earlier period in Australia's past.

The guides have a reputation for their ability to recall even the most obscure facts with only a moment's notice so you might want to test them when you are still aboard the train.

You can enjoy watching the world move past you while sipping on a refreshing beverage aboard the train and the Premier Carriage is a foodies heaven.

On the menu are cool-climate wines, fresh local pastries and world-famous Tasmania cheeses which are sure to delight the tastebuds.