The legendary Orient Express, which once ran from Paris via Strasbourg, Munich, Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest to Istanbul (then Constantinople), remains the most imaginative train journey in the world. And good news for enthusiasts: classic train journeys are making an impressive comeback worldwide. Think of the majestic Rovos Rail between Victoria Falls and Cape Town, the iconic Ghan across the heart of Australia and the elegant Belmond trains winding through Scotland, Malaysia and Peru.
More and more travelers are discovering that luxury train travel on often historic routes, offers a relaxing, stylish AND more sustainable way to explore new destinations. Trains are part of the soul and history of many countries, making them a fantastic way to truly experience a place. Traveling by train reveals a country from a completely different perspective: hidden villages, dramatic landscapes, raw industrial backdrops and forgotten railway stations that might otherwise go unnoticed. In this blog, we list the ten most beautiful luxury train journeys for you. Get on board, lean back as the landscapes glide by you, enjoy culinary surprises, a good glass of wine or cocktail in the bar, a book or simply the rhythm of the railroad,where the world can’t find you…
1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
Board the Simplon Orient Express in Paris and experience the grandeur of early-century travel. Awaken as the Alps and Dolomites fly by and arrive relaxed in enchanting Venice. Enjoy elegant suites, gourmet meals and discover the city of canals and hidden alleys.
2. Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman winds through the breathtaking Scottish countryside, past shimmering lakes, deep valleys and picturesque villages. Sitting back with a glass of whiskey in hand, you will fully enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Highlands.
3. Belmond Andean Explorer, Peru
Discover Peru in unparalleled luxury with the Andean Explorer over the highest train routes in the world. From Cuzco, you’ll traverse the Andes, overlooking Lake Titicaca, the Colca Canyon and historic Arequipa. Between colorful villages and imposing mountains, you will enjoy elegantly furnished cabins, refined Peruvian cuisine and a journey full of character and atmosphere.
4. Rovos Rail, Southern Africa
A legendary train journey through Southern Africa takes you from Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls to beautiful Cape Town. Aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail, you will travel in nostalgic carriages with wooden wall panels, carpets and classic furniture through historic cities such as Kimberley and Matjiesfontein. Along the way, you will disembark to discover local culture and impressive landscapes.
5. The Ghan, Australia
This unique train journey through Australia takes you from Sydney, through the Blue Mountains and Broken Hill, to the natural beauty of Kangaroo Island. With The Ghan, you will cross the continent past Alice Springs and the Katherine Gorge, and experience a special safari at Bamurru Plains. The adventure ends in Daintree National Park, where you will take a boat ride to the Great Barrier Reef.
6. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
Travel in luxury on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver through the Canadian Rocky Mountains and be wowed by breathtaking scenery. While enjoying delicious meals and drinks, the train travels at a leisurely pace past pine forests, turquoise lakes and deep gorges. Relax, look out the window and experience the magic of the Rockies.
7. Eastern & Oriental Express, Malaysia & Singapore
Malaysia’s most famous luxury train is Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express rides through tropical rainforests and endless tea and rubber plantations between Malaysia and Singapore. Inside, the distinctive cream and green train is full of nostalgic travel memorabilia. Take a seat in the bar car, where there is a jazz club atmosphere and stewards serve champagne and specialty cocktails.
8. Maharaja Express, India
The iconic Maharaja Express is known for its unparalleled comfort, royal design, excellent service and fine dining. But above all, the rich travel experiences make this train legendary: it connects popular Indian cities such as Delhi, Jaipur and Agra on a journey through India’s rich history and culture past ancient forts, magnificent palaces, UNESCO World Heritage sites and even wildlife safaris.
9. Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan
Japan has developed an excellent reputation for train travel with the high-speed Shinkansen train, but it also has a word for luxury trains such as the modern Train Suite Shikishima and the Twilight Express Mizukaze. The Seven Stars in Kyushu is a very exclusive, nostalgic cruise train, whose seven carriages symbolize Kyushu’s seven prefectures. There are a total of ten suites, and the more spacious deluxe suite offers large panoramic windows. During the train trip, ranging from 2 to 4 days you will stop at hot springs, historic villages and the nature of Kyushu.
10. Blue train, South Africa
The first Blue Train ran back in the 1920s: a legendary Palace on Wheels with luxurious suites and elegant lounges. The current railcars and luxury carriages of The Blue Train are only a few decades old and equipped with all the conveniences, but designed with a lot of nostalgia. Wooden wall panels, thick carpets, classic furniture made of wood and leather, everything recalls times long gone. During the 1600 kilometer ride from Pretoria to Cape Town, you can enjoy a high tea, with the uninterrupted beautiful views on either side.
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Whatever train journey you have in mind, our Travel Designers are ready to transform your wishes and dreams into a unique and unforgettable experience. Request your personalized travel proposal today!
