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Luxurious train journeys that offer exquisite scenery from a sensational setting; going from A to B has never looked so opulent…
Words Helen Brown
Spectacular scenery, old world charm and new levels of luxury; these trips are rides of a lifetime. Offering the amenities of a hotel as well as the world’s most breathtaking views, a luxurious train journey is the new way to holiday. Here are a few of our favourites…
BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER, SOUTH AMERICA
Soar through the Peruvian Andes along one of the world’s highest rail routes on South America’s first luxury sleeper train. Belmond Andean Explorer has 16 carriages and accommodates 48 passengers. Guests can enjoy two dining cars, a spa, an observation car with open air viewing platform and a piano lounge bar.
Price for the Belmond Andean Explorer available on request, belmond.com
THE ROYAL EXPRESS, JAPAN
The Royal Express is the latest in luxury sight-seeing trains available in Japan. This new venture allows travellers to ride in style from Yokohama to the hot springs and stunning coastlines of the Izu Peninsular. On-board dining is curated by chefs Chikara Yamada and Michiyo Kawano and evenings are enlivened with live music. Go all out and opt for the exquisite Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo as base camp. They offer a one-way, three-hour journey on The Royal Express for around £172.
THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER, CANADA
Carve through otherwise inaccessible terrain in the Canadian Rockies on the most luxurious journey you’ve ever experienced. Rocky Mountaineers operate four routes that will take you from glittering oceans to untamed wilderness. If “see everything” is on your list, we suggest the Circle Journey. It begins and ends in the same place and allows for the most days onboard the train.
Prices from around £2,019.06, rockymountaineer.com
THE BLUE TRAIN, SOUTH AFRICA
The Blue Train travels 994 miles between Cape Town and Pretoria in 27 hours, with one stop in each direction. First off, the old town of Matjiesfontein in the Karoo, then the historic diamond-mining town of Kimberley on the journey back. It’s known as the “hotel-on-wheels” and has hosted presidents and kings.
BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN
Set off from Edinburgh to explore the wild wonders and unique heritage of Scotland. Traditional style and elegance provide an unparalleled way to explore ancient castles, glorious gardens and famous distilleries. Each day you’ll be whisked to some of the best places to visit in Scotland. Enjoy an exhilarating clay pigeon shoot, a Highland safari, a visit to a ruined castle or a whisky distillery. Each day ends with an indulgent afternoon tea and an evening of cocktails and candlelit dinners.
