A Guide to your Best Train Travel
Traveling by train is one of the most scenic, relaxing, and luxurious ways to see the world. For those who crave a bit of old-world charm mixed with modern comforts, high-end train journeys offer an unparalleled experience. These trips aren’t just about getting from point A to point B; they are about the journey itself. Here are five of the world’s most high-end trains that promise to deliver unforgettable travel experiences.
1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The Legend Lives On
When it comes to luxury train travel, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is often the first name that comes to mind. This train epitomizes the golden age of rail travel with its opulent 1920s and 1930s carriages that have been meticulously restored.
A Journey Through Time
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates on various routes across Europe, with the most famous being the journey from London to Venice. As you step on board, you’re transported back in time to an era of glamour and sophistication. The train boasts sumptuous cabins, gourmet dining, and impeccable service.
Onboard Experience
- Cabins: The cabins, with their polished wood and plush fabrics, exude vintage elegance. You can choose from single, double, and suite accommodations, each offering a unique blend of comfort and style.
- Dining: Dining on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a highlight. The train features three dining cars, each with its own distinctive character. You’ll be treated to gourmet cuisine prepared by expert chefs using the finest ingredients.
- Entertainment: The Bar Car is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and enjoy live piano music, mingling with fellow travelers in an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
2. The Royal Scotsman
Scottish Splendor
If exploring the rugged beauty of Scotland in style appeals to you, then the Royal Scotsman is the train for you. This luxurious train offers a range of journeys through the Scottish Highlands, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK.
Luxurious Cabins and Cuisine
The Royal Scotsman’s cabins are a haven of comfort, with rich wood paneling and elegant furnishings. The train accommodates only 40 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Dining on board is a gastronomic delight, with menus featuring the best of Scottish produce.
Onboard Experience
- Cabins: The en-suite cabins are cozy and luxurious, providing the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Each cabin is designed to offer the utmost comfort, with plush beds and modern amenities.
- Observation Car: The Observation Car, with its open veranda, is the ideal spot to take in the breathtaking scenery. Sipping a dram of whisky while gazing at the rolling hills and lochs is an experience like no other.
- Activities: During your journey, you can participate in a variety of excursions, including visits to historic castles, whisky distilleries, and picturesque villages.
3. The Belmond Andean Explorer
South American Elegance
The Belmond Andean Explorer offers an exceptional way to explore the Peruvian Andes, taking you from Cusco to Arequipa, with stops at Lake Titicaca and other fascinating destinations along the way. It’s South America’s first luxury sleeper train, and it provides an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.
Stylish Comfort
The train’s interiors are inspired by traditional Peruvian design, combined with contemporary luxury. With spacious cabins, fine dining, and a range of onboard activities, the Belmond Andean Explorer offers a truly unique travel experience.
Onboard Experience
- Cabins: The train offers a variety of cabin options, from bunk bed cabins to luxurious suites. Each cabin is elegantly designed and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable journey.
- Dining: The dining cars serve up a culinary journey of their own, with dishes that blend local ingredients and flavors with international techniques. Enjoying a meal while gazing out at the dramatic Andean scenery is a highlight of the trip.
- Observation Car: The Observation Car features an open-air deck, perfect for taking in the stunning views. The Lounge Car is another great spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy live music.
4. The Maharajas’ Express
Indian Opulence
India’s Maharajas’ Express is synonymous with luxury and opulence, offering journeys that span the length and breadth of the country. This train is designed to give you a taste of the royal life, with itineraries that include visits to some of India’s most iconic destinations.
Royal Treatment
From the moment you board the Maharajas’ Express, you are treated like royalty. The train’s interiors are lavishly decorated, with each carriage reflecting the grandeur of India’s royal heritage. The service is impeccable, and the experience is designed to make you feel like a Maharaja or Maharani.
Onboard Experience
- Suites: The train offers a range of suites, from deluxe cabins to the palatial Presidential Suite. Each suite is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
- Dining: The dining experience on the Maharajas’ Express is nothing short of spectacular. The train has two fine-dining restaurants that serve a variety of Indian and international cuisines. The chefs use fresh, local ingredients to create gourmet meals that are a feast for the senses.
- Excursions: The train’s itineraries include guided tours of historic palaces, forts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can also enjoy cultural performances and other exclusive experiences that give you a deeper understanding of India’s rich history and culture.
5. The Rocky Mountaineer
Canadian Beauty
For those looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Canada, the Rocky Mountaineer is an excellent choice. This luxury train offers several routes through the Canadian Rockies, showcasing some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.
Panoramic Views
The Rocky Mountaineer is designed to maximize your viewing experience, with glass-domed coaches that provide 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes. From towering mountains and dense forests to crystal-clear lakes and rushing rivers, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring.
Onboard Experience
- GoldLeaf Service: For the ultimate in luxury, opt for the GoldLeaf Service. You’ll enjoy bi-level glass-domed coaches with spacious seating and gourmet dining. The lower level features an elegant dining room where you can savor delicious meals prepared by top chefs.
- SilverLeaf Service: The SilverLeaf Service offers single-level coaches with large windows and excellent dining. It’s a slightly more budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort or quality.
- Scenic Stops: The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only train, which means you’ll never miss a moment of the stunning scenery. The train makes several scenic stops along the way, allowing you to disembark and explore some of the most beautiful spots in the Canadian Rockies.
Traveling on a high-end train is about more than just the destination; it’s about the journey itself. From the timeless elegance of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountaineer, these luxury trains offer an unparalleled travel experience. So, whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands, the Peruvian Andes, or the palaces of India, these high-end trains promise a journey that you’ll remember for a lifetime.